In a teleconference with the Local Unions that was held on May 29, 2002, National President Billy Quinn announced his plans to retire at the end of June. Quinn has been the National President of the NPMHU since late October of 1992. Prior to becoming National President, Quinn served as President of Local 301 in New England for twelve years, and before that held the position of Administrative Vice President (AVP) of Boston for three years.

With Quinn's retirement, the National Executive Board has announced its plans to appoint John Hegarty to fill the unexpired term of office. Hegarty has served as the President of Local 301 for almost ten years. Prior to becoming Local President, Hegarty served as AVP of the Springfield, MA GMF/BMC. In addition, Hegarty serves as the Regional Vice President of the Northeast Region on the National Executive Board. He has held that position since 1996.

The National Executive Board also announced that Arthur S. Vallone will replace Hegarty as the Northeast Region Vice President. Vallone has served as the President of Local 309 in Buffalo, NY since October of 1989. He has been an instructor in many of the Union's training programs, as well as being an advisor on cases pending national arbitration.

In making his announcement, President Quinn stated, "It has been a great honor to serve as the National President of the NPMHU for almost a decade. I believe there has been an incredible turnaround in the Union since I first arrived in Washington, DC. The Union has gone from needing a life-support system to a healthy, vibrant organization. The rebirth of our Union didn't come easily. It took a tremendous amount of hard work on everyone's part to effect this transformation. I want to give particular thanks to National Secretary-Treasurer Mark Gardner, the other members of the National Executive Board, and to the representatives of the Contract Administration Department, both National and Regional, for their more than able assistance.

"I'm proud of my role in our many accomplishments, but the long hours of work and the never-ending travel have taken a toll on me. Quite frankly, I'm burnt out. I feel that I no longer have the energy and enthusiasm to perform the duties of such a demanding position. I turned 55 in May and retired from the USPS after 35 years of service. The more I thought about it, the more sense it made to retire from the Union as well. Although it was far from an easy decision, I rest comfortably knowing that it is the right decision in that the Union has never been in better shape.

"John Hegarty has done a superb job as President of Local 301, and I'm confident that he will do an equally good job as National President. His expertise on the issues vital to the membership spans the spectrum. With Mark Gardner continuing as National Secretary-Treasurer, all mail handlers should be confident that the National Office remains in good hands. And Arthur Vallone undoubtedly will be a great addition to the National Executive Board. His experience and dedication can be matched by few at best.

"I will be forever grateful to the membership for affording me the privilege to serve as National President, and I fervently hope that our paths cross once again."