Letter from the President

Greetings A-PLUS Members and Friends

As we approach the end of the calendar year, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for trusting me to serve as your A-PLUS National President. Thank you for your membership and support in 2024.

There is so much to prepare for as we approach 2025. While we witness the beauty of the changing season, we also experience the Postal Service’s peak mailing season. We find our members busy navigating organizational changes as they manage heavier mail volume, busier schedules and increased stress. Please remember A-PLUS is here to support you with information, training and other resources.

Healthcare Changes: One of the most significant changes quickly approaching is the shift in healthcare benefits. As you know, the Postal Service is transitioning from the Federal Employee Healthcare Benefit (FEHB) to the Postal Service Health Benefit Plan (PSHB). Please take the time to attend informational sessions hosted by the US Postal Service and/or A-PLUS with the help of our healthcare provider sponsors:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP (BCBS FEP)
• United Healthcare
• Aetna
• Government Employee Health Association (GEHA)

This is not a complete list of agencies participating in the PSHB; however, these sponsors have been sharing information with A-PLUS and keeping us updated on beneficial information directly from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) for both current employees and retirees. As Open Season is upon us, please take the time to arm yourself with information so you can make the best decisions for you and your family.

Appreciation for Sponsors: We are grateful to all our sponsors for the support they provided to A-PLUS in 2024 and look forward to continuing our relationship in 2025. A special thank you to Postal Bluebook, Renaissance Unlimited, Atlanta Postal Credit Union, FedChoice Federal Credit Union, D. Smith Financial Corporation, Federal Benefits Information Center (FBIC) and USPS Diversity Development in addition to the healthcare agencies for the invaluable information you provide our members year-round.

Membership Dues: Speaking of 2025, it’s time to renew your membership dues. While we accept dues all year long, they should be paid by January 31st each year to determine delegate strength for your chapter as well as for members to be eligible to hold AND run for office. Remember nominations for the National 2026 -2028 term of office open during the 2025 National Convention.

38th A-PLUS National Convention: Make plans now to attend the 38th A-PLUS National Convention at Maryland Live Hotel and Casino, Hanover MD to be held March 31 – April 4, 2025. I promise you, this will be a convention not to be missed! Make your room reservations now and submit your Annual Leave requests as soon as possible.

New Program – “Focus Under 40”: Finally, I am very excited to announce a new program A-PLUS plans to initiate called the “Focus Under 40”. Executive VP, Brenda Blue, will lead this new initiative focusing on emerging leaders in the Postal Service. A-PLUS members from this demographic will be partnered with seasoned postal managers for customized training, coaching and mentoring to help prepare them with career support. Be on the lookout for more information on this initiative that will be formally introduced at the 2025 National Convention.
On behalf of the National Executive Board, have a safe and happy holiday season! Looking forward to great things in 2025!

Debra Clayton
A-PLUS National President

“Proud A-PLUS lifer and member since 1990”