For the first time in Atlantic City’s Unite Here Local 54’s 107-year history as a casino labor union, a woman now holds the office of its president. Donna DeCaprio recently stepped into this role after Bob McDevitt’s resigned due to health issues.
Unite Here Local 54 is currently made up of nearly 10,000 members, 60% of which are women. DeCaprio was instrumental in aiding the union in its latest push for wage increases in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, assisting McDevitt after he had a recent foot amputation.
DeCaprio led the casino union to gain its largest raises on record and negotiated the contracts without the need for a strike.
She explained to the Associated Press that her methods of negotiation involve collaboration and connections with people to achieve a win for everyone.
She commented, "I find that women generally take a more collaborative approach to issues. I would like to build more alliances with other unions and build some bridges.”
DeCaprio began her career in the casino industry more than 35 years ago. She took a job with Trop World casino in 1987, where she cleaned the bar and stocked products. Throughout her long career, she has developed long-standing relationships with executives from nine of Atlantic City’s casinos.
McDevitt took a moment to commend DeCaprio for her leadership and described her as an influential woman among casino leaders.
He told the Associated Press, “You spend five minutes with her, and you see how intelligent she is. She has always been a leader. I expect great things from her.”
As union president, DeCaprio will continue to advocate for a permanent smoking ban in New Jersey’s casinos, a proposal the union has been diligent in making a reality for the past two years.
