Eydie Hardamon
Candidate for Vice President
Department of Social Services

Rooted in a legacy of service, compassion, and community advocacy, I am a dedicated csea member and lifelong supporter of fairness, justice and worker empowerment.  My journey as an advocate began at an early age inspired by the example set by my mother — a devoted foster parent who, with the steadfast support of her husband, mother and children, opened her heart and home to countless children in need.  Through my mother’s example, I learned the transformative power of compassion, integrity, and faith.  I cary this legacy forward by holding space for the unheard, inspiring those who have lost hope, and standing in solidarity with those facing adversity.

For over two decades, I worked in the legal field specializing in Tax Certiorari, where I helped families reduce property taxes — promoting stability and access to home ownership as a form of empowerment.  Yet, it became clear that my passion was people — not paperwork.  I pursued higher educaition at Hofstra university, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, followed by a Master of Science in education in rehabilitation counseling in mental health counseling.  These credentials reflect my commitment to understanding the human condition and providing holistic support, particularly for individuals living with unmet needs and disabilities. 

My advocacy extends into the broader community as a proud member of Choice for All, an organization championing justice for children through leadership, service, and systemic change.  This commitment to justice and empowerment naturally led me to join CSEA in 2016 when I became employed as a job developer at NCDSS - a position that is both fulfilling and purpose-driven.

Since joining the union, I wanted to learn how I could help and support other union members and signed up for and completed trainings: shop steward, discipline and interrogation, and grievance writing.  I am a committed member of Local 830’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee and serve on Region One’s Human Rights Committee.  My approach to union leadership centers on values often overlooked in institutional spaces: friendly engagement, moral clarity, unwavering faith, deep compassion, and personal integrity.

Now running for CSEA Vice President, I bring a platform of transparency, inclusion, and collective strength.  I believe in honest and open communication, building trust amongst members, and empowering workers through my education and activism.  My leadership style is not only shaped by experience but deeply rooted in my family’s legacy of service, my faith, and my unwavering belief in the dignity of every worker.

If elected, I promise to foster a collaborative environment where every voice is valued, and every member is supported. 

My vision for leadership is clear: to uplift, empower, and advocate — with courage, care, and conviction.