Maria began her career at Grand St. Settlement as the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director. Since then, she has succeeded to the position of Director of Human Resources where she leads the agency’s efforts in attracting and developing staff who ensure that children, youth, families, and seniors served by Grand St. Settlement. Well-versed in best HR practices, Maria is known for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for agency staff. Her leadership on agency-wide Professional Development Days and the team-building festivities that follow provides the ideal foundation for the Grand St. Settlement family. Maria is responsible for agency compliance with Federal and State legislation, labor relations, benefits administration and compensation functions for approximately 500 employees. She has a MBA from Dowling College School of Business and a BA from City College Center for Worker Education.