Florence Graydon has devoted her life to serving others through a distinguished career in social services, spanning 45 years. Her dedication culminated in her role as a social services supervisor with Adult Protective Services at the New York City Human Resources Administration, where she served for 28 years. In this position, Ms. Graydon supervised a team of four caseworkers and case managers, ensuring that vulnerable adults received the care and resources they needed. Her commitment to excellence and her empathetic approach made her a respected leader in her field.
Ms. Graydon’s academic achievements played a significant role in shaping her professional journey. She earned a Master of Science in counseling education from Queens College, City University of New York, after completing a bachelor’s degree in sociology at the same institution. Her education equipped her with the tools to connect with people, listen deeply, and provide effective guidance. These skills proved essential as she worked to uplift individuals and families throughout her career.
Before joining the New York City Human Resources Administration, Ms. Graydon spent 17 years with Project Upward Bound in New York. She began as a tutor and counselor, later rising to program director—a role she considered one of her greatest career achievements. Her leadership in this capacity was driven by her passion for education and her belief that “there’s room at the top for everyone.” She worked tirelessly to organize summer programs and year-round initiatives for students, even continuing the program without pay during funding delays. Her ability to persevere and rally support left a lasting impact on the students and families she served.
Ms. Graydon’s academic journey provided the foundation for her impactful career. She earned a Master of Science in counseling education from Queens College, City University of New York, after completing a bachelor’s degree in sociology at the same institution. These qualifications equipped her with the skills to connect with people, listen deeply, and provide effective guidance. Throughout her career, Ms. Graydon emphasized the importance of reaching out to others and maintained strong relationships with the students and families she worked with.
Ms. Graydon’s professional success was also influenced by her upbringing. Raised by her mother, who became a single parent after the untimely death of Ms. Graydon’s father when she was two, Ms. Graydon grew up inspired by her mother’s perseverance. These values shaped her own approach to life and work, instilling in her a strong sense of responsibility and commitment.
In addition to her career, Ms. Graydon has been an active member of her community for over three decades through Vital Church NYC. She has served as a trustee, Sunday school teacher, and volunteer for meals for the homeless. As the founding president of the church’s Educational Council, she has worked tirelessly to promote education and support for underserved populations. Her efforts have been recognized with awards from the Student Advisory Board and commendations from the State Assembly, highlighting her civic service.
Ms. Graydon’s contributions extend beyond her professional and civic roles. Personally, she cherishes moments of growth and connection, such as helping her nephew pursue his passion for the culinary arts. She fondly recalls watching him graduate from high school as one of her proudest moments, reflecting her belief in the power of encouragement and support.
Now retired, Ms. Graydon enjoys reading and reflecting on a career and life spent helping others achieve their potential. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, empathy, and dedication to service.