Diane Hayden’s career is a story of dedication, adaptability, and deep respect for the principles of public service. Growing up in Montgomery County, Diane was surrounded by family members who worked in the civil service system, a foundation that would later guide her own professional path.

After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice and a Paralegal Certificate from Marist College, Diane pursued her Master of Public Administration from the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy with a concentration in Human Resource Management. During her graduate studies, she interned at NYSERDA, coordinating the Student Energy Research Competition—an annual statewide event encouraging high school students to develop innovative solutions for meeting New York’s energy needs.

Following graduate school, Diane moved to Dutchess County and initially found opportunities in the legal field, where she spent over nine years as a paralegal working in labor, employment, and environmental law, as well as medical malpractice. While she enjoyed the work, Diane sought a new challenge and transitioned into an Office Manager role for Severn Trent Environmental Services, assisting with water and wastewater projects across upstate New York.

A shift in leadership inspired another career move—one that would mark the beginning of her journey in civil service. After applying for and passing an exam for a Personnel Technician Trainee position in Orange County, Diane joined the department and quickly advanced through the ranks. Over her 12-year tenure, she gained experience in classification, examinations, and labor relations before ultimately being promoted to Director of Civil Service.

In 2017, family circumstances brought Diane back to Dutchess County, where she began her current role as Deputy Commissioner of Human Resources. Over the past eight years, she has worked alongside a talented team and strong network of partners across county departments and agencies. In recognition of her leadership and dedication, Diane was invited to join the Executive Committee of the New York State Association of Personnel and Civil Service Officers (NYSAPCSO) in 2023 and was appointed Treasurer in 2024.

When reflecting on her proudest moments, Diane says her greatest achievements are the times she’s been able to help others—especially when resolving issues that could have otherwise cost someone their job due to a technical error or misunderstanding of civil service rules. Her background as a paralegal continues to serve her well, particularly when it comes to research and interpreting complex laws and regulations.

Diane is a firm believer in the merit and fitness system and emphasizes that within the framework of civil service rules, “there are a lot of tools available to make any situation workable—you just have to learn to be creative.”

For those new to civil service, Diane offers thoughtful advice:

“Civil service is nothing like the private sector. You learn something new every day, and it’s okay to take your time. Don’t rush an answer—say, ‘I’ll get back to you.’ It’s too easy to miss a detail that can create a bigger problem later.”

If given the opportunity to improve the civil service system, Diane would focus on strengthening communication between policymakers and practitioners.

“When decisions are made without understanding how they affect other rules and regulations, it becomes difficult to provide good customer service and maintain trust with our agencies,” she explains.

Outside of work, Diane enjoys spending time with her two children, Natalie (17) and Nathan (14), visiting family upstate, reading mystery novels by her favorite author Scott Turow, and savoring a good glass of wine.

Through her thoughtful leadership, collaborative spirit, and unwavering belief in public service, Diane continues to make a meaningful impact on her community—and exemplifies the integrity and dedication that define civil service at its best!