Heather Morse is a dedicated public servant whose career reflects a deep commitment to civil service, professional growth, and community involvement. A lifelong resident of Goshen, New York, in Orange County, Heather has built both her personal and professional life around service. She has been happily married for 27 years and is the proud parent of two children. Her son, Brian, has followed in her footsteps by pursuing a career in public service, while her daughter, Bree, is a senior at SUNY Geneseo studying sociomedical sciences.

Heather currently serves as the Director of Civil Service at Orange County Human Resources, a role she has held since 2017. Her journey with Orange County began in 2006, and she transitioned into Human Resources in 2007. Over the years, Heather advanced through the merit and fitness system, holding positions such as principal clerk, examination coordinator, and personnel technician. Each role contributed to her well-rounded understanding of civil service administration and reinforced her belief in the opportunities the system provides for career advancement.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Heather is actively involved in her community. She recently became a volunteer with the ALS Association, helping to raise awareness and funds for ALS research. This cause is especially meaningful to her following the loss of her mother to the disease, and her involvement reflects her compassion and dedication to supporting others facing similar challenges.

Heather is also proud of her academic and professional achievements. As an adult learner, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Economics from SUNY Empire, balancing full-time work and family life along the way. She is currently studying for the SHRM-CP certification, continuing to strengthen her human resources expertise and commitment to lifelong learning.

One of the most valuable skills Heather has gained through her career is effective communication. She credits the remarkable mentors she has worked with and the collaborative environment within her organization for fostering professional growth and shared learning. Heather also values her close working relationships with counterparts in State Civil Service and fellow members of NYSAPCSO. A strong advocate for public sector employment, she takes great pride in helping others understand the civil service process and demonstrating—through her own career—that advancement is achievable. Guiding individuals into public service and demystifying the process is especially rewarding for her.

For those new to civil service, Heather offers thoughtful advice: be patient with yourself. She emphasizes that civil service systems are complex and require time to learn. Keeping an open mind, adapting to change, and allowing yourself the space to research before responding are all essential. In her experience, even small differences in questions can lead to very different answers, making patience and understanding critical qualities for success.

Outside of work, Heather enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. She loves the outdoors, going for walks, and escaping on weekends for camping—or “glamping”—trips during the spring and fall seasons.

Looking toward the future of civil service, Heather would like to see continued improvements in the timelines for exams, results, and appointments. While strongly supportive of the merit-based system that has shaped her own career, she recognizes that long wait times can be discouraging for applicants. She is encouraged by the efforts underway at the New York State Department of Civil Service and believes these improvements are moving the system in a positive direction.

Heather Morse’s career and community involvement exemplify the values of public service, dedication, and continuous improvement that NYSAPCSO proudly celebrates!