Viviana Tillman is now the Associate Administrator of DC 37’s Education Fund. She oversees the day-to-day operations of the fund and its eight programs. Ms. Tillman joined DC 37 as a graduate social work intern in 1981 after earning her master’s degree from Adelphi University. She worked in the Personal Service Unit of DC 37’s Health and Security Plan for 16 years as a supervising social worker and educational coordinator.

“I enjoy working with the members and having a chance to develop educational programs that can often translate into better career opportunities for members,” she said.

She said the union enabled her to use her training as a social worker to help members through counseling, discussion groups and workshops. In her new capacity, Ms. Tillman said she “can make sure we keep programs in place that will serve the membership best.”

Lena Watford was promoted to Assistant Director of the Clerical Division April 30. She is responsible for caring for the needs of the division’s 22,000 members.

Ms. Watford began her career three decades ago as a clerk in the Human Resources Agency. She attended union meetings and shared what she learned with her coworkers, who elected her as their shop steward. In 1978, she became a Grievance Rep and in 1990 a Council Rep.

The best part about the job for her is solving members’ problems. One union member wrote recently that Ms. Watford “helped me through trying times. She has been there for the members whenever we needed her.”

Kristina Bas was hired as a Research Analyst in the Research and Negotiations Department in June 2000. She analyzes social service issues and legislation for the union and is heavily involved with DC 37 child-care policy. Ms. Bas attended Rutgers University and has a master’s degree in Labor and Industrial Relations. “I was an organizer for many years, and I believe strongly in the labor movement as a vehicle for social progress,” she said.