Raya York promoted to Assistant Director of Labor and Employee Relations

Release Date
A headshot of Raya York.

HFC recently promoted Raya York to Assistant Director of Labor and Employee Relations.

York, of Detroit, joined the College in 2023 as Labor Relations Specialist. In 2025, she served as interim in her new role for several months. She replaces her mentor, Mark Tade, who retired. York reports to Executive Director of Human Resources Dr. Lisa Bradley.

“I am excited about the opportunity to work with Raya in her new role,” said Bradley. “She has a wealth of knowledge, skills, and abilities that she uses daily in support of HFC’s union leadership, faculty, and staff. Raya also has an eye for critical assessment and process efficiency. I look forward to the thought leadership, strategic focus, and practical improvements that she will bring to the department while leading labor and employee relations.”

York is excited about the new opportunity. “My new position gives me the opportunity to lead negotiations on behalf of the College, direct labor relations and employee operations, and influence the College's labor strategy. All of these responsibilities are great steps in my career progression,” said York. “I have a proven track record of strategic leadership in labor and employee relations. I have participated in six labor contract negotiations and have negotiated on both sides of the table, representing management and union perspectives.”

Thrives under pressure

In addition to bargaining, York has administered and implemented collective bargaining agreements, giving her a deep understanding of how contract language is applied in day-to-day operations. Her experience spans multiple industries, including transportation, healthcare, and higher education. She has developed a well-rounded understanding of organizational dynamics and workforce needs.

York’s responsibilities include:

  • Leading the College’s labor relations efforts
  • Negotiating and administering the College’s Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA)
  • Leading investigations
  • Training managers and supervisors on the administration of the CBAs
  • Improving employee and labor relations processes

“I am a results-driven professional who thrives under pressure, communicates with clarity, and consistently supports operational goals and employee success. I bring specialized, technical expertise, and also the ability to build trust, navigate complexity, and achieve successful outcomes. During the last round of collective bargaining with Local 71 (the College’s Administrators union), both the contract and my predecessor's term ended on June 30, 2025, which required me to assume the role of chief negotiator. Stepping into a chief negotiator role after contract expiration can be a prolonged, high-pressure process. Despite that challenge, I led the process to a full agreement within 30 days. That experience strengthened my ability to adapt quickly, stay composed, and deliver results under pressure,” explained York.

The nuances that make HFC unique

An alumna of Renaissance High School in Detroit, York earned her bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She later earned her master’s degree in communications and her graduate certificate in dispute resolution from Wayne State University.

York has acquired two HR credentials: a Human Resources Professional Certification (PHR) from the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI), and a Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification from the SHRM. In 2025, she completed the requirements for the Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies from HFC.

York has worked in labor relations for 12 years and in HR for five. Prior to her HR career, she worked as a shuttle driver for a subsidiary of the Canadian National Railway Company and served as union steward for Teamsters Local 299. She also worked on the labor relations team at the U-M Hospital in Ann Arbor.

“The best part of working at HFC is that everyone has the same goal: Student success. This unified mission fosters an environment of collaboration and encourages a supportive community. I enjoy learning the nuances that make HFC unique. The College has a rich legacy,” said York.