Martha Hradowy is an education worker, union activist, and the first-ever education support staff member elected as president of OSSTF/FEESO in the Federation’s 106-year history.

Martha began her career in the Greater Essex County District School Board, working as both an Educational Assistant and a Developmental Service Worker. A proud graduate of Loyalist College’s Developmental Services Worker program, she has spent her entire career supporting students and championing the critical role of teachers and education workers in Ontario’s public schools.

Her union leadership began at the grassroots, serving as president of the Educational Support Staff Bargaining Unit in District 9 for over a decade. She was elected to the OSSTF/FEESO Provincial Executive in 2017, re-elected in 2019, and twice elected as Vice-President in 2021 and 2023. In every role, she has remained grounded in her values: solidarity, accountability, and a deep commitment to member-driven leadership.

Throughout her tenure, Martha has played a key role in shaping the Federation’s strategic priorities. She helped create the Women’s Advocate Program, worked to advance equity initiatives, and led efforts to defend public education against privatization and underfunding. She is a strong believer in full-service education and the power of the entire education team – teachers, support staff, and professionals – working together to serve students.

Martha’s leadership is rooted in transparency, collaboration, and a working-class perspective. She is an active member of the Windsor and District Labour Council and has served on the Executive Board of the Ontario Federation of Labour. She continues to build strong relationships across the labour movement to ensure OSSTF/FEESO is a force for social and economic justice in Ontario.

As President, Martha is committed to building a more inclusive, united, and mobilized Federation—one that listens to members, stands up to government overreach, and leads with courage and compassion.