Uncrowned Community Builders

Linda Seay was the first African American to hold the title of Personnel Director (Director of HR) at American Axle and Manufacturing, Inc.

Linda F. Seay was born in Little Rock, Arkansas but relocated at the age of nine with her family to Buffalo, New York. Linda attended Buffalo Public Schools graduating from Bennett High School. She attended Erie Community College ââ?¬â?? North Campus earning an Associates Degree in Secretarial Science, which aided her in securing employment with General Motors Corporation as a Specialized Clerk in the Personnel Department.

Linda always wanting to do more and know more returned to school earning a Bachelorââ?¬â?¢s Degree in Business from Medaille College. She began to progress in her career with General Motors and was promoted to the position of Cost Accountant, helping the Company to secure new business. Shortly after this position she worked as a production supervisor. Her human resources experience expanded in the early 1990ââ?¬â?¢s when she was appointed Communications and Suggestions Coordinator at General Motors, shortly after, she was promoted to the position of Labor Relations Representative where she learned how to work with Unions and acquired an understanding of labor laws, employment laws and contract language.

Linda returned to school earning a MBA from Canisius College and was soon promoted to the position of Manager of Personnel Administration. This was followed by an appointment to Manager of Labor Relations. These assignments prepared her for the position of Personnel Director. As Personnel Director she was responsible for managing the Personnel Staff and all functions of Human Resources including: Labor Relations, Benefits, Employment, Training, Safety, Ergonomics, Communications, Medical and Security.

In her position as Labor Relations Manager and Personnel Director, she served as lead negotiator for the local labor contracts with American Axle, the UAW (United Auto Workers) and IAM (International Association of Machinists). Linda also represented management on the National Negotiation Teams for the National Labor Contracts.

Linda Seay is very active in her Church, Faith Baptist Church, where she sings in the choir, and has been a member of the Board of Trustees for over 20 years. She has served as the Chairman of the Board for the past 5 years. She also serves on the Deaconness Board of Faith Baptist Church. She has served as Chairperson of many events including: Pastorââ?¬â?¢s Anniversary, Church Anniversary and Homecoming Celebration. She and her husband, John, were awarded the Council of Churches Outstanding Christian Service award for their dedicated Christian service.

Linda is also active in the community. She was a Girl Scout Leader for 12 years and served as the Neighborhood Director for three years. She served as troop leader for three levels of scouts: Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes and Seniors. Five of her Girl Scouts earned the silver award, which is the 2nd highest award available for Girl Scouts. Linda was awarded the Appreciation award from the Girl Scout Council of Buffalo and Erie County for her service to Girl Scouting. Linda has also served on the Board of Directors for William Emslie YMCA, Junior Achievement and Alumni Board for Medaille College.

Linda was a member of the Buffalo Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for 20 years and held the following positions: Corresponding Secretary, Treasurer, President and Beautillion Chairperson. Linda was presented the Mother of the Year Award from Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

Linda is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Xi Epsilon Omega Chapter. She has served as the Chapterââ?¬â?¢s Publicity Chairperson, Treasurer and Recording Secretary. She has also served on many committees and has served as Chairperson of many events. Linda was presented the Chapterââ?¬â?¢s Outstanding Member award in 2002. Linda is also a member of the Buffalo Links, Inc. and has served on various committees.

Linda Seay is the wife of John Seay and they have two children: Kimberly and Jonathan and one Grandson: Isaiah, who is their pride and joy.

Linda believes in treating people the way she wants to be treated: fair and just, she believes hard work can be rewarding. Her priorities are God, her family, her career and her community.