In grand fashion Friday, the United States Postal Service swore in its 46th Manhattan postmaster at an installation ceremony Friday.

Wanda Diaz became the third woman to assume the role as executive postmaster, supported by nearly 4,000 employees. She’s also the first Latina to date.

“As a carrier I said one day I’m going to be a postmaster, but it’s real far away right? But working hard people recognize me and yes I am,” said Diaz.


What You Need To Know

  • Wanda Diaz became the first Latina and the third woman to become executive postmaster in Manhattan

  • Diaz started with the postal service as a letter carrier in the Bronx 26 years ago

  • Diaz, who is Puerto Rican, was born and raised in New York.

  • Diaz has her eyes set on taking her division from being ranked number three in service, performance and revenue in the country to the top spot.

Diaz started with the postal service 26 years ago as a letter carrier in the Bronx. Throughout the years, she climbed the ladder through many roles, becoming a supervisor and manager in customer service in the Morningside Heights and Throggs Neck Post Offices. The role of a postmaster in Manhattan dates back to 1659.

“It’s a very historic position right the postmaster for this city before it was NYC, it was New Amsterdam,” said Xavier Hernandez, a spokesperson for the USPS. “The person is responsible for all the deliveries to every single address in their given area and all of the postal operations that happens inside a post office,” he continued.

Diaz, who is Puerto Rican, was born and raised in New York. Her family looked on with pride during the ceremony.

“She is an example of what many single women and people that come from difficult neighborhoods what they can do when you have courage and you press on,” said Jeanette Diaz-Hernandez, Diaz’s sister-in-law.

“We encourage our children now to maybe apply as we see there’s growth and opportunity for them,” her niece, Roviana Adorno, added.

As the holiday season — the busiest time of year for the USPS — approaches, Diaz has her eyes set on taking her division from being ranked number three in service, performance and revenue in the country to the top spot.

“I want to become number one and I know with the team that I have they will make it,” said Diaz.