Helen Foster (politician) facts for kids

Helen Diane Foster is an important leader from New York City. She served on the New York City Council for 11 years. This council helps make decisions for the city. She represented District 16, which includes neighborhoods like Morrisania and Highbridge.

Helen Foster made history in the Bronx. She was the first Black woman to be elected to the City Council from Bronx County. After her time on the council, she became a commissioner. She worked for the New York State Division of Human Rights from 2013 to 2019.

Helen Foster's Education

Helen Foster studied at two different universities. She earned degrees from Howard University. She also studied law at City University of New York School of Law. These schools helped her prepare for her career in public service.

Helen Foster's Career in Public Service

Helen Foster was elected to the City Council in 2001. She took over from her father, Rev. Wendell Foster. He had to leave the council because of term limits. Term limits mean a person can only serve for a certain number of years.

As a council member, Helen Foster worked on many important issues. She was the chairwoman of the Parks & Recreation Committee. This means she helped make decisions about city parks. She also served on committees for Health, Education, and Public Safety. These committees help keep the city healthy, educated, and safe.

Before joining the council, Helen Foster worked as a lawyer. She was an assistant district attorney in Manhattan. This job involved working on legal cases for the city. Later, she worked for St. Barnabas Hospital. She was an assistant vice-president for legal affairs there.

Helen Foster's Personal Life

Helen Foster lives in the Bronx. She lives there with her husband, Eric McKay. They have two children together. She also serves on the board of trustees for Christ Church.