Kelsey Foster is a seasoned civic leader with more than fifteen years of experience driving impact at the intersection of public finance, economic policy, and community engagement with a deep and lasting commitment to our community.
A former journalist turned trusted public servant, Kelsey has worked at the forefront of community advocacy, shaped regional policy, and built strong coalitions to move bold ideas forward. She most recently served as Executive Director of the Algiers Economic Development Foundation where her leadership helped strengthen local economies and connect youth with quality jobs. She also served as the Vice President of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority – West, where she oversaw billions of dollars in flood protection infrastructure that keeps the Westbank safe year-round.
Previously, Kelsey worked with the Committee for a Better New Orleans, where she spearheaded the creation of the Big Easy Budget Game — an interactive online tool that let residents engage directly with the city’s budget. Designed to demystify one of local government’s most important (and least understood) processes, the game simplified hundreds of pages of city budget documents into digestible, accessible choices.
Kelsey holds a bachelor’s degree from Emerson College and a Master of Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service, along with executive training from the University of Chicago and Harvard Kennedy School of Government. She has served on a number of local boards and commissions including Old Algiers Main Street, the Algiers Point Association, the Westbank Association of Business and Industry, and the President’s Advisory Board at the University of Holy Cross.
