Happy wife, cat mom, ex-evangelical religious fundamentalist, grateful daughter, wig fan

Deborah M Foster is an author and academic whose work often 

explores the intersections of privilege, oppression, and 

socioeconomic class. She has written about her personal 

experiences with poverty and the challenges of 

recognizing and accepting privilege in poverty. Foster has also 

taught social policy, mental health, and human diversity, advocating for progressive social change. 

Dr. Foster was an academic counselor with a notable background

in supporting underserved and underprivileged communities. She 

has authored research on the challenges faced by college 

students with psychiatric disabilities, particularly focusing on 

access to mental health services and educational accommodations. 

Her work highlights systemic pressures in higher education, 

including financial stressors and the lack of adequate campus 

resources, which can significantly affect students with mental 

health challenges.

Dr. Foster is also a vocal advocate for programs like Upward 

Bound, which aim to support first-generation and low-income 

students in pursuing higher education. She has shared 

personal and professional insights about the profound 

impact of such initiatives, drawing from her own experience 

as a graduate of Upward Bound and later as a staff member. 

Her advocacy underscores the need for holistic and culturally 

competent support for students from disadvantaged 

backgrounds to navigate academic and social challenges in 

higher education .