Janele Hyer-Spencer

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Janele Hyer-Spencer is a Democrat representing the New York 60th Assembly District[1], which covers parts of Staten Island and Brooklyn.^[1]An attorney, she has a private law practice specializing in family law and serving domestic violence victims. She served as legal director for My Sisters’ Place, a top non-profit in New York that helps victims of domestic violence. She previously worked as an attorney with New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services.

In December, 2005, The State of New York Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy appointed Janele to its Surrogate Decision-Making Committee for a two-year term. The committee makes treatment decisions for the mentally disabled that live in facilities or use programs licensed, operated or funded by New York State.

She was part of Project Hospitality’s Summit Against Bias, joining other civic leaders to help eliminate bias and prejudice on Staten Island. Her memberships include the Staten Island Welfare Action Network, the Staten Island Women’s Political Caucus, the National Eleanor’s Legacy Committee and formerly was a board member of Community Health Action of Staten Island.

She was first elected in November 2006, narrowly defeating her Republican opponent to win a seat vacated by a Republican.

Janele holds both a Law Degree (JD) and a Masters of Arts in Social Science/Public Policy from the City University of New York (CUNY). She also has studied toward a Masters of Social Work in Social Welfare Policy and Administration. Janele lives in Staten Island with her husband, Douglas Spencer.

She is considered a possible challenger to 13th district Congressman Vito Fossella in 2008 or 2010.