Joslyn Carter, LCSW, a native of Antigua, migrated to the US with her mother and 4 sisters in the early 80s. Growing up in a typical Caribbean household, the family lived with her mother and 2 aunts and their families. This unique upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of community and a passion for social work. 

During her 20 plus year tenure at the Department of Homeless Services, Joslyn has made significant contributions, leading to several promotions and eventual appointment to the head of the agency in 2017 under the de Blasio administration. Because of her strategic initiatives and effective management that greatly improved the operations of the City’s shelter system, Joslyn was reappointed in 2022 under the Adams’ administration. As Administrator, she is responsible for managing the daily operations of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive municipal shelter system. 

Prior to joining DHS, Joslyn worked both for public and private entities, including Kings County Hospital as a Social Worker in both the Emergency Room and Obstetrics; the American Red Cross as the Director of Social Services, and Talbot Services Children Services as the Director of Preventive Services. She has also worked as a Clinical Therapist, providing treatment for individuals, including children. 

She is a certified Student Field Instructor, has provided clinical supervision for MSW students, and has developed and run support groups for women, girls, and families. In her present position, Joslyn has facilitated “talk sessions” with women employees focused on self-sufficiency, and also is a mentor for young women. Joslyn is on the Leadership Council of the National Alliance to End Homelessness and is a thought partner with the Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) where she provides guidance on the development and design of trauma-informed spaces that are inclusive to all children, regardless of their life circumstance. 

Joslyn’s academic journey reflects her commitment to social work. She earned her Undergraduate Degree from Syracuse University, her Master of Social Work Degree from the prestigious Hunter College School of Social Work and completed a postgraduate Clinical Social Work Fellowship from Yale University, where she received clinical training in working with children and families. She has also served as an Adjunct professor at the Stony Brook School of Social Work. 

Joslyn currently resides in Brooklyn with her husband Dwayne, her son Jeremy, and her dog, Skylar.