About Sylvester

Roots in the Southland Community 

Sylvester Fulcher was born in Chicago, Illinois, and has spent most of his life living, working, and serving the Southland community. He is the eldest son of Rochelle and Sylvester Fulcher Sr.—a family deeply rooted in public service. His mother, Rochelle, was a chaplain at the University of Chicago Hospital and pastored a church during Sylvester’s youth. His father, Sylvester Sr., was a longtime union member at Ingersoll Steel on Chicago’s far South Side. 

A Family Grounded in Service 

Sylvester is the oldest of six children, with three sisters and two brothers. His youngest brother served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 years, while another works in healthcare, providing essential resources to hospitals. Each of his sisters has dedicated their career to public service—one through Chicago Public Schools, another as a village trustee, and the youngest by supporting families in need through healthcare access. The Fulcher family’s commitment to community has shaped Sylvester’s values and guided his path. 

From an early age, Sylvester witnessed his mother’s compassion in action—feeding the homeless, offering clothing, and connecting with neighbors without judgment. As a chaplain, she stood beside people on the hardest days of their lives, modeling dignity, empathy, and service. These lessons instilled in Sylvester a belief that everyone has a role to play in uplifting their community. 

Sylvester earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He later moved to Iowa, where he married his best friend, Susan Fulcher, and together they raised three children. In Iowa, Sylvester worked for a private social services agency supporting children who had experienced abuse, and later joined the Iowa Department of Human Services. There, he served families from all walks of life, affirming that regardless of background, everyone deserves the opportunity to protect and provide for their loved ones. 

Champion for Children and Families 

Upon returning to Illinois, Sylvester pursued a master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois and continued his service through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). As a case manager, child abuse investigator, and later senior administrator, he addressed issues ranging from homelessness and poverty to mental illness and trauma. He helped shape policies and practices that expanded access to resources and safety for families across rural and urban communities. His work has involved authorizing millions of dollars in services that directly impact the lives of Cook County residents. 

Sylvester also served on the Saint George School District Board in Kankakee County from 2008 to 2010. He advocated for responsible budgeting, high teaching standards, and transparent governance. During his tenure, the district’s budget was balanced and every taxpayer dollar accounted for. 

Throughout his career, Sylvester has remained a steadfast advocate for families, driven by faith, compassion, and a belief in the power of community. His leadership spans over 25 years in child welfare, public policy, and community engagement. He has built partnerships, driven systemic change, and protected the welfare of countless children and families. 

Now, as a candidate for Commissioner of the 6th District of Cook County, Sylvester Fulcher Jr. is ready to bring his experience, integrity, and vision to the next level of public service. His mission is to champion effective governance, ensure public accountability, and foster innovative systems that meet the evolving needs of our communities.