SCHENECTADY FOR WARD

Rachael Ward is a Schenectady native, first-generation attorney, breast cancer survivor, and experienced problem solver who believes our city deserves leadership that listens, collaborates, and delivers results.

Public service runs deep in Rachael's family. Her great-grandfather and father served in the Schenectady Fire Department. Her father, a decorated Vietnam veteran, owned Ward's Tavern on Erie Boulevard for more than 25 years. Those roots taught her that public service is not about titles, political connections or personal agendas. It is about showing up, helping people, and being accountable to the people you serve.

For 17 years, Rachael has worked as an attorney in state and local government. As Schenectady's Deputy Corporation Counsel, she helped guide major development projects, protected the City's tax base, prosecuted code violations, drafted legislation, and advised the City Council, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals. She understands how city government works and, just as importantly, how to make it work better for residents. 

Rachael is running because too many residents feel ignored while division and political infighting prevent meaningful progress. She will bring an independent voice, professional experience, and a willingness to work with anyone who is serious about moving Schenectady forward. Her priorities include safe and cleaner neighborhoods, responsible development, transparent government, and constituent service that residents can depend on. 

Rachael is not seeking a seat on the city council to join the conversation. She is running to change who City Hall listens to and to help make Schenectady a city people believe in again.

 EXPERIENCE THAT DELIVERS 

• First-generation attorney with 17 years of legal experience in state and local government, public-sector law, housing and regulatory compliance.
• Supervising Attorney at NYS Homes and Community Renewal
• Former Deputy Corporation Counsel for the City of Schenectady
• Helped lead major development projects, including Mohawk Harbor and Rivers Casino
• Managed legal matters involving the sale of more than $9 million in city-owned property
• Negotiated complex tax certiorari matters to protect Schenectady's tax base
• Prosecuted city code violations and reviewed updates to municipal ordinances
• Drafted legislation considered by the Schenectady City Council
• Former Executive Officer of the Schenectady Urban Renewal Agency
• Former member of the Board of Directors of Bethesda House

EDUCATION

• Juris Doctor, Albany Law School
• Master of Business Administration, Union Graduate College
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with a concentration in Public Policy and Administration, Northeastern University
• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Northeastern University
• Minor in Urban Studies, Northeastern University