Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau

Oletha Faust-Goudeau is a Democratic state senator representing District 29 in Wichita, Kansas. A Wichita native, she has lived nearly her entire life in the 29th District, where she has built a career as a community activist and public servant.

Faust-Goudeau is most notably recognized for breaking barriers in Kansas politics. In 2008, she was elected to the Kansas Senate, becoming the first African-American woman to ever serve in the Kansas Senate in state history. She has been re-elected multiple times, including in 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024.

Beyond her legislative work, Faust-Goudeau maintains extensive involvement in her community. She serves on numerous boards and organizations, including Wichita Habitat for Humanity, Kansas Legal Services, the Wichita Children's Home Advisory Board, and the Advisory Board for KPTS Channel 8. She is Vice President of the Women of Color Association and holds memberships in the NAACP, League of Women Voters, and Women's Democratic Club. She is also a financial supporter of the YMCA's Strong Kids Program.

Faust-Goudeau is the mother of two daughters, Larissa and Paris, both of whom are college students.

Education

She graduated from Wichita State University with a degree in Pre-Law in 1983.

Political Experience

Faust-Goudeau began her legislative career in 2004 when she was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives for the 84th District, becoming the first African-American woman to represent that district. She served in the House from 2003 to 2009 and was re-elected in 2006.

In the Kansas Senate, where she has served since January 3, 2009, she currently holds the position of Senate Assistant Minority Leader . Previously, she served as Minority Whip from 2017 to 2018. She holds ranking minority member positions on several committees, including the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight, Local Government, Transparency and Ethics, Senate Select Committee on Veterans Affairs, and Federal and State Affairs.

During her legislative career, Faust-Goudeau has sponsored and co-sponsored significant legislation. Early in her tenure, she introduced the Grandparents as Care Givers Act, which was signed into law by former Governor Kathleen Sebelius. Governor Sam Brownback later signed four bills sponsored or co-sponsored by Faust-Goudeau into law, including legislation extending healthcare benefits to the spouses and children of fallen firefighters.