Foster’s research focuses on the historical, social, cultural, and linguistic contexts of African Americans. Using a variety of qualitative approaches—ethnography, discourse analysis, ethnography of communication, life history and narrative research— she has studied African American teachers, African American English, and effective learning contexts and pedagogical practices for African American students. Her research crosses disciplinary lines, so in addition to being known among education researchers, her scholarship is recognized in African American studies, women’s studies, anthropology, linguistics, and history. She established the University of Louisville/Jefferson County Public School Research Practice Partnership and currently serves as its co-director. This article was written in collaboration with the Scholar Strategy Network.