Joel Rivera

About

In 2001, this Democratic Party politician became the youngest person in history to be elected to the New York City Council. He served on the council until 2013, eventually becoming his party's Majority Leader.

Before Fame

After completing his high school education at the New York Military Academy, he studied at Baruch College, Iona College, and Fordham University.

Trivia

During his time in the New York City Council, he headed the Health Committee and helped fund a school nutritional initiative called HealthCorps.

Family Life

His father, Jose Rivera, and his half-sister, Naomi Rivera, also served on the New York City Council. Following their 2006 wedding, he and his wife, Valerie Vazquez, welcomed a daughter named Sophia.

Associated With

He and fellow Democrat Christine Quinn were both prominent members of the New York City Council.