I come from a working-class Texas family with Mexican and Belgian pioneer roots in West Texas. My mother was a bilingual telephone operator and Communications Workers of America labor leader who taught me the value of service, fairness, and standing up for working people. Some of my earliest memories are walking picket lines with her as a third grader, learning firsthand why labor unions matter to Texas families.
My career began in public safety, serving in my hometown police department, fire-rescue service, EMS, and 9-1-1 communications. Those experiences taught me how to stay calm under pressure, lead during crises, and navigate difficult situations with compassion and clarity.
That work later led me to FEMA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where I supported disaster recovery efforts following major hurricanes and emergencies across the country.
Today, I serve as a Commissioner on the City of Austin LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission, Vice President of Stonewall Democrats of Austin, and Chair of the Mayor’s Public Spaces Task Force. My work focuses on civic engagement, public safety, neighborhood advocacy, Democratic organizing, and helping Austin grow while protecting the spirit that makes this city special.
Over the years, I’ve worked alongside elected officials, Democratic campaigns, advocacy organizations, labor leaders, and community groups across Texas and beyond. I’ve helped build coalitions, shape public policy conversations, support grassroots efforts, and help leaders navigate difficult moments with clarity and purpose.
But beyond titles and résumés, I believe in people.
I believe in strong public schools, affordable health care, safe neighborhoods, LGBTQ equality, small businesses, public spaces that reflect who we are, and a city government that listens to the people it serves.
Austin is changing fast, but the best of Austin is still here: neighbors helping neighbors, live music drifting through warm summer nights, small businesses that know your order, and people who continue showing up for one another when it matters most.
Whether I’m supporting community causes, helping shape public policy, advising leaders, or bringing people together around shared goals, my focus remains the same: strengthening community and helping Austin move forward together.