About Elias
Who is Elias Ramirez?
Elias M. Ramirez was born in Galveston, Texas, and raised in Texas City. As a first-generation Mexican-American, Elias understands the value of hard work, opportunity, and giving back to the community that shaped him. His dedication to service has earned him recognition as a finalist for the Galveston Daily News Citizen of the Year in both 2024 and 2025.
Since 2023, Elias has served on multiple local boards and commissions, working to strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and ensure community voices are heard in local decision-making. He currently chairs the Community Development Block Grant Citizens Advisory Committee and the Keep Texas City Beautiful Committee, helping guide responsible investment in neighborhoods, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.
Elias also serves as Treasurer of Lifeline of Galveston County, advocating for expanded access to animal welfare services. In 2024, he co-founded the Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County, a 501 c(6) business league, where he serves as President, supporting Hispanic entrepreneurs and small businesses through strategic partnerships and economic development initiatives.
Professionally, Elias serves as the Southern Program Coordinator for Young Invincibles, where he leads advocacy efforts to expand opportunities for young adults through policy engagement and coalition-building. He previously served as Program Coordinator at the Galveston County Food Bank, overseeing programs that supported more than 50,000 residents annually, including children and homebound seniors.
Elias earned his Bachelor of Science in Public Service Leadership from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and holds an Associate of Science from the College of the Mainland.
At his core, Elias believes strong communities are built through collaboration, transparency, and service. He remains committed to ensuring every resident — regardless of background — has a voice in shaping the future of Texas City and Galveston County.
Leadership Experience
President - Co-Founder | Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County
President - Co-Founder | Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County
Founded in July of 2024 the Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County mission is to connect, empower, and promote Hispanic businesses in our community. We believe in the strength of unity and the power of collaboration, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment where Hispanic entrepreneurs and business owners can thrive.
Emerging Leader Board Member Alumni | Texas Network of Youth Services
President - Co-Founder | Hispanic Business Network of Galveston County
TNOYS’ Texas Emerging Leaders Board (TELB), in partnership with the Aspen Institute Forum for Community Solutions and Young Invincibles, consists of young individuals with lived system experience. Over a 12-month term, they advise improving pathways to success for system-impacted youth.
Committee Member | SHAQ & QuEST TCISD
QuEST also known as the Quality Educational Support Team is a committee made up of staff from each campus and members of the community that focuses on supporting the district and finding ways to improve quality of work. SHAQ is a committee of staff and community members that find ways to support teachers all throughout the district.
Advisory Council Member | Texas PACE Student Advisory Council
Backed by Young Invincibles, EdTrust in Texas, and Breakthrough Central Texas, this initiative empowers diverse student leaders to advocate for policy change in community college education. Through regular meetings, they champion student-centric policies, paving the way for a brighter future for Texas community college students.
Board Treasurer | Lifeline of Galveston County
Board Treasurer | Lifeline of Galveston County
Lifeline of Galveston County is a 501 (c)(3) whose mission is to end the killing of companion animals in Galveston County. Our goal is to act as a safety net for animals that live in Galveston County that are currently falling through the cracks.
Chairman | CDBG Citizens Advisory Committee
Board Treasurer | Lifeline of Galveston County
The Citizen Advisory Committee oversees citizen participation for the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, recommending CDBG grant applications to city officials. The goal for the CDBG CAC is to develop two key target areas in Texas City, including the 1867 Settlement District and the Greater Chelsea Manor Area.
Chairman | Keep Texas City Beautiful
Chairman | Keep Texas City Beautiful
KTCB educates citizens to improve their community's environment, acting as a bridge between citizens, city officials, and the Community Development Department. It reviews and advises, implementing recommendations within city policies and resource constraints.