Upon meeting Chief of Staff Sarah Ramirez, one is immediately struck by her highly polite, professional manner—a direct indication of the exceptional intelligence, resoluteness and work ethic possessed by this integral member of the McWilliams team.
Prior to joining the firm, Sarah’s talents were put to work for the Office of State Representative Michael Villarreal and House District 123, covering most of downtown San Antonio. She labored through the 81st Legislative Session and subsequent special session assisting the Representative, who was Vice Chair of the critical Committee on Redistricting and a member of the powerful Committees on Appropriations and Ways and Means. Sarah’s particular areas of expertise included controversial education and transportation issues which she tirelessly researched and followed through the legislative process. In addition, she personally influenced community development by initializing a career workshop and mini-fair for high school and middle school students as well as, launching the Representative’s involvement in the annual “National Night Out” program in House District 123.
In 2008, the born and raised San Antonian served Congressional District 20, her home district, while working for Congressman Charles A. Gonzalez. In this capacity, she gained invaluable insight into the legislative process while working diligently toward positive outcomes of constituent concerns. In addition, she attended a rally in San Antonio for then-Presidential Candidate Barack Obama with Congressman Gonzalez and was interviewed by ABC News regarding her opinion of Mr. Obama's speech. Sarah continues to work toward increasing youth involvement in the political process through both encouragement and example. Most recently, she was invited by the Girl Scouts of Central Texas to serve on their inaugural Advocacy Committee.
While earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Texas at San Antonio, Sarah was heavily involved in student government and philanthropic organizations on campus. As Senior Class Senator, she brought together numerous student organizations to beautify and improve the area surrounding the university, among several achievements in leadership. An appreciative alumnus, Sarah continues to provide support, taking great pride in being able to give back to her beloved alma mater.
Sarah's passion for politics began at a young age as she grew up watching her grandfather fight for civility in the small town of Sabinal, Texas. He brought Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to the once disappearing town and revived its City Council Management System while serving as a Council Member and Mayor Pro-Tem. She also gives tribute to her parents for leading by example in political activism. Sarah is the first grandchild to receive a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree.
Proud of her roots, Sarah's love for all things San Antonio and Texas will never dwindle.