Meet Our Team

Samantha Ruelas, Executive Director

Samantha was born and raised in Edinburg in the Rio Grande Valley. After graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Samantha went on to work at the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which ultimately led her to pursue politics and policy. Samantha then earned her Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government & Public service before becoming a Legislative Director during the 87th Legislative Session. She is excited to continue her work under the dome as the Executive Director of the Legislative Study Group.

Malea McMurray, Deputy Director

Malea was raised in Austin, Texas, and graduated from The University of Texas at El Paso with a degree in Organizational and Corporate Communications. While at UTEP, she served as President of IGNITE at UTEP and Ambassador of the MILE Mentorship Program through the El Paso Women’s Bar. Malea has worked in both Capitol and District offices and served as Policy Advisor during the 88th Legislative Session. She is thrilled to serve as Deputy Director of the Legislative Study Group for the 89th Legislative Session.