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.

Devan Daniel, Deputy Director

Devan is a Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) who has worked in various professional sectors before working in policy and advocacy. Devan began his professional career as a substance use counselor working with opiate-specific clients who were addressing criminal justice issues such as community supervision or incarceration. After moving to Texas to complete his master’s education, Devan shifted his focus from direct client work to political advocacy/policy work. Devan was first introduced to policy work while working as a policy analyst with the Legislative Study Group while under Chairman Garnet Coleman during the 87th regular legislative session. During the interim, Devan worked as a pre-sentence investigator for Harris County’s misdemeanor and felony courts until he was offered the opportunity to return to the Legislative Study Group as the Deputy Director. Devan is excited to return to the Legislative Study Group while under Chairman Armando Walle and to continue supporting an organization that serves a vital role in the legislative process.