Eric MacPherson

Eric MacPherson has already built a reputation that most professionals spend years trying to achieve. Now serving as a Government Relations Specialist at the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, he is known for his intelligence, discipline, and deep commitment to public service. But it was his time in the Office of State Senator Royce West that first revealed his extraordinary potential and his impact on the Capitol became immediate.

“Eric was truly the heartbeat of our office,” one nominator wrote. “He started as an intern, volunteered his time through session, and ended up writing two bills that passed into law. He handled everything, stakeholder meetings, floor speeches, and negotiations, like a seasoned staffer.” Another added, “He’s incredibly smart, charismatic, and hardworking. Everyone in the building knows him, and every office wanted him on their team.”

During the 89th Legislative Session, Eric was instrumental in advancing SB 1401 and SB 2995, both addressing complex education and child welfare issues. His behind-the-scenes diplomacy helped change the course of two school discipline bills that could have negatively impacted Texas students; a testament to his maturity and instinct for consensus-building.

Now at DFPS, Eric continues to apply that same dedication to improving the lives of Texas families, combining empathy with policy expertise.

As one of this year’s Rising Stars of the Year, Eric MacPherson represents the intellect, perseverance, and passion for service that define Texas’s next generation of public leaders.