Top Staffer

When 16 separate nominations arrive for a single name, it says something unmistakable: the Capitol community knows excellence when it sees it. Vince Leibowitz, Legislative Director and Fiscal Analyst for Senator Royce West, stands out as one of the most accomplished, respected, and dedicated staffers in the Texas Legislature.

Vince’s fingerprints are on some of the session’s most consequential legislation, from SB 1080, the strongest occupational licensing reform in a decade, to SB 650, the most transformative update to Texas alcohol regulation in 30 years. He helped advance a package of bills establishing the nation’s toughest deed fraud protections and secured millions in local appropriations for the City of Dallas. Behind every win was his trademark mix of precision, persistence, and purpose.

Colleagues and peers describe him as “a legend in the building” and “the kind of staffer who makes everyone around him better.” One nominator wrote, “Vince is a dedicated Senate staffer with limitless energy, which he directs with great focus on any project he tackles. His writing skills are superlative, his curiosity endless, and his ability to juggle a dozen complex assignments at once is unmatched.” Another added, “He’s so kind, so accomplished, and so capable. Truly one of the best to work with in the Legislature.”

But just as impressive as his policy wins is his impact on people. “Vince created one of the most meaningful internship programs in the Senate,” one former colleague wrote. “He personally mentored more than 20 interns each session, giving them real legislative work and preparing them for careers in public service. For many of us, it was life-changing.”

A third-generation member of a Texas legislative family, Vince’s commitment to public service runs deep. Before joining Senator West’s office, he served as Chief of Staff to Representative Terry Meza and led The Dawn Group, a political and communications consulting firm. In 2024, he was selected by the Council of State Governments for its prestigious Staff Academy for Government Relations, recognizing his exceptional leadership and policy expertise.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Vince Leibowitz represents the unmatched skill, mentorship, and integrity that make the Texas Legislature work. Inspiring the next generation to do the same.

Vanessa Tanner stands among the Capitol’s most respected and effective policy leaders. As Chief of Staff to Representative Brad Buckley, Chairman of the House Public Education Committee, Vanessa’s influence has been felt across some of the most consequential legislation of recent sessions; from sweeping school finance reform to the largest school choice program in the nation.

“Vanessa embodies the expertise, judgment, and dedication that define the best of legislative service,” one nominator wrote. “Her leadership was essential to passing House Bill 2, an $8.5 billion school finance package that strengthens opportunities for Texas students.” Another added, “Few staffers have achieved as much, as quickly, or with as much grace. She’s helped shape landmark education policy while championing her alma mater, mentoring young professionals, and raising a young family.”

With over a decade of legislative and political experience, Vanessa’s career has spanned the Texas Senate Committee on Administration, the House Committee on Public Education, and several statewide and local campaigns. Her ability to balance deep policy knowledge with collaborative leadership has made her indispensable to both her team and the state she serves.

A proud Texas State University alumna, Vanessa co-founded the Capitol Cats Internship Program to help students gain hands-on experience in public service. She also serves as a Gubernatorial Appointee to the State Employee Charitable Campaign Policy Committee continuing her commitment to both public service and community leadership.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Vanessa Cortez Tanner represents the intellect, discipline, and integrity that define the best of Texas’s public servants.

Roel Benavides, Jr. brings more than a decade of experience, perspective, and purpose to his work at the Texas Capitol. As Chief of Staff to State Representative Charles Cunningham, he supports the member’s work across multiple committees including Local & Consent Calendars, Public Education, Public Health, and the Subcommittee on Disease Prevention and Women’s & Children’s Health. Ensuring that each initiative is grounded in data, strategy, and compassion.

“Roel is a humble yet effective leader who genuinely cares about the impact his work has on students, families, and communities across Texas,” one nominator wrote. “He’s skilled at navigating complex legislative issues, building relationships, and keeping policy focused on people.”

Known for his professionalism, integrity, and steady guidance, Roel has earned a reputation for being both a problem-solver and a bridge-builder. His policy expertise spans public education, criminal justice, and natural resources. These are areas where his ability to find consensus has made a lasting impact on the legislative process.

A graduate of the University of Houston, Roel began his career as a Legislative Intern and worked his way through nearly every role in the Texas House, from Committee Clerk to Chief of Staff, mastering the details that make good ideas become good law.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Roel Benavides, Jr. represents the professionalism, dedication, and heart that define Texas’s most respected public servants.

Laura Dally Stowe is a model of professionalism, poise, and purpose in the Texas Senate. As Chief of Staff to Senator Angela Paxton, she leads a team of talented legislative professionals, guiding policy development and strategy on issues that touch the lives of Texas families every day. Known for her ability to manage complex negotiations with clarity and grace, Laura is respected across chambers for her integrity and effectiveness.

“Laura demonstrates excellent interpersonal skill and leadership,” one nominator shared. “She works well with all stakeholders, no matter her boss’s position on an issue, and played a key role in advancing landmark legislation in the child welfare space.” Another added, “She’s an outstanding Chief of Staff.  Forceful yet gracious in negotiation, respected for her policy command, and deeply loyal to her boss. She’s helped pass major bills protecting children, preventing human trafficking, and empowering parents.”

Before becoming Chief of Staff, Laura served as Legislative Director in Senator Paxton’s office, managing a diverse portfolio that included energy, technology, and foster care issues. She began her public service career in the Criminal Prosecutions Division at the Office of the Attorney General, supporting high-profile trials in West Texas involving the FLDS church, later moving into government relations during the 84th and 85th Legislative Sessions.

An Austin native and graduate of Trinity University, Laura is known not only for her legislative expertise but for her steady leadership, collaborative spirit, and deep commitment to child-focused policy.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Laura Dally Stowe represents the professionalism, dedication, and compassion that define Texas’s most trusted public servants.

Jenna King Lewis has dedicated her career to protecting the vulnerable and advancing justice. As General Counsel for Senator Tan Parker, she plays a central role in shaping legislation that strengthens Texas communities and most notably leading efforts in the fight against human trafficking.

“Jenna has been a phenomenal advocate in the fight against human trafficking,” one nominator wrote. “She’s a fantastic staffer who always goes above and beyond the call.” That commitment to both people and policy defines her work at the Capitol, where she combines legal precision with an unwavering moral compass.

Before joining Senator Parker’s office, Jenna served as Policy Counsel for Atlas Free, one of the largest anti-human trafficking organizations in the world, where she worked to coordinate global strategies and strengthen survivor protections. Earlier in her career, she was a prosecutor in Ventura County, California, bringing both courtroom experience and compassion to her pursuit of justice.

A graduate of the Pepperdine Caruso School of Law and the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, Jenna embodies the balance of intellect and empathy that defines the best of public service.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Jenna King Lewis represents the courage, expertise, and purpose that move Texas policy forward.  Changing lives in the process.

Court Manske is recognized across the Capitol as one of the most capable and trusted policy minds in Texas education. As Committee Director for the Senate Committee on Education (K–16) under Chairman Senator Brandon Creighton, Court helped guide one of the most consequential legislative sessions for Texas schools in recent memory. Advancing historic investments in education, strengthening teacher pipelines, and keeping students at the center of every discussion.

“As Committee Director, Court was instrumental in advancing House Bill 2, the historic $8.5 billion school finance package,” one nominator wrote. “His leadership and depth of knowledge ensured that the bill not only cleared the Senate but delivered meaningful results for teachers and students alike.” Another added, “He’s an excellent communicator who brings humility, collaboration, and preparation to every conversation. Court’s integrity and student-centered focus set him apart.”

With deep expertise in both K–12 and higher education, Court’s steady direction helped shape transformative policies that will strengthen Texas schools for years to come. Known for his enthusiasm and relentless follow-through, he has built a reputation for mastering complex negotiations, fostering bipartisan collaboration, and delivering results grounded in data and purpose.

Now serving as Deputy Strategy Officer for the Texas Tech University System, Court continues his mission of improving education outcomes statewide. Leading with the same focus, professionalism, and student-first vision that have defined his career.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Court Manske represents the expertise, judgment, and dedication that make Texas’s legislative process work and keep its classrooms strong!

Cristina Masters exemplifies what leadership in public service looks like. As Chief of Staff to State Representative Claudia Ordaz, she manages one of the most active legislative operations in the Texas House. Overseeing policy development, constituent services, and strategic coordination with precision and care.

“Cristina consistently goes above and beyond in her role,” one nominator shared. “She not only manages the day-to-day operations of the office with excellence but also invests in the professional growth of those around her.” Another added, “She reminds us why we do this work, because she’s truly here for the right reasons: to serve the people of Texas.”

Recognizing a need for more intentional staff development, Cristina created a Capitol mentorship program that connects tenured staffers with new hires, fostering a culture of learning, support, and collaboration throughout the Legislature. Her thoughtful leadership and focus on service have made her both a trusted advisor and an example for others to follow.

Outside the Capitol, Cristina continues her civic engagement as an appointee to the City of Austin’s Tourism Commission, contributing to the city’s cultural and economic vitality. Her career spans both government and nonprofit sectors, including prior work with the Austin City Council and a child welfare nonprofit, all grounded in her belief that effective policy begins with empathy and understanding.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Cristina Masters represents the integrity, mentorship, and heart that keep Texas’s public service community strong.

Brady Vaughn brings nearly two decades of experience and steady leadership to his role as Chief of Staff to State Senator Charles Schwertner. Known for his deep institutional knowledge and ability to manage complex legislative operations, Brady returned to the Texas Senate this session and quickly reaffirmed his reputation as one of the Capitol’s most capable and respected staffers.

“Stepping into a role like he did, having been out of the Senate for a few sessions, was a big task,” one nominator shared. “But he’s handled it incredibly. The amount of work he’s put in to help clean up and pass important pieces of legislation, while running a senior senator’s office and major committee, has been commendable. We need more staff like him in this building.” Another added simply, “He took on a new role as Chief of Staff and did great.”

Brady’s career spans both chambers of the Legislature and multiple state agencies. He has held key roles with budget committees in the Texas House and Senate, as well as positions at the Office of the Attorney General and the Department of Information Resources, where he gained firsthand insight into the intersection of policy, operations, and implementation.

His colleagues describe him as calm under pressure, attentive to every detail, and deeply committed to effective governance.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Brady Vaughn represents the experience, judgment, and quiet strength that keep the Texas Capitol moving forward

Ashley Walter is the kind of Chief of Staff every member hopes to have; sharp, steady, and relentlessly effective. As Chief of Staff to State Representative Pat Curry, she manages one of the busiest operations in the Texas House with a mix of precision, poise, and purpose. Known for her mastery of both policy and politics, Ashley keeps complex issues moving, mentors new staff, and ensures her team delivers for constituents day in and day out.

“Ashley is on top of everything from policy and politics to the moving target of relationships in a fast-paced environment,” one nominator shared. “She’s the kind of leader who quietly kills bad bills, builds coalitions, and earns respect across the aisle.” Another added, “She’s feared by some, sought by many, and respected by all. A legend in the building and one of the kindest Chiefs of Staff you’ll ever meet.”

Before joining the Legislature, Ashley served as Director of Executive Administration at the Texas General Land Office, helping guide statewide initiatives in disaster recovery, coastal protection, and veterans’ services. A former public school educator and campaign strategist, she brings both heart and experience to every role she takes on.

Her colleagues describe her as both mentor and problem-solver. Someone who elevates everyone around her while never losing sight of the work that matters most.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Ashley Walter represents the discipline, leadership, and heart that keep the Texas Capitol running at its best.

Andrew Parks is one of the most respected and reliable professionals in the Texas Senate. He is known for his expertise, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the work. As Committee Director for the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs, and the Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding, he serves as the principal policy advisor to Chairman Senator Charles Perry, helping guide some of the most complex and consequential issues facing Texas.

“One of the best in the business,” one nominator shared. “Andrew is honest, a clear communicator, and faithful to his boss and to his job. If you want to get a job done, you want Andrew on the task. Most importantly, he treats everyone with respect.”

In his role, Andrew oversees legislative strategy and staff responsible for a broad range of policy areas including water and natural resources, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, economic development, and disaster response. He manages the flow of legislation, committee reports, and stakeholder engagement across two high-profile committees, ensuring that each bill under their jurisdiction receives thorough, thoughtful attention.

A native of Port Neches, Texas, Andrew earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law and graduated cum laude with a degree in Political Science from the University of Alabama. His blend of technical knowledge and professionalism has made him a trusted advisor not only to Senator Perry but to colleagues throughout the Capitol.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Andrew Parks represents the skill, judgment, and steady leadership that define Texas’s most respected public servants.