District I
Staff
Edith Santamaria, Chief of Staff
Edith Santamaria is a passionate public servant who believes in empowering and uplifting communities through policy, advocacy, and civic engagement.
Prior to joining the District I team, Edith worked for the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration where she oversaw federal grants programs that supported jobs, innovation, and entrepreneurship in a five-state region including Texas. She has also served as district director for a state representative during two legislative sessions, and consulted and led two successful political campaigns.
Edith attended the University of Houston and earned a Master of Public Policy from the Hobby School. In her spare time, she enjoys supporting her community as president of the board of her Civic Association, serving on her son’s school PTO, and loves exploring the many great cultural offerings Houston has to offer with her husband, Daniel, and their son, Houston.
Cristina Camarillo, Council Agenda & Policy Analyst
Christina Camarillo, a recent Posse graduate from Carleton College's Class of 2023, is dedicated to positive change in District I. Raised in Northside Houston, her Carleton journey in Sociology, Anthropology, and History showcased a commitment to societal dynamics. Starting as a Hire Houston Youth Intern, she contributed to District B and At-Large Position 2 offices, progressing to permanent roles as the Community and Public Policy Liaison and Deputy Chief of Staff under Council Member David Robinson. Cristina's multifaceted background positions her as an advocate, ready to champion District I's interests with unwavering commitment and insight, contributing meaningfully to its growth and well-being.
Yarixza Becerra, Constituent Services Aide
Yarixza Becerra is a dedicated professional with roots in Houston, Texas. A 2019 first generation graduate of Texas Tech University, Yarixza launched her career in local governance, initially serving as an intern on City Council in District B’s office.
Demonstrating exceptional commitment and skills, she secured a full-time position in District B, Council Member Tarsha Jackson’s office. Yarixza learned the ins and outs of local government during her time there. She now embarks on a new journey serving District I alongside Council Member Joaquín Matinez. She will now serve the community she grew up in and cares deeply for.
Diane Nguyen, Engagement and Communication Manager
Diane Nguyen is a committed advocate for the local community. She was raised in the southeast side of Harris County and graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Texas in 2019. She went on to get her Master of Public Health from UTHealth School of Public Health in Houston in 2021. There, she interned with the Texas Department of State Health Services in their vaccine department. After graduation, she continued her life of public service at a nonprofit managing a federally funded state-wide Medicare fraud prevention program. She first served as the Program Coordinator and then as the Program Director. There she learned leadership and communication skills to serve the public. She is excited to serve the residents of District I to help the growth of the community.
Sally Medina, Council Aide
Celia (Sally) Medina Garcia is a lifelong resident of District I. She has over thirty years of experience in management and customer service in the government and corporate workforce. Sally volunteers for numerous community educational, historical, religious, cultural and animal welfare organizations and events within the city of Houston. Her positive attitude and work ethic are inspired for the future betterment of her family and community.
Contact City Hall / City Council
City Hall901 Bagby, Second Floor
Houston, TX 77002
