0-5 years

Logan Spence is a Partner at the Austin office of Hance Scarborough, LLP where he represents trade associations, corporations and interest groups before the state legislature and agencies. Logan began his career in state government in 1999 as an intern for State Senator Robert Duncan. In 2001, he worked as the legislative assistant to State Rep. Warren Chisum. While attending law school in Houston, Logan worked for Harris County Judge Robert Eckels, District Judge Harvey Brown and the government affairs office of El Paso Energy.

Upon graduating from law school, he spent five years as a Policy Director in Gov. Rick Perry's Office of Budget, Planning and Policy covering a wide variety of issues and agencies. Logan moved to the Texas State Senate in 2007 where he served as Sen. Dan Patrick's Chief of Staff.

In 2013, Logan served as the manager for Dan Patrick's campaign for lieutenant governor. This ultimately successful effort, against three established statewide incumbents, gave Logan first-hand experience in political communications, grassroots management and campaign strategy. After leading the transition team, Logan was named Chief of Staff to the Lieutenant Governor in 2015.

Logan's broad experience in the Texas House, Texas Senate as well as the Office's of Governor and Lt. Governor, give him a unique ability to advocate for his clients in Texas government. Logan earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Texas Tech University and a Juris Doctorate degree from South Texas College of Law. He has been married to his wife Cynthia for over 20 years and they have four children.

Craig Holzheauser brings to Cornerstone years of involvement in Texas state and local politics. The son of a state representative, Craig went to work in the private sector after college before beginning a political career at the state capitol in 2012.

Working as a legislative consultant, managing the campaigns of House and Senate members, and serving as legislative director and then committee director of the House Committee on Public Health in his first year of employment, Craig is goal oriented and proven himself to be a quick study. Craig has a keen political intuition and a knack for developing the type of relationships that matter in campaigns, service of an elected official, or success for his clients.

A native of Victoria, Texas, Craig holds a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science from Texas A&M University.

Justin R. Jordan is an award-winning political advisor and a vice president at Cornerstone Government Affairs. Justin specializes in federal and state government relations, and communications.

For more than 14 years, Justin has been involved in guiding congressional, state legislature, judicial, mayoral, city council, county executive and school board campaigns and advising clients and elected officials. His unique background offers his clients an integrated approach to solutions that help them navigate the political arena. In addition to his work with a range of Cornerstone clients in the state of Texas, he also has experience working on behalf of foreign governments.

Prior to joining Cornerstone, Justin founded Patriot Group Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in strategy, marketing and fundraising. Over the years, he developed a niche of reaching constituency's through the use of unconventional and innovative communication strategies. His entrepreneurial know-how positions him as a national leader in providing strategic advice in an array of political issues including, but not limited to diplomatic relations, pensions, and cyber security.

He has served as a deputy field coordinator for the National Republican Congressional Committee, chairman of the Texas Federation of College Republicans and Executive Director for the watchdog organization, Texans for Ethics and Accountability.

Justin is a member of the Houston Airport System Development Corporation.

11-15 years

114th Texas Secretary of State; 52nd Texas Attorney General appointed by Gov. Abbott; Chair-Texas Department of Information Resources; Deputy Attorney General-Texas; Chief Operating Officer HHSC; Board member Texas Infectious Disease Committee; Chair-Texas Border Transportation Committee; and Chair-Texas Medicaid Fraud Task Force.

Texas attorney since 1988. 114th Texas Secretary of State; 52nd Texas Attorney General appointed by Gov. Abbott; Chair-Texas Department of Information Resources; Deputy Attorney General-Texas; Chief Operating Officer HHSC; Board member Texas Infectious Disease Committee; Chair-Texas Border Transportation Committee; and Chair-Texas Medicaid Fraud Task Force.

6-10 years

2019 Capitol Inside Texas Lobby Power Rankings - "Rising Star"

Texas Legislature
Texas Governor's Office
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Railroad Commission of Texas
Texas Water Development Board
Texas Department of Transportation
Texas Department of Agriculture
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Texas Animal Health Commission
Texas Department of Insurance
Texas Facilities Commission
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Texas General Land Office
Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Texas Department of Public Safety

Matthew Bentley is a government relations consultant working for associations, companies, local governments and non-profit organizations in Texas. His practice is focused on environmental management, energy and utility regulations, private property interests, natural resources, infrastructure projects, economic development and alcohol issues. Matthew focuses his guidance on public positioning, issue management and government relations. His success relies greatly on his extensive relationships with elected officials and staff throughout the legislative and executive branches of state government. His work has resulted in the development and implementation of public policy; formulation of strategy with key government officials; and improved communication between legislative and business leaders at the highest level.

Matthew began independent lobbying during the 83rd Legislative Session (2013). Among others, he currently represents the country's largest telecommunications company, the state's leading utility association, a mining operation, a Class A water utility, a conservative tort reform organization, a multi-national transportation infrastructure company, a mid-sized manufacturer seeking regulatory rule changes, an association involved with the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, a group of Texas wineries, a residential developer and a non-profit cancer research foundation. Previous clients have included the state's two largest waste and recycling businesses, several landowner groups, an oil and gas trade association, special purpose districts, a leading power generation company and other major infrastructure projects. Matthew was recently named a Top Ten "Rising Star" by Capitol Inside, a bi-partisan publication covering Texas politics and government.

Throughout the 82nd Texas Legislature (2011), Matthew was under contract to Reggie Bashur, Cliff Johnson, Clay Pope and Luis Saenz, working on their clients' interests before the Texas Legislature and agencies throughout the state. During the 81st Legislative Session (2009), he worked for Commissioner Todd Staples at the Texas Department of Agriculture, as the Commission underwent the Sunset Advisory Commission review process.

Matthew also previously served as Business Development Manager for Procurement Strategy Group, Inc. This Austin-based government relations firm was well respected by government and business leaders for brokering mutually beneficial procurement solutions, until it dissolved due to retiring partners in 2012. Matthew helped companies target and win projects with federal, state and local governments.

Matthew has considerable experience and great success in working on political campaigns throughout Texas and the United States. In 2018, Matthew had a one hundred percent win rate as he consulted on Cody Harris' campaign for the Texas House of Representatives, U.S. Congressman Lance Gooden's open seat race for Congress and judicial races throughout East Texas. Matthew also served as Campaign Manager for State Representative Byron's Cook successful 2016 campaign for re-election. That race was among the highest profile and most seriously contested races that cycle. Matthew started his campaign work with Commissioner Todd Staples' statewide Agriculture Commissioner campaign and Governor Rick Perry's 2010 gubernatorial and 2012 presidential races. Matthew is very involved with the Texas GOP's Mighty Texas Strike Force, having served as the Virginia Co-Captain for the 2016 General Election.

Matthew presently serves on the Advisory Council for Texan by Nature, a non-profit organization founded by Former First Lady, Laura Bush, which focuses on safeguarding the environment with respect to private property interests and economic development. Matthew graduated from The University of Texas at Austin.

20+ years

B.S., Cum Laude,
Texas Tech University
Major: Agricultural & Applied Economics

Drew DeBerry has more than 20 years of experience at the highest levels of public policy development and implementation. He has dedicated his years of service to developing a wealth of knowledge and relationships that complement the growing range of clients at Axis Strategic Partners.

DeBerry served on Governor Greg Abbott's senior staff for the first three years of his term as governor, most recently serving as Director of Budget and Policy and as Policy Director prior to that. In those roles, DeBerry worked closely with executive agency commissioners, directors, and staff as well as legislative offices on all aspects of the state budget and programs throughout state government.

Prior to working for Governor Abbott, DeBerry was the Deputy Commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture under then-Commissioner Todd Staples. This position followed several years in Washington, D.C. serving under President George W. Bush as the White House Liaison and Deputy Chief of Staff at USDA. He began his career working in the legislative arena as a staff member in the Texas State Senate.

Throughout his extensive public service career, DeBerry has also worked on state and national political campaigns to develop grassroots coalitions and help to direct overall campaign strategy.

A graduate of Texas Tech University, Drew and his wife, Kara, have four outstanding and talented children.

Max Moll joined the Cornerstone Public Affairs team April of 2023, bringing a public affairs and strategic communications presence to Cornerstone's Texas offices. In his previous role as chief engagement officer at the Houston Independent School District, he oversaw government relations, communications, family and community engagement and board relations for the nation's eighth largest school district. He also oversaw the district's legislative affairs work and external lobby team, ensuring alignment and execution of district's legislative priorities. In addition, he represented the district with external stakeholders, in traditional and digital media appearances, and on panels and other various speaking opportunities. He was also the lead spokesperson for the district and main point of contact for elected officials, advocacy groups and private industry.

Prior to working at HISD, Max served as the chief communications officer & deputy director for the Office of the Houston City Controller, Chris B. Brown. He spearheaded all communications initiatives for the Office of the City Controller, working across the City of Houston's 22 departments to help unify external and internal communications. Max served as liaison between Controller's Office and the city's investors, developing key external messaging relating to investment strategy, portfolio performance, and maintaining key relationships with city's investor base. In addition, and in partnership with the Controller's Office Treasury Division, Max helped oversee the city's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investments, helping grow the portfolio to over $950 million.

Max also served as the chief of staff to the CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where he oversaw the development and execution of the Chamber's public affairs and community outreach efforts, legislative advocacy campaigns and external affairs projects. Also, he served as the main point of contact for media, securing comprehensive coverage and managing all media relationships on behalf of the Chamber and its members.

He holds a master's in business administration from Boston University, master's in political management from George Washington University, and a bachelor's in mass communication from LSU.

6-10 years

She has been recognized by Capitol Inside in 2015 as a "Rising Star" in Texas politics and in 2016, was selected as the winner for Austin Under 40's government and public affairs industry category.

Prior to joining McGuireWoods Consulting in 2012, Holly served as chief of staff to Texas State Senator Mike Jackson and worked in the Texas Senate for over a decade building strong relationships with state legislators, capitol staff, executive branch and regulatory agencies.

Holly volunteers in various capacities around Central Texas. She is an active member of the MD Anderson Cancer Center's Advance Team and also founded Young Texans of Cancer's Austin Chapter. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin and is a Kappa Alpha Theta alumni and Texas Ex. She enjoys spending her free time with her son, Hunt, and golden retriever, Winnie.

ROBERT CULLEY has had extensive experience in the legislative process for over 35 years before the Texas Legislature and various state agencies of government. He was Chief of Staff for a State Representative who was later elected State Senator. His service at the Capitol has left him with strong relationships among both members and staff. During his time working for the legislature, Robert oversaw the House Public Education Committee and the Senate Administrative Committee. Then, he became the Director of Governmental Affairs for the Texas Motor Transportation Association where he managed public relations, grassroots and lobbying efforts for the association's 1200 members.

In 1993, Robert joined Polan Culley Inc. (then Polan Ingram Advocacy Group), bringing his extensive Capitol and trade association experience to the firm. He brings his clients a wealth of knowledge in strategy and project management, and is well-respected for his aggressive pursuit of the client's interest in long term goals.

20+ years

Jim Grace advises and advocates for a wide variety of clients on federal, state, and local public policy matters. His deep knowledge of and experience with governments and political campaigns at virtually all levels allow him to assist with complex government relations matters. Jim enhances and protects his clients' business opportunities by monitoring political developments and formulating and implementing strategies to help clients achieve their government relations objectives.

In addition to operating Grace & McEwan, in 2019, Jim and Jennifer McEwan were co-founders of Datum Tech, Inc., a mobile data advertising company. Datum ingested the location data from mobile devices at scale from around the United States and organized that data at the household level using parcel data. Once sorted, the location data could be matched to voter files and other address lists and utilized for highly targeted multiplatform advertising. Jim and Jennifer grew Datum to sixteen employees and yearly revenues of $9 million. They successfully exited in 2024 when Datum was acquired by a publicly traded gaming company.

Prior to forming Grace & McEwan Consulting, Jim chaired the Texas government relations practice at Baker Botts L.L.P. and served as director of Texas state relations and senior counsel at CenterPoint Energy, Inc. Before serving in an in-house counsel capacity, he was a member of a Houston-based international law firm where his practice concentrated on merger and acquisition transactions, securities offerings and general corporate matters for companies involved in oil and gas exploration and production; oil field and energy services; natural gas liquid processing; propane and heating oil and chemical production and distribution.

Jim holds a J.D., cum laude, from the University of Houston Law Center and a B.A. in History from the University of Notre Dame. In 2020, Jim received the University of Houston Law Alumni Association's Pro Bono/Community Service and Leadership Award for his pro bono efforts to secure $45 million in funding for a new building for the Law Center.

From 2016-2019, Jim was the Chair of the Board of Directors for Undies for Everyone, a charity that provides new underwear to underprivileged children, and he continues to serve on that organization's Board. He also currently is on the Board of Directors of the Houston Area Women's Center.

In 2007, the day before he turned 40, Jim took a commission in the United States Navy Reserve, and in 2011-12, he deployed to Afghanistan for nine months, where he served as an intelligence officer with a unit that conducted counterinsurgency operations.

0-5 years

Annabelle Sebesta joined the Austin office as a Senior Associate in October 2022. In her role, she assists with administrative and support duties, scheduling meetings and organizing annual events and legislative receptions. Additionally, during the legislative sessions, she provides extensive support to the team by following legislation and keeping the team up to date with information.

Prior to Cornerstone, Annabelle served as Administrative Coordinator at the Office of the Texas Speaker. In this role, she assisted senior staff with correspondence, resource navigation, special property and supply requests. In the same office, Annabelle was a Correspondence Assistant, where she drafted correspondence by researching legislation and maintained data entry for incoming and outgoing communication. She also assisted the director of administration with onboarding the 87th regular legislative session intern class and new staff members of the office, as well as the production of special events.

Annabelle received her bachelor's degree in advertising from the University of Texas Austin.

Jay Propes is a political/strategic consultant and lobbyist with over three decades of public-affairs and governmental relations experience at the state and federal levels. After graduating from Baylor in 1990 (B.A., Political Science & Economics), Propes began his career on Capitol Hill working for his hometown Congressman, Ralph Hall, and moved to Austin in mid-1992. He served 8 years as Director of Governmental Affairs and Executive Director for the Texas Ophthalmological Association, representing nearly 900 of Texas' eye physicians and surgeons before the Texas Legislature, agencies, and the U.S. Congress.

Since 2000, Propes has represented a myriad of clients simultaneously in governmental relations, public affairs strategies, and crisis management across almost all business and professional sectors. For over twenty years, he has helped professional associations, affiliated interest groups and corporations assemble legislative and public affairs teams across the United States and coordinate their work across the geographies to develop consistent messaging and strategy to assist in their successes. He advises political action committees in their formation, governance, and operational effectiveness.

Propes is a partner in the public affairs firm Mercury, a subsidiary of Omnicom, with fifteen offices across the United States.

Jay lives in Austin with his wife and two teenage sons.

Martin Hubert brings a wealth of state government experience to the clients of Cornerstone Government Affairs. From his early career as chief counsel to the Senate Natural Resources Committee to his gubernatorial appointment as a commissioner of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to his eight years as the deputy comptroller of Texas, Hubert has managed thousands of employees and millions of taxpayer dollars under both Democrat and Republican administrations.

Martin was the 2008 recipient of TSABAA's Administrator of the Year Award. Presented annually, this prestigious award was established to formally recognize state employees who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and who have made significant contributions to state agency business administration.

As the final general counsel to legendary Lt. Governor Bob Bullock, Martin learned the mastery of government relations from some of the most influential leaders in Texas history. His knowledge of agriculture stems from generations of the Hubert family's cow/calf and farming operations in South Texas and serving as the Texas Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture for eight years. Martin offers a unique combination of legal, natural resources, tax policy and state government procedural expertise.

Hubert is a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center and St. Mary's School of Law. He was Brigade Executive Officer in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Ross Volunteers Honor Guard and the Singing Cadets. He successfully completed Army Ranger School and served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He is a marathon runner and coaches his son's little league teams.

Hubert is a second tenor and helps raise money for Legal Aid through the Travis County Bar Association's "Bar and Grill" fundraisers. He and his wife Celeste live in a historic home in Austin, where they are involved with the Austin Symphony, St. Theresa's Catholic Church and School, and the happily busy lives of their children Belle and Patrick.

Laura Alexander joined Cornerstone in October of 2025 as a Principal for our Texas office, and is based in Houston. She supports client teams in a variety of issue areas.

Prior to Cornerstone, Laura served as Vice President of Public Policy at the Greater Houston Partnership. In this role, she led advocacy on water infrastructure, workforce development and public school funding; managed member fly-ins and delivered key outcomes during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, including local appropriations for the City of Houston, extension of research & development franchise tax credits and a constitutional dedication of funds for water projects.

Laura previously practiced public finance law, holding roles with a number of firms in Louisiana focusing on environment, energy, tourism, housing and elections. She also served as Executive Director of the Louisiana Institute for Children in Families, where she advanced foster care and adoption reforms and launched the Louisiana Foster Youth Intern Program to prepare former foster youth to testify before the Legislature.

Laura holds a Juris Doctor from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law and a BA in Mass Communication from Louisiana State University.

11-15 years

Power Ranking- Texas Lobby
Jan 2019: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

Energy Service Innovator
Nov 2018: D CEO Magazine
Honoring CEOs, CFOs, and Innovators who have made Texas a national and International center for energy activity. D CEO honors leaders in upstream, midstream, services, and finance sectors.

General Industry Service
2018: Oil & Gas Awards - 2018 Texas
Oil & Gas Awards focuses on publicizing the great gains being made by upstream, midstream and downstream companies in the key areas of corporate social responsibility, the environment, and health and safety.

Power Ranking- Texas Lobby
Jan 2017: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

Power Ranking- Texas Lobby
Jan 2015: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

2013- Who's Who in Energy
Dec 2013: Austin Business Journal
The annual list distinguishes key players across a spectrum of energy industries in several major journal markets across the country. The list includes local national leaders representing different facets of the energy industry, including exploration, production, regulation, distribution, engineering, finance, education, law, and more. Individuals are selected for inclusion through internal research, industry outreach, and an open-nomination process conducted by the business journals of their respective cities.

Rising Star- Texas Lobby
Jan 2013: Capitol Inside
Capitol Inside is an ideal source of news and information about Texans who run government and what they are doing to lead. Capitol Inside is the go-to source of political news in Texas for people who want the real story and what it all means. We take our readers between the lines with coverage that's unique, entertaining and more analytical than any reporting you will find on the Texas political scene.

In Texas, the oil and natural gas industry touches every part of the state and every legislative district. The industry anchors the Texas economy by creating high-paying jobs and by generating revenues unmatched by other industries in Texas. Given that Chris' primary focus is natural resources (oil and gas industry), he engages with almost every elected official in one way or another. From tax policy, to school funding, to general appropriations to environment policy, he engages with most elected officials, including statewide. In particular Chris focus on the following committees:
Texas Senate:
Lt Governor's office; Agriculture; Business & Commerce; Education; Finance; Natural Resources & Economic Development; State Affairs; Transportation; Water & Rural Affairs.
Texas House of Representatives:

Speakers office; Agriculture & Livestock; Appropriations; Business & Industry; Energy Resources; Environmental Regulation; Insurance; Land & Resource Management; Natural Resources; Pensions; Investments & Financial Services; Public Education; State Affairs; Transportation; Urban Affairs; Ways & Means.

For Texas State Agencies:
Texas Governor's office; Comptroller of Texas; Railroad Commission of Texas; Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; Texas General Land Office; Texas Department of Agriculture; Texas Attorney General; Texas Department of Transportation; Texas Parks and Wildlife (most Agencies)

Chris Hosek is a principal of Texas Star Alliance, specializing in direct lobbying and state agency relations. He has experience with a broad range of legislative issues and policy initiatives, including a specific expertise in the energy sector. Chris served as the chief of staff for five years to the Chair of the Railroad Commission of Texas. The Railroad Commission is the regulatory body that oversees Texas' energy industries including all levels of the oil and gas industry, pipeline safety, gas utility rates, and the permitting and reclamation of coal and uranium mines.

Prior to his work at the Railroad Commission, Chris served asthe legislative director in the Texas House of Representatives for the 78th and 77th sessions. He was the committee aide to the Appropriations Committee, responsible for drafting the state's two-year budget. He also served as acommittee aide for a member onthe House Energy Resources Committee, where he received his background in the energy field. Chris also served in various roles for elected officials where he managed and developed legislative issues. Other committee experience includes the Urban Affairs Committee and State Recreational Resource Committee.

Chris has met with numerous international trade delegations at the Railroad Commission. He also participated in several trade missions to Mexico, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Philippines, Singapore, and Myanmar. In 2008, the American Council of Young Political Leaders selected Chris as a delegate to participate in an overseas governmental exchange with Taiwan. In 2015, he was asked to lead the same organization to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Qatar.

In 2019, Chris was also named D CEO (Dallas) Magazine's "Innovator of the Year." In 2018, he wonTexas Oil and Gas Award for Service Excellence, the first energy lobbyist to win the award. In 2015, 2017, and 2019, Chris was ranked in the top "Power Ranking" by Capitol Inside, a Texas political publication. In 2013, he was recognized as a "Rising Star" on its 10th annual Texas Lobby Power Rankings.Also, in 2013, the Austin Business Journal named him "Who's Who in Energy."

In addition to serving the legislative needs of his clients, Chris' involvement with the community is robust.He was appointed to serve on the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, a multi-state government entity that is viewed as the authority on domestic oil and gas issues. Chris has also served as an Urban Transportation Commissioner for the City of Austin.

In addition, he sits on the boards ofBallet Austin, the Austin World Affairs Council, and theLone Star Success Academy. This non-profit improves the lives of troubled, at-risk, and vulnerable Texas youth by offering an alternative education. Chris also serves as a Trustee for theAmerican Council for Young Political Leaders, a Washington D.C.-based organization that implements unique international exchange activities for political leaders worldwide. He is active in the Texas State Alumni Association and the Phi Delta Theta Alumni Association.

Ross Giesinger brings over a decade of legislative experience at the Texas Capitol to the Cornerstone team, having served for six legislative sessions in both the Texas House and Senate.

Most recently, Ross worked as a policy advisor to Dade Phelan, Speaker of the Texas House, of Representatives, during the 87th Regular Session, where he assisted with the passage of over 80 pieces of legislation. Additionally, Ross drafted and managed several bills filed in response to Winter Storm Uri, including SB 3, one of the most comprehensive energy reforms in Texas in the last 20 years.

Prior to his time in the House, Ross spent several years working as general counsel and legislative director for Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R-TX) and as the director of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. While at the Senate, Ross assisted with the passage of nearly 300 bills and worked to obtain funds for a variety of initiatives, including legislation that secured permanent funding for Texas State Parks.

Ross began his career at the legislature in 2010 as a drafting attorney for the Texas Legislative Council. During his time with the state, he has drafted thousands of pieces of legislation, allowing him to develop expertise in a wide variety of subject areas, including energy, healthcare, water, land use and development, transportation, insurance, labor, agriculture, wildlife, taxation, and state budgeting.

Ross is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Southern Methodist University's Dedman School of Law. He is a member of the Austin Young Lawyers Association and was recently elected to serve on the Council of the Texas State Bar's Legislative and Campaign Law Section. Ross also serves as a Steward of the Wild for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and has been active in the Austin Ballet Guild, the Trail Foundation, and CCA. He and his wife Courtney live in Austin with their young son Henry.

20+ years

In 2017, Governor-elect Phil Murphy selected Eric to serve on the Human Services Committee for his transition team. During that same year, he was nominated by Kentucky State Senator Jimmy Higdon and commissioned by Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin to become a Kentucky Colonel.

In 2004, Eric was nominated by New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey to serve on the South Jersey Port Corporation's Board of Directors, which is responsible for the development of port facilities in South New Jersey. Eric was reappointed in 2008 by Governor Corzine and again in 2017 by Governor Chris Christie.

In 2018, Eric was appointed to the Advisory Board of the Burbank International Film Festival.

Eric is also a founding member of the Board of Directors for the NYC Fashion Manufactures Alliance of Design Educators and Save the Garment Center in New York City; a position he's held since 2008.

In 2007, Eric was selected by the American Council of Young Political Leaders, a bi-partisan not-for-profit international exchange organization, as a delegate to Vietnam for a two-week political exchange program. Eric joined six other young political leaders from the U.S. to study Vietnam's political system, engage in dialogue on international issues, and forge professional relationships. He's also participated in international trade missions, including trips to the Netherlands, China and the United Arab Emirates.

Eric was appointed in 2007 by New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine to serve as a member of the Economic Growth Council to assist with statewide economic development policies.

Eric is a former Committee Chairman for the Mercer County College Board of Trustees Advisory Committee and a former member of the Board of Trustees for the Arts & Business Partnership of Southern New Jersey. He's served on the boards of the Mercer County Workforce Investment Board, the Mercer County Economic Development Committee and Junior Achievement. Eric was appointed by Assembly Majority Leader Paul DiGaetano in 2002 to the New Jersey Council of Local Mandates and served as Vice Chairman until 2004.

Zoe Halfmann joined Cornerstone as a Principal in our Dallas office in September 2025.

Prior to Cornerstone, she was Chief of Staff to Dallas City Councilmember Paula Blackmon. In this role, she advised on key policy initiatives related to preemption, mental health, , fentanyl and funding for district projects. She oversaw the Councilmember's agenda, collaborated directly with city executive staff and fellow councilmembers, managed internal operations and coordinated media and communications strategy.

Prior to that, Zoe served as Vice President of Public Policy at the Dallas Regional Chamber, where she managed local government relations and led the organization's work in critical areas including infrastructure, healthcare and water policy. She also helped lead the formation of the Good for Texans PAC, provided on the ground support during the 88th Session of the Texas Legislature, and revitalized the organization's Infrastructure Task Force to advance regional priorities. Zoe also organized high-profile events including coordinating state and federal fly-ins, hosting the Texas Governor and the Speaker of the House, and planning roundtables with local and national stakeholders.

In addition, Zoe has held various roles within the City of Dallas including Legislative Manager, Council Liaison and Policy Advisor and Legislative Coordinator.

She holds a Master's in Public Administration from the University of North Texas, where she was a Hatton Sumners Scholar. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Arkansas.

20+ years

Named Top Lobbyist by Austin Business Journal Girl Scouts' "Woman of Distinction" AwardAustin Business Journal's "Profiles in Power" "Austin Under 40" AwardGlossy 8 list by Austin American-Statesman Austin Fashion Week's "Style Setter" Award

Lobbyist, political fundraiser and national political commentator Andrea McWilliams is a skilled strategist, combining grace with grit and patience with persuasion. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, McWilliams brings her unique expertise to every issue she engages drawing on her time in both the private and public sector. The national media, including FOX News, the Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, USA Today, CNN, BBC, and NPR have all reported on McWilliams' role as a leading fundraiser and political strategist. Named Texas Businesswoman of the Year by the Women's Chamber of Commerce of Texas, she was recognized as "consigliere to the powerful and political." McWilliams was the only lobbyist profiled together with the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Speaker of the House in Texas Monthly's "POWER" feature highlighting the most powerful people at the Texas Capitol.

McWilliams is also a proud recipient of both the Austin Business Journal's "Profiles in Power" and the Girl Scouts' "Woman of Distinction" Award. She has received the "Austin Under 40" Award, and the Austin American-Statesman honored her as a member of its Glossy 8 list. Last year, McWilliams received Austin Fashion Week's "Style Setter" Award, recognizing her work and dedication on behalf of local nonprofit organizations.

A Chief of Staff at the Texas Capitol at just 21, McWilliams went on to hone her private sector grassroots skills at the iconic public relations company Public Strategies, Inc. Today, she is the President of McWilliams Governmental Affairs (MGA), a full-service firm of governmental affairs consultants, respected and trusted at the local, state and national level.

Family and Community:

Raised just steps from the Texas Capitol on Congress Avenue, McWilliams now resides in Old Enfield, raising three children in a historic home.

She is a well-known philanthropist, community volunteer and proud native of Austin, named on many occasions to the "All-Stars" of Austin American Statesman Fortunate 500 list. McWilliams is honored to serve on the Board of St. David's Medical Center, one of the largest health systems in Texas and the third-largest private employer in the Austin area. Last year, McWilliams was also appointed to the Board of the Save Historic Muny District whose charge is to preserve 141-acres of green space in Central Austin that includes Lions Municipal Golf Course ("Muny"), widely recognized as the first public golf course in the South to become integrated and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, she enjoys her time on the Pease Park Capital Campaign Committee whose efforts will transform this important landmark for future generations in her hometown.

McWilliams currently serves on the PAC Board of RYAN, an award-winning global tax services firm based in Dallas. And, she has also served as a board member for many other non-profit organizations, including Texas Lyceum, Mexi-Arte Museum, Arthouse, Rise Across Texas Challenge, HeartGift, Austin Children in Crisis, Pioneer Farms and the Waterloo President's Council. She is an inaugural member of the Long Center's Notable Women and a long-time member of the St. David's Hospital Toast of the Town Committee. True to her roots, McWilliams is a proud past President of Inherit Austin, an organization founded to preserve Austin's architectural and cultural past by not only protecting the city's important landmarks and historical fabric, but safeguarding its unique character as well.

McWilliams has represented the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and KillCancer, two nonprofit groups committed to cancer prevention. She was also honorary chair for the Mamma Jamma Ride, which since its inaugural ride, has raised millions of dollars for non-profits serving thousands of Central Texans coping with breast cancer. In recognition, the Seton Breast Cancer Center in Austin named their screening room after McWilliams. In 2018, McWilliams additionally served as the honorary chair of the Celebration of Life, the most significant fundraising event for breast cancer in Austin, Texas.

In partnership with the Austin Business Journal, McWilliams enjoys volunteering as a business mentor to other young women in Central Texas. Aside from her continued board service with Preservation Austin, Ballet Austin and the Pease Park Conservancy, she also served as a member of the Girl Scouts Centennial Celebration Committee and chaired Austin's largest charity event, the Ballet Fete, benefiting Ballet Austin. McWilliams additionally co-chaired the Marathon Kids gala and was a chair of the University of Texas Blanton Museum of Art Gala. In support of the Center for Child Protection, McWilliams was a celebrity dancer for Austin's inaugural "Dancing With The Stars" fundraising event. She is a proud past member of the Texas Emerald Ball Committee, whose endeavors support the American Ireland Fund.

During the 86th Legislative Session, McWilliams also served on the Governor For A Day Committee.

11-15 years

Tony Essalih joined Cornerstone in 2011 as a co-lead of the firm's flagship Texas office in Houston. He spent 12 years on Capitol Hill and came to Cornerstone from the office of Congressman John Culberson (R-Houston). Tony worked for Congressman Culberson for 10 years, the last five as his chief of staff. Prior to becoming chief of staff, Tony served in a variety of capacities including legislative assistant, legislative director, communications director, and deputy chief of staff. He spent eight years in Washington, D.C. before relocating to Houston in 2007.

As chief of staff, Tony was responsible for guiding the day-to-day operations of the Congressman's Washington and Houston offices, and oversaw a 15-member staff under a fixed budget. Outside of the office, he served as the principal liaison to the Congressman's campaign committee and provided strategic counsel and advice related to his re-election efforts. Tony's areas of policy expertise include transportation, energy, budget and appropriations. Tony also led outreach efforts and served as an emissary on behalf of the Congressman with state lawmakers in Austin and local elected officials in Houston.

Prior to Culberson's election in 2001, Tony worked as a legislative assistant for Congressman Culberson's predecessor, former House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Archer. Tony's began his tenure on Capitol Hill with former House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings.

Tony has advised and assisted numerous local, state, and federal campaigns. He serves on the board of the National InterFaith Foundation, the Advisory Board for the Houston Technology Center, spent two years on the Board of the Spring Branch Medical Center and was a member of Houston Mayor Annise Parker's transition team in 2010.

Tony was born and raised in Fredericksburg, VA and received his B.A. in Political Science from Mary Washington College. He was a member of Mary Washington's NCAA semifinalist men's soccer team. He lives in Houston and has two angelic daughters, Grace and Libby.

Anne Mazuca brings over a decade of legislative experience working at the Texas Capitol, most recently serving six years as Chief of Staff to State Representative R.D. �Bobby' Guerra.

During her time working in the Texas legislature, she has worked for Members from Dallas, Galveston and South Texas, allowing her the opportunity to build relationships with local elected officials, community leaders and stakeholders from across the state while working on a wide range of policy areas. Prior to being named chief of staff, she served as a legislative director and legislative aide where she was the primary staff lead for the House Appropriations Committee Article II and Article III focusing on healthcare and education funding, the Public Health Committee, Energy Resources, Business & Industry, Ways & Means and Insurance committees.

In her capacity as chief of staff, Anne was responsible for guiding the day-to-day operations of the Capitol and McAllen offices. Outside of the office, she provided support for her Member's re-election campaign where she provided feedback on messaging, managed all Texas Ethics Commission and campaign finance filings and offered general advice and assistance related to his campaign.

An Austin native, Anne has close ties to the city in which she still resides.

Matthew Garcia joined Cornerstone in December of 2024, expanding the firm's Texas footprint to Dallas. A seasoned government and public affairs executive with over two decades experience in the Dallas Region, Matt brings a wealth of experience in policy, advocacy and stakeholder engagement. He joins Cornerstone from the Dallas Regional Chamber, where he served as Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy. In this role, he spearheaded the organization's public policy strategy, while remaining closely engaged with legislators, key stakeholders and C-level executives across the Dallas Region for one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in Texas.

Prior to his time at Dallas Regional Chamber, Matt worked as the Director of External Affairs for Leon Capital Group where he developed the firm's public affairs strategies across their multiple business lines.

Previously, Matt served in the United States House of Representatives, first as District Director (2010-2013) and then as Chief of Staff-Texas (2013-2018), managing Rep. Pete Sessions' (R-TX) office and serving as a key advisor on energy, transportation and general business issues for Texas. Notably, Matt served as the North Texas congressional point of contact working with area city officials, the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) and the Army Corps of Engineers to bring online Bois d'Arc Lake, the newest major reservoir in Texas in over 30 years. Matt also worked alongside emergency response teams at the city, county and state levels during the 2014 Ebola crisis in Dallas to deliver accurate and timely public communication while leading information coordination with federal agencies, including the National Institute of Health and the Department of Health and Human Services.

He earned his bachelor's degree in finance from the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin. Garcia currently serves as Director of the Texas Association of Business, The Dallas Zoo and the Texas Lyceum, and member of the following organizations: McCombs School of Business BBA Advisory Board, Simmons Cancer Center Community Advisory Board, Reading Partners North Texas, the State Fair of Texas Chairman's Task Force, the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Brand Advancement Committee and the SMU Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Advisory Board.

B.A., Miami University
Major: Political Science

Advising clients on a broad range of topics in Texas and beyond is what Greg Macksood has dedicated his life to for the past 20 years. During that time, he has served as a trusted advisor to a wide range of clientele including Fortune 100 corporations, state trade associations and seed capital pre-revenue startups in developing political, legislative, media and grassroots engagement strategies throughout the country.

After attending Miami University in Oxford, Ohio where he received a B.A. in Political Science, Macksood split his time between Columbus, Ohio and Washington, D.C. working for a national public affairs and government relations firm. There, he focused on healthcare, tax policy, and natural resources.

Since then, Macksood has directed the government relations efforts in Texas for one of the nation's largest energy companies. It was during that time that he served on numerous boards and held multiple leadership positions across several trade associations. All the while, Macksood was learning how to navigate different political climates across Texas and effectively advocate for the energy sector, maintaining and developing deep political relationships in both parties.

In addition to his deep legislative relationships across both sides of the aisle, Macksood also has extensive experience representing interests before Texas regulatory agencies on issues including water, transportation, eminent domain, air permitting, insurance, healthcare, electricity and land use and minerals. His intimate knowledge of agency procedures makes him an effective advocate for his clients.

As for political experience, Macksood has managed statewide ballot initiatives, created issue advocacy coalitions, and implemented media communications strategies.

Greg is also the father of three young children who keep him and his wife Dakota busy outside of the world of politics.

Jay Williamson advocates on behalf of clients at the state and local levels. He is experienced in developing effective legislative strategies, navigating complex policy needs, analyzing policy, and supporting appropriations initiatives.

Jay has represented clients across a diverse range of issues, including telecommunications, county government, voting rights, business liability, tort reform, appropriations, public safety, and workforce development. He has helped clients navigate Texas state government and Austin City Hall while serving as a policy analyst for a Central Texas-based public safety 501(c)(3) organization.

Before joining Grace & McEwan Consulting, Jay spent five years as an associate at a boutique government relations firm in Austin and served as a legislative aide for Rep. Travis Clardy.

Jay is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a McCombs Business Honors Degree and a minor in business and public policy.

20+ years

Previously, McGarah served as the Committee Director of the powerful Senate Natural Resources Committee. During her 10 years with this committee she established solid relationships with key members of the legislature and various environmental agencies, and developed a thorough knowledge of Texas' air, water, and waste issues.

McGarah dedicated countless hours to the preparation and passage of groundbreaking pieces of legislation, including Senate Bill 1 in 1997 and Senate Bill 2 in 2001. Both of these bills dealt with state water management measures and greatly impacted the state.

McGarah was also instrumental in the development and passage of SB 5 in the 75th Legislature, which created the Texas Emissions Reduction Program. This program has served as a model for numerous other states across the country, and has been a vital component in assisting Texas meet the Federal Air Quality Standards.

20+ years