Marie Arcos is a native Houstonian and third generation Texan who has been with the YMCA of Greater Houston since 2001. She currently serves as the Chief Government Affairs Officer and is tasked to build and strengthen partnerships with private and public organizations with the community and promotes our YMCA National and State Legislative agendas. Her career with the YMCA began in 1996 as a volunteer board member then became the Executive Director for one of 36 YMCA’s in Houston. She was the first Latina in that role and the only Hispanic Executive Director in the organization at that time in 2001. Marie received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work in 1997 specializing in political and community organizing. Committed to advancing equity in education and health for Houston children and families she currently serves on the local boards of Harris County Public Health Department’s Healthy Living Matters Executive Committee, Avenue CDC and The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. Marie volunteers with Spindletop Charities, Inc. and is a senior fellow with American Leadership Forum, Class XLVII (47). Marie loves everything Houston, supports her Hispanic heritage through the arts and education, and can often be found at community events and exploring the hidden gems around town.