Driven by a deep commitment to public service, Vanessa Fuentes (EMPL '24) began her career as a nonprofit health advocate before stepping into elected office. Now serving as the Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Austin, she has spent the past four years on the Austin City Council, advocating for policies that support livable wages, expand affordable housing and strengthen community connections.
Her journey began long before she took office. She worked at the Texas Capitol focusing on criminal justice reform while remaining deeply engaged in volunteer efforts supporting education, public health and women’s empowerment. To sharpen her leadership skills and address Austin’s most pressing challenges, she pursued an Executive Master of Public Leadership at the LBJ School.
“The EMPL program at the LBJ School was the perfect fit—it offered a dynamic blend of policy expertise, strategic decision-making and real-world applications tailored for public leaders,” Fuentes said. “This program has equipped me with the tools to drive meaningful change and serve my community more effectively.”
One of the most notable outcomes of Fuentes’ EMPL experience has been the implementation of her capstone project, which aimed to establish District Service Funds. In November 2024, this initiative was successfully passed as public policy, improving the way Austin allocates resources at the community level.
“This initiative will improve how we allocate resources at the community level and help restore confidence in local government’s ability to deliver,” Fuentes explained. “Beyond that, the program expanded my network, connecting me with leaders across government and the private sector. These relationships have been invaluable, providing diverse perspectives and expertise that help me approach Austin’s challenges with innovative, informed solutions.”
For Fuentes, the EMPL program reinforced the importance of communication and negotiation in policymaking. The training equipped her with essential skills that she now applies daily, helping her bring stakeholders together, build consensus and advocate effectively for Austin’s communities. Since graduating, she has continued to advance policies that promote affordability, public health and community empowerment. A recent milestone in her career was receiving the National League of Cities’ Centennial Under 40 Impact Award, which recognizes young elected officials making a difference in their communities.
For current and aspiring EMPL students, Fuentes emphasizes the importance of community-driven leadership and relationship-building. “Public service is about bringing people together to create real change, so seek out opportunities to collaborate, listen and advocate for those who need it most,” she said. “Use the skills and network you’re developing in the program to push bold ideas forward. Most importantly, lead with authenticity and purpose—your passion for service will be your greatest asset.”
With her dedication to public service and the skills gained from the LBJ School, Fuentes continues to make an impact on Austin, working to create a city where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Learn more about the Executive Master of Public Leadership degree. Applications close May 1.