Ray Hernandez
Ray Hernandez grew up in San Marcos , Texas , the 10th child of 11 . Family life growing up was always loud and busy with so many in their small three bedroom home with one bathroom .
“ I can ’ t remember a day without laughter . Living with some many different personalities as one would expect was a challenge at times ,” Hernandez said .
Those challenges provided him the opportunity build my skills of patience , empathy , listening , coping , advocacy , grit , and forgiveness . All in all , he had a great childhood surrounded by supportive siblings and caring parents .
Hernandez attended San Marcos High School , where he was recently recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus . He earned a Leadership Development Certificate from The University of Texas-Austin LBJ School of Public Affairs and a Economic Development Certification from Texas A & M University Extension Office .
“ All my siblings influenced my professional life but my dear departed brother Rick was the greatest influence . His example as an elected official was one that more elected officials should emulate ,” Hernandez said . “ He was not concerned with political party or interest groups . He was interested in doing all he could do to help people that did not have the opportunity to be heard .”
Hernandez ’ career was defined by his years of volunteering starting at about eight years old . His brother Rick would volunteer him to help at all types of events .
“ The service of helping businesses and the overall community became my passion ,” Hernandez said . “ Everyday , he would seek to find methods to positively affect the community .”
This “ Difference Maker ,” stated that there were many defining moments , but his military service in the US Army stands above them all .
“ My military service helped me become more disciplined and focused ,” he said .
Hernandez ’ s mother , always reminded him that “ we should have a life of service and to do our best and to be proud of who we are , and to give voice to those who do not have the opportunity to sit at the decision-making table .”
Hernandez is the President and CEO of the Huntsville Walker County Chamber of Commerce , and said there is no typical day or moment .
He might visit with the CEO of a large business , meeting with a Congressman , placing signs for Fair On The Square , leading a meeting , counseling a small business owner or taking out the trash after an event . “ No days are typical , but I consider each day , a gift ,” he said . This executive explains to be an effective leader , one must have an open mind , listen well , be solution-oriented , courageous , have unwavering ethics , emotionally intelligent and be curious .
“ Working at my desk is the most challenging part of my job ,” Hernandez said . “ Mark Twain once said , ‘ Eat a frog the first thing in the morning and your day can only get better .’ While part of my job requires me to work at my desk , I find the most joy out around town engaging with the business community .”
Hernandez loves to cook for his family and friends , play poker , golf , and attend sporting and live music events . These hobbies allow him to slow down some but it is only temporary .
The Hernandez family loves living in Huntsville with welcoming people , close proximity to Houston , an emerging downtown and beautiful forests and lakes . They might consider San Antonio , if they had to select another city . “ The rich culture , deep history , variety of music and incredible cuisine of San Antonio is world class but for now its the pine trees of east Texas .”
- Written by Dee Howard Mullins
HUNTSVILLE LIVING | DECEMBER 2022 | 23