CHIEF OF STAFF
juanita@the26thward.org

Juanita García is no stranger to community engagement, having actively participated for the last 20+ years in this community's core struggles, from anti-gentrification, to youth education and restorative justice to media, to food justice, to the freedom of Puerto Rican political prisoners and self-determination for Puerto Rico. She brings strong organizational and leadership skills to the office, leading by example. Combining an equal zeal for social justice with a deep commitment to critical thinking, Juanita establishes excellent working rapport with co-workers and community members of all ages wherever she goes.

DIRECTOR OF POLICY AND ZONING
alexis@the26thward.org

Alexis was born and raised in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. She holds a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago Harris School where she became certified in research methodologies and campaign science, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Urban Studies from the UIC. She is an AmeriCorps alumna who has previously served in policy research and communications roles at organizations including the Illinois General Assembly, BallotReady, and the MacArthur Foundation.

DIRECTOR OF BARRIO SERVICES
julio@the26thward.org

Julio Miramontes is a highly skilled community organizer with extensive experience in constituent services and community engagement. Julio is also a seasoned non-profit leader who has made notable contributions by co-founding two initiatives. Firstly, the Southeast Side of Chicago Food Pantry that supports over 250 families with food resources on a weekly basis. Secondly, Eastside Esports, which aims to provide essential resources to underrepresented groups such as BIPOC, women, and undocumented individuals in the fields of esports, competitive video gaming, and technology.

LEGISLATIVE AIDE
marie@the26thward.org

Marie is an educator, community organizer, and prison abolitionist. She believes that radical imagination is the path toward liberation. She earned a BA in English from the University of Minnesota, a Masters in Educational Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University, and trained to be a circle keeper with Ora of the Community Justice for Youth Institute. As both a constituent and Legislative Aide for the Subcommittee on Youth Employment, she is excited to spearhead the inaugural 26th Ward Youth Council.

WARD SUPERINTENDENT
Hugo.Samayoa@cityofchicago.org

Hugo Samayoa was born at Norwegian American Hospital, now Humboldt Park Health, and raised in Logan Square. Hugo has an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Wilbur Wright College and is a member of the United States Army Reserve with two deployments. He loves his hometown, and as the 26th Ward Superintendent, he plans to serve his community and city as much as he served his country all around the world.

COORDINATOR OF BARRIO SERVICES

Xavier@the26theward.org

Xavier works part time in constituent services. He was born and raised in Humboldt Park and spent a lot of his younger years volunteering in the community. He is currently a student at Northeastern Illinois University studying sociology. At his university he is also the Editor-in-Chief of his schools Puerto Rican publication "Que Ondee Sola". Outside of the office and education, Xavier trains and competes in Kickboxing and Muay Thai. He is eager to have the opportunity to serve the community that he grew up in.

Director of Community Engagement and Communications

Brendan@the26thward.org

Brendan Aleman's roots run deep in Chicago's vibrant Northwest-Side, where he proudly embraces his identity as a first-generation Mexican-American. Raised in the close-knit communities of Hermosa and Belmont Cragin, Brendan's upbringing was shaped by a rich blend of cultural heritage and community bonds. His academic journey led him to Oberlin College, where he excelled as a Posse Scholar, graduating with distinction in Comparative American Studies. With a focus on Identity & Inclusion, Brendan also pursued a minor in Africana Studies, underscoring his commitment to fostering diverse perspectives. During his time at Oberlin, Brendan emerged as a catalyst for civic engagement, spearheading initiatives to promote democratic participation. As a Democracy Fellow, he organized voter registration drives and debate watch-parties, empowering his peers to actively engage in the democratic process. Post-graduation, Brendan's dedication to service led him to roles as a co-educator at the Air Force Academy and later as Political Director for Committeeman Michael D. Rodriguez. He furthered his impact as District Director for State Senator Villanueva, advocating tirelessly for constituents in the 12th Senate District.

COORDINATOR OF BARRIO SERVICES

Antonio@the26thward.org

Tony Ruiz, an impassioned advocate for the vibrant community of the 26th ward, serves as the dedicated Coordinator of Barrio Services. Armed with three years of invaluable experience in constituent services and enriched by his background in community engagement, cultivated at the esteemed University of Wisconsin-Madison, Tony embodies a deep-seated commitment to the welfare of his fellow residents. Rooted in the very fabric of the neighborhood he proudly calls home, Tony's journey is fueled by an unwavering dedication to addressing the diverse needs of constituents. His tireless efforts are underscored by a fervent belief in the power of grassroots initiatives and community-driven solutions. Beyond his professional endeavors, Tony's heart beats in rhythm with the pulse of local businesses, particularly family-owned restaurants, which he champions with zeal. His advocacy extends far beyond mere rhetoric, as he tirelessly endeavors to amplify the voices of those he serves, ensuring that their concerns are not only heard but also acted upon.With Tony Ruiz at the helm, the 26th ward finds itself in capable hands, guided by a leader whose passion, empathy, and tireless advocacy are the cornerstones of positive change within the community.