Saul N. Ramirez Jr. facts for kids

Saul N. Ramirez Jr., born on October 22, 1958, is an American leader who has worked in government and business. He served as a mayor and held important positions in the United States government, helping with housing and community development.

Early Life and Education

Saul Ramirez Jr. was born in Los Angeles, California. When he was three years old, his family moved to Laredo, Texas. He grew up in Laredo and went to St. Augustine elementary and high schools. His father worked as a foreman and mechanic.

Career Highlights

Serving as Mayor of Laredo

In 1990, Saul Ramirez Jr. became the youngest mayor of Laredo, Texas. A mayor is the elected leader of a city. Before becoming mayor, he served on the Laredo City Council for eight years. He also worked in the insurance business for almost twenty years.

As mayor, Ramirez helped the city grow. He secured permission to build the World Trade Bridge, which helps with trade. He also worked to build four new recreation centers for fun activities. Three new fire stations were built to keep people safe. A new public library was also built for the community.

Working for the U.S. Government

Ramirez left his role as mayor in 1997 to join the Bill Clinton administration. This means he worked for President Bill Clinton's government. He joined the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD is a part of the government that helps people find good housing and build strong communities.

From 1997 to 1998, Ramirez was an assistant secretary at HUD. He then became the Deputy Secretary of HUD in 1998. He served in this important role until 2001.

During his time in public service, Ramirez received several honors. In 1997, the Laredo Morning Times newspaper named him "Laredoan of the Year." Newsweek magazine also recognized him in 1996. They named him one of the twenty-five most dynamic mayors in the country.

Later Work and Contributions

After his time in the Clinton administration, Ramirez continued to work on important issues. In 2010, he spoke to the House Financial Services Committee. He talked about a plan to improve public housing.

He has helped different government leaders with national policies. These policies focus on economic development and housing. Ramirez also has over twenty years of experience in the insurance industry. He is currently a member of important advisory boards. These boards help with housing investments and community renewal.

Personal Life

Saul Ramirez Jr. is married to Aggie Ramos. They have three children named Saul, Joaquin, and Alexis. The family lives near Washington, D.C. in Vienna, Virginia.