In honor of Women’s History Month, we shine a spotlight on Sheri Cortez—an inspiring community leader and dedicated advocate for positive change. As a longtime resident and board member of the Brays Oaks Management District, Sheri has devoted much of her life to ensuring that Southwest Houston remains a safe, vibrant, and thriving place for families and businesses alike. In her role as Chair of the District’s Business & Economic Development Committee, she has harnessed her passion and expertise to bring new opportunities and lasting improvements to the area she calls home.
Early Roots & Commitment to the Community
Sheri moved to the Brays Oaks area more than three decades ago, back when the community was still developing and had minimal infrastructure. As she and her husband raised their children there, she grew deeply connected to local schools and neighborhoods, lending her voice and efforts to Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) so she could tackle practical issues ranging from traffic safety to parent engagement. Over time, her commitment expanded beyond the schools to the wider neighborhood, and she served on the Glenshire Homeowners Association (HOA) board for nine years, working to enhance property conditions, foster inclusivity, and cultivate a sense of pride among local residents.
Championing Business Growth
When the Brays Oaks Management District formed roughly 13–14 years ago, Sheri was among its earliest and most enthusiastic supporters. She initially served on committees focused on public safety and economic development, dedicating herself to revitalizing key commercial corridors. She built relationships with both small entrepreneurs and national chains, encouraging major retailers and restaurants to invest in Brays Oaks and improve its economic outlook. Today, as Chair of the Business & Economic Development Committee, Sheri continues to bring her extensive professional network and strong ties to the community into every project. Whether pushing for traffic improvements, coordinating with commercial developers, or advocating for enhanced security, she ensures that new businesses not only arrive but also thrive and remain long-term partners in community progress.
Bridging Community & Law Enforcement
Because Sheri’s husband served in the South Gessner division of the Houston Police Department—and her son now wears the same badge—she has a unique, firsthand understanding of how crucial it is for residents and law enforcement to collaborate. She has served on committees dedicated to crime prevention and public safety, knowing that genuine community wellness depends on robust partnerships between the police, local apartment complexes, homeowners, and businesses. This perspective shapes her approach to everything from curbing illegal dumping to championing apartment safety programs. Sheri believes that police alone cannot solve crime; rather, success hinges on sustained engagement, consistent communication, and proactive neighborhood involvement.
Advocacy at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office
Outside her volunteer work with the management district, Sheri has played a significant role at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, where she began in community engagement and now focuses on addressing domestic violence. Recognizing how often domestic violence intersects with other serious crimes, she develops programs to help survivors navigate the justice system more safely and discreetly. These efforts include setting up community-based protective orders and transforming libraries or community centers into temporary legal hubs where people can secure protective orders without the fear of being seen in police stations. She also spearheads outreach campaigns that distribute bilingual resource materials so survivors know exactly what steps to take after filing charges. Sheri and her colleagues encourage individuals to report crimes and break cycles of abuse or exploitation. In every facet of her role, she seeks to build trust between law enforcement, social service providers, and the communities they serve.
A Lasting Legacy of Leadership
Through years of grassroots organizing, strategic business development, and a profound commitment to public safety, Sheri Cortez has left an enduring mark on Brays Oaks. From her early advocacy for simple improvements, like safer routes for school drop-offs, to her large-scale collaboration with commercial developers, she has demonstrated the transformative impact of one dedicated individual. As we pay tribute to women leaders this month, Sheri’s example stands as a powerful reminder that positive change is the product of determination, collaboration, and genuine compassion. By weaving together neighborhood priorities, robust business partnerships, and support for the most vulnerable members of the community, she has helped shape a stronger, more hopeful future for families throughout Southwest Houston.
