SOCIALIFE Q&A WITH Ambrosio Hernandez, MD

Mayor of Pharr since 2015

Pediatric Surgeon

What is your biggest challenge being mayor of Pharr?

When I first took office, people didn’t know how much I could multitask; I work 24/7. I expect people to work. I told the staff, I’m not your boss; the taxpayers are. We’re not going to do easy - we’re going to take calculated, well-thought-out risks. So my biggest challenge was to help those who were not committed to the mission of the city to move on.

What project or initiative are you most proud of?

City Of Pharr

Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, a Pharr native, was elected into office in 2015 and reelected in 2019. Hernandez is a pediatric surgeon, bariatric surgeon, director of surgical services, hospital compliance officer, and business professional by trade. Mayor Hernandez attended Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School in 1986 and received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Texas-Pan American in 1990. He received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor in 1995 and obtained a Master’s Degree in Medical Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.

We have great communication. We have a dialog with our community about what is happening in our city. Everything is bilingual, too. We are truly here to help. I love interacting with people. Just talking and bonding, chit chat over coffee, and hearing the ideas and suggestions from our citizens. They realize I’m just like them. I’m from here. I have the same traditions.

What do you love most about Pharr?

The people are very nice. They are polite and nice to each other. They hold us [elected officials] accountable, and as long as we are truthful, people listen. They may not agree, but they are respectful.

What do you want Pharr to be known for?

We do the right thing and do what is right for our city and the region because we are one family.