Meet Christina Puga

We had the good fortune of connecting with Christina Puga and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christina, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My balance has changed over time depending on personal and professional objectives, and the dynamics of being a single mom of two young adults; as one is in college and my other son is nonverbal and has a diagnosis of Autism. I still prioritize self care. The balance takes intentional effort.What I think about the balance is that at times the challenge is when things happen unexpectedly, then I have to pivot with a different plan.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a Commissioner. I have the honor to serve with other Commissioners who are attorneys, and even retired or current Administrative Law Judges. While I have achieved obtaining three degrees ( Bachelor of Arts dual major – Psychology/Sociology), and a MSPL (Master of Science in Public Leadership).

I interview and assist in matters related to: the filling of municipal judge vacancies the reappointment of current municipal judges, salary recommendations for municipal judges, the implementation of a merit evaluation system for the appointment and reappointment of municipal judges, the filling of administrative law judges, salary recommendations for administrative law judges, recommendations for improvements in Court and Detention Services.

As it relates to the evaluation system I visit the judges courtrooms (community and Veterans court).

It was not easy based on home life factors and still I was determined. After an intern and being a Director for an expungement domestic violence program in Criminal Court at our Dallas County courthouse, and even after previosly serving as the first and founding Chairwoman for Disabilities in the City of Dallas; I literally focus on additional needs in our city. As some individuals go before a judge who are challenged with mental health, no housing, drug and substance abuse and even disabilities. So, being able to access different programs to assist is definitely the goal.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way is that not everyone is practical.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Great question. It depends on their intent, interest and pallet.
NorthPark Mall for shopping
Jinya, Joey Dallas, House of Blues, Tower Club, Winsome, and Dallas also has great parks and museums such as the DMA and arboretum.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Both of my parents, my grandmother and my two sons.. My Dad, taught me that relationships matter and to be consistent, as he’s an incredible protector and provider and the absolute best example of how a woman should be treated. My Mother, taught me to consider what matters to me, and that whatever I want to do she’s supportive and not to settle. My grandmother has always said I am able to do what she couldn’t do being born in 1938, so she celebrates all of my wins and has a brag book of photos and always instilled God first . My two sons are my inspiration. I strive to achieve to provide stability and security so that I set the example of a nurturing, supportive and healthy environment with a secure foundation.

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