City Of Katy, TX

Don Elder Jr. was raised on a rice farm and ranch in Katy, Texas where his dad and two uncles farmed for over 33 years. Don graduated from Katy High School and then from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor’s of Science and a Master’s of Education. He has taught in college both at Sam Houston State University and Hill College.Don has over 30 years of experience in sales/marketing in the Ready-Mix business. He owns Elder Consulting where he works with school and governmental entities.

He served on the Katy Independent School District Board of Trustees for two terms. After that, he was elected to the Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) County Board. He served on this Board for ten years, two terms as president. He resigned from City Council to run for Mayor and was elected on May 12, 2007. He ran unopposed in the May 2009 election and was re-elected on May 9, 2009 for a second term.  The Mayor’s current term expires in 2011.

Don serves on the Talent Committee of the Economic Development Board as well as the Governing Board of the EDC. He has served on the Business Development Board of Sterling Bank and presently serves on the Development Board for Houston Community College (HCC). Some of Don’s other community involvement, to name a few, are Past Member of the Katy Athletic Booster Club; Past President of Katy High School Alumni Association; Honorary Member of Katy FFA, as well as other schools in the district; Member of the Katy FFA Sales Committee; Member of Board of Directors for Katy Area A & M Club; Past President of Katy Area A & M Club; Member of Board of Directors for Katy FFA Rodeo Committee; Member of the 12th Man Foundation, Texas A & M University.

Don is married to his wife, Ida Faye of 41 years who was also raised in Katy. They have one son, Shane. Ida Faye and Shane are both Katy High School graduates. The Elders are active members of the First United Methodist Church in the “Heart of Katy”.