"As a young child, I was debilitatingly shy, so I read a lot. During grade school recess (Manilla Avenue Elementary - Green Tree), you could find me in my secluded place holed up with a good book - usually something from the 19th century. From the age of 10, I read Dickens, Twain, Verne - all the classics. But I particularly loved Edgar Allen Poe and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I was such a fan of Sherlock Holmes! These influences led me to be a lover of dark mysteries and detective novels. I once wrote a short story for English Class based on Edgar Allen Poe's ‘Premature Burial.’ My teacher was so appalled he refused to grade it and gave me an ‘A’ on some unmentioned past work!”

Jeff Heckler is a multifaceted individual with a rich tapestry of personal accomplishments and a deep commitment to public service and community activism. From his early educational journey at Upper St. Clair High School in the South Hills of Pittsburgh to his degree in Political Science and Speech and Communications from Denison University in Ohio, he has consistently pursued excellence in his academic pursuits.

Jeff’s career took a significant turn when he became the Chief of Staff to the Dean of the Texas Senate, where he played a pivotal role in shaping important legislation, including the groundbreaking Omnibus Health Care Rescue Act of the 71st Legislature, which had a profound impact on rural healthcare.

Dedicated to environmental and public health causes, Heckler has served on various advisory boards and task forces, including the Texas Clean Air Act of 1991 and coastal management and wetlands protection legislative initiatives. Their commitment to public service extended to roles on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission, the Task Force on the Burning of Hazardous Waste Derived Fuels in Cement Kilns, and the Task Force on Rural Economic Development, appointed by Governor Bill Clements.

In addition to Heckler’s legislative achievements, he made a significant impact in the healthcare sector, securing rate increases for foster care and playing a pivotal role in the expansion of rural health clinics. He also championed important initiatives like breast cancer screening expansion, the enhancement of mental health facilities, and the establishment of a statewide trauma system.

Outside of professional life, Heckler’s passion for music led him to pursue a career as a classically trained musician, and he continues to record music under the moniker "Heckler," with a presence on Spotify. His personal interests include hiking, dining at fabulous restaurants, enjoying film noir movies, and a love for reading while sharing life with his wife, Barbara Morris-Blake and two small rescue dogs, Wally and Margot.