Charlie Worthen has proudly called Galveston Island his home for more than 50 years. With deep roots in the community and decades of professional leadership experience, Charlie is committed to building a safe, thriving community where middle-class families can afford to live, work, and grow—guided by responsible development and sustainable growth that ensures long-term prosperity for future generations.

 

Charlie is currently Vice President of Commercial Lending and Business Development at Moody National Bank, where he works closely with local businesses to strengthen our economy and support responsible development. His background in banking provides him with practical, results-driven experience in fiscal responsibility, strategic planning, and economic growth.

 

Before his move to banking, Charlie built a distinguished career at The University of Texas Medical Branch, including Director of County Government Relations in the department of Health Policy & Legislative Affairs, as well as Director of Community Relations and Community Development. In these roles, he worked at the intersection of public policy, healthcare, and community engagement—bringing people together to solve complex challenges.

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Charlie also served as Director of Development at Baylor College of Medicine’s Texas Children’s Cancer Center, where he helped support life-saving programs and expand community partnerships. Earlier in his career, he worked in major gifts, planned giving, university advancement, and human resources—building a strong foundation in leadership, collaboration, and service.

 

A graduate of Ball High School, Charlie attended The University of Texas at Austin and completed advanced banking studies at the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University.

 

Beyond his professional career, Charlie has dedicated himself to serving Galveston through extensive civic involvement. He has served as Past President of The Grand 1894 Opera House Board of Directors, Past President of The Children’s Advocacy Center of Galveston County, Past President of Yaga’s Children’s Fund, and Past President of the 50 Club of Galveston County. He has also served on the boards of Trinity Episcopal School, the Galveston County Economic Development Alliance, and the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston. Charlie has mentored students at Ball High School and remains actively engaged in strengthening the fabric of our community.

 

Charlie and his wife, Elise Ott Worthen (BOI), are proud parents of two daughters. When he’s not working or volunteering, you can find him enjoying barbecue grilling, hunting, and baseball.

 

Charlie Worthen is running for City Council in District 5 to ensure Galveston remains a safe place to live, a smart place to do business, and a community where families can thrive.