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Rooted in Service and Community
Michael grew up hearing his grandparents' stories about helping others, working hard, and standing up for what’s right.
His grandfather joined the merchant navy at age 14, sailing dangerous seas in World War II. Later, when Michael’s grandparents moved to America, they became proud citizens who always stayed involved in their community.
On his dad’s side, Michael’s family includes Italian immigrants and even early pioneers. Family stories taught him the value of hard work, family, and taking care of your neighbors.
In particular, his grandmother Zoe cared deeply about our democracy; her last act before she passed in 2024 was voting.
Michael learned from his family that strong communities don’t just happen — we build them together.
A Career of Service to Students and Families
Michael earned his bachelor’s degree in history and theatre arts from the University of Oregon, graduating magna cum laude. He went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Johns Hopkins University.
He joined Teach For America and served students in Maryland and South Carolina, including working across political divides during COVID.
It showed him how much can be achieved when people work together, even when they disagree.
When Michael returned home to Oregon, he continued teaching and started coaching debate. His students have gained confidence, leadership skills, and won the state championship. He has helped hundreds of young people learn how to speak up for themselves and others.
He has also taken on leadership roles in his local education association union, served as department chair for social studies, and is an occasional announcer for high school football, track, soccer, volleyball, and lacrosse games. Michael believes kids deserve supporters in every corner of their lives, not just the classroom.
A Neighbor You Can Count On
Michael calls Oregon City home!
Outside of school, he enjoys cheering on students at local events, trying all the local cafes and restaurants, and taking walks in our beautiful parks with friends. He cares deeply about our community because he’s a part of it, and he wants every family here to feel that same connection and pride.
Bringing People Together for Real Solutions
People know Michael as a calm, reasonable voice who focuses on solving problems.
He experiences the impact of the cost of living daily. He worked three jobs (sometimes more!) to afford a home, working as a teacher, a debate coach, and an event manager. He's also worked as an Uber driver to make ends meet and served as a union leader to improve working conditions for others. Michael's parents are also seniors on fixed incomes. The cost of gas, groceries, and taxes all impact him significantly, and he cares deeply about improving affordability for Oregonians.
He's here to build community, not score points. He listens first, builds trust, and brings people together to get things done.
That’s the approach he’ll bring to Salem: work together when we can, stand strong when we must, and deliver results for the people in our community.