Meet Michael

Michael grew up hearing his grandparents' stories about helping others, working hard, and standing up for what’s right. His grandparents on his mom’s side were teenagers in England during World War II. His grandfather joined the merchant navy at age 14, sailing dangerous seas in those challenging years. Later, when they 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. The 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. Zoe's 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.

From a young age, Michael loved school, theatre, and volunteering. He was the kid who invited others to join in, helped new students feel welcome, and volunteered to help at events. He learned leadership by working with others, in classrooms, in the community, and on stage.

He saw classmates struggle, not because they lacked talent, but because schools lacked support. That stuck with him.

Michael decided early on that every student should feel they belong and can succeed, no matter their background or challenges.

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 to advocate for teacher vaccine access. 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 coaching debate. His students have gained confidence, leadership skills, and statewide recognition. 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, served as department chair for social studies and also as an event manager and 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.

People know Michael as a calm, reasonable voice who focuses on solving problems.  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.