I’ve always believed that leadership isn’t about having all the answers.

It’s about asking the right questions, listening to people with different perspectives, and bringing them together to solve problems. Throughout my life—as an educator, City Councilor, Mayor, volunteer, husband, father, and neighbor—that philosophy has guided every decision I’ve made.

For more than three decades, I had the privilege of serving students and families in the Banks and Hillsboro school districts. Education wasn’t simply my profession—it was my calling. Every day, I saw firsthand the importance of building relationships, earning trust, solving problems, and helping people reach their full potential. Those experiences shaped the way I lead today.

My commitment to public service has included both appointed and elected leadership roles. I’ve served on the Hillsboro Planning Commission, the Hillsboro 2020 Vision Implementation Committee, and the Hillsboro Budget Committee. Those experiences gave me a strong foundation in local government and prepared me to take on greater responsibility.

That foundation led me to elected office. I was elected to the Hillsboro City Council, served as City Council President, and was later elected—and re-elected—to serve as Mayor of Hillsboro. Each role strengthened my belief that the best leaders listen first, build consensus, and focus on practical solutions that move communities forward.

As Mayor, I had the privilege of helping lead one of Oregon’s fastest-growing communities through a period of tremendous opportunity and change. Together, we strengthened public safety, invested in transportation and infrastructure, expanded parks and recreation, supported local businesses, encouraged economic development, and worked to preserve the character and quality of life that make Hillsboro such a special place to call home.

I’ve also had the opportunity to represent Hillsboro and Washington County through regional partnerships and statewide organizations, working alongside fellow local leaders to address issues like transportation, housing, economic development, and the future of our communities. Those experiences reinforced something I’ve believed throughout my career.