| I grew up in Ohio before attending the University of Michigan where he received degrees in Russian history. After finishing college, I worked as a professor of history at Goucher College, Grand Valley State University, and Aquinas College. Leaving academia in 2010, I managed numerous campaigns, worked for an environmental organization, and served as Legislative Director for State Representatives Brandon Dillion and David LaGrand. As a staffer, I worked to enact meaningful criminal justice reform and increase government transparency.
I'm proud of my history of public service as an elected official. Before coming to the House, I served on the Kent County Commission (2017-2022) and East Grand Rapids City Commission (2012-2016). As an East Grand Rapids Commissioner, I protected our LGBTQ+ community by passing the county's first non-discrimination ordinance and helped fix East Grand Rapids' city infrastructure. As a Kent County Commissioner, I helped pass an early childhood millage that ensures kids are ready to enter kindergarten, protected public health, supported small businesses and non-profits during the pandemic, and defended democracy. |