Meet Mike

Mike worked his way through college and graduated from the University of Massachusetts. He began his career as a high school teacher before spending a decade directing theater productions and founding a theater school in Paris, where he used acting as a method to teach English.

He later transitioned into the private sector, holding leadership roles in communications, professional development, and operational excellence. Mike rose to senior management positions in the pharmaceutical industry, overseeing large budgets and global operations. For the final 12 years of his career, he served as Senior Director of Operational Excellence and Strategy at Baxter International, helping manage a $2 billion budget with a focus on quality, continuous improvement, and workforce development.

Mike has also been deeply involved in community service:

• Board member of the Conejo Valley Unitarian Universalists
• Organizer of a Washington, D.C. educational advocacy conference
• Chair of the Social Justice Fund for Ventura (7 years), overseeing more than $550,000 in grants supporting youth and educational initiatives

Since his election in 2018, Mike has:

• Advocated for increased funding for students
• Expanded career technical education opportunities
• Helped appoint a new Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
• Worked with state leaders to secure $80 million in additional funding for court school students
• Supported programs focused on social-emotional learning and student mental health

Mike is a proven leader who brings experience, integrity, and a deep commitment to students, families, and educators.