I was born in Viet Nam to a Vietnamese mother and an American father. My mom and I immigrated to the United States in 1974, where we moved around quite a bit because my father was in the Air Force. After he got out of the military, we settled in the Eugene/Springfield area. I graduated from Willamette High School on 1991. After taking about a year and a half of PE classes at Lane Community College and failing Math 111 several times, I decided a stint in the United States Marine Corps was what I needed.

            I spent 3 years, 9 months, and 14 days in the Marines as an infantryman and had the privilege and honor of serving our country. I was stationed at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii, where we traveled to places like Okinawa, Australia, and Japan. The experiences I had in the military were as broad and diverse as the people I served with and met in foreign countries. After my service ended, I settled back in Oregon, where I completed my bachelor’s degree from Western Oregon University. After this, I landed my public education career in Harney County.

            I’ve been in Harney County for 22 years and have taught many subjects. It’s been a rollercoaster ride of experiences out here as well, but I’m having a good time. The people, community, fellow staff members, students, and my family have been supportive throughout my career’s ups and downs. Currently, this is my third year as principal.

            While teaching in Burns, I met my wife, Sara Burns, who teaches 2^nd grade, and we’ve been married for 20 years. We have two kids. Along with my Faith, my family is the center of my life, and all else revolves around it.

            Outside of school, my interests are varied and widespread. I want to consider myself a bit of a Renaissance Man. In addition to learning about various topics, I enjoy teaching people the skills I learn. To live a fulfilling life, a person should constantly learn new skills and pass them on to people willing to learn.