MEET ADAM
Early Life
Adam was born in Los Angeles to a Persian father and Italian mother. His father immigrated to the US during the 1979 Iranian Revolution, while his mother was born in the US after her mother immigrated from Italy. Growing up, Adam was raised by aunts & uncles, and grandparents. His life consisted of constant moves between cities and states as well as family members. He has lived in Los Angeles, San Jose, Portland, and Ashland, all of this by the time he was in the 7th grade. Though undersized, he was an athlete that played football and wrestled in high school. Adam attributes his early childhood struggles to his maturity and growth as a young man. After graduating from William Howard Taft High School in Los Angeles in 2003, Adam enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.
Military Service
Joining the Marines was one of the best decisions Adam has made in his life. Being able to serve his Country and fight for the freedoms that all are entitled to regardless of race, color, or creed is something Adam holds dear to his heart. At 18 years old, just seven months after enlisting, Adam was overseas in Iraq as an Infantryman leading patrols. He was in the first Battle of Fallujah in April 2004. Adam's time in the service taught him about true leadership, sacrifice, commitment, and integrity. More importantly, it taught him the value of listening when in a leadership position, and the incredible things we can accomplish when we all work together. People of various backgrounds and beliefs serving united with a common goal and purpose.
Coming Home
As with many Veterans through times of war, Adam struggled upon returning home. It was a difficult time in his life that was filled with trouble, guilt, anger, and isolation. He was disconnected from his family and on a collision course that could only end in two ways. Fortunately, the actions of one night would lead Adam down a path that would forever change his life.
A Second Chance
It was a long road back from where he came, but through perseverance and a "No Quit" attitude, Adam was determined to succeed. He met his future wife Gabriella, a proud Latina, in 2012 who has been a rock for him ever since. Gaby is also the daughter of Peruvian immigrants who, like many, came to the US in search of a better life. After working in the field of construction, Adam found passion in coaching football. He was drawn to the teamwork and family & community atmosphere the game provided. Most importantly, he loved being a positive influence on the lives of his players. Adam was known not only as a coach but as a mentor. He's someone that you can talk to and know is listening. While volunteering as a coach at Pierce College, he was a full-time student working hard towards earning his degree in Applied Health & Fitness. Adam earned honors while at Pierce and was ready to transfer to a 4 year institution. It was clear to him that Portland State would be where he and Gaby would call home.
A Life In Milwaukie
After graduating from Portland State in 2019, Adam proposed to the love of his life, Gaby, and was offered a full-time coaching position at PSU. In September, Adam & Gaby bought their first home together here in Milwaukie along with their 2 children and 5 fur babies. The couple enjoy gardening together, shopping at the Milwaukie Farmer's Market, biking, and going on walks. Adam works in Veteran Mental Health and is a licensed Notary Public. He currently serves on the Milwaukie City Council while previously serving on the Planning Commission and as Chair of the Clackamas County Veteran Advisory Council. Adam's life is about service and he would be honored to continue to represent our community and dedicate his time to our beautiful City.