Born and raised on the edge of Appalachia in Zanesville, Ohio, AJ was shaped by the strong values of family and community. His mother, a dedicated public school teacher, instilled in him the importance of education, hard work, and giving back. These lessons continue to guide him today.

His journey led him to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where he graduated with a degree in history. It was during his time at Miami that AJ's path intertwined with Alicia's, and the two married in 2018. The couple, now blessed with their first child, Theodore, made their home in Cuyahoga Falls, Alicia's hometown.

Deeply committed to community service, AJ answered the call in Cuyahoga Falls. Mayor Don Walters appointed him to the city’s Community Redevelopment Housing Council, and he served as the president of the Cuyahoga Falls Democratic Club for two impactful years. Presently, AJ lends his expertise as a member of the Cuyahoga Falls City Schools Board of Education.

On the professional front, AJ has dedicated his career to advocating for high school students and adults with disabilities, guiding them in finding and sustaining employment throughout Summit County. His unwavering commitment to service and advocacy underscores AJ's mission to make a positive impact on the lives of those he serves.