Sam was born in DC, grew up in Claremont, CA, and has also lived in New York City and Limerick, Ireland. As a student at Willamette University, he created his own major entitled Critical Theory and Social Justice, which encompasses Ethnic Studies, Politics and Gender Studies among other fields. He also spent a year as an Americorps member with City Year New York.

He is excited to see a new generation of political leaders and grassroots organizers who are committed to creating an effective and comprehensive politics based in anti-oppression, community building, and global justice, and is excited about exploring these issues as a CPL New Leader.