"Only in this great country of ours can a 13-year-old immigrant who arrived knowing just three words in English (yes, no and monkey) grow up one day to work for the President of the United States." So said Araz Pourmorad, 2003 Brea Olinda High graduate.
"It was a great honor and the privilege of my life to serve the Obama administration in the White House, but now my nine-year journey has come to an end," Araz wrote as the administration wound down this past winter.
Araz first served at the White House as deputy director of operations and continuity, and later was promoted to State Protocol. During his years in that post, he managed the visits of heads of states and governments to the United States.
Travel was also part of his "amazing experience," as his work took him all over the world.
Not one to forget his roots, Araz expressed special thanks to his parents, Fereydon "Fred" and Fatemeh Pourmorad of Brea, for making the sacrifices they did so he could have this special opportunity. While serving in Washington,D.C., he also invited three of his Brea Olinda High teachers, Barbara Arcyznski, Janet Chapluk and Marjorie Sepulveda, all of Brea, to visit the White House.
A USC graduate with a degree in political science, Araz said he particularly loved the First Family's dogs, Bo and Sunny, and adored acting as the Easter Bunny in the 134th White House Easter Egg Roll.
Though sad to say goodbye to his friends in D.C., Araz has landed on his feet and now works on public policy at Google.
Susan Gaede has cast her eye on local news for more than 40 years. Contact her at 714-529-8561 or e-mail suzgaede@aol.com.