Candidate for
Councilmember; City of Torrance

My name is John Paul Tabakian. I was born in Fresno in 1976. My parents moved to Lomita when I was 3 months old. It was hard economic times in 1979, which made purchasing a home difficult. Though we loved Lomita, my parents purchased their one and only home in Torrance. It was a great decision as I had a great childhood growing up in a safe community with lots of areas to play and be a kid. This is why I made the decision to become a homeowner in Torrance and purchased my own home in the Hickory Park neighborhood. I love this city with all my heart and have lived here for over 34 years.

I attended Anza Elementary School, Bert Lynn Middle School, and West High School. My academic pursuits led me to graduate early, taking the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) as a high school junior, and enrolling in community college. When you are young, nothing is impossible. That fateful decision led to a successful professional and academic career, which led me to a new chapter in my life: helping students secure a career pathway. I am proof positive that if you work hard in America that success is possible.

You may have heard the term "academic entrepreneurialism." I am the author of a study called "The Academic Entrepreneur" and it is based on my doctoral research. This study proves that teachers / professors have a greater impact over a student than the institution. I am an academic entrepreneur who has helped students transition into high paying careers and to higher institutions of learning.

People can serve in different ways. I continue to serve my community by helping people achieve success. My involvement with academic institutions and vocational trades organizations may take place outside of Torrance, but our residents benefit directly from my involvement. I want to keep Torrance on the path to success.

-John Paul Tabakian, Ed.D.