Whittier College

Born and raised in Whittier, Sam attended Whittier High School. At Whittier College he was a member of the Sachens Society and captained the track team. He earned three varsity letters in both cross country and track, held the two-mile record and in 1952 won the 5000 meter race at the Fresno relays in 15.367, a Whittier record. That same year, he qualified for the Olympic steeplechase trials. 

After graduation, Sam joined the US Navy and served in the entire Pacific area, including Viet Nam, and coached track and cross country at the Naval Academy. During his service in the Navy he again ran in the 1956 Olympic trials. He was discharged from the service in 1962, with the rank of Lieutenant, SG. 

A member of the California Mathematics Council, Sam has taught in Los Angeles and Glendora schools, Citrus College and East Los Angeles College.

Sam still participates in 5K and 10K races, usually winning first place in the 50-plus division.