Hello there! My name is Andrew Schear. I'm a small business owner and a stay-at-home dad. I'm running for Delegate in Virginia's 57th District because things like raising children, owning a home, and saving enough for retirement are increasingly becoming unattainable goals for working families – and that’s a huge problem. Just 25 years ago, my parents were able to raise two kids, purchase a single family home, and save some money for later - all on a single income and without a college degree. I struggle to believe that's still achievable in 2025, despite that fact that we live in the wealthiest country in the world.

From a young age, I learned the value of hard work. At age 12, as soon as I was legally allowed to do so, I started my first job, delivering newspapers twice a week by bicycle. By age 14, I had picked up a second job at my local library and a third with a local jeweler, manufacturing and polishing pieces for Tiffany & Co. After graduating from the University of Miami with my bachelor's degree, I immediately started my own small business in media production with two goals in mind - create entry level jobs for recent college grads facing a tough labor market, and serve my community whenever possible by providing pro bono video production services to local non-profit organizations.

Owning a small business taught me a lot about determination - about arriving early, staying late, and going the extra mile to get the job done. The success of my business afforded me the privilege of serving as Chairman of the Board for the Greater Kendall Business Association and of participating in the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program alongside other highly successful business owners.

I've been married to my wonderful wife Michelle for 8 years, and I'm the proud father of Harrison (age 3), Oliver (age 1), and Teddy, our adopted lab and hound mix. Raising my two sons and spending every day with them these past three years has helped me understand the true meaning of empathy. There's nothing I enjoy more than spending time together, savoring every moment.

Hard work. Determination. Empathy. Integrity. Commitment. These are the values I will bring to Richmond. As your Delegate, I promise that I will listen to you, advocate for you, and work tirelessly to make Virginia a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. I look forward to the opportunity to earn your trust and support.