Elected to the Bedford Board of Education in November 2021, Mrs. Birch was born in Bedford Hts., raised in Walton Hills, currently residing in Oakwood Village with Husband Jamin—Bedford Bearcat merger, raising 3 little bearcats.
     A diverse, driven, equity-focused community leader, advocate, coach, educator, and mentor, Danielle has been very actively involved in the community for 25+ years. She is a lifelong resident invested in the growth and wellness of everyone, especially the disadvantaged and underserved communities. Mrs. Birch believes and encourages continuous learning and development of students and professionals to be more responsive and inclusive in their personal and professional roles.
     Initially, a vocal music major who studied at Bowling Green State University, Mrs. Birch’s first career began at 19 as an entrepreneur. She was an advanced cosmetologist and educator for 18 years. Once becoming a Cosmetology Educator, Mrs. Birch advanced her knowledge and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Education (BS.Ed) degree with a concentration in career & business education and human resource management from Kent State University. She also holds a Master of Science in Administration in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Science in Administration certification in Training & Development, which focuses on culture & transformative leadership from Central Michigan University. Additionally, she also holds a graduate certification in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the University of South Florida.
     She has utilized her knowledge, skills, and abilities through the training and development of individuals and professionals on a secondary and higher education level. In her professional leadership experience, she has partnered with organizations in assisting and developing their strategic planning, policy restructuring & implementation. She is knowledgeable in implementing and designing performance management and employee development initiatives, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion to improve practice and processes.