Hi! I’m Dani.
I was born and raised in Denver, CO as an only child to parents who primed me for this field. My mother taught me that it’s okay to grieve endlessly and without shame because oftentimes when we do, we find laughter as we dive into memories of loved ones lost. I don’t know anybody who loves to laugh as much as she embraces grief. My father taught me the power of forgiveness. As a Black man in the US, he was often absent due to circumstances out of his control. Had I not found the patience to forgive, I might not have had the privilege of sitting by his side as he died. He also taught me that there are circumstances where forgiveness need not be given. Some forms of harm are as irrevocable as is the pain caused. In any case, my parents imbued me with the ability to feel deeply, love fully, laugh loudly, grieve profoundly, sing unabashedly with this voice shaped by the suffering and joy of my ancestors, and embrace the snowy winters that blanket our heavy hearts with wet and weighted reminders to rest.
Growing up, my mom and I traveled to Montana often. She would work. I would spend time with extended family. Sill, living so far from family deepened my investment in chosen family. This was invaluable during my academic adventures as I moved around quite a bit. I received a BA in Theater & Performance Studies from the University of San Diego, an MA in Performance Studies from Texas A&M University, and an MFA in Theatre from the University of Montana. My research was primarily focused on the prison-industrial complex, American policing systems, subversive performance art methods, and theatre activism. Since, I have worked as a Sexual Assault Specialist, theatre Education Director, Communications and Development Manager for racial equity, and Executive Director for a suicide prevention organization. I am part of the 2023 CATALYST: Leadership cohort, and completed my Death Midwife certification with The Death Midwife, under the instruction of Rev. Angie Buchanan.
I love teaching. Had I not found death midwifery, I would have eventually made my way back to the classroom. I love teaching for two specific reasons: (1) I hated school. I often felt dismissed, made to feel dumb, silenced, and misunderstood. These experiences taught me what not to do in the classroom and with that knowledge I have been able to shape my pedagogical methods to both witness myself excel and (2) witness my students exceed. There is no greater experience than guiding another towards self-empowerment and success. This is only possible when we listen, make space, recognize that we don’t have all of the answers, and open ourselves up to others as they teach us how best to serve them. My teaching philosophy deeply informs and shapes my approach to death midwifery. When working with me, you can expect I will show up with compassion, patience, empathy, and guidance in helping you show me how best to support you. You will always take the lead. I will bring knowledge, educate you on options, and advocacy through a heart-centered approach, while always making space for feedback and guidance from you during whatever transformative moments you may be facing.
I operate under a non-discrimination policy. Regardless of race, gender, age, sexuality, religious beliefs, ethnicity, disability, political beliefs, or any other defining demographics, you are welcome. Should either of us feel that we are not a good fit or should I feel that I am not qualified to provide you with the level of care you require, I am happy to provide you with alternative referrals for care and support. It is important that we both feel comfortable and safe as we collaborate through this intimate and sacred space.