She earned a B.A. in Psychology and English Literature from the University of San Diego, an M.S. in social work from San Diego State University, and a Ph.D. in social psychology from UC Santa Cruz. As a social-community psychologist, Danielle is interested in empowering contexts that support members of subordinated groups as social change agents. Her program of research focuses broadly on formal and informal learning environments (e.g., after-school programs, community organizing groups) and how these settings facilitate or hinder individual and collective empowerment and well-being. Much of her work is community-based and often combines arts-based methods and action.