Ali Danch

Pastoral Care Coordinator

How many years have you worked at Oak Grove?

Since 2021.

Why do you work at Oak Grove?

Oak Grove invites all who are involved to bring their whole selves, and I want to be a part of that. I want to work at Oak Grove to serve my community, and because I know that people from Oak Grove will go on to serve in communities all over the world. I want to work at Oak Grove because quail interrupt meetings by running between chairs.

What is a quote that inspires your approach to your job?

“If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together.” Aboriginal Rights Group, Queensland Australia 1970s

Where is your special spot on campus?

Any place where I can feel the warm breeze.

Coffee or Tea?

Coffee first, then green tea.

What makes an Oak Grove education unique?

Excellence is allowed to unfold through authentic exploration.

How do we prepare students for their life ahead?

We learn, unlearn and learn again. We think, try and try again.

What outdoor experience has been most impactful for you?

It was probably running a marathon, which is something that I previously believed my body wasn’t designed for. That feeling of watching my mind and body perform beyond my wildest dreams stays with me.

The best live music performance/concert you ever attended is …

Billy Joel and Elton John.

Which teacher in your life affected you greatly? How?

Mrs. King, my Forensics Professor… She was a crotchety woman who I adored. It was obvious she saw a brightness in me, and that felt so good. She always challenged me to ask more of myself.

Name something that nobody knows about you.

I was an All-American lacrosse player

Person (dead or alive, famous or not) that you’d most like to share a meal with.

My dad and my big brother.

Name a place you’ve always wanted to visit, but haven’t yet.

Norway

What is your most bizarre OGS experience?

Only time will tell…

Share a hilarious OGS experience.

Many. I am usually laughing.

How many Patagonia clothing items do you own? How many are you wearing now?

Too many, and somehow none.

What is your favorite Oak Grove expression?

Hmmm… Maybe it’s “Let me think on that…”