The district’s search for a new leader entailed an extensive, collaborative, five-month process during which the district solicited input from more than 100 stakeholders, including parents, students, teachers, staff and community representatives. After interviewing six qualified candidates from a pool of 18 applicants, and visiting Brawley, the board offered the position to Danielian.

Norwalk-La Mirada Board President Jesse Urquidi said Danielian shares the district’s passion for providing every student with every opportunity to demonstrate excellence.

“She is a strong, collaborative leader who is committed to open communication and helping us continue our mission of offering high-quality educational programs that help students reach their college and career goals. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Danielian aboard,” he said.

Norwalk-La Mirada board member Sean Reagan was among the group of board officials who spoke with Brawley community members about Danielian’s performance.

“In talking with district staff, employee association leaders, and community members who have worked with Dr. Danielian, they consistently spoke of her collaborative leadership style, her ability to bring everyone together in working toward shared goals, her tireless work ethic, and ability to build bridges among diverse groups,” Reagan said.

Danielian received her doctorate degree in educational leadership from the University of Southern California and master’s degrees in bilingual education from University of La Verne and curriculum and supervision from Point Loma Nazarene University. She is married to lawyer Arsen Danielian and has two children and two grandchildren.

Danielian replaces former NLMUSD superintendent Ruth Perez, who resigned in September. Ginger Shattuck - who worked in the district for more than 40 years, including her role as superintendent from 1994 to 2009 - has been serving as interim superintendent since September to fulfill the needs of the district during this time of transition.