Dr. Danica Burge-Garside, a proud San Jose native, has dedicated her life to the pursuit of excellence in education, athletics, and personal growth. A graduate of San Jose State University, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a Master of Education in Educational Counseling. Driven by a passion for understanding human performance, she completed her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) in Performance and Clinical Psychology at the University of Western States.
A former elite swimmer and student-athlete, Dr. Burge-Garside’s athletic journey has shaped her professional philosophy. As a national-level competitor and Division I scholarship recipient, she knows firsthand the transformative power of balancing academics with athletics. Her extensive experience includes over 17 years as the head coach and CEO of a USA Swimming club, where she fostered the growth and success of countless athletes.
Deeply committed to supporting student-athletes, Dr. Burge-Garside thrives on guiding individuals who value both their educational pursuits and the life lessons gained through sports. Her background in performance psychology uniquely equips her to help students develop resilience, achieve peak performance, and navigate the challenges of academic and athletic excellence.
Outside the classroom, Dr. Burge-Garside enjoys showing her Scottish Terriers, traveling to new destinations, cooking, and spending quality time with family and friends. An avid swimmer at heart, she continues to embrace the joy and discipline the sport has brought to her life.