Gretel Patch Bio

First, I’m a wife and mother to my favorite people.

I am also a writer, multimedia specialist, videographer, presenter, and educational technology professional who contributes to education, nonprofit, and government sectors in the U.S. and abroad. Utilizing my sharp critical thinking skills, creativity, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication, I align my contributions with diverse community needs wherever I engage.

I was awarded the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad for sharing technology skills with students in remote areas of Nepal, exposing them to new equipment and big ideas. In India, I received a grant to strengthen digital literacy skills in underprivileged girls and nurture their innovative spirits. I provided administrative and program support to government employees and their families in Djibouti and at the largest U.S. consulate in the world in Frankfurt.

In my current role as Director of Communications for Daybreak Vision Project, a nonprofit that restores sight to those in greatest need in Ghana and Zambia, I spread joy, raise awareness, and inspire action cross-functionally. Watching thousands of blind people see again has transformed me.

With a Masters of Educational Technology (M.E.T.), Technology Integration Specialist certificate, and a B.A. in Communications, I am also a Google Certified Innovator and Google Earth Education Expert. I have presented at Google Apps for Education summits, ASB UnPlugged, ISTE, and various church, community, and professional conferences.

Currently, I am writing my first book, a piece of memoir that curates the hard and beautiful of creating ordinary homes in extraordinary places to inspire others to find renewed meaning in their own journeys.

My husband and I are the parents of four resilient and globally compassionate souls.