[4] Upon her death in 2021 at the age of 96, The New York Times noted that during her 67 years as an OCU faculty member, she established "herself as a dramatic, no-nonsense mentor.
She helped aspiring musical theater and opera singers unlock the mysteries of captivating an audience, but she could also make her students weep with her candid feedback on their progress.
[6] In March 2007, Starry Night, a musical tribute to her lengthy teaching career, was held as a fundraising event to fund an endowed chair in Birdwell's name at the university.
[4][7][8] Birdwell's students have included Kristin Chenoweth,[9] Kelli O'Hara,[9] Lara Teeter[4] and Miss America 1981 Susan Powell.
Sarah Lyall's account noted: "The word 'legend' is thrown around too blithely on Broadway — everyone seems to be some sort of legend — but at her age and with her track record (dozens of former students in the business, two currently competing against each other for a Tony Award), Mrs. Birdwell might well qualify.
"[10] The Times' feature concluded with Birdwell sharing her philosophy on the importance of being tough on students preparing for a career as a performer.