Dan Knapp, Ph.D., LSW

I began my educational history at Loyola University of Chicago where I first declared a chemisty degree.  After a few semesters of taking different coursework, I fell in love with psychology and working with others.  I switched my majors and graduated with my B.S. in psychology.  Following my education at Loyola, I attended Aurora University and received my M.S.W degree.  Knowing that I had a passion for education and research, I continued my educational journey at Capella University where I received my Ph.D.  

I began my USF career in August 2019.  That summer, I came across the job opportunity and I had a calling to apply.  My wife graduated USF’s nursing program many years prior, and has always talked about her experience as we drove by the campus.  I now get to walk the same hallways as she did when she was a student.  

Outside of teaching, one of my passions is running.  I have learned a long time ago that as life long learners, we must engage in those activities that provide energy to our physical and mental wellbeing.  Running was my activity.  I have completed 7 marathons and today continue to be invested in smaller events.  Running helped me complete my academic coursework.  Each week that I needed to write a paper, I would go for a run and get lost in my own thoughts about the coursework.  After each run, I would apply my reflections to the paper and complete it!  

I am always excited to talk to new people about social work.  If you are interested in USF and our social work program, you are welcome to RSVP a time to talk with me further: www.calendly.com/dknapp113 

At USF, I have taught in the BSW and MSW program.  My favorite course is research and statistics because the data we receive from clients helps inform the progress we make in our work with them.  I have also taught classes regarding macro social work, crisis intervention, field/internships, women’s study, mental health, and various practice courses.