Dr. John F. McKnight, Jr. serves as a member of the College’s senior administration and oversees the student life division, including offices in several key functional areas: Academic Advising and Support, Athletics, Campus Safety, Career and Professional Advising, Counseling and Psychological Services, Health Services, Residential Education and Student Engagement, and Title IX. He spends his time providing strategic vision and direction for his wonderful colleagues and collaborating with students, staff, and faculty across the College to enhance the student experience continuously.
Dean McKnight has worked in higher education administration since 2005, holding progressively responsible staff roles in student affairs, academic affairs, and equity and inclusion. He came to Haverford from Connecticut College where he served as the founding Dean of Institutional Equity and Inclusion and also held an appointment as Affiliated Associate Professor of Education. He also worked previously at Lafayette College and Lehigh University. John has received awards and acknowledgements at each of his prior institutions recognizing his leadership, administrative acumen, and commitment to holistic student support and development.
A fierce advocate for social justice, both professionally and personally, McKnight believes in the power of education to liberate individuals and deconstruct systems of power and oppression. Dean McKnight holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a master’s in higher education administration from Indiana University, Bloomington, and a bachelor of science from the University of Florida, College of Journalism and Communications.