Dr. Daniel Nordaas is the Lead Faculty of Liberal Studies in the School of Education at Jessup University. He oversees the Liberal Studies credential program and mentors future educators with a focus on inclusive, creative, and student-centered pedagogy.

Dr. Nordaas earned his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Leadership from Azusa Pacific University. His dissertation, (Re)Storying Praxis: Neurodivergence, Agency, and Transformation in Higher Education, examined the impact of systemic ableism on neurodivergent identity formation and agency, centering (re)storying as a transformative praxis in higher education. His research interests focus on neurodiversity and how educational systems can evolve to affirm identity, promote agency, and cultivate belonging. He holds a Master of Arts in Education from Jessup University and a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design and Art Studio from California State University, Sacramento. His training in experiential, arts-integrated learning continues to shape his approach to educator preparation.

With over a decade of experience in K–12 education, Dr. Nordaas integrates his background in design, art, and music to foster creativity and nature-based learning in teacher preparation. Before joining Jessup, he developed a hybrid home study charter program and led professional development in curriculum and arts integration. Dr. Nordaas has taught within the School of Education at Jessup University for over five years and is known for cultivating dynamic learning environments that support teacher candidates in discovering their authentic voice and calling as educators.

He has been married to his beautiful wife Michelle for 17 years and is the proud father of two children. Their home is filled with two dogs and a cat, as well as the joys of art, hiking, gardening, LEGO building, and a shared love of books.