Ja’Mahl McDaniel

Director, Martin Luther King Center

Ja’Mahl McDaniel, a Louisville native, is a dedicated professional in the field of higher education student affairs. He holds a bachelor's degree in Community & Leadership Development from the University of Kentucky (2015) and a master's degree in Higher Education Student Affairs from Ohio State University. Currently, Ja’Mahl is pursuing his Doctorate in Educational Policy and Evaluations at the University of Kentucky. 

Having gained valuable experience as the program coordinator for the Intercultural Center at Wake Forest University, Ja’Mahl returned to his alma mater, the University of Kentucky, to serve as the associate director for the Martin Luther King Center. In September 2020, he assumed the role of director, leading the office with passion and dedication.

With more than 7 years of experience in higher education, Ja’Mahl has actively contributed to numerous campus committees and local community initiatives, including the Lexington Neighborhood Healers Project and the Lexington Commission for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. He has also served on national boards associated with higher education.  

Ja'Mahl is deeply committed to advocating for and effecting positive change for students as they pursue their education.