Jordan Daniel ’17, PsyD

Jordan Daniel '17, PsyD came to Adelphi as a transfer student seeking the opportunity to compete in soccer at a high level while earning a strong education. He found both-and a community of people and everyday experiences that helped shape his values, relationships and sense of self.

Member of Adelphi University's 10 Under 10

A senior neuroscience seminar at Adelphi, taught by Lora Kasselman, PhD, helped clarify his interest in research and strengthened Jordan's patience and persistence. Kasselman later connected him with his first research opportunity at the Winthrop Research Institute and ultimately served on his doctoral dissertation committee.

After Adelphi, Jordan set his sights on becoming a psychologist and pursued clinical and research experience wherever curiosity led him. He cold-emailed people and institutions, volunteered and created opportunities for himself in rehabilitation clinics, county jails, memory care units and suicide hotlines on his path to a clinical psychology doctoral program.

Jordan recently completed his doctoral internship with Lehigh University's Counseling & Psychological Services and now works at Formal Therapy, a New York City private practice, at the intersection of mental health and athletic performance. He helps athletes and other high performers examine their experiences, navigate the pressures of competition and daily life, and better understand themselves.

Jordan brings firsthand insight to that work through his own career as an elite marathoner. He began running as an outlet during a stressful period, gradually building his mileage before entering-and winning-his first marathon. He went on to compete at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, race the New York City Marathon three times, and complete both the Boston and Chicago marathons. He now aspires to compete in the marathon at the 2028 Olympic Games and provide psychological and performance services to Olympic athletes.

Of all these accomplishments, Jordan is proudest of his commitment to staying true to himself.

Adelphi celebrates Jordan as a 2026 10 Under 10 honoree for uniting clinical insight, athletic excellence and an uncommon willingness to persevere-giving himself and the people he serves another chance to grow.