She received her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership - Higher Education from Clemson University, an M.A. degree in College Student Personnel from Slippery Rock University of PA and a B.S. in English-Writing from Slippery Rock University of PA. Dr. Kniess's research foci include assessment in higher education, college student access and success, faculty development, and multicultural issues in higher education. Dr. Kniess spent 11 years working as a student affairs administrator in residence life and student transition programs.