Dr. Lanai Jennings-Knotts Profile

Program Director and Associate Professor
GC 108
304-746-2067

Biography

Lanai Jennings, PhD, NCSP is an Associate Professor and Program Director of the School Psychology Program at Marshall University. She is committed to preparing future school psychologists in alignment with the NASP Practice Model and supporting graduate candidates as they enter the profession.

Dr. Jennings teaches graduate-level courses in cognitive, academic, and behavioral assessment, prevention and crisis intervention, research, ethics, and professional practice in schools. Her scholarly and professional work centers on personnel preparation, assessment, crisis prevention, and evidence-based practices. Since 2019, she has served as Project Director for an OSEP-funded interdisciplinary grant that has trained more than 45 school psychology, counseling, and special education candidates, while building partnerships to reduce tuition costs and strengthen workforce readiness.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Jennings mentors candidates throughout the research process, supervises practicum experiences, and provides career guidance as they develop their professional identities. She especially values the collaborative learning that takes place as candidates navigate real-world casework and school-based challenges.

Outside of her academic work, she enjoys gardening, spending time with her family, and sharing in the humor of April Fool’s Day.