Paul McDaniel

Dr. Paul N. McDaniel is an Associate Professor of Geography at Kennesaw State University (KSU), specializing in urban geography, immigrant integration, and geography education. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, an M.A.E. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, an M.S. from the University of Tennessee, and a B.S. from Samford University. His research focuses on immigrant integration, place-branding, and inclusive urban policies, particularly in the U.S. South. Dr. McDaniel leads the Georgia Immigration Research Network (GIRN) and co-authored/co-edited the 2024 book Integration and Receptivity in Immigrant Gateway Metro Regions in the United States. He has been recognized with the 2024 RCHSS Outstanding Online Teaching Award and is a National Geographic Society Explorer.

His research explores immigrant settlement patterns, policy formation, and community engagement in cities like Atlanta, Birmingham, and Charlotte. He emphasizes applied, community-based methods and collaborates with organizations such as Welcoming America and the American Immigration Council. Dr. McDaniel’s teaching innovations include integrating GIS technology and digital storytelling into geography courses, supported by grants from KSU’s Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. His work intersects with public health, education equity, and the impacts of globalization on urban regions.

Key contributions include studies on immigrant entrepreneurship, refugee resettlement ecosystems, and the role of museums in fostering immigrant receptivity. His edited book examines integration strategies in 14 U.S. metropolitan areas. Grants from National Geographic, Atlanta Global Research, and KSU’s Office of Research have supported his projects. He actively supervises undergraduate and graduate students in KSU’s International Conflict Management programs.

Dr. McDaniel’s community engagement extends to initiatives like the Atlanta One Region Initiative and the RISING research group. His teaching philosophy prioritizes study abroad, experiential learning, and online education quality. Current projects include analyzing the Atlanta BeltLine’s public art landscapes and the representation of Southern regions in geography textbooks.