W. Daniel Schmidt

W. Daniel Schmidt serves as Professor and Exercise and Sport Science Program Director in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, working within a dynamic academic environment that fosters collaboration between talented faculty and highly motivated students.

His educational background includes:

• BS in Health and Physical Education, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
• MS in Exercise Physiology, Purdue University
• PhD in Exercise Physiology, Purdue University

Dr. Schmidt's professional focus centers on mentoring new faculty members and spearheading the annual "Schmidt Don't Quit" Kinesiology scholarship bike ride across Wisconsin to secure student funding. His work emphasizes transformative student development through experiential learning and community engagement within kinesiology education.

His recognition as a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (FACSM) highlights his professional standing in the field.

Dr. Schmidt actively cultivates student success through scholarship initiatives and hopes graduates reflect on UW-Oshkosh as a pivotal period of self-discovery. He maintains strong community connections through annual fundraising events.

Outside academia, he enjoys outdoor pursuits including hiking, kayaking, and biking throughout Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula with his wife, while prioritizing family time with his grandchildren.