Meet ATL’s Faculty Spotlight for September 2026, Nicole Logan. Dr. Nicole is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Rhode Island. With a background in psychology, neuroscience, and exercise science, her research examines how lifestyle and health factors influence cognition, mental wellbeing, and brain health throughout the lifespan. Using neuroimaging techniques such as EEG and MRI/fMRI alongside cognitive tasks, Dr. Logan’s interdisciplinary work explores the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and exercise neuroscience, with the goal of improving cognitive quality of life in targeted populations.
In this spotlight, Dr. Logan shares more about her teaching experience at URI. Read her full interview below.
What course(s) do you teach, or have you taught, at URI?
The three classes I teach most consistently are –
- KIN 381: Exercise Behavior and Psychosocial Outcomes
- KIN 508: Physical Activity Promotion: Theory and Practice
- KIN 581: Psychological Aspects of a Healthy Lifestyle
I also regularly teach a 1-credit graduate seminar for the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Program –
- NEU 504: Neuroethics
Occasionally, I also teach a Grand Challenge class –
- KIN 375G: Exercise is Medicine
What is your proudest teaching moment of the last year?
My classes are predominantly lecture-based, so incorporating hands-on activities is always a creative challenge. Last year, with the help of my amazing TAs, I was able to incorporate a lab activity into our syllabus for KIN 381. Seeing the students engage in a hands-on activity helped them process the lecture content much more meaningfully, as they were able to think creatively and critically about the material.
What is one piece of teaching advice that you have received that you would like to pass on to others?
Taking advantage of the existing resources at URI, including offerings from the ATL and the library, was so helpful when starting in my position! The onboarding ATL courses that introduced me to Brightspace, along with help from the library, such as Amanda Izenstark’s demonstrations, made preparations for my first semester much easier.
Who is a teaching mentor that you have, and what did you learn from them?
My high school exercise science teacher, Mr. Alec Solomon, at Rangitoto College in Auckland, New Zealand, always stands out to me as someone who inspired me in the classroom to think critically and to always ask “so what?” The experience in his classroom was joyful, educational, and impactful, and he found ways to inspire and connect with all students. He was a mentor who really inspired me to challenge myself and set big goals.
What do you hope students look back on in ten years and say about your class(es)?
I would hope students look back and remember that I was encouraging and supportive of their learning, and that they always knew how to use evidence-based approaches to find solutions. A lot of our class discussions center on making physical activity accessible and enjoyable, and I’d like everyone to remember that everyone’s experience with physical activity is different, so compassion is always the best approach.
How do you relax after a long day of teaching?
I like to start my days off with movement, knowing that I have a long day ahead of me! I usually go for a swim, a run, or take an exercise class before heading to campus. Starting my days off like that helps me stay relaxed during the day. At the end of the day, you can usually find me watching live sports, especially the WNBA.
Share your favorite place to go in Rhode Island? Why is this your favorite place?
Two places immediately come to mind! Our favorite restaurant is Palo, in Providence. We love walking along the river before going to dinner there. I also love the Newport Cliff Walk; it’s such a beautiful spot to bring family and friends.
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