Employee Directory

Nicole Parsons Associate Professor
PAL

B.S., Suffolk University, Political Science
M.Ed., Salem State University, Special Education
Ed.D., Endicott College, Educational Leadership in Higher Education

Dr. Nicole Parsons is an Associate Professor and Co-Director of the Program for Advancement of Learning (PAL) at Curry College. Her work connects developmental psychology, cognitive science, and transformative education with a central commitment: helping students understand themselves as learners and build meaningful, self-directed lives.

As Co-Director, Nicole provides strategic, academic, and operational leadership for PAL, working collaboratively across the College to strengthen student learning, belonging, and success. Her leadership spans curriculum and program development, enrollment and recruitment, budget and operational oversight, faculty development, and assessment. She brings experience expanding programs for neurodivergent learners and aligning institutional practices with student needs.

Nicole’s current research interests center on how cognitive and sensory overload and emotional dysregulation affect learning, engagement, and students’ ability to demonstrate what they know. She explores how metacognitive instruction, embodied awareness, and responsive learning environments help students recognize what they are experiencing, identify the support they need, and take purposeful action. Her work connects cognitive science with students’ lived experiences to support agency, belonging, and meaningful participation in college and beyond.

A 20-time marathoner and registered yoga teacher, Nicole explores how movement, reflection, and nervous system awareness support learning and sustainable performance. These practices inform her leadership, teaching, and mentoring, including her interest in helping students move beyond functioning toward flourishing. Across her work, she combines strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and curiosity about human potential.

Nicole was featured on Think UDL discussing approaches to more inclusive and effective learning.

Explore her writing, yoga, and community offerings at: practicewithdrparsons.com