Nicole Thomas, Ed.D., serves as the Curriculum and Programs Specialist at the Contemplative Sciences Center. In this role, she supports the design, delivery, and integration of contemplative education across programs and academic instruction in an effort to enhance holistic flourishing for our university community.

Nicole has spent over 12 years in higher education as a student affairs practitioner, fundraiser, administrator, and adjunct faculty member. She has developed curricula and programming to improve student health and well-being, and her dissertation research examined how students and staff utilize wellness facilities on college campuses. In addition to health and well-being, her courses and current research projects focus on identity development and the professionalization of student affairs as a career field. Nicole enjoys employing and assessing methods to both improve the student experience and enhance the related research possibilities within the university context.  

Nicole is a National Board Certified Health and Well-being Coach. In her free time, she helps others assess their wellness and make action plans to meet their health goals. She is also a trained yoga instructor and enjoys working with others as they explore what holistic health means for their lives and their paths forward.  

Outside of work, Nicole enjoys live music performances, spending time in nature, and sharing experiences with her partner and two young boys. She also volunteers for a local farm animal sanctuary in North Garden, VA.