Carrie Mershon

I teach undergraduate and graduate courses in the Kinesiology and Public Health programs in both online and in-person formats. My teaching is strongly influenced by my passion for systems approaches to population health, health equity, and improving community health outcomes. I aim to create inclusive and academically rigorous learning experiences that encourage students to think critically about the social, behavioral, environmental, and policy factors that shape health. I encourage students to apply these concepts to real-world health challenges while developing as thoughtful professionals, collaborative leaders, and advocates for healthier and more equitable communities.

Courses I have taught include:

• KIN 110/KIN 230, Introduction to Public Health (online and in person)
• KIN 312, Methods and Analysis of Public Health (in person)
• KIN 318, Rural Community Health (online and in person)
• KIN 345, Exercise Behavioral Science (online and in person)
• KIN 418, Social Determinants and Diversity in Public Health (online and in person)
• KIN 419, Health Policy and Administration (online and in person)
• KIN 616, Obesity and Physical Activity: Behavioral, Environmental, and Policy Influences (online)
• KIN 818/MPH 818, Social and Behavioral Bases of Public Health (online and in person)

Across all courses, I design multi-modal learning experiences that encourage students to connect health concepts to real-world settings, collaborate across perspectives, and engage critically with complex health issues. To support student success, I provide timely, detailed, and constructive feedback and encourage students to engage thoughtfully with both their peers and me.

My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that meaningful learning occurs when students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore novel ideas. I teach with infectious enthusiasm and authenticity because I believe trust is essential to learning. Humor and approachability are important parts of my teaching style and help create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, taking intellectual risks, and participating actively in discussions. I believe strong learning communities are built through relationships. 

I have a background in pedagogy and have taught learners across the lifespan in PreK–adult education programs in multiple capacities, including Special Education, Physical Education, and Nutrition Education. These experiences have shaped my interdisciplinary and inclusive approach to teaching and reinforced my commitment to meeting students where they are while scaffolding the development of academic and professional capacity. 

My current pedagogical interests focus on student engagement in online learning environments and the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in the future of education and industry.