R. Nathaniel Foster

Biography

Dr. Nate Foster, an Associate Professor and Athletic Trainer, serves as the Executive Dean of the School of Integrated Health.  He has been employed at Indiana Wesleyan University since 2006. 

Previously, Dr. Foster served as the Interim Dean of the School of Health Sciences for one year. Between 2012 to 2022, Dr. Foster developed the Post – Professional Master’s in Athletic Training Degree and served as the Program Director.  He joined Indiana Wesleyan University in 2006 as a Professor in Athletic Training and Associate Athletic Trainer.

Originally from Coshocton, Ohio, Dr. Foster received his undergraduate degree from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2000, and Master’s from Ohio University in 2001.  In 2012, Nate finished his PhD from Capella University in Sport Psychology.

With many interests in the combination of athletic training and sport psychology, Nate’s research focused on the ability of athletes to “get into the zone” in combination with their individual faith and spirituality.  Specifically, Nate enjoys employing and discussing the methods of performance / sport psychology and positive psychology techniques within one’s everyday working environment.  Nate personally utilizes performance psychology techniques in his personal life, and attributes these methods in his ability to complete several triathlons, including Ironman Wisconsin 2017.

As the former Director of the IATA CISM (AT’s Care) Nate’s research interests has now included understanding the impact and recovery of workplace traumatic experiences among first responder providers (police, fire, paramedic, etc.).  As a result, Dr. Foster acquired a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to be able to counsel Athletic Trainers, athletes, and others who need services in treating workplace trauma, as well as seeking to improve sport and workplace performance. Nate’s recent sabbatical work included providing sport / performance psychology services with the Brain Performance and Psychology Center in Indianapolis, IN.  Nate is also EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained and enjoys treating PTSD cases.

Degrees

• MA - Clinical Counseling
  2022, Indiana Wesleyan University
• PhD - General Psychology
  2012, Capella University
• MSPE - Athletic Training
  2001, Ohio University
• BS - Athletic Training
  2000, Indiana Wesleyan University