Starting the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Journey 

Original Air Date: December 8, 2021

CEU offered: 1.0 Ethics CEU

Webinar Duration: 60 minutes

CE Instructors:

Moderated by:  Kristen Koba-Burdt, BCBA, LBA, CDP

Panelists:

  • Raakel Elzy, BCBA, LBA
  • Fatoumatta Njie-Jallow, MHA
  • Maria Sasaki Solis, MPH, BCBA
  • Dallas Star, MBA, CDE
  • Dominique Vinson


Abstract:

In this interactive panel discussion, members of the CASP DEI Special Interest Group (SIG) share their organizations’ journeys with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Panel discussants will talk about steps taken to continually improve their organizations’ efforts to be culturally responsive and support their employees and clients in multifaceted ways. From implementing new training, to modifying policies and procedures, the panel will cover a variety of topics and share ideas to help other organizations along their DEI journey.

Instructor(s)

President, CEO, The Reilly Behavioral Group, LLC Maria Sasaki Solis, MPH, BCBA

Maria is the President of The Reilly Behavioral Group, LLC. Maria has been working with children with special needs and their families since 2003. She has served/serves on various committees for CalABA and CASP, presented to parent and community groups, as well as at professional conferences. Maria has taught at the graduate level, at the University of West Florida and at Santa Clara University. Maria graduated from Santa Clara University, magna cum laude, phi beta kappa and has an MPH from Johns Hopkins University. She is currently pursuing her PhD in ABA at Endicott College.

Director of Clinical Operations, Bayada Kristen Koba-Burdt, BCBA

Kristen Koba-Burdt, BCBA, LBA, serves as the Director of Clinical Operations for BAYADA’s Behavioral Health Division. She is fortunate to call Hawaiʻi home, one of the most diverse states in the nation. Whether in an official capacity or of her own volition, Kristen has tirelessly dedicated numerous hours to advocating and advancing the field of applied behavior analysis. She is devoted to supporting underserved communities access ABA, creating career opportunities for a diverse workforce, and continuing to learn and grow to always improve equity and inclusion in all facets of her work.

Raakel Elzy, BCBA

Raakel Elzy currently serves as a Regional Director for Ally Pediatric Therapy in Phoenix, AZ. She has served in various clinical roles and has overseen ABA treatments in school, home and center-based settings. She also serves as a board member for the Arizona Association for Behavior Analysis (AzABA). Raakel is dedicated to public policy and legislation efforts related to behavior analysis and autism services, and ensuring Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are rooted in policy and practice.