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Hawai'i Association for Behavior Analysis2025 HABA BOARD |
| President Kelly McCloskey, MEd, BCBA, LBA President@hawaiiaba.org Kelly McCloskey is a dedicated professional with a wealth of experience in special education and behavioral analysis. With over 19 years of service as a classroom special education teacher, Kelly has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting students with diverse needs. Her expertise extends to serving as a District Autism Consulting teacher for three years, where she provided invaluable guidance and resources to educators and families. Kelly's passion for enhancing the lives of individuals with special needs led her to pursue advanced certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). In her current role with the Hawaii Department of Education, Kelly serves as a pivotal member of the school-based behavior health team (SBBH), where she applies her extensive knowledge of behavior analysis to create positive learning environments and support student success. With a strong dedication to ongoing professional development and a genuine compassion for those she serves, Kelly is known for her collaborative approach, innovative strategies, and unwavering advocacy for students with disabilities. Her contributions to the field of special education and behavioral analysis make her a respected leader and invaluable asset to her community. Outside of her professional endeavors, Kelly enjoys spending time exploring the natural beauty of Hawaii, playing sports with her 2 teenage boys, and engaging in creative pursuits. She finds fulfillment in volunteering her time to support local initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Kelly's unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others reflects her remarkable dedication to service and compassion. |
| President-Elect Aulani Latorre-Holt, RBT vicepresident@hawaiiaba.org Meet Aulani Latorre-Holt: a proud Oʻahu native with deep roots in the vibrant Hawaiian culture. Raised in Aiea, Hawaii, Aulani is a graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapalama, where she cultivated a profound appreciation for her heritage and community. Currently pursuing her Bachelor's in Psychology with a Specialization in Applied Behavioral Analysis at Capella University, Aulani is driven by her passion for serving others, particularly children and young adults, in both home and school settings. With a heart dedicated to uplifting her community, Aulani endeavors to integrate cultural competency and sensitivity into her work, ensuring that the unique needs of the Hawaiian community are understood and met. Outside of her professional pursuits, Aulani finds joy in perpetuating her culture through the graceful art of hula, immersing herself in literature, and cherishing moments with her beloved family and friends.As she embarks on her journey as a HABA Board Events Chair, Aulani eagerly anticipates the opportunity to lend her voice and expertise to the board, advocating for inclusivity, cultural awareness, and excellence in applied behavioral analysis. With a vision to bring a new face to the HABA board, Aulani is committed to fostering a more diverse and culturally responsive environment for all. |
| Past President Kaitlin Preciado M.Ed., BCBA, LBA pastpresident@hawaiiaba.org With over a decade and a half of experience in behavior analysis, I’m passionate about creating innovative solutions that empower individuals and families. I hold a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) from the University of Massachusetts Boston. My career began in juvenile rehabilitation and advanced through roles at leading ABA organizations, ultimately bringing me to Hawai‘i as the CEO of Emergent Learning Hawai‘i. At Emergent, I lead a dynamic team focused on delivering evidence-based, client-centered services that inspire growth and resilience. Currently pursuing my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD), I remain committed to advancing the field of behavior analysis while supporting the unique needs of our island community. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our five cats, and our rescue chickens—embracing the vibrant, connected spirit of Hawai‘i. |
| Secretary Adam Clemente MS, BCBA, LBA Secretary@hawaiiaba.org Adam Clemente is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with an extensive 15+ years in the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) within the home and school settings. Since obtaining his BCBA certification in 2019, Adam continues to be an on-going learner in this ever-evolving field where he is dedicated to being of service to individuals within the Hawai’i Department of Education. He started providing ABA services as a Licensed Behavior Analyst in the rural west coastal side of Oahu from 2019-‘21, Kauai from ‘21-present, and hopefully soon on the Big Island where he currently resides. Adam’s academic foundation includes an undergraduate degree in Child and Adolescent Development, with an emphasis in Early Childhood and Families in 2008. In 2017, he furthered his education with a master's degree in Psychology, specializing in ABA. Driven by a passion to contribute to the improvement of educational systems in the state of Hawai’i, Adam plans to enroll in the Educational Psychology Doctoral program next Fall. His hope is to continue making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in a different capacity. Adam enjoys CrossFit, spending quality time with friends and family, nature walks, and watching movies with his two cats. He is honored to be part of the Hawai’i Association for Behavior Analysis and is looking forward to serving all members as Secretary for HABA. |
| Treasurer Erin Walters, MS, BCBA, LBA Treasurer@hawaiiaba.org I’ve been certified as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst since 2015 and moved to Hawaii in 2016. I am deeply committed to integrating culturally responsive and trauma-informed approaches within behavior analysis. Currently pursuing my doctorate with a dissertation focus on culturally responsive, trauma informed implementation of behavior interventions, I am particularly passionate about the intersection of behavior analysis and cultural responsiveness in Hawaii, especially for keiki receiving behavior analytic care. Outside of my professional work, I have interests in sustainability, particularly the ocean and marine wildlife. I enjoy diving and spearfishing on both the Big Island and Vancouver Island with my husband, family, and friends, as well as exploring the island with our dogs. |
| Student Representative Ama Martin, M.Ed studentrepresentative@hawaiiaba.org My name is Amanda (Ama) Martin. I was born and raised on Hawaii Island. I have called the Hamakua coast home my entire life, and with any luck I always will. I hold a BA in Psychology and an M.Ed. in Special Education. As a special education teacher, I've been a long-time admirer and firm believer in ABA. I finally decided to take the plunge and enroll in ABA courses in Fall 2024. I love being a student of ABA! I want to become a HABA representative so that I can learn from, and make connections with Hawaii BCBAs who understand the unique culture, beauty, and challenges of our learners and families here in Hawaii. I would be honored to call myself Student Representative of HABA. |
 | Events Chair Miranda Belsher, MS, BCBA, LBA Events@hawaiiaba.org Miranda has worked in the field of applied behavior analysis since 2014. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Portland State University and her Masters Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with Distinction from National University. She has a broad experience working with children and adolescents on the autism spectrum in a variety of settings including, schools, clinics, community, and home settings. She also has experience working with adults carrying a wide variety of neurological, developmental, and mental disorders. Miranda assisted in the starting the biggest ABA clinic in SW Washington, Formations Behavior Therapy and oversaw operations as the director over the last 2 years. Outside of ABA Miranda has been passionate about event planning and assisted other event planners in Portland on the side for fun for 4 years before starting her own side business, Rattan Events. In her free time she loves being in the water (snorkeling, rowing, failing at surfing, etc..), learning about different cultures, cooking a wide variety of cuisines, and hiking. |
| Marketing Chair Dodi Pritchett MEd, BCBA, LBA Marketing@hawaiiaba.org Aloha kākou, My name is Dodi Pritchett, and I am honored to be part of our shared journey in creating positive change and meaningful connections. As a certified K-12 teacher, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA), I bring over a decade of experience in behavior analysis, special education, and teacher leadership to my work. Guided by a deep commitment to empowerment and collaboration, I strive to support individuals, families, and communities in embracing continuous growth and lifelong learning. As the founder of the Hawaiʻi Institute of Innovation, my mission is to blend science, creativity, and compassion to foster learning and inclusivity. Beyond my professional work, I cherish time spent immersed in Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty, reflecting on how we can mālama (care for) each other and our ‘āina (land). Together, let’s build a brighter, more inclusive future rooted in growth, understanding, and aloha. |
| Legislative Chair Dr. Marija Čolić, Ph.D., BCBA, LBA legislation@hawaiiaba.orgDr. Marija Čolić, Ph.D., BCBA, LBA, has over 10 years of experience working with autistic individuals and their families and has been active in the applied behavior analysis (ABA) field since 2014. She earned her bachelor's and master’s in psychology and Ph.D. in special education from the University of Belgrade, Serbia, and currently teaches at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Marija has published multiple articles on family stigma and the culturally responsive ABA. For six years, she has hosted free webinars on ABA for Serbian parents and professionals. Marija also provides a free play-based social skills group for autistic children. Marija is driven by a deep commitment to ensuring every keiki has equitable access to life-changing ABA services. She believes in creating a future where families feel supported, empowered, and understood, and where practitioners are equipped with the rights and resources they need to succeed. By serving as HABA Legislative Chair Representative, Marija hopes to amplify the voices of families and professionals, advocating for policies that expand services, address gaps in care, and build a stronger ABA community in Hawaiʻi. She is eager to work collaboratively to turn challenges into opportunities for lasting change. Parent Representative Sherrie Akana Kuroda Sherrie Akana Kuroda has been a strong advocate for her daughter Amber Kuroda over the 22 years she was in the public educational system. She continues to look for services and venues to provide support and an engaging lifestyle for Amber, now 24. From monthly meetings to multiple school observations, she believes strongly in parent involvement and a team approach to providing a well rounded plan for success. During the day you'll find her selling homes in Hawaii as a 20 year veteran of the housing market. |
| Neighbor Island Representative - Maui Amanda Goodell, MA, BCBA Prior to pursuing my Masters of Arts in ABA at FIT in 2021, I worked as an RBT and BCaBA in Detroit and was blessed with an opportunity to continue learning in that capacity here on the island of Maui. I'm passionate about progressive ABA and the client-centered, values driven movements I see happening in our field. I'd love to help influence and facilitate change and growth in the field, and am excited to have the opportunity through HABA to collaborate with colleagues who have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. Neighbor Island Representative-Hawai'i Island Alanna Barber, MEd, BCBA, LBA Aloha mai kākou! My name is Alanna Barber, and I am honored to have been nominated as the Neighbor Island Representative for the HABA Board. Currently, I work at a Hawaiian Immersion School, where I support the development of their Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) through the implementation of evidence-based behavior strategies and practices. While I work with students individually, much of my role involves collaborating with kumu (teachers) to strengthen classroom environments by integrating effective behavior management techniques. The work I am doing today represents the culmination of my 24-year career, during which I have supported students with disabilities across a variety of settings. My commitment to advocacy for individuals with disabilities remains at the core of my professional journey. This passion was reignited following the 2024 HABA Conference, where I had the privilege of connecting with like-minded professionals who share my dedication to the field. I am eager to continue advocating for people with disabilities in a variety of ways, and I believe that joining the HABA Board would allow me to further contribute to this mission. There is no better way to stay inspired and connected to the work we do than by engaging with the very organization that shares my passion. Thank you for considering my nomination. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and make a meaningful impact alongside this incredible community. Neighbor Island Representative- Kaua'i Sarah Rosenfeld, BCBA, LBA I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from East Carolina University, which laid the foundation for my passion for helping others and advocating for diverse communities. I began my career in special education as a teacher’s assistant in a self-contained autism classroom in Virginia public schools before moving to Kaua‘i. On Kaua‘i, I transitioned into the role of Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) with the Kaua‘i Department of Education, where I spent five years supporting students with diverse needs. During this time, I also pursued a Master’s degree in Special Education with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at Arizona State University. Most recently, I earned my Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) certification in the state of Hawai‘i and will be transitioning into a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) role with the Kaua‘i DOE in the new year. I am deeply passionate about advancing behavior analysis across the islands and supporting the needs of our neighbor island communities. My background in social work, special education, and ABA, combined with my experience as an RBT, has given me a unique perspective that I look forward to bringing to the board. I am excited to collaborate with other board members to ensure the voices of our neighbor island community are well-represented. |
