This Month’s Lighthouse Legend: Staci Jesuit

Staci began her journey at Lighthouse Autism Center in Warsaw on November 23, 2020, and currently serves as an RBT Trainer. Prior to this, she was a Senior Therapist before transitioning to her current role. Staci holds an associate degree in Baking and Pastry from Ivy Tech, but her passion for supporting others led her to pursue a Bachelor’s in Applied Behavior Analysis, which she completed at Purdue Global in October 2024. In January 2025, she will begin her Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and move into a Clinical Apprentice position.

In addition to her professional achievements, Staci and her husband recently adopted their twin 5-year-old sons, who are undergoing a diagnosis for Autism. They adopted their boys in March 2024 and have been dedicated to creating a sensory-friendly home for them. Staci credits her work at Lighthouse for enabling her family to take on this new chapter in their lives, as the knowledge and support she gained have allowed them to incorporate ABA therapy at home to ensure their children’s success.

Staci’s family also includes Axel, her 8-year-old fur child, who is adjusting to life with his new brothers. Outside of work, Staci enjoys DIY home projects, researching ideas to support her sons, and creating wedding cakes for brides-to-be to make their special day unforgettable.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I originally applied to Lighthouse because I was ready for a change in my career. I wanted to go back to working with kids. I was hired during COVID and honestly had no idea what I was in store for. Every day was different which is what I LOVED the most. I enjoyed being a part of something that was bigger than me and where I made a difference. I got to see the changes with the learners and sometimes I get to watch from the sidelines as they graduate to new adventures in their lives. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

It is hard to pinpoint my favorite part of working at Lighthouse as it is a combination of things. I love getting to watch the learners improve on their school, life skills, and behavioral skills. Every day is a new day because you never know if a learner is going to show up and everything clicks that day or today is the day they learn many new skills that frustrate them. I love getting to know my co-workers on a personal level. Sometimes it takes me a while when they first start but I always find a way to make a small connection with each and every person in our center. I love the support system you can build within our center. I have been with Lighthouse for 4 years and I have been able to have leadership cheer me on to be promoted through the ranks and through my academic career. I had a co-worker who prayed and talked with me through my 2 years of hopeful adoptions. They are more than co-workers to me, they are my village. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience at Lighthouse has been eye-opening. I have been able to love on, and help learners grow into the kids they are today. I have been able to experience parents getting reports that their little one had a rough day to a few months later hearing their child is succeeding faster than we can write programs for them. I have been able to see the changes in Lighthouse of how it helps our learners and staff. I have experienced some of the lowest times when our center wasn’t sure where to turn to being supported by other Lighthouses from around the state. Not only are we a community within our one center but we are a community within our corporation of Lighthouses. Being a part of the staff that gets to support other buildings helps bring ideas to help us all grow and be better for our learners and staff.  

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

I have way too many memories to pick just one memory but one that always sticks out in my mind is the day I paired with a particular learner by playing Flying Mermaid off a slide. We laughed the whole day, and I was so exhausted but couldn’t stop smiling from ear to ear that day knowing that neither one of us was going to forget that. I tried so hard to pair with this new learner from the start and we had the best pairing up until they graduated from Lighthouse. 

What advice would you like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

If I had any advice to give it would be to ALWAYS ask questions; even if you think it’s a silly question, ask it anyway. My favorite thing to say is “I have a stupid question…..” all the Program managers hate it when I say it and their reply always is “There is no such thing as a stupid question” because if you don’t know the answer you’ll never figure it out until you ask. If you don’t understand the answer keep asking until you understand it. 

This Month’s Lighthouse Legend: Kris Thomas

Kris Thomas began her career at Lighthouse Autism Center on August 28, 2017, and currently serves as the Director of Operations. Throughout her time at LAC, she has held several key positions, starting as a Registered Behavior Technician from August 2017 to December 2018, then becoming an RBT Trainer until September 2019. She progressed to Clinical Administrator from September 2019 to November 2022, and served as Senior Clinical Administrator until December 2023, when she took on her current role.

Kris graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, complemented by a minor in Sociology. Born and raised in Indianapolis, IN, she is a passionate foodie who enjoys exploring different cultures through food, whether by trying out new restaurants or experimenting with recipes at home. She is also a proud pet parent to three adorable fur babies—a Bichon Frise, a Yorkie, and a Boxer. A fun fact about Kris is that she eloped with her husband, embarking on a memorable road trip from Indianapolis to San Diego to get married at Sunset Cliffs, an experience she cherishes deeply.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

During my college internship, I worked as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. While the position provided valuable insight into the criminal justice system and was important for supporting young people in need, I soon realized that I wanted a career where I could experience more daily victories and truly feel like I was making a difference. When I completed the ‘guided shadow’ portion of the interview process, I immediately felt the joy in the workspace and knew that I wanted to be a part of it.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Ultimately, my favorite part revolves around the people we employ here. I’ve been an RBT, and I know that to do that job well, you have to have grit for the tough moments, be willing to learn, engage with your inner child or silliness, and be willing to celebrate the small successes on a hectic day. These aren’t qualities you’ll find in everyone, but I think ABA, and specifically Lighthouse, attracts those individuals. To see that combination of energy in any building is not only contagious but incredible.

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

In one word – bountiful. All companies have highs and lows, but I’ve been able to dedicate seven-plus years here because I believe in the mission, and I believe Lighthouse believes in my ability to aid in that. I think we all hope to find a place where we can learn from others, where there’s mobility in career progression, where we feel valued, and I have that with Lighthouse.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

One of my favorite memories is from shortly after we opened the Lighthouse-Noblesville location. We received notification that Colin Sheridan and many other executive leadership members would be visiting our site. I was in a complete panic that morning, trying to ensure that everything went more than smooth – almost near perfect. But, Colin walked in with 10+ people following him in suits, stood next to me at my standing desk, and greeted each learner and staff member as they arrived, just like any other day. In that moment, I remember thinking to myself that we have leaders here who want to be involved in our day-to-day operations, who aren’t expecting perfection but solely the diligent effort that Clinical Administrators, Clinicians, and our incredible RBT staff put forth on a daily basis.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Stay curious about what opportunities are available to you and remember that you make a significant difference in the lives of our learners and our organization daily.

Iriyale’s Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Iriyale joined Lighthouse Autism Center on May 16, 2022, and currently serves as an RBT Trainer after previously working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). She holds a degree in Health Sciences from IUPUI (now IU Indianapolis), along with minors in Health Psychology and Nutrition. In her personal life, Iriyale enjoys reading, watching nature documentaries, and spending quality time playing board and card games with friends and family.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

Before starting at LAC, my background mostly revolved around the medical field and working my way to becoming a physician. After the pandemic, I wanted to try something different and out of my comfort zone. I’m glad I took the leap and joined the team because I’ve fallen in love with the field. I am working towards furthering my career by getting my Master’s in ABA and becoming a BCBA one day! 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

I love watching my learners grow and develop into the bright little humans that they are. There are no words to describe the feeling when a learner correctly responds to an behavior queue that we’ve been working on for a long period of time. I’m more excited about it than the learner is! 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

During my time at Lighthouse, I’ve been gifted the opportunity to grow alongside my learners. I learned as much as they did along my journey with each kid I’ve had. My greatest passion in life is to make an impact on people and their lives. Since the day I started at LAC, I could feel how much of an impact I was making on the lives of the children in my care. Being a part of the reason why kids can make eye contact with others, vocalize their wants/needs, tolerate when things don’t go their way, and so many other examples are the reasons why I continue to show up every day.  

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

My favorite memory is when I transitioned one of my first learners into school. I remember how confident and comfortable he appeared on his first day at school. The first couple of days he wanted to play with me until I encouraged him to play with some of his classmates. As we neared the end of my time at the school, he slowly started to engage with me less and gain so much more confidence in the classroom and with peers. On my last day of school, he gave me this beautiful piece of artwork he made with a message that said, “thank you Iriyale, I will miss you” and gave me the biggest hug. I felt so proud to be a part of his journey and have had the opportunity to be a part of his time at Lighthouse. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

You won’t know unless you try it! Lighthouse Autism Center is the place for you if you enjoy having fun and making a positive impact on the children and families within the company! 

Christina’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Christina began her journey at Lighthouse Autism Center on July 22, 2019, starting with TBS. Following LAC’s acquisition of TBS on June 20, 2020, Christina has taken on the role of Total Rewards and HRIS Analyst. Her previous roles at LAC include Human Resources Coordinator and Sr. Human Resources Coordinator.

Christina’s passion for working with children and families began early, influenced by her parents’ work as foster parents and interactions with behavior management teams. She pursued her education at Indiana State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Psychology. In 2014, she began her career in the ABA field as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Although she no longer works directly with learners, Christina’s commitment to supporting the field remained strong, leading her to transition into Human Resources. She furthered her qualifications by obtaining a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources in 2022.

Outside of work, Christina enjoys spending time with her family and pets.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

The ABA company that I was working for in 2020 was acquired by Lighthouse. With this acquisition I was given the opportunity to begin a role with the Lighthouse Human Resources team. Since then I have been given the opportunity to be a part of our continued growth and learn about many of our learner support departments.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part of working for Lighthouse is getting to see the company continue to expand our center locations into new states. Our continued growth into new communities is opening the door for children and families that might not have otherwise been able to receive ABA therapy.  

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My time with Lighthouse has provided me with the opportunity to learn about how our organization functions as a whole. Throughout my time with Lighthouse I have had the opportunity to see our values in action. Specifically, the values of “Be Compassionate. Care about People More than Anything” and “Be Committed. Work Hard and Show Up for Others”. Our company has exemplified these values through our continued growth in our communities and the initiatives that the company has put into place to support our employees in the centers.  

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

The HR team was doing an Employee Engagement event at one of our centers. During this visit we had learners that would come up with their therapists to talk to us. One of the learners requested that I join them in the ball pit and without hesitation I jumped in to play with them. Another one of the learners also came up to the table with a huge smile on their face and something in their hand and proceeded to hand me a broken crayon that they had taped back together with sparkly green tape. To this day I still carry this broken crayon with sparkly green tape in my work bag to remind me of the reason why I wanted to continue my career with Lighthouse and remain in the ABA field. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

Take the leap! If you have the passion to impact the lives of children and their families Lighthouse Autism Center is the place to be. 

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we pride ourselves on having a team of dedicated professionals who bring a wealth of experience and compassion to their roles. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to one of our esteemed team members: Ladrienne. With a rich background in psychology and counseling, Ladrienne embodies the very essence of dedication and expertise that we strive to offer to our clients.

A Strong Foundation in Psychology and Counseling

Ladrienne’s journey began with a Bachelor of Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana, where she laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to mental health. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Counseling from Indiana State University, equipping herself with advanced skills to support and guide individuals through their mental health journeys.

A Decade of Diverse Experience

For nearly ten years, Ladrienne has been a pillar in the Indiana mental health community. Her professional journey has spanned a variety of roles, including therapeutic foster care, school-based counseling, home-based mental health services, community mental health, case management, and even adjunct instruction at a community college. This diverse experience has shaped her approach, allowing her to offer a well-rounded perspective to her clients.

A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Ladrienne’s practice is a testament to her commitment to addressing a wide array of mental health needs. Her clientele includes children, teenagers, and adults from various racial and cultural backgrounds, reflecting her dedication to providing inclusive and empathetic care. Her areas of focus encompass:

• Anxiety and Depression: Helping clients navigate the challenges of these common mental health conditions.
• Trauma: Supporting individuals in healing from past traumas and building resilience.
• Transitional Life Events: Assisting clients in managing life changes and transitions with grace.
• School-Related Difficulties: Offering strategies and support for academic and behavioral issues.
• Parent-Child Relationships: Enhancing communication and connection between parents and their children.
• Maternal Mental Health: Providing specialized support for mothers as they navigate the unique challenges of motherhood.

A Commitment to Advancing the Field

Ladrienne’s dedication to advancing mental health services is evident in her contributions to professional literature. She is a co-author of the article “School-Based Mental Health Clinics,” published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. This groundbreaking work reflects on the initial stages of building school-based mental health counseling services, highlighting her commitment to innovative and effective mental health care.

Balancing Professional Excellence with Personal Fulfillment

Outside of her professional life, Ladrienne enjoys quality time with her husband and blended family, traveling, reading, and exploring her creative side through writing. She values self-care practices and strives for personal growth, ensuring that she brings her best self to both her personal and professional endeavors.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we are proud to have Ladrienne as part of our team. Her extensive experience, diverse background, and heartfelt dedication to mental health make her an invaluable asset to our clients and the community. If you’re seeking compassionate and expert support, Ladrienne is here to help you navigate your mental health journey with empathy and understanding.

We are thrilled to introduce Christina Gilkey, a valuable addition to the Lighthouse Autism Center team, who joined us in March 2024. Christina brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting families and children, particularly those affected by trauma.

Christina’s academic background is impressive, with a Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) earned in 2018 and a Master of Science in Couples and Family Therapy (MSCFT) achieved in 2020. Her dedication to her field is highlighted by her attainment of the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) status in February 2021 in her home state of Indiana.

A passion for making a difference

Known affectionately as a “Neuro-Nerd,” Christina has a profound fascination with the human brain and continuously seeks knowledge to better understand and support her clients. Her career has consistently focused on families and children, especially those impacted by trauma, demonstrating her passion for making a meaningful difference in their lives.

In addition to her professional work, Christina is an active member of the National Association of Social Workers – Indiana Chapter Ethics Committee, reflecting her commitment to upholding the highest standards in her field. Her dedication to volunteer work further underscores her commitment to serving her community.

Christina is also a proud wife of 21 years, mother of three adult children, grandmother to five grandchildren, and a loving owner of two fur babies. Her personal and professional experiences enrich her approach to care, making her an exceptional addition to our team.

Compassionate Care Champion at Lighthouse Autism Center

We are excited to announce that Christina has been recognized as our 2024 recipient of the “Compassionate Care Champion” award. This accolade celebrates her outstanding dedication, empathy, and commitment to providing exceptional care to our families and children.

We are honored to have Christina with us and look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make at Lighthouse Autism Center.

At Lighthouse Autism Center, we are proud to have Dr. Luallin as a key member of our team. With a distinguished background in school psychology and a deep passion for working with individuals on the autism spectrum, Dr. Luallin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our center.

Dr. Luallin earned her PhD in School Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado in 2020. Her doctoral journey included a transformative fellowship at Indiana University’s Riley Hospital’s autism clinic, which not only enriched her clinical skills but also led her to fall in love with Indianapolis—a city she now happily calls home with her husband and three beloved cats.

Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder

Her career in clinical and research settings began early, focusing on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Over the past decade, Dr. Luallin has dedicated herself to working with individuals with ASD and their families. Her experience spans prestigious institutions, including Denver Children’s Hospital’s Neuropsychiatric Specialty Unit, which focuses on children with autism, and a private practice in Denver specializing in adults and females with ASD.

Advancing the field of autism research

Dr. Luallin has been an integral part of Lighthouse Autism Center for the past three years. Her contributions are not only practical but also scholarly, with several notable publications to her name. Her work includes:

• “Gender Differences in Emotion Dysregulation in an Autism Inpatient Psychiatric Sample”
• “Standardized Administration of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition across Treatment Settings”
• “Autism Spectrum Disorder Testing: What Parents Need to Know”

These publications reflect her commitment to advancing the field of autism research and providing valuable information to both professionals and families.

Activities that enrich her personal life

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Luallin enjoys a variety of activities that enrich her personal life. She is an avid yoga practitioner, loves to travel (having visited 20 countries), enjoys cooking vegetarian meals, and often spends time riding bikes with her husband.

Holistic approach

Dr. Luallin’s dedication to her field and her holistic approach to both clinical work and personal well-being make her a vital asset to Lighthouse Autism Center. We are excited to continue benefiting from her expertise and passion as she contributes to our mission of supporting individuals with autism and their families.

Thank you, Dr. Luallin, for your exceptional work and commitment to improving the lives of those we serve!

We are excited to shine a spotlight on Kari, a dedicated professional with a rich background in Rehabilitation Services, Psychology, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Kari’s journey began with her undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Services and Psychology in 2009. Her passion for behavior analysis led her to pursue a Master of Science degree in Applied Behavior Analysis in 2011, where she immersed herself in ABA principles, research, and therapeutic interventions.

Throughout her career, Kari has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals through behavioral support. Her diverse experiences include conducting studies on twin interactions and behavioral patterns, researching preference assessments for elderly patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s, supporting rehabilitation for adolescents with traumatic brain injuries, evaluating executive functioning in neurotypical children, and providing therapy for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Kari’s expertise in ABA became even more pronounced after she earned her Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential. She took her skills to a non-profit organization in Virginia, where she worked closely with public schools to enhance special education services for children on the autism spectrum. Her role involved assessing needs, implementing individualized education plans, and training educators using the Competent Learner Model (CLM). This model, rooted in ABA principles, played a crucial role in supporting children’s development and learning outcomes.

In her extensive career, Kari has also excelled in training and overseeing educational, professional, and clinical settings. Her ability to apply ABA principles to develop effective teaching strategies for diverse groups, including those with and without disabilities, highlights her versatility and leadership.

Since 2014, Kari has served as a Clinical Director, managing clinic operations to ensure the delivery of high-quality therapy services. Her leadership is marked by her dedication to fostering a positive work environment that motivates both staff and learners.

Autism Diagnostic Testing at Lighthouse Autism Center

In 2023, Kari embraced a new challenge as she transitioned into a diagnostics support role at Lighthouse Autism Center. Working alongside a licensed clinical psychologist, she is now involved in developing in-house autism evaluations. This role has allowed her to further expand her skills as a behavior analyst and engage directly with families seeking evaluation and treatment for their children. Additionally, Kari contributes to the organization’s training department, focusing on compassionate care, learner self-advocacy, and effective supervision.

Outside of her professional life, Kari enjoys a fulfilling family life with her husband, Scott, and their two young daughters. Together with their dog, Murphy, they embrace outdoor adventures and cherish cozy moments with their cat, Ridge, on rainy days. Kari’s hobbies include cooking, exploring the Indianapolis area, traveling, and tackling DIY home projects. She remains passionate about continuing her educational outreach and sharing her expertise in ABA.

Kari’s journey reflects her deep commitment to behavioral support and her ongoing dedication to advancing the field of ABA. We are thrilled to have her as part of our team and look forward to the continued positive impact she will make.

Abby’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Abby joined Lighthouse Autism Center in June of 2023 and currently serves as a level 2 Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) at our Greenfield center, actively progressing towards level 3 certification. She graduated from Eastern Hancock High School in 2008 and is a dedicated mother to her two sons, aged 12 and 10. Abby finds joy in supporting her boys in their sports activities, with a particular enthusiasm for baseball. In her leisure time, she indulges in swimming and reading, hobbies that complement her busy family life and professional journey in ABA therapy.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I heard about Lighthouse through a family friend. I have worked with kids for the past 13 years and have always loved it. I felt like God was pushing me in this direction. I decided to go ahead and apply. It was one of the best decisions! 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

It’s so incredible to be able to watch the learners meet their goals and see them accomplish what might look like the impossible. I love hearing stories from parents about all the growth and success they are seeing at home. It’s amazing that I get to be a part of that! 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

As soon as I walked into the Greenfield center I felt welcomed and immediately accepted into a family that has been formed here at LAC. I had no prior experience in ABA therapy before coming here. No matter what questions I had or help I needed everyone was so kind and patient. I am so thankful that God planted me here! 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

I’ve had some pretty amazing moments here with the learners and staff. I think my favorite was shortly after I started. I was sitting at the little table with my learner. I looked over at him and he put both of his hands on each side of my face. It was the sweetest little moment! I knew from that moment that I could push through all the hard times because those sweet little moments are the best! 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

This work can be challenging at times, but every time a learner meets their goals or accomplishes even the tiniest of things, it’s the best reward!  To be a part of their story even if it’s just a short time is amazing! 

Ana’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Ana is a Senior Therapist and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Trainer at Lighthouse Autism Center – Kalamazoo, bringing her expertise since joining in February 2022. She holds a degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Western Michigan University. Originally from Costa Rica, Ana has lived in four countries before settling in Kalamazoo seven years ago. Outside of her work, Ana enjoys a variety of hobbies including watching TV shows, playing tennis, going on leisurely walks with her cat Lio, and cherishing moments with her friends and family. Her vibrant personality and diverse experiences enrich our team at Lighthouse Autism Center every day.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I’ve always had a passion for education, working with children and helping others. After graduating from WMU, as I was looking for a job, I came across various postings. But LAC’s job posting caught my attention, it was light, fun and it just gave me a “this might be it” feeling. And I guess I was right, after having my interview with Avery Blackburn I just knew I was in the right place.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part about working at Lighthouse is watching the learners achieve goals and overcome challenges, and alongside their technicians and clinical team putting their heart and soul into creating opportunities for the learners to accomplish this. Every single learner I’ve worked with has a piece of my heart; they’re the best part about working at Lighthouse. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

Lighthouse is a place of love and acceptance where everyone is welcomed. When I first started at Lighthouse, I thought not having any ABA knowledge or having English as my second language would’ve been barriers that wouldn’t let me succeed as much as I wanted to. But the Pod 3 team, especially my previous supervisor, Dani Boden, and fellow desk trainer Meg McCaw, gave me the confidence and tools to succeed and prosper. I’ve learned and grown so much over the years at Lighthouse. I’m eternally grateful for the clinical team I get to work with every day- Becca, Emilie, Avery, Niki, Clare, Katie, Mikaela, Grace, Michaela, and Lexie. They have all taught me valuable lessons that make me the desk trainer I am today. I’m so happy to have found a place were coming to work is a pleasure instead of an obligation, and I thank my coworkers for making our center such a fun place to work at. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

From all the amazing days I’ve had at Lighthouse it’s hard to choose just one favorite memory. Some memories that stand out for me are when one of our nonverbal learners said the word “light” while manding for a toy flashlight, all  the fun-Friday dance parties in the playroom, and definitely when one of our learners was having a hard time transitioning out of the building at pick up and my coworker Nate E and I played crazy frog and we did a dance party all the way until we got outside to his mom. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

We are all a team with the same passion, helping our learners succeed in different ways. It can get challenging at times, but it is so rewarding at the same time. We are our learners’ second home- they are with us for 8 hours a day, every tiny effort to make this home a loving and safe one, makes a difference in their lives. If you come in every day with love, patience, and acceptance to share, there is no doubt you will shape our learners’ future for the better. 

Meg’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Meg is a Clinical Apprentice at Lighthouse Autism Center – Jenison and has been with Lighthouse Autism Center since October 2021. Meg started at Lighthouse Autism Center in Kalamazoo West as a senior/desk trainer and then moved to Jenison in August 2023. She graduated with a bachelor’s from Grand Valley State University and is currently pursuing her masters in ABA from Ball State University. In Meg’s free time, she is an avid reader and loves being with her friends and family. She has two adorable nephews who are her absolute favorites to spend her weekends with. 

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

I originally applied to Lighthouse Autism Center as I had only heard good things and I knew I had a passion working with and for others. At Lighthouse, I knew I would be a part of a compassionate environment that fosters joy, growth, and greater choices for all involved. 

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

The people at Lighthouse make it what it is. They consistently promote acceptance, kindness, and are so quick to celebrate every win for everyone. I have been fortunate to be surrounded by passionate, hardworking teams at both Kalamazoo West and Jenison. At Kalamazoo West, I got to work side-by-side with some of the best people and continue to have this privilege at Jenison. Additionally, both centers’ clinical teams have afforded me opportunities to continue learning, growing, and becoming my best self. I’ve tremendously enjoyed getting to work under Dani Boden at both centers and continue growing professionally and personally under her guidance. Every individual that I have been able to work alongside and each learner I have meet have been the best parts of LAC. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My experience at Lighthouse has been empowering and has brought growth, celebrations, and challenges. It is a demanding job, but it is so rewarding and fulfilling. I feel fortunate that I get to come to work at LAC.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

Throughout my time at LAC, I have collected so many favorite memories. Every gain my learners make that I get to celebrate, so much laughter and fun with coworkers, and getting to learn and work with Ana Nunez-Palmieri at Kalamazoo West. It’s hard to choose just one favorite moment, but one of my first learners graduation stands out and will remain special to me forever.

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My advice for anyone interested in starting a career at LAC is that if you have a passion for working with children to help promote greater choices and joy, no matter your past work experiences, to come with patience and a willingness to learn. Some days will be more challenging than others, but at the end of every day when you’ve put your best self forward, you’ve made a lasting difference to your learners and their families. 

Marie’s  Lighthouse Autism Center Journey

Marie, a dedicated Registered Behavior Technician, proudly serves at Lighthouse Autism Center – Elkhart South, bringing her unwavering commitment to excellence since joining the team in April 2023. Hailing from the vibrant southern suburbs of Illinois, her journey into the field of autism care began with a foundation laid at Bloom High School in Chicago Heights, where she graduated with distinction in 2020. With a deep-seated passion for making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism, Marie’s presence exemplifies the compassionate spirit and professionalism that defines Lighthouse Autism Center’s mission.

What made you decide to apply to Lighthouse?

When I applied for the position to be an RBT in 2023, I did it with a question mark over my head, but I went into it with an open mind and open heart. Although I had no knowledge about the job and didn’t know that there were opportunities like this, I took that leap of faith to step out of my comfort zone and try something new.

What is your favorite part of working at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My favorite part about working for Lighthouse is being able to work with these precious learners that walk into our center daily. I love that I can see them improve in areas they need help in and also being that person that can care for them as much as I can. 

How would you describe your experience working for Lighthouse?

My overall experience at Lighthouse has been an eye-opener. I say this because when I started working here, I lived by two slogans: “open mind and open heart” and “CAP.” CAP stands for Compassion, Acceptance, and Patience. In order to have an open mind and open heart, you have to be willing to give compassion to your learner and love them as if they were your own. Secondly, you have to be accepting of how they are and what comes with your learner. Lastly, you have to have patience with your learner; patience is the key to success. 

Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?

I 100% know there are memories being made daily because we are what will be remembered in the long run, and the memories we make with the kids are long-term as well. But to fully answer that question, my favorite memory has by far been every moment I spend with my learners. Seeing their growth makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something just as much as they have. 

What advice you would like to share for those interested in a career at Lighthouse Autism Center?

My advice to someone looking to be in the RBT field: just be yourself, be optimistic, keep your head held high, and if you start something, be sure to put your best foot forward every time. Being an RBT has by far been the best experience of my life, and it comes with lots of perks and learning experiences as well.