Georgia Southern’s Behavior Analysis Program Graduates First Class

Graduate students on commencement day. (L to R, back row): Joshua Williams, Ph.D., associate department chair of psychology; Sodeeq Adesanya; Jennifer Wertalik, Ph.D., associate professor of behavior analysis; John Kraft, Ph.D., interim dean of the Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies; Samantha Walters; Lauren Pullum; Kayla Randall, Ph.D., assistant professor of behavior analysis; Andrew Bulla, Ph.D., associate professor and coordinator of the Behavior Analysis Program . Front row: Jackee Kim Davis, Victoria Lee, Madisen Duke, Erykah Spriggs, Fabrage Brooks, Leah Yakobovitz, Sydney Mansour Arthur.

Georgia Southern University marked a significant academic milestone with the graduation of its first cohort from the master’s program in experimental psychology with a concentration in behavior analysis. This cohort of 10 students represents the first graduates of the unique program, which is the only one in the Southeastern United States outside of Florida offering in-person training and apprenticeships in behavior analysis.

The graduates come from various regions of Georgia and internationally, prepared to enter applied settings, engage in clinical research, or pursue further academic qualifications. The program’s rigorous curriculum includes both foundational training in behavior analysis and practical experience through partnerships with local clinics in Savannah.

“I had the opportunity to present research at conferences, meet with professors, learn from practitioners in Savannah and hear guest lectures from big names in behavior analysis,” said Victoria Lee, a member of the graduating cohort.

“Our professors were so dedicated to us. They even encouraged us to have interests beyond their expertise and helped us seek training and mentorship in those areas. I leave Georgia Southern feeling extremely grateful, having established a valuable network to lean on in the years ahead.”

The inaugural cohort has already made significant academic contributions, with 45 paper and poster presentations at conferences, seven peer-reviewed publications, and two conference awards. Graduates have secured employment within 30 days post-graduation, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the professional world.

Georgia Southern plans to expand the program further by enhancing hands-on research experiences, developing an on-campus clinic for challenging behaviors and hiring additional faculty specializing in organizational behavior management.