Utah Association for Behavior Analysis

Ella Jespersen is the current President of the Utah Association for Behavior Analysis (UtABA) and serves as the Vice President of Clinical Services and Revenue Management at Kids on the Move, a non-profit organization in Utah. Throughout her eight years with Kids on the Move, including six years as the Director of the Autism Center, Ella has been committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based services and fostering a positive, balanced work environment. In her leadership roles, both at Kids on the Move and within UtABA, Ella continues to champion the advancement of ABA therapy in Utah, striving to enhance awareness, accessibility, and the professional development of practitioners statewide.

Jesse Yarger is a behavior analysis enthusiast who unequivocally believes in continuous growth on individual and organizational levels. Jesse is confident UtABA can extend its influence for UtABA members, regardless of experience, credentials, or other circumstances. Ultimately, Jesse believes UtABA exists to support its members. He plans to solicit feedback and suggestions from members to guide UtABA’s future. Jesse currently serves as the chairperson for the Professional Development Committee. Based on feedback from UtABA members, Jesse plans to provide more support for behavior technicians (as CEUs will be required in 2026), those pursuing BCBA® certification, and organizational leaders. High-quality, low-cost Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be provided for RBTs in accordance with the upcoming BACB® requirements. More eTort will be allocated to the student committee to strengthen fieldwork experience and preparation for the BCBA® examination. Organizational leaders will benefit from more CEU opportunities related to Organization Behavior Management. Jesse earned his BCBA® credential in 2012 after graduating from Auburn University with a degree in Psychology and concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis. He has been a UtABA member since 2014 and has held multiple positions within the organization. In addition to his experience with UtABA, Jesse is a business owner, adjunct professor, practicing behavior analyst, and host of the Autism Navigation Pod.

Dr. Caleb Stanley is the Past-President of UtABA and works as an associate professor in the Applied Behavior Analysis program at Utah Valley University. Caleb graduated with a master’s and PhD degree in Behavior Analysis & Therapy from Southern Illinois University. Caleb is a doctorate level Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has over a decade of experience working as a behavior analyst in both research and clinical capacities. Caleb’s primary area of expertise is concerned with understanding variables related to the development of complex language and cognition from a behavior analytic perspective. Caleb has published over 30 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and co-authored several chapters related to his area of expertise. Much of his clinical experience has been devoted to the application of contemporary behavior analytic procedures and principles, such as those derived from relational frame theory, to individuals with autism to teach complex language.

A dedicated student of servant leadership, Maren strives to implement compassionate practices while increasing access to care for her community. She received her Master’s in Education from Arizona State University in 2013, and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in 2014. As Senior Vice President, she currently runs clinical operations for both the Utah and Tennessee regions at ABS Kids. Her various leadership roles have included opening new center locations, providing supervision to BCBA candidates, and collaborating with local agencies. In 2021, these efforts led to Maren being named a Utah Business Healthcare Hero. Maren enjoys travel, long distance running, and being a mom to her three children.

Anika is the founder, owner, and CEO of Autism & Behavioral Intervention (ABI) (a clinic- based ABA center in Draper, UT), ABA Education Center, and Integrity Billing. In addition to founding and leading these companies, Anika has worked in public schools and in private sectors with children for over 20 years. Anika has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an Emphasis in Autism, a Master’s degree in Human Exceptionality, an Ed.S in School Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis. Anika is a Doctoral level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and a Licensed School Psychologist. Anika has presented at national and international conferences on a variety of topics. Anika has done research, including her dissertation, on the importance of implementing kindness into every single interaction and treatment approach with staff, clients, and families. She believes that kindness is the method, not the reward. When kindness is a priority, everyone benefits. Anika has also collaborated with many other professionals to create instruments that have lasting impact. As both a school psychologist and behavior analyst, Anika has worked extensively in administering and creating plans that have true meaningful outcomes. Anika is the creator of the Meaningful Outcomes Treatment and Assessment Scale (MOTAS) which helps to promote independence and higher quality of life for those individuals on the autism spectrum.

Melissa Celauro earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Weber State University and earned her Master of Education with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from Arizona State University. Melissa has worked with adults and children with disabilities for over 15 years in various capacities and settings. Melissa is currently a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Clinical Director serving children, adolescents, and adults through in-home ABA services in Washington County.