The Myrna Libby Scholar Award recognizes graduate students at NECC who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the field of autism education through their academic achievement, clinical skill, and dedication to evidence-based practice. 

This year, NECC is proud to honor Belinda Anyigbanu (pictured left) and Leticia “Leti” Díaz Lozano (pictured right) as the 2026 recipients of this distinguished award. 

Named in honor of Myrna E. Libby, a pioneer in autism education and research, the award reflects her belief that research should guide effective teaching and treatment. Each year’s recipients exemplify this vision through their work with students and their continued pursuit of professional growth. 

Belinda Anyigbanu

Belinda Anyigbanu is a Rehabilitation Counselor/Waivered Special Education Teacher (WST) on the Intensive Treatment Team (ITT), where she supports students with autism through individualized, data-driven instruction. 

“As a WST, my primary responsibility is to teach my students using applied behavior analysis (ABA). My role includes direct care responsibilities, implementing behavior plans, collecting and analyzing data, and completing assigned work from my Educational Coordinator. I also collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure each student is making meaningful progress. Every day looks a little different, but it is always centered around helping my students build communication, independence, and life skills.” 

Belinda is enrolled in the Master of Science in Education with an autism specialization through Simmons University. 

“My interest in working with individuals with autism developed through both personal and professional experiences… Although I had learned about autism in theory, nothing prepared me for working directly with children with autism. That experience was eye-opening and deeply meaningful.” 

Her early experience at an autism learning center in Ghana helped shape her path. 

“Each time I saw a student gain independence in any way, communicate a need, or master a new skill, it reinforced that this is where I’m meant to be.” 

Since joining NECC, Belinda has grown significantly as both an educator and clinician. 

“I had to unlearn many things to learn best practices, which have shaped how I deliver instruction today… The hands-on experience has been invaluable in bridging theory and practice.” 

She credits the people around her for supporting that development. 

“The most rewarding part of my work is seeing my students’ smiles. Their joy immediately lights me up. Beyond that, what I find most meaningful is seeing students make progress over time and achieve skills that lead to greater independence.” 

Her approach reflects a strong commitment to evidence-based practice. 

“At NECC, interventions are grounded in evidence, continuously evaluated, and adjusted to meet each student’s needs, and I strive to reflect that same commitment in my work.” 

She reflected on what the recognition means to her. 

“Receiving the Myrna Libby Scholar Award is extremely humbling and truly an honor… It was a moment that made me reflect on how far I’ve come and encouraged me to keep striving for excellence.” 

Looking ahead, Belinda hopes to continue growing in the field while making a lasting impact. 

“Ultimately, I want to make a lasting impact by helping individuals with autism develop the skills they need to live more independent and fulfilling lives.” 

Leti Díaz Lozano 

Leti Díaz Lozano is a Core Shift Manager (CSM) on the Saddle Hill team, working with some of NECC’s youngest residential students. 

“My day-to-day work is centered around daily living activities, with a strong focus on teaching throughout both the school and residential settings… I also collaborate closely with my supervisors to ensure that clinical and educational guidelines are being followed, while supporting my team in maintaining a safe, positive, and productive work environment for both staff and students.” 

Leti is currently enrolled in the ABA graduate program at Western New England University. Her path into the field is deeply personal. 

“I was drawn to this program because I have a nephew with autism, and it was challenging for my family to find quality services to help him reach his full potential. My long-term goal is to return to my home country and bring evidence-based services to support the autism community in Mexico.” 

She sees that progress firsthand each day. 

“It’s noticing the behaviors they used to engage in when I first joined the team that are no longer present. It’s watching them learn new skills or access new environments that were once challenging. Being part of that growth is incredibly meaningful.” 

Leti reflects on her time at NECC as a period shaped by both challenges and support. 

“My experience at NECC has truly been a journey, full of both challenges and growth.” 

She points to many people who have shaped her experience along the way. 

“The team who trained me in the beginning… played a key role in helping me understand the dynamics of the job and navigate the culture. They inspired me to become the teacher I am today.” 

For Leti, those moments of progress stand out most. 

“Watching that progress reminds me that what we do truly matters—not just for the students, but for their families as well.” 

She shared what the recognition represents to her. 

“When I found out I had been selected, I felt proud of all the work I’ve put in over the past three years. It’s incredibly meaningful to know that my efforts have had an impact and are being recognized.” 

Leti is focused on what comes next: 

“In the long term, I hope to expand access to high-quality, evidence-based services for individuals with autism and their families, especially in communities where those resources are limited.”