Jacqueline “Jacqui” Macamaux, the Clinical Residential Program Coordinator (CRPC) for the Intensive Treatment Team (ITT), has been at NECC for about three years. She was nominated for Staff Spotlight by a colleague, “because Jacqui recently transitioned into the ITT CRPC position. In a short time, she has transformed the ITT residence! The student spaces are inviting and organized, and they offer various engaging opportunities for students. She has also coordinated weekend activities that promote healthy engagement for students and staff. She continues to support academic and clinical initiatives across all 4 teams each weekend and is a strong resource for staff and families. Jacqui is a dedicated, hard-working, and compassionate CRPC!”

How long have you worked for NECC?

I have worked at NECC for nearly three years, and during that time, I have supported our students and their families as both a Level 2 Teacher and the CRPC for the ITT.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is seeing students succeed and being part of their achievements. Watching them work toward meaningful goals, overcome challenges, and celebrate their successes is incredibly rewarding and serves as a constant reminder of why I chose this field.

Why did you choose a career in helping children with autism?

I first became interested in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) while completing my undergraduate degree. As a Behavior Technician in an in-home program, I had the opportunity to see learning and skill development happen in real time. Witnessing the positive impact that ABA could have on a student’s skill acquisition, independence, and overall quality of life inspired me to learn more and pursue a career dedicated to supporting individuals with autism.

Why NECC?

I originally chose NECC based on a recommendation from one of my undergraduate professors. Since joining the organization, I have stayed because of the students, the strong sense of community, and the incredible opportunities for supervision and professional development. NECC fosters a culture of learning and collaboration that supports growth and research.

Have you taken advantage of any of the grad programs or teacher training at NECC? If so, how has it affected your teaching style?

When I first started at NECC, I took advantage of the organization’s prior partnership with Regis College and enrolled in the college’s ABA graduate program after receiving a recommendation from a colleague. Through this experience, I quickly realized that NECC’s influence extends far beyond its campus. Many respected leaders in the field of behavior analysis and graduate education have built their careers through NECC.

Being part of a graduate program has provided me with invaluable knowledge and strengthened both my clinical and educational practices. The opportunity to learn advanced concepts and apply them in practice at NECC has helped me become a more effective educator, clinician, and leader.

What is something about you that your colleagues might be surprised to learn?

My colleagues might be surprised to learn that I am a first-generation undergraduate and graduate student. Pursuing higher education has been one of my proudest accomplishments and has helped shape my passion for lifelong learning and professional growth.

Who is someone you look up to?

I look up to Taylor Collins, MS, BCBA, LABA, the Program Specialist for ITT Apt. 1. Throughout my time at NECC, she has been a strong mentor and role model. Her leadership, clinical expertise, and unwavering commitment to student success have inspired me to continue growing as an educator and clinician.

What is your life philosophy or motto you like to live by?

A motto I live by is the anecdotal phrase, “Fake it till you make it.”Someone important to me shared this advice during a time when I felt a great deal of self-doubt and was unsure if I could meet the expectations being placed on me. It reminds me that I do not always have to feel completely qualified in a given moment. If I continue to show up, do my best, and approach challenges with confidence, I will continue to learn, experience success, and eventually “make it.”