Alumni Spotlight: Jackie Noto ’17, M.S., BCBA

Adjunct Instructor and Behavior Analysis Ph.D. Student, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Forida

Jackie Noto (JN) was recently featured in the Fall 2021 Florida Tech Magazine. We recently caught up with Jackie to find out more about her UNE experience, continued studies, and plans for the future.

Describe your career path and key professional choices to this point:

JN: While at UNE, I began research with Dr. Morrison on Bystander Intervention on Sexual Assault. This spurred my interest in research, so when time came to further my education, I decided to go to a school where data is a focus for intervention. I attended Florida Tech, where I obtained my dual M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management. My main research at the time was my thesis, which was training individuals in human service staff settings how to respond in active shooter scenarios. In addition to my interest in safety and training, I developed an interest for ethics as well as diversity, inclusion, equity, and justice.

After completing my master’s degree, I studied and passed the BCBA Exam and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. At this point I realized I wanted to be a professor and decided to continue toward my Ph.D. at Florida Tech in Behavior Analysis. I am currently finishing my degree while conducting research and teaching at the university. Through networking, I have been able to establish new connections. I have been fortunate to be invited as a speaker for talks on allyship, feedback, ethics, behavioral skills training, and burnout. Additionally, I have been working on an interdisciplinary team to create a tool focused on collecting behavioral data to increase safety in schools.

What do you like most about your career? What do you find most rewarding?

JN: Currently, I am teaching while pursuing my Ph.D. in Behavior Analysis at Florida Tech. I love to teach, and, at least based on the feedback thus far, students love when I teach. I have found that by following pedagogical research suggestions, one can create an engaging applied classroom. By following inclusion research, I have also been able to create a welcoming space for students.

Having a classroom where students feel comfortable to participate and engage in applied activities is extremely reinforcing for me. Additionally, I collect feedback from my students at least twice a semester. It further maintains a culture where students feel their opinions matter. I like to incorporate the feedback when possible, as we are all continually learning. When students further their understanding of concepts, provide exemplar work, participate on their own accord, self-report enjoying class, I realize I have the potential to continually impact future professionals.

How did your time at UNE impact you as a student, as a person, and as a professional?

JN: I was very fortunate for the friends, faculty, staff, and experiences I had at UNE. During my time at UNE, I got to increase my leadership and social networking skills through being the Class President of 2017, president of Women and Gender Studies Club, vice president of LGBT+ Alliance, a researcher, and an academic tutor at the Student Academic Success Center.

I also got to advance my skills through the courses and conversations I had with the professors in the Psychology Department. One professor, Dr. Linda Morrison, has made a permanent impact on my life both as an educator and as a person. Dr. Morrison showed me how I wanted to be as a teacher, but she did far more than that. She taught me how to fight for my own beliefs and stand up for others.

What advice would you give to current students who may be job searching or graduating soon?

JN: My biggest piece of advice would be to network! Social networking is of crucial importance when you are up-and-coming in any field. Connections can further opportunities that wouldn't otherwise be available. If available, attend meetings at a local chapter or group in your field, or go to conferences to create new connections. I would suggest creating business cards as well as a one-minute elevator pitch about yourself. This should include aspects like your name, your profession, and why your work is important. It is crucial to become comfortable talking to others in a professional manner while explaining who you are and what you do.

What are you most proud of in your career or personal life?

JN: During my time in Florida, I have actively involved myself in my community in an attempt to give back to the education my area has given me. I volunteer on the weekends with like-minded peers to bring necessities to those in need. I have also been taking time to advocate for Black families who have faced injustices in the local area such as Clarence Howard, Gregory Edwards, AJ Crooms, and Sincere Pierce. When I think of my personal accomplishments, I am most proud of the time I give back to those around me.

What is next for you as you? Where do you want your experience and education to take you next?

JN: My next step is completing my Ph.D. and relocating with my rescue dog, Hercules. As I continue my path, I have many passions and interests I would like to continue to pursue. I feel I have found my calling when it comes to teaching whether that be in a classroom, public speaking, or training on the job. I plan to continue following matters of social significance wherever I take my work. Another mentor of mine, Dr. Jose A. Martinez-Diaz, told me to "be a good person, and the rest will follow." I do not have my concrete expectations, so, for now, that is my plan.