STAFF BIOS
Meet our leaders at RCS!
Our staff members pride themselves on being devoted to delivering and exemplifying high quality ABA services with continually advancing standards. Each leader prioritizes fostering personal relationships with our students and their families to create an exceptionally meaningful experience.
Our leaders are committed to living the RCS core values and helping students with autism reach their full potential. The staff members below work alongside numerous highly qualified Behavior Therapists whose hard work and commitment contribute to making a positive impact on students’ lives each and every day.
Denise Rizzo-Ranieri, M.S., Ed.
President and Co-Founder, Chief of Design
Denise Rizzo-Ranieri, M.S. Ed., is President and Co-founder of Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). Denise is also Chief of Design & Innovation and is the President of RCS Learning Center’s Board of Directors. In her role she leads strategic planning, program development, external relationships, and ensuring students are at the center of every RCS initiative.
Denise founded RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting in 1997 and was later joined by co-founder Louis Ranieri. During this time, Denise consulted with public school teachers in the classroom and with parents in their homes designing special education programs. In 2006, she opened RCS Learning Center with a goal of providing the highest quality of individualized behavioral and educational services for children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. A year later, Mini-Miracles Early Education & Child Care Center opened and in 2013 launched the Rising Stars Integrated Preschool Program.
Denise holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Plymouth State University and a Master of Science in Education from Simmons University. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Natalie Sandmann, B.S.
Chief Operating Officer
Natalie Sandmann, B.S., is the Chief Operating Officer for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). She came to RCS in 2003 as Director of Operations for RCS Learning Center. With extensive experience in both non-profit and for-profit organizations, she is well-versed in the areas of accounting, payroll and human resources. She also serves on the Board of Directors for RCS Learning Center.
Natalie leads strategic planning and operations, including finance, development, and HR for Realizing Children’s Strengths. She is a member of the Metrowest Chamber of Commerce, Massachusetts Association of Approved Private Schools (MAAPS), and local networking organizations throughout the community. Natalie holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Keene State College. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Colleen Yorlets, M.A., M.S., BCBA, LABA
Chief Clinical Specialist
Colleen Yorlets, M.A., M.S., BCBA, LABA is the Chief Clinical Specialist for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). Colleen joined RCS in 2007 as a Supervisor, was promoted to Assistant Director in 2010, and Clinical Director of General Consulting in 2014. She oversees the training department and collaborates on research and clinical projects. Colleen specializes in stimulus control,
stimulus equivalence, and verbal behavior, presenting at industry conferences throughout the country.
Colleen serves as an adjunct faculty member teaching graduated course in behavior analysis. In the past she has also served as a supervisor for individuals completing their ABA fieldwork. She is a member of the Massachusetts Association for Applied Behavior Analysts, Berkshire Association for Behavior Analysis and Therapy, and Association for Behavior Analysis International.
She holds a Master of Science in Behavior Analysis from Simmons University, a Master’s in the field of Psychology from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Franklin & Marshall College. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Christina King, Ph.D., BCBA, LABA
Chief of Behavior Analytic Services
Dr. Christina M. King, Ph.D., BCBA, LABA, is the Chief of Behavior Analytics Services. Prior to her current role, she served as the Executive Managing Director for RCS Learning Center since 2017, and is the Chief of Research & Application for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). Christina began at RCS in 2006 as a Supervisor, became the Assistant Director of the Learning Center after just four months, and served as the Director of RCS Learning Center from 2007 to 2017. She also serves on the Board of Directors for RCS Learning Center.
Dr. King also works as an adjunct professor at Simmons University in the Behavior Analysis Master’s Degree program. Prior to joining RCS, she worked as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in a variety of settings providing ABA services including, home-based, community, public schools as well as private schools. Dr. King is a published author and has presented or co-presented more than two dozen symposiums and poster sessions on a variety of topics related to the field of applied behavior analysis. Her areas of expertise include Applied Behavior Analysis, Verbal Behavior, Instructional Design, and Supervision.
Christina is a member of the Association for Behavior Analysis International, Massachusetts Association of Applied Behavior Analysis, Berkshire Association of Behavior Analysis and Therapy, Association of Professional Behavior Analysts, Council for Exceptional Children, and Massachusetts Association of Approved Private Schools and the Government Affairs Committee. She is proficient in American Sign Language and in addition to her BCBA and Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA), she is certified in First Aid and CPR and is trained in Strategies of Limiting Violent Episodes (SOLVE).
Dr. King holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Behavior Analysis, has completed coursework as an Educational Specialist in Moderate Special Education. She also holds a Master of the Science of Education in Behavioral Education from Simmons University. Christina earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Communication Disorders with a Concentration in Deaf Education from Boston University’s Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Ranjini Govender, J.D., Ph.D.
Vice President of Advancement
Ranjini Govender, J.D., Ph.D., is the Vice President of Advancement for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). Dr. Govender joined RCS in 2020 as Director of Communications and leads external communications and advancement for RCS including marketing, external relations, and brand development. Ranjini has been a non-profit and education leader for over 20 years as a classroom teacher, education law attorney, and non-profit executive director. Her prior experience includes leading the Massachusetts chapter of education advocacy group, Stand for Children; as Chief Partnerships Office at Next Level Social Impact, a local philanthropic fund; and as Vice President at FUSE Corps, a national nonprofit committed to equity through creating partnership with local government.
She has been cited in local media outlets including WBUR, Comcast Newsmakers, the Boston Business Journal, and the Boston Globe. Ranjini holds a Juris Doctor degree from Syracuse University, a doctoral degree in Education from Cornell University, and Bachelor of Science degrees in both Philosophy and Psychology from William Smith College. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Ariane Mazur (Serio), M.S., BCBA, LABA
Director of Center-Based Services
Ariane Mazur (Serio), M.S., BCBA, LABA, is the Director of Center-Based Services for RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting. Ari began her career with RCS in 2013 and is responsible for overseeing the Early Childhood Center, Integrated Preschool, and Social Skills programs and their staff. Prior to her current role, Ari has held the positions of Clinical Coordinator, Regional Supervisor, and Behavior Therapist.
Ari received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Specialization in Developmental Disabilities and Human Services from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She also holds a Master of Science in Behavior Analysis from Simmons University. Ari became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2016 and received her LABA shortly after that.
Ashley Stebbins, M.S., BCBA, LABA
Director of Home-Based Services
Ashley Stebbins, M.S., BCBA, LABA, is the Director of Home-Based Services for RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting. Ashley began her career at RCS Learning Center in 2013 and is responsible for overseeing all Early Intervention, Insurance, and District services taking place within the home setting, as well as Supervisors who work within home services. Prior to her current role, Ashley has served in various clinical positions for RCS including Assistant Clinical Director, Clinical Coordinator, Clinical Assessor, Regional Supervisor, and Behavior Therapist.
Ashley received her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Psychology from Syracuse University. She also holds a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from Simmons University. She became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2016 and is licensed in the state of MA.
Adrienne Frazier, B.S.
Senior Director of Business Operations
Adrienne Frazier, B.S., is the Senior Director of Operations for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). Adrienne joined the RCS team in December 2012 and leads operational and administrative department management, district contracting, information technology, and emergency operations. Prior to her current role she served as the Assistant Director of RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting and Scheduling Manager.
Before joining RCS, Adrienne was an office manager for a healthcare organization based in Florida. Adrienne holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Walden University. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Tara Ash, CPT, GFT, CNC
Wellness and Physical Management Coordinator
Tara received her personal training and nutrition certifications through NASM Sports Medicine Academy. She has been in the wellness industry for over 20 years including private and nonprofit. She is also a certified trainer in Strategies of Limiting Violent Episodes (SOLVE).
Theresa Hayes, B.A.
Human Resources Director
Theresa Hayes, B.A., is the Human Resources Director for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). She has served as the HR Director for RCS Learning Center since 2017. Her areas of expertise include employee relations and recruitment. Theresa has 25 years of experience in Human Resources in a variety of settings including, public, private, and nonprofit organizations in New York, Washington DC and Boston.
Prior to joining RCS Theresa was the HR Director for the Public Works and Transportation Departments in the City of Boston and the HR Manager at a Dorchester based not for profit health care center. Theresa holds a Bachelor of Arts from Ithaca College. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Stephanie Kellett, M.S., BCBA, LABA
Assistant Director of Clinical Advancement and Operations
Stephanie Kellett, M.S., BCBA, LABA, is the Assistant Director Clinical Advancement and Operations for RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting. Stephanie began her career at RCS in 2014 and is responsible for training and providing clinical oversight to Assistant Supervisors and newly certified BCBAs. While Steph works with a variety of students of varying profiles, she has a strong interest in trauma-assumed care and the implementation of Skill-Based Treatment with students with severe challenging behaviors. Prior to her current role, she has served in various other positions with RCS including Home and District Coordinator, Senior Regional Supervisor, Regional Supervisor, and Behavior Therapist.
In addition to her position at RCS Behavioral and Educational Consulting, Stephanie also provides supervision for graduate students pursuing their BCBA certification through Simmons University. Stephanie received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a specialization in Disability Studies from the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2014. She also holds a Master of Science in Behavior Analysis from Simmons University. Stephanie is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Applied Behavior Analyst (LABA) and serves a wide range of individuals with disabilities.
June Lee, B.S.
Finance Director
June Lee, B.S., is the Finance Director for Realizing Children’s Strengths (RCS). June joined the team in 2014 and has 30 plus years experience with accounting and bookkeeping and 8 plus years in tax preparation. Her areas of expertise include Accounting, Finance and Bookkeeping. RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting is one of three sister companies under Realizing Children’s Strengths alongside RCS Learning Center and Mini-Miracles Early Education & Childcare Center.
Lauren Narlee, B.S.
Assistant Director
Lauren Narlee, B.S., is the Assistant Director for RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting. She joined RCS in 2016. Prior to her current role, Lauren served as the Scheduling Director.
Before joining RCS, Lauren served in the education field as an Early Childhood Educator and Program Manager for over 10 years. She holds her Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Mount Ida College.
Arielle Pagano, M.S., BCBA, LABA
Assistant Director of Center-Based Services
Arielle Pagano, M.S., BCBA, LABA, is the Assistant Director of Center-Based Services for RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting. Arielle joined RCS in 2017 and currently her current role assists in overseeing the center-based programs, including program design, parent consultation and communication, and staff oversight. Prior to her current role, Arielle served as the Early Childhood Program Coordinator and Supervisor, Senior Regional Supervisor, and Assistant Supervisor.
Arielle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology as well as a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from Salve Regina University. Arielle became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2017 and received her LABA shortly after that.
Lauren Tierney, M.S., BCBA, LABA
Assistant Director of Home-Based Services
Lauren Tierney, M.S, BCBA, LABA, is the Assistant Director of Home-Based Services for RCS Behavioral & Educational Consulting. Lauren began her career with RCS in 2015 and works alongside the Director of Home-Based Services to oversee District, Early Intervention, and Insurance funded services in the home and community setting. Additionally, Lauren continues to assist with oversight of the social skills program. Prior to her current role, Lauren has held the positions of Social Skills Coordinator, Senior Regional Supervisor, Regional Supervisor, and Behavior Therapist.
Lauren received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Education and a Specialization in Developmental Disabilities and Human Services from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She also holds a Master of Science in Behavior Analysis from Simmons University. Lauren became a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2018 and is licensed in the state of Massachusetts.
Interested in joining the RCS team?
We currently have openings for Behavior Therapists in both our Home Services division and Early Childhood Center in Woburn, Mass.