09/04/2026
This week’s Positive Impact Spotlight shines on Nicole Richardson (BCBA), who has been part of ACES since 2011. Nicole was nominated by colleagues who highlighted just how deeply she cares about our students and her commitment to making each day safe, productive, and meaningful. They also gave a special nod to the way Nicole moves….REALLY fast…..describing the coordination of some of our bigger students during transportation as “absolute poetry in motion.”
Nicole began her ACES career as an ABA Trainer before becoming a Lead Trainer and eventually her current role of BCBA. She originally came to ACES unsure of what direction she wanted to take with her psychology degree, but during her first year as a Lead, working alongside Shaquana Cobbs and connecting with one student helped everything click. She saw the science behind the work come to life, discovered her “why,” and knew she wanted to continue her education to become a BCBA.
Today, becoming a mom has added another layer to how Nicole approaches her work. She tries to support each student in the way she would hope someone would care for and support her own child. Nicole says it is the teams she has worked with and the impact they have made together that continue to bring her back to ACES. She believes that with a strong team, there is no limit to the positive impact they can make.
Outside of work, Nicole loves spending time with her daughter, a graduate of our integrated preschool program. She embraces whatever her daughter is interested in (even learning all about gymnastics) and they love traveling as a family, with Aruba being a favorite destination. Nicole is also a runner, although she will be the first to tell you that she hates running!
Thank you, Nicole, for the care, energy, and commitment you bring to our students and your team. Your belief in what we can accomplish together continues to make a positive impact throughout Bassett Road!