BCOTB Announces 2025–2026 USF Fellowship Recipient: Katie Pease
Behavioral Consulting of Tampa Bay (BCOTB) is proud to announce Katie Pease as the University of South Florida Fellowship recipient for the 2025–2026 academic year.
This $10,000 Fellowship grant recognizes Katie’s exceptional dedication to the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and her commitment to helping children and families thrive. As BCOTB celebrates more than two decades of service in the Tampa Bay area, this Fellowship continues our legacy of supporting the next generation of compassionate and skilled behavior analysts.
A Journey of Discovery and Dedication
For Katie Pease, the path to ABA was not one she initially planned, but it is one she has come to love deeply.
“When I transferred to USF, I had no idea what I wanted to do,” Katie shared. “I told my advisor that I wanted a career where I could help people and have an active job that didn’t keep me behind a desk all day. She suggested the behavioral healthcare major with a concentration in ABA. At the time, I didn’t even know what ABA was, but I found my classes so intriguing that I decided to go for it.”
Katie’s journey took a pivotal turn when a classmate told her about BCOTB and encouraged her to apply for a position as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). She joined BCOTB’s Brandon clinic, where she began working under the supervision of Caitlin Lee, M.S., BCBA, who she describes as a major influence in her growth.
“I was lucky enough to have Caitlin as my supervisor,” Katie said. “She taught me what it means to be a good RBT. Over the past two years, I’ve learned so much about ABA and how important these services are for the children and families we serve. I’ve fallen in love with this work and strive every day to make sure our kids are getting the best services possible.”
Her enthusiasm, compassion, and dedication to excellence perfectly embody the values BCOTB stands for and make her a deserving recipient of this year’s Fellowship.
The Importance of the Fellowship Grant
The USF Fellowship grant, valued at $10,000, offers more than just financial support. It provides a foundation for emerging professionals to focus on their studies and clinical training without the added burden of financial stress.
Since its creation in 2016, the Fellowship, funded by BCOTB, has helped bridge the gap for students pursuing careers as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). By investing in promising students like Katie, BCOTB reinforces its mission to foster growth, mentorship, and innovation in the ABA community.
This award helps ensure that dedicated future clinicians have the resources and support they need to continue their education and make lasting impacts in the field.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Growth
The BCOTB Fellowship program was founded by Kelley Prince, M.A., BCBA, who established BCOTB in 2003 while completing her graduate studies at the University of South Florida. Her goal was to provide high-quality, evidence-based ABA therapy while creating opportunities for professional growth in the field.
Over the past 22 years, BCOTB has grown into Tampa Bay’s premier ABA therapy provider, known for its compassionate approach and dedication to education. The Fellowship program continues Kelley’s vision by supporting future BCBAs while giving back to the university that helped shape BCOTB’s foundation.
“Supporting passionate, motivated students like Katie is exactly why this Fellowship exists,” said Kelley. “Her story reflects what makes our field so special: people who discover ABA and dedicate themselves to improving lives through understanding, patience, and compassion.”
Building a Stronger Community
The partnership between BCOTB and the University of South Florida’s Applied Behavior Analysis program is a cornerstone of the Fellowship’s success. Together, we continue to create pathways for students to gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional development within the Tampa Bay community.
Katie’s story highlights how opportunity and mentorship can inspire lifelong passion. From discovering ABA by chance to becoming a key member of BCOTB’s Brandon clinic, her growth reflects the power of guidance, education, and real-world experience.
As Katie continues her studies and prepares to become a BCBA, she represents the next generation of professionals who will carry forward BCOTB’s mission to help every child reach their fullest potential through compassionate, individualized care.
Continuing a Tradition of Excellence
As BCOTB celebrates more than two decades of service, we remain dedicated to uplifting the individuals who make our work meaningful. Through the USF Fellowship program, we proudly invest in the people who will continue to move the field of ABA forward with integrity, creativity, and care.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Katie Pease, our 2025–2026 USF Fellowship recipient. Her journey is a powerful reminder that the best careers often begin with curiosity, grow through mentorship, and flourish through dedication.
About BCOTB
Founded in 2003, Behavioral Consulting of Tampa Bay (BCOTB) provides high-quality Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism and related developmental delays. With five clinics across Tampa Bay including Brandon, Carrollwood, Lutz, Riverview, and Wesley Chapel, BCOTB specializes in early intervention, parent training, and collaboration with schools and community partners.
Read more about Katie’s story on USF’s
