Hawai’i ABA

By Deborah Ho’ohuli-McKinney

Chapter Accomplishments 2023: A Year of Growth and Support

HABA Board
The 2023 HABA Board was predominantly composed of new members, each bringing with them a wealth of fresh perspectives and a diverse array of viewpoints. Their presence infused dynamism into board discussions and enhanced support for all members.

2023 HABA BOD Chapter Officers
President Debi Ho’ohuli-McKinney, MA, BCBA, LBA
Vice President Jenifer Olin, MA, BCBA, LBA
Past President Roxanne Bristol, MA, BCBA, LBA
Treasurer Amanda Bolgren, MS, BCBA, LBA
Secretary Bill Roth Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA

ABAI Annual Convention
In 2023, HABA’s President, Ms. Debi Ho’ohuli-McKinney, and Secretary, Dr. Bill Roth, journeyed to Denver for the 49th Annual ABAI Convention. Highlights included presenting a poster session, forging connections within the ABA community, and distributing Ho’okupu (offering), symbolizing our culture’s warmth and generosity. We convened for our annual business meeting, hosted by ABAI, and participated in the ABA Affiliate Chapters Training, enriching our network.

Maui Provider Resources: Community
Amidst the aftermath of the Lahaina Fire, HABA swiftly aided those affected. Led by Acting Legislative Chair, Ms. Kristen Koba-Burdt, and the organization she works with, we compiled disaster recovery resources. These resources empowered ABA providers to continue support during challenging times.

Maui Relief Webinar Series: Uniting in Support
In response to the outpouring of solidarity, HABA launched the Maui Relief Webinar Series from September 2023 to April 2024. Esteemed speakers shared expertise, courtesy of Behavior University’s platform, offering complimentary registration. Attendees also earned continuing education credits through donations to local Maui Organizations, showcasing unity and support for the community in need.

Annual HABA Convention
In September 2023, amidst the uncertainties sparked by the Maui fire, the Annual HABA Convention unfolded in Waikiki, a testament to our resilience and commitment to advancing behavior analysis. Despite initial concerns, the convention proceeded smoothly, bringing together a diverse array of local and national speakers to delve into pressing topics such as cultural humility and the intersection of behavior analysis with ancient indigenous practices.

Advocacy and Legislative Efforts
In 2023, HABA’s legislative endeavors centered on actively supporting the advocacy for the state’s governing department to conduct a comprehensive rate study on Medicaid (QUEST) ABA provider reimbursement rates. Our members and their affiliated agencies rallied to participate in this crucial effort, anticipating the release of the study results in January 2024.

Bylaw Amendments
The 2023 Board implemented significant Bylaw amendments, including a diversity statement and policies addressing multiple relationships and conflict of interest.

Chapter Plans for the 2024 Year
Announcing the 2024 Annual HABA Convention
The HABA Events Committee has been hard at work planning for the upcoming year. Mark your calendars for September 5th and 6th, 2024, as we host a dynamic two-day hybrid convention in the vibrant heart of Waikiki, located on the enchanting island of O’ahu, famously known as “The Gathering Place.”

Speaker Line-up
Prepare to be inspired by our stellar line-up of speakers, each bringing their unique expertise and insights to the forefront. With careful consideration of our diverse membership base, topics have been thoughtfully curated based on poll results, covering areas of keen interest such as sexuality and ethics. Get ready for engaging discussions and invaluable knowledge-sharing sessions that promise to enrich and inspire all attendees.

Promoting Collaboration and Unity
At HABA, we recognize the importance of promoting collaboration and unity within our community. In line with this vision, we are committed to building bridges across disciplines and encouraging partnerships among related service providers. We are actively reaching out to the Department of Education, the Department of Health, and insurance funders to forge stronger alliances and support the growing number of behavior analysts, ©RBTs, ©BCaBAs, ©BCBAs and ©BCBA-Ds working within these settings. By working together, we can better serve our consumers and advocate for the advancement of behavior analysis in Hawaii.

Advocacy and Legislative Efforts
Our legislative committee remains dedicated to advocating for behavior analysts and our clients.
Currently, we’re focused on increasing Med-Quest rates for ABA providers. Through our efforts, we aim to drive positive change in behavior analysis.

Focal Points
Fostering collaboration with other providers and professions to enhance capacity-building within our state, ensuring individuals in need of ABA services can access them from competent, trained (and licensed) providers.

Facilitating continuing education (CE) and professional development opportunities for professionals across our state.
Undertaking a rebranding initiative to align the organization’s identity with the values upheld by the HABA membership.

In summary, 2023 was marked by resilience, solidarity, and progress for HABA. Guided by principles of excellence and community, we remain steadfast in our mission to elevate behavior analysis practice and enrich lives across Hawaii and beyond.