Leia Henaghan, M.Ed., BCBA

For 10 years, Leia worked in public education as a Special Educator. During her K-12 career, she developed behavioral and life skills programming for school districts, to ensure the success of students identified with emotional and behavioral disabilities and students identified with significant support needs. Before becoming an educator, she held positions working with adjudicated youth in the wilderness and in youth treatment facilities. She also worked as a program coordinator for adults with developmental disabilities. Leia is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst.

How did you discover Western?

I originally discovered Western through the outdoor education program in 2000.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

• Provides me with the opportunity to share my passion with others throughout the United States and Internationally
• Opportunity to help facilitate positive change in education
• Build relationships with students

What most excites you about your field?

The field of special education is challenging however, it is meaningful and rewarding. As a Special Educator you get to see the impact you make on the students you work with. You are provided with the opportunity to help students reach milestones in which they in turn become more confident about their abilities. As a special educator, you have the privilege of helping students receive the accommodations and services they need to be successful, and you get to help them achieve their personal goals! These are all things that excite me about the field of special education.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

I love the access to public lands and outdoor recreation.

Courses Taught

• EDU 415/ EDU 615
• EDU 411/EDU 611
• EDU 414/EDU 614
• EDU 632/EDU 432
• EDU 612/EDU412
• EDU 431/EDU 631
• EDU 433/EDU 633
• EDU 340

External Professional Affiliations

• Consultant for Gunnison Watershed School District