Center for Social Dynamics Celebrates First Graduating Class of CSD University's Leadership Academy

Empowering Emerging Leaders Through Research-Backed Training and Measurable Growth

CONCORD, Calif., Aug. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Center for Social Dynamics (CSD), a leading provider of autism and behavioral health services, proudly announces the graduation of its inaugural Leadership Academy cohort. Designed to cultivate confident, compassionate, and data-driven leaders, the Academy equips participants with practical skills to drive team success, support staff development, and elevate client outcomes.

Over the course of 12 weeks, 43 mission-driven leaders engaged in a blend of self-paced learning and live Zoom sessions, exploring evidence-based leadership frameworks such as PERMA, GROW, SBI, SMART, and the Trust Equation. Topics ranged from cultivating positive work cultures to navigating ethical dilemmas and addressing challenging behaviors with clarity and empathy.

In a landscape where 60% of new leaders never received formal training before transitioning into their first leadership role (source: Center for Creative Leadership), CSD's Leadership Academy was built to close the gap—with measurable results. Across every domain, participants reported significant growth, even in areas where they already felt confident:

• +21% in communicating a clear vision
  
  
• +20% in addressing challenging behavior
  
  
• +19% in instilling an athlete mindset
  
  
• +19% in delivering constructive feedback
  
  
• +16% in cultivating a positive work culture

"Leadership Academy was designed to open a world of possibilities for those ready to lead with heart, strategy, and impact," said Jamey Ouellette, Director of Training. "We're incredibly proud of this first graduating class—and the ripple effect they'll create throughout our organization and the communities we serve. We are a people-first organization, so investing in development and growth is part of our DNA", noted Kelly Bozarth, CEO.

Graduates met rigorous requirements, including at least 80% attendance and active participation across all sessions. The curriculum was tailored to CSD's core values and leadership principles.

As CSD continues to invest in professional development through programs like Career Rewards, CSD University, and Dreams Come TRUE, the organization remains committed to shaping the future of autism services by developing leaders who have both the technical and leadership skills to make a difference.

To learn more about career growth at CSD— including Career Rewards, CSD University, and Dreams Come TRUE—visit: https://csdautismservices.com/careers/career-compass/

About Center for Social Dynamics
Center for Social Dynamics (CSD) provides personalized, evidence-based therapy services for individuals with autism and other developmental conditions. Our offerings include in-home and center-based ABA, virtual programs through the CSD Global Community, school-based support, social skills groups, diagnostic evaluations, caregiver education, and Adventure Club. CSD is committed to opening a world of possibilities through science, compassion, and humility, ensuring every individual receives the support they need to thrive.

Media Contact
Derek Thomas
[email protected]

SOURCE Center for Social Dynamics