Date: July 1, 2026
Today, we celebrate the incredible heartfelt professional career of Dr. Joseph E. Morrow in his retirement from Applied Behavior Consultants, Inc. (ABC, Inc.) as Co-Founder, Chairman and contributing pioneer in ABA Treatment for Autism.
His vision, courage, and unwavering commitment transformed a simple idea into an organization that has become a trusted leader in providing compassionate, ethical, and evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. What began as a dream to improve the lives of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities has grown into a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit families for generations to come.
As a Co-Founder, he built more than a company—he built a mission and a visionary path for what ABC, Inc is today. Dr. Morrow developed many pathways to give access to individuals for nearly 40 years, serving as President the first 35 years and Chairman in his last 4 years. Dr. Morrow has a long history of working with the community through his tireless efforts to inform parents, educational institutions and medical professionals.
Dr. Morrow was also part of the grass roots efforts in establishing the Association for Behavior Analysis, International (ABAI) and the California Association for Behavior Analysis (Cal-ABA), not to mention his 30 year teaching profession at California State University, Sacramento where he started the first behavior analysis program in the early 1980's. Without that vision and push for behavior analysis university classes, many of us, including myself, would not have had professional careers in behavior analysis.
Through his leadership, integrity, and determination, he established an organization grounded in excellence, compassion, innovation, and respect for every client and family we serve. His commitment to quality care and ethical practice has shaped our culture and set the standard for everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside him.
As Chairman of the Board, his wisdom and steady guidance have helped navigate periods of growth, change, and opportunity. His ability to see the bigger picture while never losing sight of the individuals at the heart of our mission has inspired confidence, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.
He extended far beyond board meetings and strategic plans. He has been a mentor to executives, a trusted advisor to colleagues, an advocate for employees, and a champion for children and families who depend on our services. The values he modeled—integrity, humility, perseverance, and servant leadership—have become part of the foundation of our organization.
Because of Dr. Morrow's dedication:
- Thousands of children and families have received life-changing services.
- Hundreds of professionals have developed meaningful careers.
- Communities have gained greater access to quality behavioral healthcare.
- Our organization has earned a reputation for clinical excellence and ethical leadership.
While his retirement marks the conclusion of an extraordinary chapter in his professional journey, it also celebrates a remarkable legacy that will continue to influence ABC, Inc. long into the future. The leaders he mentored and helped develop, and the culture he fostered, will continue to guide us as we carry his vision forward.
We are grateful for his impact, which will remain woven into every aspect of ABC, Inc. His influence can be seen not only in the organization's success but also in the smiles of the children we serve, the gratitude of their families, the colleagues he knew from professional outreach and support, and the dedication of our employees over the years.
As he begins this well-earned new chapter, we know he takes great pride in all that he helped accomplish at ABC, Inc. Few individuals have the opportunity to leave behind such a meaningful and enduring legacy. Dr. Morrow's life work has made a profound difference, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
We extend our sincere appreciation for his years of visionary leadership, steadfast commitment, and selfless service. It has been an honor to work beside him and to witness the remarkable organization he helped create.
With heartfelt gratitude and deepest respect,
Brenda J. Terzich-Garland, MA, BCBA Co-Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer
Kathy L. Tucker, MBA, MAT Vice President / Chief Operations Officer
Mari R. Ueda-Tao, MA, BCBA Chief Clinical Officer
Catherine Downie, MBA, BS Chief Financial Officer
True leadership is measured not by titles held or years served, but by the lives changed and the legacy left behind. His vision gave Applied Behavior Consultants, Inc. its beginning, his leadership gave it strength, and his values will continue to guide it for generations to come. Thank you for believing that every individual deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. His legacy lives on in every success story we celebrate.