Fit Learning Cleveland Team

Corinne Gist, Ph.D., NCSP, BCBA-D, COBA

Owner and Lab Director

Dr. Corinne Gist earned her Ph.D. in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from The Ohio State University. Her dissertation research involved implementing Precision Teaching and frequency building, two key aspects to the Fit Learning model, to increase creative thinking in school-aged learners. Prior to earning her doctorate, she earned an Educational Specialist Degree in School Psychology, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. Dr. Corinne is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). She has more than twelve years of experience in the fields of education and behavior science, working with students, staff, and families in public and private schools as well as day treatment centers. Dr. Corinne publishes in peer-reviewed journals, teaches at the university level, and regularly presents at local, regional, and international conferences. Her professional approach synthesizes scientific rigor with years of applied practice to fulfill her lifelong commitment to helping kids succeed.

Why I joined the Fit Learning network:

Dr. Corinne came across Fit Learning during her doctoral studies. She knew right away that Fit Learning aligned with her professional goal to transform educational practices for all children. The Fit Learning model is the most effective educational model in the world and Dr. Corinne is excited to bring these impactful practices to the children of Northeast Ohio.

Dr. Corinne Gist’ Curriculum Vitae

Bethany Jewell

Director of Clinical Operations

Bethany graduated from John Carroll University in 2021, majoring in Psychology and Data Science and minoring in Creative Writing. While in college, Bethany enjoyed singing in an acapella group and playing intramural sports. In her free time, you can find Bethany reading or hiking. As someone with a passion for both research and education, Bethany appreciates Fit Learning’s research-supported approach to education. Her favorite aspect of her job is guiding learners on the road to success.

Madeline Vacha

Lab Manager

Madeline has a background in Occupational Therapy, where she worked with children in various public schools around Northeast Ohio. During her schooling, she was the President of the Student Occupational Therapy Association in which she oversaw a council of fellow students and helped advocate for student excellence. During her free time, she enjoys garment sewing, interior design, and painting. When she’s not crafting, you can find her hanging out with her Cat, Wednesday, and her Boonie rescue dog, Gomez.

Mary Frances Allen

Learning Coach

Mary Frances Allen, a senior at John Carroll University, is pursuing a degree in child and family psychology, alongside minors in sociology and gender studies. In the upcoming fall of 2023, she will be starting her master’s in school and mental health counseling at JCU. Mary Frances is deeply committed to helping children and desires to ensure that every student feels supported and confident in themselves, both academically and emotionally. She has gained valuable experience as an undergraduate counselor for the Summer Treatment Program at the Cleveland Clinic, where she applied behavioral therapy for children with autism, ADHD, and ODD/CD. One of her favorite experiences thus far has been volunteering at the Rainbow Children and Babies Hospital. Mary Frances also enjoys reading, traveling, playing golf, and cooking for her loved ones. She is excited to contribute to the mission of Fit Learning and to become a part of this wonderful community!

Julia DiFranco

Learning Coach

Julia DiFranco is a senior at John Carroll University and is pursuing a degree in psychology with a concentration in mental health services and minoring in gender, sexuality, and women’s studies. Julia is a Peer Health Advocate at JCU and a volunteer with Catholic Heart WorkCamp. Julia is excited. In her free time, Julia enjoys going to Barrio with friends, painting, and listening to podcasts.

Samantha Pulling

Learning Coach Intern

Samantha is a senior at John Carroll university, majoring in psychology with a minor in biology. She has previously volunteered with Cleveland Clinic’s ADHD social skills group and Fieldstone Therapeutic Farm. Her previous experiences with children have inspired her to pursue a career in child psychology. Samantha joined Fit Learning’s team in order to help children reach their unique goals, while providing them with the encouragement and confidence they need to thrive. In her free time, she enjoys snowboarding, reading, fitness, and spending time with family and friends.

Kiera Reilly

Case Manager

Kiera graduated from John Carroll University in 2022 with her Bachelors of Science in Psychology. She is currently pursuing her PsyD in school psychology at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. In her free time, Kiera enjoys crocheting, being outside, and hanging out with her friends and family. Kiera is excited to once again join the Fit Learning Cleveland team. She loves seeing learners’ progress and helping learners reach their greatest potential.