Dr. Celestial Wills-Jackson is an Assistant Professor in the Graduate Childhood Education program at Lehman College, City University of New York, with extensive expertise in special education and applied behavior analysis. She holds a Ph.D. in Exceptional Education from the University of Central Florida, along with multiple advanced degrees and certifications in special education, early childhood education, and ABA, and is currently pursuing Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst credentials.
With a career spanning PK–12 teaching, higher education, and clinical ABA practice, Dr. Wills-Jackson brings a comprehensive perspective to educator preparation and inclusive practices. In addition to her academic work, she has extensive consultation experience advocating for children, adolescents, and adults with developmental and behavioral disabilities through agencies such as Achieve Beyond and Proud Moments in New York, and Camen Behavioral Services in Florida. In these roles, she has supported families by developing individualized behavior intervention plans, coaching caregivers, and promoting equitable access to evidence-based services that improve quality of life and long-term outcomes.
Her research focuses on improving outcomes for students with disabilities, including work on social-emotional learning, inclusive teacher preparation, and culturally responsive practices, with publications in peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes. She has presented her scholarship nationally and internationally and has played a key leadership role in transforming her teacher
preparation program through a partnership with the University-School Partnerships for the Renewal of Educator Preparation (USPREP). Recognized for excellence in teaching and service, Dr. Wills-Jackson is deeply committed to mentorship, community engagement, and advancing equity and access in education.