Our History

In 2007, a study was conducted by faculty representing the behavioural science programs at St. Lawrence College (SLC) to determine the feasibility of establishing an Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) centre of excellence at the College.  In 2013, the SLC Executive Team approved the establishment of a Centre and included the initiative in the College’s Strategic Mandate Agreement with the Ontario Government.  While the Centre did not have a physical home during those early years, it did host and support a series of pilot programs and research initiatives and created a number of advanced placement opportunities for students.

In 2016, SLC envisioned the Hello Future Capital Project and received funding to undertake construction between 2017 and 2018 from the Federal and Provincial governments.  The capital project included the development of a permanent home for the Centre for Behavioural Studies in the Newcourt House on the Kingston Campus.  Construction began in the second quarter of 2018, with an official opening of the Centre in the Fall of 2018.

Since its inception, The Centre for Behavioural Studies (the Centre) has been a viable and productive applied research centre focused on innovation in the field of ABA.  The Centre’s research works to solve problems faced by individuals, groups, schools, communities, and businesses, educating practitioners and students on evidence-based practices, and evaluating current program delivery models. 

The Unveiling of the naming of the A. Britton Smith Centre for Behavioural Studies

In recognition of the incredible philanthropic support the Britton Smith Foundation provided to SLC through the Uncommon Campaign, SLC proudly unveiled the new naming of the A. Britton Smith Centre for Behavioural Studies on May 13, 2021. This was shared with Mr. Smith on his 101st birthday with a video greeting and sign unveiling by Glenn Vollebregt.

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