Professional Membership Organization at Association for Behavior Analysis International
It is with extreme sadness and sorrow that we share the passing of our very dear friend and colleague, Dr. Elizabeth “Lyz” Hughes Fong on February 29, 2024. Dr. Hughes Fong’s pivotal work in cultural competency and humility sparked a movement that has forever shaped the field of behavior analysis towards increased diversity, equity, and inclusion. She championed these principles for her colleagues and students, founding the Multicultural Alliance of Behavior Analysts (now called the Culture and Diversity SIG) with ABAI in 2011, and coordinating their DEI board. She was the founder of the “Diversity in Behavior Analysis” section in Behavior Analysis Research and Practice and was the Associate Director of Pepperdine University’s online Master’s of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program. Dr. Hughes Fong has published and spoken extensively on cultural diversity, multiculturalism, self-reflection, and serving under-represented populations. Lyz was a shining light. Her work and its impact will forever be part of our history and growth. But most importantly, her kind, thoughtful, selfless, and warm spirit will forever be part of our hearts. Lyz had a way of fostering genuine human connection; she brought people together and forged long-lasting friendships that will endure in her absence. Our worlds may never be quite the same, but we are lucky to have had Lyz as part of them, shaping our behavior towards the compassion and courage she modeled. It's heartbreaking to say goodbye to someone who brought so much love and light into our lives, especially when she had so much more to give. As we navigate the pain of this loss, let us honor her by moving forward with the grace and kindness Lyz embodied. Her legacy is a reminder for us to cherish our moments together and to celebrate her continuously through our actions every day. Lyz will live on in our memories and our hearts, and she will be that quiet (or sometimes loud) voice pushing us to take care that our actions align with our values. Lyz is survived by a husband, parents, sister, and a daughter. She was deeply dedicated to her child's happiness, education, and well-being. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations for future tuition and related expenses. Please consider supporting Lyz's dreams of college for her daughter. Sincerely, Dr. Hughes Fong’s Family & Friends