Executive Director

Dr. Pamela Olsen, PhD, MSEd, BCBA

With extensive experience in the field of autism education and applied behavior analysis, Dr. Olsen provides strategic and operational leadership for one of the region’s leading specialized education programs for children and young people with autism spectrum disorder.

Throughout her tenure with NECC, Dr. Olsen has played a key role in the growth and development of its services in the United Arab Emirates. Her leadership has supported the expansion of specialized educational and clinical programming, early intervention services, professional development initiatives, and pathways that prepare students for greater independence and successful transitions into adulthood.

Dr. Olsen works closely with government entities, healthcare organizations, universities, and community partners to advance high-quality autism services across Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. She contributes her expertise to government steering committees and strategic initiatives focused on autism, education, healthcare, workforce development, and the continued advancement of services for people of determination.

A strong advocate for evidence-based practice, Dr. Olsen is committed to ensuring that students and families receive individualized, meaningful, and high-quality services. Her leadership emphasizes collaboration, innovation, professional excellence, and the development of sustainable systems that strengthen both MRC-NECC and the broader community.

Dr. Olsen holds a PhD, is a licensed special educator, and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

Director of Human Resources

Nihal Saad, MA HRM, CIPD

With over a decade of experience in the UAE education sector, Nihal leads the Human Resources Division, focusing on People & Culture — supporting staff across the full employee lifecycle, from talent acquisition and compensation to compliance, staff wellness, professional development, and graduate studies. She works closely with leadership to build the systems, structures, and culture that help the organization and its people thrive, guided by the belief that genuine care for staff is inseparable from the quality of care provided to students.

Nihal holds a master’s degree in HR Management from the University of Westminster, London, and is certified by CIPD and SHRM-CP. Bilingual in English and Arabic, she brings a strong understanding of UAE labor law and people-centered organizational practice to her role.

Head of Education

Dr. Missy Oliver, EdD, BCBA

A licensed special educator and Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Missy has more than 15 years of experience supporting students with autism and over a decade in educational leadership. Missy is a collaborative, strategic leader who develops high-quality programs, builds effective multidisciplinary teams, and translates evidence-based practices into meaningful outcomes. She supports staff through training, coaching, collaboration, and leadership opportunities, fostering continuous learning and improvement.

Her contributions include strengthening individualized instruction, expanding inclusion and community participation, supporting transitions to less restrictive settings, and developing educators and future leaders. Her work is guided by high expectations, respect for each student’s individuality, and a commitment to helping students and staff achieve lasting outcomes.

Head of Student Engagement

Michelle Chioccola, MS, BCBA

A special educator and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with extensive leadership experience in the United States and the UAE, Michelle is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for students with autism to participate, develop independence, and thrive within their communities. In her role, Michelle leads initiatives supporting student engagement, family partnership, community inclusion, and vocational development.

Her collaborative approach brings together students, families, educators, clinical teams, and community partners to create sustainable opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Throughout her career, she has remained guided by a belief in the potential of every student and the importance of combining evidence-based practice with care, dignity, and meaningful real-world experiences.