The SEPS Learning Center was founded in 1974 by Dr. AvaJane Pickering, Administrative Director, and Dr. EvaJean Pickering, Neuro-Educational Director. Dr. Pickering completed her doctorate in Special Education, as well as graduate work in Educational Administration, at the University of Utah. She serves on several committees for the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA), and is currently serving as Conference Chair for the Learning Disabilities Association of Utah (LDAU). Dr. Pickering has over 30 years of experience in specialized education program design and development.

Click here for Dr. AvaJane Pickering's Curriculum Vitae

Click here to email AvaJane Pickering, Ph.D.

The SEPS Learning Center was founded in 1974 by Dr. EvaJean Pickering, Neuro-Educational Director, and Dr. AvaJane Pickering, Administrative Director. Dr. EvaJean Pickering received her Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of Utah. She had also completed training with Reitan Neuropsychology Services. She served on committees for the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA) and was the president of the Learning Disabilities Association of Utah (LDAU). Dr. Pickering was awarded the 2001 Leadership Award, by Scientific Learning's CEO Paula Bolton and Founder Sheryl Tallal, in recognition of her leadership in bringing computer-based training programs and solutions to children.

Dr. EvaJean Pickering will be sorely missed.

Click here for Dr. EvaJean Pickering's Curriculum Vitae [PDF]

Shirley Dawson, Ph.D.
Educational Director

Shirley has attended the University of Utah where in 1985 she received her B.S. (Magna Cum Laude) in Elementary Education; her M. Ed. in 1996 in Special Education; and her Ph.D. in 2009 in Special Education. She is currently an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Utah. She is teaching Education Law and Policy for Classroom Teachers and has taught Legal and Policy Foundations of Special Education.

Besides her own education, Shirley has a Professional Educator License for the State of Utah (Level 3) and an extensive background of teaching Special Education and Gifted students for over 22 years. She is experienced in providing strategies and instructional programs to teachers and also a great resource for parents.

Shirley has authored and co-authored a number of publications and been involved in numerous presentations regarding education, legislation, mentoring, and Special Education topics. In her spare time she enjoys scuba diving, long distance running, and sleeping.