Not Probationary

I noted earlier that Musk's use of "probationary" status was a fake-out. Here's a good example of that.

I saw a friend share this post by Cara Pugliese Gallagher on Facebook. If you're still using that cursed thing, you can see the original here.

If not, I think Cara will not mind having it more widely shared:

344 days. That’s how long I served as Chief of the Autism, ADHD, and Externalizing Disorders Interventions Research Program at NIMH before being illegally terminated—just 21 days before completing my probationary period.

On Friday, I was told to expect a termination letter at 4 PM, after which my access to government systems and email would be immediately cut off. I was warned to download it immediately, because I would need it to file for unemployment before losing access.

I spent Valentine’s Day glued to my computer. 4 PM came. Then 5. Then 9. Nothing. Finally, at 4:54 PM on Saturday, it came.

"Unfortunately, the Agency finds that you are not fit for continued employment because your ability, knowledge, and skills do not fit the Agency’s current needs, and your performance has not been adequate to justify further employment at the Agency."

This—despite a stellar performance review weeks ago.
This—despite receiving an NIMH Director’s Award.
This—despite being recruited SPECIFICALLY for my subject matter expertise in autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities, clinical trials, and community-based effectiveness research.

After two decades in academic research and advocacy, I was hired to help develop ways to get low-cost, evidence-based mental health care into schools and community settings—so ALL kids could access specialized treatment, not just those with private insurance or parents who could take time off work.

When I left Children’s National, I left behind:

• A tenured associate professor career
• Five active large-scale grants
• 40+ peer-reviewed publications
• A school-based EF curricula I ran through two clinical trials, now used in 15+ districts
• A journal editor position
• A community of the best, most brilliant, selfless colleagues and friends I deeply respect

Life as a woman in science and academia is brutal, but I was part of a mission-driven community—one that fights for fundamental human rights and values differences as assets, not liabilities.
I didn’t take the move to NIMH lightly—I went because I believed in shaping the future of autism and mental health research, impacting policy, and ensuring that science actually reaches the communities that need it most. And I LOVED my job. I found that same community in my division.

Because at the end of the day - EVERY child deserves access to mental health care.
Not just those who can afford it.
Not just those in the "right" zip code.
Not just those who fit neatly into a system built for a select few.

Reaching out with condolences is fine, but we need urgent action. Even if things are not affecting you NOW, I need you to fight for the fundamental human rights of others.

• Call your representatives. Demand accountability. Speak out.
• Download the 5calls.org app. Make your voice heard every day.
• Speak out against the injustice of everyone who lost - and will lose - their livelihoods and passions trying to serve others.