After eight transformative years leading Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.), Christine W. Lai announced she will step down from her role as Executive Director effective February 15, 2026.
Founded in 2018 by Christine Lai and Ulrika Drinkall, S.E.L.F. was built on the conviction that every family facing special education legal and advocacy challenges deserves support regardless of their ability to pay. Under Christine’s leadership, the organization grew from a bold idea into a lifesaving resource for families navigating an often complex and overwhelming special education landscape.
Christine W. Lai Photo: Bob Capazzo
“Parents who come to this table arrive at a distinct disadvantage – facing complex procedures, limited resources, and the emotional strain of advocating for their children,” Lai said in a release. “S.E.L.F. was created to change that, and together we have done just that.”
Driving Impact & Growth
During Christine Lai’s tenure, S.E.L.F. distributed over $1.3 million in grants and support to resource-challenged families, enabling them to secure critical legal and advocacy services they otherwise could not afford. Through this work, the organization has provided thousands of hours of legal support and helped transform educational outcomes for hundreds of students across Connecticut, Westchester County, New York, and beyond.
Under Lai’s leadership, S.E.L.F. developed cornerstone initiatives including the Legal Aid Program, the Attorney & Advocate Grant Programs, and the Parent Education Program. Each program was designed to educate, empower, and support families navigating the complex special education system, ensuring parents have both knowledge and professional support when advocating for their children.
Most notably, in addition to building S.E.L.F.’s direct support programs, Lai established the George H.W. Bush Advocacy Awards, an annual recognition honoring individuals and organizations who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to advocacy, service, and community leadership on behalf of children and families. The awards reflect both S.E.L.F.’s mission and Lai’s belief that meaningful change occurs when communities come together to champion those who need support most.
Recognition & Awards
Christine Lai’s work with S.E.L.F. has received broad community and professional recognition, including the Greenwich Bar Association Liberty Bell Award, the New England Patriots Difference Maker Award, the Greenwich YWCA Women Who Inspire Award, and Moffly Media’s Light A Fire Award, where she was honored as “Best Friend to Families.” Each of these honors reflects her leadership, tireless advocacy, and profound impact on families confronting systemic barriers to equitable education.
A Legacy of Service and Gratitude
“S.E.L.F. has been a blessing both personally and professionally,” Lai said. “It allowed me to channel my own family’s experience into something that has changed lives. S.E.L.F. will always be a part of me.”
Although Christine is stepping back from day-to-day leadership, she affirmed her continued connection to the organization’s mission. The S.E.L.F. leadership team remains committed to providing high-quality support through its established programs, ensuring stability and continuity for families who rely on its services.
“S.E.L.F.’s leadership team will continue the work we began, sustaining the resources and support families have come to expect,” Lai said.
Stephanie Bilenker will serve as the organization’s next Executive Director, working alongside Laura Sullivan, Staff Attorney and Head of Legal Aid at the Special Education Legal Fund, who continues in her leadership role supporting families through S.E.L.F.’s legal aid services.
About Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.)
The Special Education Legal Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides legal advocacy grants and educational resources to families of children with disabilities. S.E.L.F. is committed to promoting equitable access to special education services and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.