Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.) announces that attorney Laura Sullivan Heneghan has joined the organization as its first Staff Attorney. Laura will lead legal services for S.E.L.F. to expand access to legal advocacy for families navigating the special education system.
Laura brings decades of legal expertise, a deep commitment to public service, and a passion for empowering families of children with disabilities. She joins S.E.L.F. after years of service in both private practice and pro bono roles, including representing families in IEP advocacy, mediation, and due process litigation. Most recently, she served as a special education attorney at her firm and as the Of Counsel attorney with the Law Office of Dana Jonson.
“We are thrilled to welcome Laura to the team,” said Christine Lai, S.E.L.F. Co-Founder and Executive Director. “Her depth of experience, compassion, and track record of service to families across Connecticut make her the ideal person to lead this next important phase of the S.E.L.F. mission.”
Laura’s public engagement work includes speaking at national conferences such as The Reading League and Smart Kids with LD, as well as providing education and advocacy support through platforms like A Day in Our Shoes. Her legal background spans corporate counsel, nonprofit service, and direct client advocacy, making her uniquely positioned to help broaden S.E.L.F.’s impact.
“Joining S.E.L.F. is a full-circle moment for me,” said Sullivan Heneghan. “This role combines my passion for special education advocacy with the opportunity to serve families who may otherwise lack access to legal support. I’m honored to be a part of this important work.”
For more information about S.E.L.F., please visit https://spedlegalfund.org or contact Christine Lai at christine@spedlegalfund.org
