A Message from CDEL's Executive Director

To the CDEL Community,

After more than 14 years at the Center for Disability & Elder Law, I’ve made the decision to step down from my role as Executive Director, effective June 25th.

This is a bittersweet moment for me, but mostly, it’s one filled with pride. Since starting as a law student intern in 2010, I’ve had the chance to grow alongside CDEL. From launching our Community Clinics through a Borchard and Equal Justice Works Fellowship to later serving as Supervising Attorney and then stepping into the Executive Director role in 2019, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this community can be when we work together.

CDEL’s growth over the past five years has been a shared achievement, driven by the dedication, creativity, and heart of so many. Together, we’ve expanded access to legal services, built a dynamic and mission-driven team, strengthened partnerships across the region, and dramatically increased our impact. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and even more grateful for the people who made it possible: our brilliant staff, committed board, generous funders, dedicated volunteers, and trusted community partners.

Along the way, I’ve also learned from the people at the center of our mission—our clients. Their resilience, honesty, and strength have shaped how I understand justice and community, and they’ve challenged me to lead with both humility and resolve. I carry their stories with me, and they remain the clearest reminder of why this work is important.

While it’s hard to step away, I do so with deep confidence in CDEL’s future. We’ve built a strong and resilient foundation, and I can’t wait to see where this incredible team takes it next. I will always be cheering CDEL on. I’ll remain a proud advocate and supporter for years to come.

Thank you for believing in this work and for being part of this remarkable journey.

A Message from CDEL's Governing Board

To the CDEL Community,

We reach out to express our gratitude to Caroline following her announcement to step down from her role as Executive Director. CDEL is significantly stronger because of her leadership and well-positioned for continued growth as a result of her efforts.

Over the past five years, the Board and Caroline have built a collaborative and trusting partnership. We wish Caroline every success with wherever she elects to take her career next. CDEL is in a strong position, surrounded by skilled, compassionate people and well-prepared to carry its mission forward.

In September 2019, Caroline was named CDEL’s Executive Director. Caroline’s deep commitment to CDEL’s mission, her ability to connect with key stakeholders, and her focus on professional development gave the Board full confidence in her ability to lead CDEL into an exciting new chapter. And under Caroline’s guidance, that confidence has been well placed.

Since Caroline took on the role of Executive Director, CDEL’s annual budget has more than tripled, and our staff has grown to 21 team members. This growth has enabled us to significantly expand services, strengthen internal capacity, and deepen our reach across Cook County. Caroline’s tenure has been defined not only by measurable impact, but also by her unwavering values, especially her commitment to justice and equity.

Caroline is working closely with us to ensure a thoughtful and smooth transition. A Board Search Committee has been formed, and we are confident that the team, systems, and partnerships in place will continue to carry our mission forward.

We thank Caroline for her 14 years of dedicated service to CDEL, and for all she has done over the past five years as our Executive Director to ensure that CDEL will continue to thrive.

Connect With Us!

Our Contact Information
*{{Organization Name}}*
*{{Organization Address}}*
*{{Organization Phone}}*
*{{Organization Website}}*

*{{Unsubscribe}}*

Copyright © 2025 Center for Disability & Elder Law, All rights reserved.