About Us
Supporting Connecticut’s students, educators, and future teachers statewide
Who We Are
The Connecticut Education Foundation (CEF) is the nonprofit, charitable arm of the Connecticut Education Association. CEF helps students and teachers facing extraordinary personal hardships and supports students who are pursuing teaching careers. The CEF Board of Directors governs the foundation and administers its funds.
Meet The Team
CEF Board Members
Joslyn Delancey
CEA Vice President
Joslyn previously served as an elementary teacher for 17 years and as local association president, leading professional development and strengthening educator support systems. She has held multiple CEA leadership roles and advocated statewide on issues including teacher pensions, school safety, and equity. She proudly champions CEF’s Holiday Bear project to support students and families in need.
Todd Jaeck
CEA Executive Director
Todd brings two decades of union leadership experience focused on strengthening public education, elevating educator voices, and advancing equitable school communities. Before joining CEA, he led the South Carolina Education Association and helped launch national initiatives supporting early-career educators. He is passionate about empowering teachers and ensuring every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities.
Stephanie Wanzer
CEA Treasurer, CEF Executive Board Member, Special Education Teacher
Stephanie is a special education teacher and Treasurer of the CEF Board, bringing financial stewardship and leadership to fundraising efforts that expand educational opportunities statewide. She believes deeply in the power of education to transform lives and is committed to programs that support students and families.
Katy Gale
NEA Director, CEF Executive Board Member, Darien Teacher
Katy has served as NEA Director since 2021, lobbying at the national level on issues important to students and teachers. She represented CEA during politically challenging years, working with educators on racial and social justice, bargaining rights, responsible gun ownership, and LGBTQ+ rights.
Kathleen Keily
CEA Board of Directors, CEF Executive Board Member, Hamden Teacher
Kathleen is a Hamden teacher with 16 years of experience and serves on the CEA Board and CEF Executive Board. She also serves her community on Hamden’s Town Council, advocating for public school funding and improved school infrastructure. She was re-elected in 2024.
Key Staff
Shannon Waxenberg
Executive Assistant
Shannon has been with CEA since 2015 and is the organizational wizard that keeps information flowing. She is on the receiving end of all requests for The Children’s Fund, The Boland Fund, our scholarships, and Holiday Bear. She ensures all applications are reviewed and helps process payouts to recipients.
Liz Barry Salvatore
Marketing and Promotions Specialist
Liz is the newest member of the team, working to create new fundraising opportunities and grow corporate and individual giving. She’s the creative mind behind most social media content and helps with the planning and execution of all CEF events.
Chip Karkos
Production Technician
Chip has been with CEA for more than 30 years and is an instrumental cog to the success of CEF. He helped to launch and continues to run our fan-favorite golf tournament, which benefits The Children’s Fund. He also organizes, picks up, and delivers the majority of the Holiday Bear bags.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
Contact Us
Have a question about CEF programs, scholarships, or ways to support Connecticut students and educators? We’re here to help. Reach out to connect with a member of our team, request information, or learn more about how your involvement can make a meaningful difference in public education across the state.