In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of Inclusive Occupations, host Savitha Sundar meets with Lori Boll, Executive Director of SENIA International, a passionate inclusion advocate and parent to a young adult with autism and intellectual disability. Lori’s journey is both deeply personal and professionally impactful, rooted in her experience raising her son Braden and shaped by her work across international school communities.

Together, Savitha and Lori explore:

• ​The emotional journey of navigating a late autism diagnosis
• ​Grief, resilience, and redefining success for families of children with high support needs
• ​What belonging looks like for adults with disabilities today
• ​How educators can build trust with families and foster inclusive team relationships
• ​Practical takeaways for occupational therapists and special educators supporting students with complex needs

They also discuss Lori’s powerful book, Navigating Special Education Relationships, co-authored with Dr. Amanda Ly, which offers invaluable insights into building collaborative, trust-based partnerships in special education.

Key quote from Lori: "Your story is what you have—it’s something to own." — Michelle Obama

About the Guest:

Lori Boll is the Executive Director of SENIA International, an organization dedicated to promoting inclusive practices in international schools worldwide. With over 25 years of teaching experience and a personal mission inspired by her son, Lori brings a powerful dual lens, as both educator and parent, to the global inclusion movement.

Key Takeaways:

• ​Presume competence in students and the professionals who support them
• ​Don’t apologize for your child’s neurodivergence—demand better from systems instead
• ​Prioritize early access to communication and sensory regulation supports
• ​Keep showing up, keep advocating, and don’t forget to laugh along the way

Resources Mentioned:

◦📘 Navigating Special Education Relationships by Lori Boll & Dr. Amanda Ly- https://www.amazon.com/Navigating-Special-Education-Relationships-Amanda/dp/1032634286

◦🌍⁠ SENIA International (https://www.seniainternational.org/)⁠ – Supporting inclusion across global school communities

◦Lori Boll's Podcast- The SENIA Happy Hour Podcast- https://www.seniainternational.org/podcast/