Washington, DC – Legal Aid DC today announced that Christopher Scott has joined the organization as its inaugural Chief Financial Officer. Responsible for the overall financial health and stewardship of the organization, Chris will oversee Legal Aid’s nearly $18 million annual budget.  

“We are thrilled to have Chris join Legal Aid DC,” said Legal Aid Executive Director Vikram Swaruup. “Legal Aid has grown tremendously over the last decade, and we are fortunate to have Chris’ deep expertise in nonprofit accounting to cement and continue this growth. Legal Aid’s financial health and operational success allow Legal Aid’s lawyers to focus on helping as many District residents as possible.”

Chris joins Legal Aid DC from Rhodes Trust, a global charity with an annual budget of approximately $70 million. He most recently served as the organization’s Head of US Finance and Operations. Before joining Rhodes Trust, Christopher worked for accounting and financial advisory firm Marcum LLP for five years in their Client Accounting Services practice, where he held several roles and served a portfolio of nonprofit clients.

Chris received his B.A. from the University of Alabama in 2011 and his M.A. from Georgetown University in 2013. He is a licensed, certified public accountant.  

Kathy Hays, who has served for more than 21 years as Legal Aid’s Director of Operations and overseen the organization’s finances during that time, is retiring. She will continue to support Legal Aid through at least January 2027 to ensure a smooth transition.  

“In more than two decades of selfless service, Kathy has built Legal Aid into the organization that it is today,” Vikram said. “We will miss Kathy dearly and are grateful for her continued work over the coming months to ensure that we seamlessly continue the operational support needed to serve our clients.”