Speakers at the Adoption Information Session (from left to right): Susan Ogden from Adoptions Together, B. Michael Carr from DC Child and Family Services Agency, two adoptive parents from the Department of Education: Kathy Ellis and Jim Keenan, and Jack Werstein, a librarian in DC Public Schools.

Department of Education Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Stephanie Monroe and Renette Oklewicz and Ralph Boyd, Jr. from the Freddie Mac Foundation cut the ribbon to officially open the Heart Gallery exhibit.

Department of Education Hosts Heart Gallery Reception

On April 19, the Department of Education hosted a reception to celebrate the presence of the Heart Gallery at their headquarters in Washington, DC. About 35 employees attended the hour-long Adoption Information Session, which was moderated by Susan Ogden, Domestic Program Director at Adoptions Together, a private adoption agency based in Silver Spring. Susan spoke about the different types of adoption options to consider, the process of how to adopt, and the key action steps like home studies and training. B. Michael Carr from DC Child and Family Services Agency then spoke more specifically about the children on the Heart Gallery and their need for adoptive families. Three parents then shared their personal adoption stories with the audience. Kathy Ellis spoke about her experience adopting her 8-month-old daughter through foster care. Kathy's story was heartfelt, and she shared openly her thought process on deciding to adopt as a single parent and the wonderful support she received from her friends and family after making her decision. Jack Werstein, an adult adoptee, also decided to adopt as a single parent. He spoke about his decision to adopt through foster care, and about the first night his 6-year-old son arrived at his door -- and never left, he was home! Jack went on to discuss the importance of support groups for adoptive parents and the need to "put yourself out there" and talk with other parents for advice and to build friendships and connections for your new family. Jim Keenan concluded the program by speaking about his experience adopting his daughter from China. He provided lots of advice and guidance for those considering international adoption. Immediately following the Adoption Information Program, Ralph Boyd, Jr., Chairman of the Freddie Mac Foundation briefly addressed the audience to announce the ribbon cutting ceremony and dessert reception and invited the audience to visit the Heart Gallery on display outside the auditorium.