The Long-Lasting Legacy of Dr. Karyn Purvis

13
Apr

MLJ staff with Karyn Purvis at TBRI trainingWe are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Karyn Purvis yesterday. Dr. Purvis’ invaluable research and commitment to learning more about children from hard places will influence generations to come.

Dr. Purvis committed her life to studying the brain and behavior of children, including adopted children, who have experienced trauma. She used data and experiences to educate adoptive and foster parents on how to bring their children to places of healing. Her findings went beyond observations; she used them to provide practical trainings to the adoption community. She’s been the author of many academic writings as well as The Connected Child. Dr. Purvis was the heart, soul and brains behind the conference Empowered to Connect, devoted to providing hope and helping parents and caregivers move their children to healing from past traumas.

Her revolutionary training has impacted thousands of adoption professionals, adoptive and foster parents, caregivers and orphan care advocates. Her greatest legacy is the impact that her training and research has had on children from hard places. Because of Dr. Purvis’ findings and her devotion to sharing her knowledge, thousands of children are now the recipients of trauma competent care.

We are thankful that Dr. Karyn Purvis did not just invest in adoptive families, but also taught and mentored others so that her work can continue even in her absence. Her contributions to the adoption community are unparalleled, and our team is better because we’ve had the privilege of being recipients of her research and training. Dr. Purvis’ impact on children and families cannot be overstated. Her family and colleagues are in our thoughts in prayers as they grieve the loss of such an amazing woman.

Caitlin Snyder works as the Director of Marketing and Outreach for MLJ Adoptions. Working in international adoption has given Caitlin the unique opportunity to pursue both a passion to advocate on behalf of vulnerable people and a profession at the same time.