Meet MLJ: Judy M. Miller

Title at MLJ: Adoption Education Coordinator and Support Specialist

What do you actually DO with MLJ: Coordinate and teach adoption education to parents who live more than two hours from Indianapolis; teach all of the Transracial Parenting classes; provide education, guidance and support to help enhance a family’s awareness and understanding of strengths, challenges, and relationships—of themselves and others.

What is your favorite part about what you do with MLJ: I have two: watching adults grow into supportive and compassionate adoptive parents and the profound joy of seeing families come together.

What is the hardest part about what you do: Getting some parents to understand why they should embrace adoption preparation. Education should be ongoing.

How long have you worked with MLJ: 9 months

What do you love about working with MLJ: I love the commitment and synergy.

Education: Anthropology and Forensics, MPA

What do you think makes you excellent at what you do: My in-the-trenches experience, passion for adoption, ability to look at the “whole” picture, attention to details, and compassion for all who are involved in the adoption journey.

What do you love about adoption: I love that there is another way that families can be created.

If you could change one thing about adoption what would it be, why, and how: The impossible—take away the pain from all of the loss that permeates adoption. So, the other thing I would change about adoption would be to change how it is perceived. For example, many view adoption as second best or parents as saints because they adopted (“saved”) a child or children. Anyone touched by or involved in adoption must educate others and become an advocate.

What is one thing you wish more people understood about the adoption process: Every adoption journey is different and requires profound patience and an element of “letting go.”

What do you want to tell us about your family: I am married and a mother of four, three through adoption.

When not working, what do you do for fun or to relax: I read, write, hang out with my kids, play tennis, garden, and still date my husband.

Favorite adoption book, movie: I have far too many favorite adoption books, but August Rush is my favorite “adoption” movie.

What is your favorite blog article(s) that you have written for MLJ: “Claiming”

Do you have a personal/professional blog that you also want to share: http://JudyMMiller.com

Any other fun, interesting facts about you: I love to travel and I think it’s fun to spring road trips on my kids at the last minute (they’ve become great packers).