Favorite Bible Verse: Joshua 1:9 ESV Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Education: MAS in Infant Family Practice from Arizona State University: learned about infant-toddler mental health and child development
Responsibilities: Provide support and education to expectant parents who are considering adoption; support birth parents and adoptive family during the match period; conduct home visits and prepare home studies for adoptive families
Favorite Bible Verse: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”-Psalm 30:5
Favorite Adoption Story: I have been involved with a number of domestic adoptions, however I will admit that the adoptions of my son and daughter stand out as two of my favorite. I feel like I am able to assist adoptive families by drawing from our personal adoption experiences, relationships with our children’s birth parents, and my own process of coming to accept my infertility. I understand that the adoption process can leave one feeling extremely vulnerable. I understand that there are many questions and concerns. It’s scary. But I have witnessed many, many successful and joyful outcomes. Every adoption is a blessing to me.
Education: Lara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Lindenwood University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Missouri Baptist University. In addition she maintains a Licensed Professional Counselor status through the State of Missouri.
Responsibilities: As Executive Director, Lara oversees the programs of the Missouri office including domestic and international adoptions, supervises its employees, and runs the day to day functioning of the office. Lara brings over 15 years of vocational experience in adoption to her work at Nightlight, but she also provides the personal insight of being an adoptive mother twice. Lara holds a Bachelor of Science in Business as well as a Master of Arts in Counseling from Missouri Baptist University and is a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Favorite Adoption Story: I do not have one yet, but look forward to having one soon!
Education: MSW from Washington University in St. Louis
Responsibilities: Application intake of all MO programs, collection of documents, coordination with social workers and clients. Answer client inquiry questions and guide families toward appropriate programs and waiting children.
Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:16 Do not be anxious about anything
Favorite Adoption Story: As an adoptive mother I have to say my favorite adoption story is my own. After working with families for over 15 years I became an adoptive mother as well. Going through the adoption journey helps me to understand all the emotions and difficulties adoptive families go through.
Education: Nicky holds a B.A in Psychology from the University of Missouri- Columbia. She also has an MSW from St. Louis University. She has worked in the International adoption field for over 20 years.
Responsibilities: Nicky is the Vice President of all international programs at Nightlight.
Favorite Bible Verse: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” Matthew 7:7 and “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” Philippians 4:13.
Favorite Adoption Story: I have had the privilege of being a part of many adoption stories, professionally and personally. Each story is unique and beautiful. The most beautiful story is how our Heavenly Father, Creator of the universe, adopted all of us as his sons and daughters.
Education: Regina holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work from Missouri State University, and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Responsibilities: Regina is a birthparent counselor and home study provider in Southwest Missouri. She serves both birth parents and adoptive families throughout each stage of the adoption process. Regina currently resides in Springfield, Missouri with her husband and two children. Regina enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, attending sporting events, and church functions.
