38. Marci Purcell: "Executive Director of Adoption Knowledge Affiliates (AKA)"

Marci Purcell is the Executive Director at Adoption Knowledge Affiliates (AKA), a grassroots nonprofit in Austin, TX, founded in 1992. Marci's first connection to the larger adoptee community was through AKA in 2012, first as an attendee, and then serving on their Board, including as AKA President. She is also a founding member and past President of Support Texas Adoptee Rights (STAR). She currently serves on the STAR Advisory Board. Marci is committed to advocacy and reform relating to the rights of adult adoptees, foster care alumni, as well as truth and transparency in adoption. She is also passionate about disability rights, both in the broader community, and as they relate to foster care, adoption, and records access. 

Marci has a degree in Psychology, is certified in Psychological First Aid, and a certified Mental Health Peer Specialist. She is a trained mediator through The UT School of Law, Center for Public Policy Dispute Resolution. When not working for AKA or advocating at the Texas Capitol, she is busy running her vintage small business in Austin and enjoying her family.

Music by Corey Quinn