Meet The Park

Our team consists of passionate adoptees, siblings, parents, and friends who have a wide array of perspectives that help inform the creation of diverse and accessible programming for national and international communities.

Our Staff

Amy Zhong

Executive Director

Our Team

Amy Zhong

Executive Director

Amy Zhong is the Executive Director of The Park, CCAI’s post-adoption support arm with the mission to provide lifelong resources that help empower and nurture adopted individuals and their families. Amy has dedicated over 17 years to adoption community work, primarily focused on adopted youth engagement and mentorship. With a younger sister who joined her family at age 10, Amy is deeply passionate about family wellness and cultural and language literacy support for older child adoptees.

Amy holds a BS in Biology and BA in Film Production from Seattle University. She is a 1st generation Chinese American and is dedicated to building a bolder, brighter world for adoptees and their families.

When not sharing in fellowship with the adoption community, Amy spends her time diving into new music, writing short stories, screening the latest films, and traveling.

Diana Lange

Operations Manager

Our Team

Diana Lange

Operations Manager

Diana and her husband are the proud parents of three amazing daughters adopted from China. She started her time with CCAI as a volunteer in 2001 and has been at it for over 20 years! She has always felt like CCAI is a place that feels like home and was excited to join The Park staff in 2019.

Diana enjoys her three whippet dogs, quilt-making, sashiko stitching, and all things fabric, but time with friends and family are her most treasured moments!

Heather Lowe

Communications Manager

Our Team

Heather Lowe

Communications Manager

Heather Lowe joined The Park in 2021 as Communications Manager. As a mother of four and an adoptive mom, Heather believes that The Park’s mission of providing lifelong support resources for adoptees and their families is vital for the adoption community. 

When she’s not working or homeschooling, you can find Heather in the mountains hiking, camping, paddle boarding, or skiing.  Her dream is to take her family to Maui someday and go snorkeling. Or, if we’re talking bucket lists, hiking from inn-to-inn through the hills of Scotland with her husband! 

Hillary Karsten

Heritage Tours Program Coordinator

Our Team

Hillary Karsten

Heritage Tours Program Coordinator

Hillary Karsten has always had a passion for working with families and children, working with youth in residential treatment centers for 15 years before she began working at CCAI in 2001 and adopted her daughter from China in 2008!  She is excited to serve as Heritage Tours Program Coordinator for The Park and loves the chance to meet and share with fellow adoptive parents and families who are also now parenting teens and young adults! What a wild ride…

Outside of work, Hillary enjoys spending time with her daughter, honing her photography skills, and watching movies. 

Maddie Gustafson

Adoptee Programs Coordinator

Our Team

Maddie Gustafson

Adoptee Programs Coordinator

Maddie recently graduated from the University of Arizona in May 2024 with a degree in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science. She is passionate about developmental cognitive psychology and is hopeful to pursue a PhD in the future. Maddie has been actively involved in the adoptee community since childhood and first encountered Adopteen in 2017. Having attended many camp-conferences, served on an Adoptees Giving Back Orphanage Service Trip in 2019, and reconnected with adult adoptees through Beyond Adopteen, Maddie is excited to be working for an organization that is near and dear to her heart.

In her free time, Maddie enjoys crocheting, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Our Extended Teams

The Park Adoption Community Center fulfills its mission primarily through our incredible, cross-country team of passionate and dedicated contractors, interns, and volunteers.

To learn more about how to get involved with The Park, please visit Working with The Park.

Leadership Committees

Our Leadership Committees dream up invaluable engagement opportunities for the adoptee community and make them a reality. Guiding the coordination of our conference and retreat events, our leadership committees help bring together adoptees from around the world to share in celebration, inspiration, and pride.

Adopteen Camp-Conference Committee

Adopteen Camp-Conference Committee builds and executes our two annual Adopteen Camp-Conferences, adoptee camps for teenaged adoptees that tour the country every year.

Hannah Bouska

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Hannah Bouska

2025 Committee Member

Hi there! My name is Hannah Bouska, and I’m super excited to be part of your leadership team this summer! Since graduating from Colorado State University in 2018, I’ve been working hard at my job as a tenth-grade English teacher and literacy specialist. I was adopted from Guangdong, China when I was seven months old and have been lucky enough to spend most of my life in Boulder, CO. In my free time, I love reading, spending time in the sun, listening to podcasts, going to the gym, playing soccer, and hanging out with my friends. I love cats, painting, SZA, cherry tomatoes, and rescuing worms from the sidewalk after rain.

I’ve been involved in Adopteen for ten whole years, since my first conference in 2015 (San Diego, baby!) and was lucky enough to attend the Adoptees Giving Back Orphanage Service Trip to Xi’an, China in 2019. This summer, I’m most excited to return to a leadership role in a community that is near and dear to my heart. Most of all, I hope to create a loving, positive community for my adopted peeps and to become the type of role model I needed when I was a teenager myself. 

Jill Vinci

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Jill Vinci

2025 Committee Member

Hello everyone! My name is Jillian Vinci and I am a rising Senior at the University of Florida. I am studying Health Education and Behavior and wanting to pursue a career as a Physical Therapist. A few of my interests include cooking, playing pickleball, traveling, and being a foodie enthusiast! The first Adopteen camp I attended was back in 2018 and I cannot wait to share my enjoyment and excitement!

Kailei Davison

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Kailei Davison

2025 Committee Member

I was born in Hunan, China and was adopted in 2005. I am in my third year at the Metropolitan State University of Denver where I am studying Criminal Justice and Biology. When I’m not buried in textbooks, you’ll probably catch me jamming out to music, playing some piano, or nerding out over anything Broadway.

I have been a part of Adopteen as a camper since 2017 and I am looking forward to my first year on the Leadership Committee! I can’t wait to meet all of you and make some amazing memories together! 

Karson Case

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Karson Case

2025 Committee Member

Hello hello! My name is Karson Case and I am from Centennial, Colorado and adopted from Jiangxi, China. I am a rising college junior studying Film and Television Production at Chapman University! When spending time away from film and tv, I enjoy baking, photography, and taking a well deserved nap. This will be my 3rd year back as a leader and I can’t wait to make my 7th Adopteen the best one yet!

Katy Winkler

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Katy Winkler

2025 Committee Member

Hello! My name is Katy and I am just finishing up my sophomore year at Michigan State University! I’m studying Applied Engineering with a concentration in Supply Chain Management and a minor in Asian Pacific American Studies! I have been attending Adopteen as a camper since 2018 and have been to 4 conferences, but this is my first year on committee! In my free time I enjoy reading, watching TV and movies, spending time with friends, and being active in different social justice movements! I’m so excited to get to know you all this summer!

Kenzie Summervill

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Kenzie Summervill

2025 Committee Member

Hi friends! My name is Kenzie Summervill, and I am beyond honored and excited to serve as one of your Camp Leaders for Adopteen 2025! I was born in Jiangxi, China and was adopted in February 2008 and grew up in Colorado. Currently I am a Freshman at Kansas State University in the charming town of Manhattan, Kansas. I recently made the big switch from pre-vet to pre-med, and I am so excited to see where it takes me!

I absolutely love spending time with amazing people and feel so grateful for everyone I meet. I also love all animals. I have a dog, cat, turtle, and lots of sheep!! I’m a dedicated student who loves to work hard, but in my free time, you’ll find me listening to all kinds of music (mostly Zach Bryan), watching Grey’s Anatomy, enjoying sunsets, travelling, or hanging out with my friends.

I started my journey with Adoptween in 2018 and came to my first Adopteen camp in 2022. I have attended 3 camps since then and this will be my first year being involved on committee! 

I can’t wait for this incredible experience, to get to know all of you, and to make some amazing memories together! Let’s have the best time!

Lilli Mueller

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Lilli Mueller

2025 Committee Member

Hi!! My name is Lilli, and I am from outside of Chicago and I was adopted from Jiangxi, China. In the fall I plan to major in Journalism and Critical Communications! I am a huge foodie, I love running with my friends, and my ideal day involves snuggling with my dog, reading a book, and drinking a matcha (or two haha….). I also really love art, and all things snoopy or miffy! It is my first year on committee and I can’t wait for this summer and am beyond excited to meet and work with you all!!

Maddie Gustafson

Adoptee Programs Coordinator

Our Team

Maddie Gustafson

Adoptee Programs Coordinator

Hi friends! My name is Maddie and I am from Golden, Colorado. I graduated in May 2024 with a degree in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science and hope to pursue a PhD in Psychology in the near future. Let’s nerd out and talk about anything brain or psychology related! 

In my free time, I love to crochet and knit, and was heartbroken when Joann filed for bankruptcy. I am a Chaco enthusiast and you will catch me wearing them even when there is snow on the ground. I will befriend any dog I meet and kill just about any plant I buy (though I have a couple going strong right now, cross your fingers for me).

I grew up going to Chinese Heritage Camp and first joined the Adopteen fam as a camper back in 2017. I came back in 2018, took part in the Adoptees Giving Back Orphanage Service Trip in 2019, and reconnected with everyone last year at Beyond Adopteen. From the very beginning, I was welcomed with open arms, and now I’m excited to help create that same sense of belonging for you, whether you’re a returning or new camper! Can’t wait to meet you and see what kind of awesome memories we’ll make this summer!!

Maddox Ciesluk

2025 Camp Director

Our Team

Maddox Ciesluk

2025 Camp Director

Knock knock… it’s me! Maddox Ciesluk. I am 22 years old and have graduated from Johnson & Wales University with a major in Culinary Science & Product Development. I now live in St. Louis, Missouri, where I work as a Food Scientist for an ingredients technology company, creating new and innovative food products. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, mostly the eating part and not the cleaning. I also love watching anime and listening to music, with Linkin Park being my favorite band.

My first camp conference was in 2017 in Wilmington, North Carolina, and I’ve been attending ever since. Adopteen is something that holds a special place in my heart, and I am excited to participate every year I can. I hope we can exceed your expectations, whether you’re a new or returning camper. The connections and friendships I’ve made along the way are something I truly cherish, and I hope to help create the same fun, exciting experience for others. I’m excited to welcome you all and can’t wait to see you there, ready to create unforgettable memories together!

Mary Govan

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Mary Govan

2025 Committee Member

Hello everybody! My name is Mary Govan and I was adopted from Hubei, China. I am currently a sophomore at St. Mary’s College of Maryland with a major in Psychology and minors in Special Education and Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies.

Some fun facts about me are that I am on the Varsity Sailing Team in college, have five siblings, and am always up for an adventure and trying new things. In my free time, I love knitting, making stained glass pieces, and diving (springboard). This summer, I am most looking forward to meeting new campers and reuniting with returning campers, creating lasting memories, and helping to make this the best week of the summer for everyone. I am super excited to see you all there!

I have been a part of Adopteen since 2019 when I attended my first Camp-Conference in Colorado Springs, CO. This is my second summer being part of the Leadership Committee – and I am so very excited for another amazing summer!

Mia Harris

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Mia Harris

2025 Committee Member

Hi! My name is Mia Harris. I’m a senior at MSU Denver, graduating in May with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. A few fun facts about me—I love to dance! I’m a member of my university’s dance team and also a dance teacher. In my free time, I enjoy reading, especially fantasy novels. I have a major sweet tooth, and right now, I’m obsessed with Wingstop! This is my first year on the committee, and I’m so excited to meet everyone and make some amazing memories!

Mira Rausch

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Mira Rausch

2025 Committee Member

Hello! My name is Mira Rausch, and I’m one of your Adopteen leaders this year! I’m currently a student at the University of Kansas, where I’m double-majoring in Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology and Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, with a minor in Health Information Management. Originally from Luoyang, China, my Adopteen journey began in Denver in 2018, and this is my second year as a counselor! When I’m not navigating the hills of KU, you can find me Chinese lion dancing, working at the natural history museum, or exploring Clinton Lake in search of wildlife. I’m really looking forward to meeting all of you this summer!

Paige Lewis

2025 Camp Director

Our Team

Paige Lewis

2025 Camp Director

Hey, I’m Paige! I live in Kansas City, Missouri, and I’m a 2022 graduate of the University of Missouri – Columbia. I currently work as a marketing specialist at a digital advertising company, where I build campaigns and track performance for our clients. In my free time, I enjoy reading webtoons, watching anime, sipping on overpriced coffee, cozy gaming, drawing, and taking naps whenever I can.

I first attended Adopteen as a camper in Denver back in 2017, and I’ve been coming back ever since. It’s always a highlight of my year, and I’m excited to help make it a great experience for you too—whether you’re returning or new to camp. I hope to create the same welcoming, comfortable atmosphere that I felt when I first joined. Looking forward to meeting you and seeing what this summer brings!

Phoebe Miller

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Phoebe Miller

2025 Committee Member

Hey hey! My name is Phoebe Miller and I am a freshman at the University of Kansas. I am majoring in journalism and hope to work in book publishing after graduating, because what’s better than turning a love for reading into a career, right? 

When I’m not buried in a book, you can find me shopping and hanging out with friends. I’ve been a part of Adopteen since I was 13 years old and have been to 6 camp conferences as a camper. This is my first year on committee and I couldn’t be more excited to give back to the community that has given me so much!

Tahlia Sherk

2025 Committee Member

Our Team

Tahlia Sherk

2025 Committee Member

Hi everyone, my name is Tahlia Sherk and I will be on this year’s leadership committee! I am 20 years old and am currently a registered behavioral technician at an autism center. This fall I will be starting my Master’s degree in Social Work. I have been to 2 previous adopteen camps and this will be my first year on committee. Some things I love to do are reading, traveling, and spending time with friends. I am so excited to get to see everybody at this year’s camp!

Beyond Adopteen Retreat Committee

Beyond Adopteen Retreat Committee builds and executes our bi-annual Beyond Adopteen Adult Adoptee Retreat, adoptee connection opportunities for adult adoptees that tour the country every year.

Aidan Curran

Ohio Chapter Coordinator & Beyond Adopteen Committee Member

Our Team

Aidan Curran

Ohio Chapter Coordinator & Beyond Adopteen Committee Member

Chloe Deskin

Camp Director

Our Team

Chloe Deskin

Camp Director

Hi everyone, my name is Chloe and I am proud to be your Camp Director for both Adopteen camps this summer! I started Adopteen in 2013, and have been a part of many different Adopteen leadership committees, but this is my first time stepping into the role of Camp Director – I couldn’t be more excited!

I was adopted when I was 11 months from Guangxi, China and grew up in Denver, CO.  I now live in Los Angeles and am currently pursuing my Master’s in Psychology at Pepperdine University. In my spare time I love to take naps, try new cafes in LA, and hang out with friends. What I love about Adopteen the most is that it is a place you can be your most authentic self without feeling judged, meet people with similar experiences, and have fun. I can’t wait to meet you all this summer! 🙂

Zoe Seymore

Beyond Adopteen Committee Member

Our Team

Zoe Seymore

Beyond Adopteen Committee Member

My name is Zoe (she/her) and I was adopted from Guangxi Province, China at 11 months old. I grew up in Texas with my younger sister who is also adopted, and a single mother. I graduated from a small college in Ohio with a degree in Psychology and minors in Math and Chinese. Last year, I had the wonderful opportunity to live and work in Taiwan with the Fulbright Program. Through this grant, I went into a Taiwanese elementary school and taught English. Currently, I am living in Michigan attending graduate school to get my Master’s in Social Work. When I’m not doing my homework, I will be watching TV, crocheting, dancing, or sleeping!

My first encournter with Adopteen was in 2014 at an Adopteen Midpoint in Texas and I have stayed involved ever since. I also worked with The Park as a Research Intern in 2022. Adopteen has always given me a space where I feel comfortable to be myself and has allowed me to make lasting connections with adoptees from all over the country. After attending the Beyond Adopteen Retreat in 2022, I am so excited to create something fun and meaningful for 2024!

Chapter Coordinators

Chapter Coordinators volunteer their time and local expertise to guide the research, planning, and facilitation of monthly meet-up opportunities for our adoption community across the U.S.

With their year-round dedication, we’re able to provide meaningful and consistent adoptee connection opportunities worldwide.

If you are curious about starting a Chapter in your area, please email us! Chapter Coordinators must be 18 years or older.

Hannah Timmermans

Grand Rapids Chapter Coordinator

Our Team

Hannah Timmermans

Grand Rapids Chapter Coordinator

Gerald Sill

Seattle Chapter Coordinator

Our Team

Gerald Sill

Seattle Chapter Coordinator

Jane Rudnick

Northern Kentucky Chapter Coordinator

Our Team

Jane Rudnick

Northern Kentucky Chapter Coordinator

Heather Robinson

North Texas Chapter Coordinator

Our Team

Heather Robinson

North Texas Chapter Coordinator

Maggie Maurer

Philadelphia Chapter Coordinator

Our Team

Maggie Maurer

Philadelphia Chapter Coordinator

Hi, I’m Maggie! I was adopted from Guangdong province with my twin sister and raised in Wilmington, DE. After completing my undergraduate studies at Northeastern University in Boston, I moved to Philly to complete my master’s in Counseling and Mental Health Services at UPenn. I’m currently a 2nd year doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology program at La Salle University and reside in Center City with my cat, Suki <3 In my free time, I enjoy climbing, yoga, mindfulness meditation, reading, baking, museums, and exploring Philly through food! When I need a break from the city, I enjoy spending all the time I can down at the shore in Ocean City, NJ ? I’ve been working with Adopteen since 2013 through camp conferences and virtual programing. I am incredibly grateful for the bonds I’ve formed through Adopteen and can’t wait to keep adding on to them! <3

Ann Jiang Hérard

Ottawa Chapter Coordinator

Our Team

Ann Jiang Hérard

Ottawa Chapter Coordinator

Aidan Curran

Ohio Chapter Coordinator & Beyond Adopteen Committee Member

Our Team

Aidan Curran

Ohio Chapter Coordinator & Beyond Adopteen Committee Member

AdopTween Mentors

AdopTween Mentors are a core group of volunteers who meet bi-monthly to help guide their tween-aged buddies through activities that strive to celebrate and support positive self-expression and affirmation through engaging and constructive activities built around themes that are important to approach in pre-teen years.

Interested in serving as an AdopTween Mentor? Please email info@theparkcommunity.org. AdopTween Mentors must be 14 years or older.