Meet Your AC: Kala Sharp
What's your name? Kala Sharp
What are your gender pronouns? She/Her/Hers
Where do you call home? Tulsa, OK, USA
Tell us a little about yourself. How do you spend your time outside of KAAN?
I'm a mom to two awesome boys, ages 9 and 7. My husband and I have been married for 20 years. I have an accounting/finance degree from the University of Tulsa. Most of my career has been in accounting, but this past year I moved to a new role focused on customer service, optimization of resources, best practices, and leadership. I also serve as the executive sponsor for my company's Black African-American Resource Group. I volunteer with various local nonprofits, including the Child Abuse Network and the University of Tulsa.
What is your role on the Advisory Council?
I’m helping update the KAAN Childcare program. I’m also helping with Finance/Fundraising.
How did you hear about KAAN? How did you decide to get involved in the AC?
My husband and I were new parents in 2013 when we heard about KAAN through a Facebook group. Mark Hagland was encouraging adoptive parents to attend, so my husband and I decided to make the trip to Minneapolis that year. A couple of people who I admire suggested that I apply for AC. I hesitated since I understand that as an adoptive parent, I need to be careful not to overstep or take up too much space. I'm bringing an open mind and heart along with a willingness to serve.
How many KAAN conferences have you attended?
My husband and I have attended three conferences all in Minneapolis. Our sons have attended two conferences. We are looking forward to reconnecting with friends and making new friends at the 2021 KAAN conference in Denver.
What issues/topics related to adoption are you most interested in?
Any sessions where I learn more about race and/or adoption that leads me to be a better person and parent (basically any session at KAAN conferences!).
What do you love most about the KAAN community?
I love that the KAAN community cares about each other. We have some great friendships that started or grew at KAAN. I appreciate the adults at the conference who support and help children who are growing up in transracial adoptive families.
What is a fun or random fact people might not know about you?
I have been to Korea five times. Our next trip is planned for 2021!
Anything else you'd like to share with the KAAN community?
I hope that more adoptive parents will consider attending the 2021 KAAN conference and bringing their children. I think many adoptive parents are intimidated by the topics and are uncertain, having never attended a conference like this before. I would encourage adoptive parents to come to the KAAN conference with an open mind and willingness to learn. I promise that it will change their life!
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