On November 7, 2025, the Gladney Center for Adoption celebrated a significant milestone as 24 children officially joined 22 families during the annual Gladney Adoption Day. Associate Judge Lori DeAngelis presided over the event, conducting ten adoptions before noon, a clear highlight in her typically busy schedule filled with felony and civil cases. “This is a good day,” she remarked, reflecting on the joy of finalizing these family journeys.
The event, held at a makeshift courtroom within the Gladney Center, aligns with November’s designation as National Adoption Month. It provides families not only a chance to complete the legal process but also an opportunity to celebrate the new bonds formed through adoption. DeAngelis invited several new adoptees and their siblings to share in the celebratory spirit by taking turns banging the gavel, which added a personal touch to the proceedings.
The need for adoption remains pressing in Texas, with approximately 4,000 children waiting for permanent homes as of fiscal year 2024, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Mark Melson, President and CEO of the Gladney Center, emphasized that many families hesitate to adopt due to various concerns. He noted that one of Gladney’s strengths is its commitment to providing ongoing support to families throughout the adoption process. “We have services we provide to families as they continue their journey,” Melson explained. “We have a lot of experience and data on what works and we share that with them.”
Unlike many organizations in the adoption field, Gladney has seen a slight increase in its adoption numbers. Melson attributed this growth to the organization’s focused efforts on improving foster care services in Texas. “We’ve really put a lot of effort into the foster care piece here in Texas and looking at how we can grow that,” he said.
The Gladney Center’s history dates back to 1887 and gained prominence in the 1920s for its support of unwed mothers. The story of Edna Gladney, the organization’s namesake, was famously depicted in the 1941 Oscar-winning film “Blossoms in the Dust,” starring Greer Garson. In a significant development this year, the Gladney Center expanded its reach by partnering with an East Coast agency, marking one of the most substantial steps in its history. “We’re now in 11 countries,” Melson stated, highlighting the organization’s international presence.
Gladney Adoption Day not only finalizes legal adoptions but also fosters connections among families navigating similar journeys. “This lets the families come out and play, meet each other, and really celebrate,” Melson noted, emphasizing the communal aspect of the event.
As the day progressed, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy, underscoring the profound impact of adoption on children’s lives. Gladney’s commitment to supporting families reflects a broader effort to address the challenges within the adoption landscape in Texas and beyond.
