Rhonda M. Roorda, MA, is a prominent and influential figure in the field of transracial adoption. As an award-winning author, speaker, consultant, and executive coach, she advocates passionately for children and families while emphasizing the experiences of transracial adoptees. Rhonda’s journey to discovering her purpose began when she was adopted from the New York foster care system at just two years old and placed into a home with a white American family of Dutch descent. Growing up in the Washington, D.C. area with her two non-adopted siblings, she encountered challenges with her identity, recognizing the importance of connecting with others who looked like her and understanding the complexities and nuances of transracial adoption.
Throughout her career, Rhonda has dedicated herself to fostering understanding and promoting authentic narratives for both transracial adoptees and adoptive families. Her book, *In Their Voices: Black Americans on Transracial Adoption*, was named a 2016 Outstanding Academic Title by Choice Magazine. It also earned 3rd Place at the 30th Annual New York Book Show, praised for both its scholarly contributions and its eye-catching cover design. In collaboration with the esteemed late Dr. Rita J. Simon, Rhonda has coauthored a groundbreaking trilogy that explores the experiences of transracial adoption from multiple perspectives—*In Their Own Voices*, *In Their Parents’ Voices*, and *In Their Siblings’ Voices*.
Rhonda’s debut memoir, *Torn from the Root*, is set to be released in July 2026 by Temple University Press—make sure to pre-order your copy!
Rhonda’s work makes a substantial impact across various groups—including academia, adoption agencies, family support organizations, and even the entertainment sector. Her insights are valued by both organizations and families in the United States and around the world. Her notable awards include the 2010 Judge John P. Steketee Adoption Hero Award, the 2017 Friend of Children and Youth Award from the North American Council on Adoptable Children (NACAC), and the 2022 Richard K. Ransom Award, which she received at the Adopt America Network Gala for her exceptional work in supporting children and families and for her role on the Emmy-winning TV show This is Us. Most recently, she was granted the 2024 Vanguard Adoption Award from Adoption Knowledge Affiliates (TX).
Rhonda’s expertise has catapulted her to the center of national discussions, with appearances on Good Morning America, ABC News Live, and CNN. She has shared her insights on People’s Magazine podcast Me Becoming Mom, hosted by Zoë Ruderman, alongside fitness expert Jillian Michaels. Additionally, she has been featured in major publications and local media, amplifying her message and enriching the conversation around transracial adoption.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications-Strategic Communication from Calvin University and a Master of Arts in Communication-Urban Studies from Michigan State University, Rhonda is well-equipped to inspire others. She has also served at Calvin University as a member of the Calvin University Alumni Board and as Board Secretary and an Executive Member of the Board of Trustees.
Rhonda M. Roorda, MA 