The University of Lynchburg’s Ken West Center for Family Studies and Educational Advancement will host a panel discussion titled “Strong Families, Healthy Children, Connected Communities: A Panel Discussion on Foster Care and Adoption” on Wednesday, June 18, at 5:30 p.m. in Sydnor Performance Hall. 

The event is free and open to the public.

This panel will explore critical issues surrounding foster care and adoption in the Lynchburg community. Attendees will gain insights into the challenges families face, legal considerations, and the emotional and social impacts on children and caregivers. Panelists will share their professional expertise and personal stories from their frontline experiences.

Panelists include:

• H. Cary Payne, chief judge, Juvenile and Domestic Relations 24th District Court
• April Watson, licensed clinical social worker and deputy director of human services, City of Lynchburg
• Amy Lingenfelter, advocate manager, Court Appointed Special Advocates 
• Leroy Wingo, licensed clinical social worker, Agate of Life Counseling LLC

Dr. Sara W. Bailey, program director for Lynchburg’s counselor education programs and director of the West Center, will moderate the panel.