We are honored to announce that Dr. Tony Hynes will serve as a keynote speaker at the 2026 Michigan CASA State Conference. 

Tony Hynes, Ph.D., brings a powerful combination of lived experience, research, and professional expertise to the conversation surrounding foster care, adoption, and child advocacy. Adopted by his parents, Mary and Janet, in the mid-1990s, Tony has become a nationally recognized voice for children and families impacted by the foster care and adoption systems. 

Throughout the country, Tony has shared his story and insights with child welfare professionals, advocates, caregivers, and policymakers. His memoir, The Son With Two Moms, explores his experiences growing up as an interracial adoptee in an LGBTQ-headed household and has been cited within the Washington, D.C. family court system to help inform best practices. His work and writing have also been featured in The Atlantic and in publications including Adoption Unfiltered. 

Tony’s academic work focuses on understanding the experiences of adoptees and strengthening support systems for children and families. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where his dissertation examined social connectedness among adult interracial adoptees. He also completed graduate research exploring the experiences of children raised in same-sex parent households. 

Today, Tony serves as the Training and Content Development Specialist at C.A.S.E. (Center for Adoption Support and Education), where he develops innovative training programs and resources that help families and professionals better understand and support adoptees and foster youth. 

Join us as Tony shares his unique perspective on identity, belonging, permanency, and the critical role advocates play in ensuring children and families have the support they need to thrive. 

We look forward to welcoming Dr. Tony Hynes to the 2026 Michigan CASA State Conference. Ticket sales go live on August 1^st.