Susan Wingate

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the field of Adoptions since 1987.  I have worked with  families in  domestic and international adoptions, as well as  independent and step parent adoptions.  As an instructor at MiraCosta Community College since 1991, I have designed and taught workshops for pre and post adoptive families.

On a personal note, I am blessed with four tremendous men in my life who continue to teach me about family life.  My husband and I are currently raising two man cubs, with a third son tenuously testing the waters of adult life.  The balance in my life is found in gardening, photography (http://www.susanwingatephoto.com), and soccer.

Lori Bryant

I received my Masters in Social Work from UCLA in 1990 and have worked in the adoption field since.  My experience includes work in the public and private agency setting, placing children of all ages and varied backgrounds.  I have provided adoptive parent training throughout my adoption career, a dimension of social work that I love.  My close working relationships with adoptive families has provided me with intimate experience and insight into a range of lifelong adoption challenges.   

This chapter of my life finds me happily living on a large ranch with my husband of twenty two years and our beloved menagerie of animals, including seven llamas, three pygmy goats, two cats, and one dog.  Our home is a popular visiting spot for family and friends whose children delight in the adventures at “Dancing Spirit Ranch.”

About SAGE

With the launching of SAGE Workshops, we hope to provide a safe and inspirational forum to learn about adoption, face the challenges of family life, and mentor the newest arrivals into the adoption community.  The focus is both family and professional friendly, striving  for enhanced understanding, personal growth,  support and collaboration.