Mission & Board

Kira Siegler

President

Location: Edina, MN

Why I want to serve the Adoptee community: Most importantly, I want to help support the community that supported me as I grew up in the Twin Cities as a Korean adoptee. I've had the privilege to be around other Korean adoptees my entire life here in the States due to these organizations, and I want to help AK Connection reconnect with its purpose and community.

Background: I was born in Anyang, Korea, adopted at 6 months old in Minnesota, and grew up in the Twin Cities. When I was younger I visited Korea with my family, and while it's on my mind more and more, I haven't found the right time to return as an adult. I've been fortunate to meet and remain in contact with my foster family and locate my birth family. As mentioned, I was a regular participant in the Korean adoptee camps and groups here. I often feel like one of the lucky ones who got to grow up with adoptees as peers, mentors, and leaders. I have so much gratitude for each and every adoptee who has shared their lives with this community.

Currently, I am a proud bonus parent and caregiver in my blended family with my partner, Denis. Some know we met through the Korean adoptee community. With our girls getting older, I find myself with more time to put towards other interests and passions. And I’d love an opportunity to give back to this one.

Tara Tenhoff

Vice President

Location:

Why I want to serve the Adoptee community:

Background:

Denis Jeong Plaster (Jun Suk)

Board Member · Website / Tech

Location:Edina, MN

Why I want to serve the Adoptee community: In my early teens, I reconnected with my biological mother, and in my twenties, I made a life-changing trip to Korea to meet her. It was during this time that I discovered a local community of Korean adoptees in Minnesota, and I was taken aback by the number of other adoptees. It's been an amazing experience to connect with fellow adoptees, share our stories, and offer support. I'm eagerly looking forward to giving back to this community and contributing my skills to AK Connection.

Background: I was born in Incheon, South Korea, and spent my first couple years with my birth mother. However, when I was two I was placed in St. Vincent's Home for Amerasian Children and adopted a year later. I grew up in Minneapolis with my parents and older sister. Currently I live in Edina with my two teenage daughters and my partner Kira.

Kip Hansen (이기호)

General Board Member