The Gladney Center for Adoption is honored to introduce the Aleda Madison International Adoptee Scholarship Fund, established in tribute to Aleda Madison, founder of Madison Adoption Associates. As you may know, Madison Adoption Associates joined the Gladney Center for Adoption in 2024—a partnership designed to expand and strengthen the services of both agencies in response to the evolving landscape of international adoption.
International adoption has undergone significant changes since the early 2000s, shifting from programs focused on healthy infants to those serving older children and children with special needs. Madison Adoption Associates became a leader in child-specific recruitment during this transition, and Aleda Madison was at the heart of that work. 
Between 2009 and 2016, Aleda made countless trips overseas, meeting thousands of children and playing a direct role in finding loving families for hundreds of them. Her commitment went beyond logistics—families often reflected, “Madison truly cares for every child,” a sentiment deeply tied to Aleda’s hands-on involvement and personal touch.
We are proud to carry forward Aleda’s legacy at Gladney. Her compassion and dedication continue to inspire our mission, and through this scholarship, her dream lives on. The Aleda Madison International Adoptee Scholarship Fund provides support for higher education expenses, specifically benefiting the children and families Aleda so deeply loved.
The scholarship is open to international adoptees placed through Madison Adoption Associates or Gladney Center for Adoption who are pursuing educational opportunities at a college, university, trade school, technical program, or similar institution. Applicants are invited to share their adoption story in a creative format of their choice—whether through writing, visual art, music, video, or another medium that reflects their voice and perspective.
While Madison’s name may not be as visible in the future, Aleda’s spirit, values, and tireless advocacy remain at the forefront of our work. We are profoundly grateful to honor her in this meaningful way and ensure her legacy continues to impact generations to come.
