Tony Parsons has built a career working on behalf of children, youth, and families across multiple systems. Tony began as an intern with the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, where he produced a policy report with recommendations for increasing permanency for foster youth. After graduating from Michigan State University, he worked in education. 

As an academic advisor for educationally gifted students in a low income community, Tony drafted curriculum, elevated student voice in the decision making process, and convened stakeholders to improve educational outcomes. He also worked in a systems level change capacity with the Michigan College Access Network to help low income, first generation, and students of color to realize their ability to access higher education.

Currently, Tony manages a diverse youth policy portfolio— including the Family First Prevention Services Act, Medicaid, education, and juvenile justice— for Youth Villages. Youth Villages is a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health, committed to building strong families, delivering effective services, and significantly improving outcomes for children, families and young people involved in child welfare and juvenile justice systems across the country. 

Additionally, Tony serves as a Young Adult Consultant for the Capacity Building Center for States and as an Emerging Leader for the Center for Adoption, Support, and Education.

Outside of his child welfare pursuits, Tony is an avid gym goer, loves to perform in musicals, and bake.