My Journey in Genealogy
One of my fondest childhood memories is of a picnic in the old cemetery by Mayson's Methodist Church on the west side of Atlanta, wandering around the weathered gravestones that bore my ancestors' names. I was about ten years old at the time, and had no understanding of, or appreciation for, how they fit into my life or family history. I just knew they were really, really old! But the names stayed with me, only to emerge several decades later as I began to "meet" them.
My professional genealogical journey began circa 1995 when I stumbled upon some online lessons the led me to census records. My passion for genealogy grew, and I quickly discovered that credible genealogical research requires skill, persistence, thorough documentation, and continuous study. As a lifelong library nerd, I soon realized that I had found my niche, and I wanted to do it professionally!
Before becoming a professional, I wanted to take advantage of the best training available. Below is a description of my educational background and experience.
EDUCATION
CERTIFICATION
MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS
My professional genealogical journey began circa 1995 when I stumbled upon some online lessons the led me to census records. My passion for genealogy grew, and I quickly discovered that credible genealogical research requires skill, persistence, thorough documentation, and continuous study. As a lifelong library nerd, I soon realized that I had found my niche, and I wanted to do it professionally!
Before becoming a professional, I wanted to take advantage of the best training available. Below is a description of my educational background and experience.
EDUCATION
- American Genealogy: A Basic Course, National Genealogical Society (with honors)
- Advanced Genealogical Methods, Institute of Genealogical and Historical Research, Samford University, Birmingham, Alabama
- U.S. Military Records, Institute of Genealogical and Historical Research, Samford University, Birmingham, AL
- National Institute on Genealogical Research, National Archives, Washington, D.C.
- Advanced New England Research, Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Continuing education through numerous conferences and workshops since 1995
CERTIFICATION
- Certified Genealogist, Board for Certification of Genealogists (2002; renewal portfolios approved 2007 and 2012)
MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS
- Faculty, Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, 2015
- Member, Board of Directors, Association of Professional Genealogists
- Past President, New England Chapter, Association of Professional Genealogists
- Associate, Board for Certification of Genealogists
- Vice President, New Hampshire Society of Genealogists
- Trustee, Thornton (NH) Public Library
- Member, Genealogical Speakers Guild
- Member, National Genealogical Society
- Member, New England Historic Genealogical Society