Presentations
I am available to speak either in person or virtually. I have presented in person for numerous genealogical societies in Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. Nationally, I have presented at conferences of the Association of Professional Genealogists, Federation of Genealogical Societies, New England Regional Genealogical Consortium, and the Ohio Genealogical Society.
Virtually, I have presented programs for societies in California, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. I have also spoken for chapters of the DAR.
I frequently speak at libraries. Local libraries include the Akron-Summit County Public Library, Avon Lake Public Library, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, Cleveland Public Library, Perry Public Library, Salem Public Library, Sandusky Library, and the Tuscarawas County Public Library.
Current presentations include:
EDUCATION/SKILLS
- Lifelong Learning: Enhancing Your Genealogical Skills
Online access to original sources has revolutionized genealogical research. Opportunities abound for indexing, transcribing, geo-locating, recording oral histories, etc. Genealogists can take advantage of volunteer opportunities to enhance basic skills and learn new skills (i.e. learning by doing). The benefits for both the genealogist and the genealogical community at large are immense. - Searching and Browsing Basics
Instructions? We don’t need no instructions⸺But maybe we do! This presentation reviews Boolean operators, Venn diagrams, and search strategies. The benefits of browsing are also discussed. Includes copious examples.
METHODOLOGY
- Avoiding Rabbit Holes: Using Research Questions, Plans, and Logs
Learn how developing a research question and creating research plans and logs can help guide your research and keep your research on track. Includes a case study. - Let’s Talk About Indexes
How many different indexing systems are there? How can I evaluate if an index is thorough? Comprehensive? When should I use the index? Will I miss anything if I just look in the index?
RESOURCES
- The DAR Genealogical Research System
Take a guided tour of the DAR Genealogical Research System (GRS). The multi-faceted GRS is a genealogical resource available to everyone. It offers a variety of indexes, many of which cannot be found elsewhere. - Digital Ohio: Researching Buckeye Gems
Small local history and genealogy collections are often unrecognized and under-utilized. But in the Buckeye state, many colleges, public libraries and genealogical societies are working together to get these valuable collections online. Learn how to find and access these unique online resources. - Mining for Genealogical Treasures in the Internet Archive
The Internet Archive is not just the Wayback Machine! It also contains audio, movies, images, software, maps, and texts. Discover everything you can do at the Archive and learn search strategies for accessing its genealogical treasures. - Researching Family in the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)
Access the digital collections of over 5,000 libraries, archives, and museums. The Digital Public Library of America brings them together in one place. Explore this unique resource filled with items of interest to genealogists and family historians.
