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Tuesday, September 27, 2022

New Asynchronous Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy Section Opening

Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG, and the faculty of her SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 course have agreed to add an additional asynchronous section. For general information about the course, see the SLIG Academy course webpage.

We know that many interested students work full-time during the day and are not able to attend our multi-week courses. SLIG is excited to announce our first-ever asynchronous course option.

This opportunity provides all of the same course content but with the flexibility to work around any schedule. Recorded class sessions will be available to watch at your convenience shortly after the live session.

Weekly live Q&A sessions will allow students to connect with the faculty of that week's sessions. But don't worry if you can't attend those live Q&A sessions. You may submit questions in writing, which will be answered and available to view in recordings.

This new asynchronous section will be limited to thirty participants and will take place between February 17 and April 26, 2003. Openings will be offered first to those already on the course waitlist, and then open to new registrations as seats remain.

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

SLIG Intermediate Foundations Ambassador

The Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy is pleased to announce that Taralyn Parker will serve as an Ambassador for the SLIG Fall Virtual 2022 Intermediate Foundations course.


Intermediate Foundations was designed for students who have experience in genealogy and want to build on their existing knowledge, enhance their research skills, and prepare for more advanced education.

If you have wondered if Intermediate Foundations is right for you, please follow Taralyn as she shares her experiences this fall.

Learn more about the course on the SLIG Fall Virtual 2022 webpage, on SLIG's blog, and by watching this video:




Taralyn Parker is a journalist turned family historian who runs the blog Keep Moving Forward With Me. During the COVID-19 crisis, she helped co-create the 21-day Family Connections Experiment: A Family History Project. Whether teaching classes at RootsTech or traveling to ancestors' hometowns, Taralyn is passionate about discovering and sharing family history. Working in the industry for 10+ years, Taralyn manages social media for various organizations. She loves using her talents to help share goodness. Taralyn, her husband John, and their four children enjoy living the small town life.

Follow Taralyn on her blog, on Twitter, and on Facebook.

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: Do You Have Your Seat Yet?

Seats are still available for some of the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 courses. Grab yours while they last!


Some seats are still available for:

  • DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments (coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG)
  • Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy (coordinated by Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG)--only 5 seats left!
  • Writing and Documenting for Peer Review (coordinated by Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA)
  • Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum (coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA)--only 1 seat left!
  • Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How (coordinated by Diana Elder, AG and Lisa Stokes, AG)
You can register for any of these courses here.

This course has filled:
  • The Art of Writing Client Reports (coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA)
But you can still put your name on a waitlist in case an opening occurs. Sign up for a waitlist here.

We look forward to seeing you online at SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023!


Wednesday, July 20, 2022

SLIG 2023: Seats Are Going Fast! Have You Registered?

Seats are still available for some of the SLIG 2023 courses. Grab yours while they last!

Some seats are still available for:
  • Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features (coordinated by David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FUGA, FIGRS)
  • Advanced Techniques: Material Culture Research (coordinated by Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR)
  • Corpus Juris: Advanced Legal Concepts for Genealogy (coordinated by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL)
  • Advanced Research Techniques for German Genealogy (coordinated by Michael D. Lacopo, DVM)—only 3 seats left!
  • Capitol Kin: Researching Ancestors Who Lived in Washington, D.C. (coordinated by Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CGL)
  • African American Genealogy Methods and Strategies (coordinated by LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson, JD, LLM, CG, CGL, FASG)
  • Introduction to Genetic Genealogy (coordinated by Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG)
  • DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases (coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG)--only 4 seats left!
  • Applied Genealogy Methods Workshop: Hands-on Skillbuilding (coordinated by Michael G. Hait, CG, AG)
  • Advanced Genealogical Methods (coordinated by Paul K. Graham, AG, CG, CGL)
  • Guided Research and Consultation (coordinated by Craig Roberts Scott, MA, CG, FUGA)

You can register for any of these courses here.

These courses have filled:

  • Bridging the Gap: New England to the Midwest, 1780–1850 (coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA)
  • Metes & Bounds Land Platting (coordinated by Gerald H. "Jerry" Smith, CG)
  • Virginia from the Colonial Period to the Civil War: Her Records, Her People, Her Laws (coordinated by Barbara Vines Little, CG, FVNS, FNGS, FUGA)
  • Evidence-Based Writing for Genealogists (coordinated by Melissa A. Johnson, CG)
But you can still put your name on a waitlist in case openings occur. Sign up for a waitlist here.

We look forward to seeing you online at SLIG 2023!

Monday, July 11, 2022

SLIG 2023 and SLIG Academy 2023 Registration Begins July 16

SLIG 2023 registration opens July 16, 2022, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens July 16, 2022, at 2:00 pm MDT.


Course Information: Still wondering which courses are right for you? Check these courses out!

SLIG 2023--meets online January 23–27, 2023

    • Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features, coordinated by David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FUGA, FIGRS
    • Bridging the Gap: New England to the Midwest, 1780–1850, coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA
    • Advanced Techniques: Material Culture Research Techniques for Genealogy, coordinated by Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR
    • Metes & Bounds Land Platting, coordinated by Gerald H. "Jerry" Smith, CG
    • Corpus Juris: Advanced Legal Concepts for Genealogy, coordinated by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
    • Advanced Research Techniques for German Genealogy, coordinated by Michael D. Lacopo, DVM
    • Capital Kin: Researching Ancestors Who Lived in Washington, D.C., coordinated by Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CGL
    • African American Genealogy Methods and Strategies, coordinated by LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson, JD, LLM, CG, CGL, FASG
    • Virginia from the Colonial Period to the Civil War: Her Records, Her People, Her Laws, coordinated by Barbara Vines Little, CG, CVGS, FNGS, FUGA
    • Introduction to Genetic Genealogy, coordinated by Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG
    • DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
    • Applied Genealogical Methods Workshop: Hands-on Skillbuilding, coordinated by Michael G. Hait, CG, AG
    • Advanced Genealogical Methods, coordinated by Paul K. Graham, AG, CG, CGL
    • Evidence-Based Writing for Genealogists, coordinated by Melissa A. Johnson, CG
    • Guided Research and Consultation, coordinated by Craig Roberts Scott, MA, CG, FUGA

 

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023--meets online various dates

    • DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
    • Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy, coordinated by Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG
    • The Art of Writing Client Reports, coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
    • Writing and Documenting for Peer Review, coordinated by Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA
    • Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum, coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
    • Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How, coordinated by Diana Elder, AG, and Lisa Stokes, AG

Click here for SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 course outlines, schedules, and videos. 

Registration Website: Our registration system has a new web address. PLEASE update your SLIG registration bookmark! Find us at: https://registration.ugagenealogy.org

Tips for preparing for a smooth registration experience:

  • Join UGA (Utah Genealogical Association) or renew your UGA membership at least two days before registration so the system has time to update and correctly apply the UGA discount to your order.
  • Create or login to your SLIG registration account--this is different from your UGA account--at least 24 hours before registration. Please confirm that your information is still current (name, address, phone number, email, etc.) and update as necessary.
  • Review these SLIG policies you must agree to when registering:
Waitlists: If your desired course sells out before you complete your order, you will be automatically waitlisted and sent back to the course selection page where you can choose another course to register for. After placing an order, you may add yourself to the waitlist for another course in the registration dashboard.

Interested in taking more than one Academy course? On the day of registration, you may register for only one course. Please email the registrar to request the opportunity to enroll in an additional course at registrar@slig.ugagenealogy.org. Beginning July 18, the registrar will review those requests on a case-by-case basis. If your desired second course sells out, please put yourself on the waitlist right away in case your request is approved.

We hope the registration process goes smoothly for you and look forward to supporting your educational goals.

Saturday, July 9, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: Writing and Documenting for Peer Review

Do you want to improve your writing? Maybe you want to prepare your research for peer review. Do you have a dream of seeing your work published in a peer-reviewed journal? Improve your writing skills with Writing and Documenting for Peer Review during SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023!


Writing and Documenting for Peer Review, coordinated by Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA, examines the peer-review process from several angles, arming students with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.

Students will participate in several interactive learning experiences and homework assignments designed to prepare them for the peer-review process. Students will be given the opportunity to incorporate their own writing, prepared before the course begins. Activities include self-editing exercises, live-editing by a former National Genealogical Society Quarterly editor, colleague-to-colleague review between students, and writing groups.

Students will be expected to come to the course familiar with Genealogy Standards. They will learn to incorporate those standards into their writing.

Faculty includes:

  • Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG
  • Paul K. Graham, AG, CG, CGL
  • Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FUGA, FNGS
  • Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
  • Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
Writing and Documenting for Peer Review is scheduled to meet online February 16 through April 27, 2023, on Thursdays from 11:00 am until 3:30 pm Mountain Time.

See the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 2:00 pm MDT.


Thursday, July 7, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How

Earning the Accredited Genealogist credential with the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) allows you to demonstrate your research proficiency in a chosen area. Benefits include strengthened research skills, confidence in performing client work, and respect in the genealogy community.


Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How, coordinated by Diana Elder, AG, and Lisa Stokes, AG, is for the advanced researcher ready to explore the accreditation process. This interactive course will cover the requirements for each ICAPGen testing level and give you valuable information for successful testing. Assignments will provide experience with skills needed for passing each level. You will use rubrics to evaluate your work and that of your peers. A four-hour Level 3 practice project and a personalized meeting with an AG mentor knowledgeable in the chosen region of accreditation will cap off the week.

Faculty includes:

  • Melissa Corn Finlay, AG
  • Jana Greenhalgh, AG
  • Jenny Hansen, AG
  • Kari Meyer, AG
  • Mindy Taylor, AG
Watch this interview with course coordinators Diana Elder and Lisa Stokes:


The course has the following prerequisites:
Becoming an Accredited Genealogist Professional: The Why, the What, the How is scheduled to meet online March 30 through April 27, 2023, on Thursdays from 8:30 am until 4:00 pm Mountain Time.

See the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 2:00 pm MDT.

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: The Art of Writing Client Reports

Seeking to master writing effective research reports? Want to improve your research reporting and writing skills? Here is the course to show you how!


The Art of Writing Client Reports, coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, is for aspiring and practicing professional genealogists who want to enhance their report-writing abilities. This course will provide instruction and hands-on experience for creating each section of a report. A team of professional genealogists will share their expertise in technical writing, evidence analysis, incorporating visual elements, organizing material, time-saving strategies, and documentation. Examples will cover a variety of reporting formats dealing with simple to complex research problems from various professional perspectives. Participants will learn both by evaluating provided reports and writing a research report during the course.

Faculty includes:

  • Apryl Cox, AG
  • Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG
  • Diana Elder, AG
  • Debra A. Hoffman, PLCGS
  • Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
  • Karen Matheson, AG
  • Nancy A. Peters, CG, CGL
  • Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
  • Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG
Class sessions will include hands-on activities, so access to a laptop computer or tablet with Word or another word processing program is necessary during the virtual class sessions. Homework assignments will involve practice in writing various sections of a research report.

The Art of Writing Client Reports is scheduled to meet online March 31 through April 28, 2023, on Fridays from 8:30 am until 4:00 pm Mountain Time.

See the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 2:00 pm MDT.


Tuesday, July 5, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy

Last chance to learn the fundamentals of forensic genealogy from Catherine Desmarais and team! Instructor Michael Ramage, JD, CG, is retiring from teaching at the end of 2023, and the team has decided to retire the course as well.


Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy, coordinated by Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG, is for aspiring and practicing genealogists who want to work with forensic genealogy clients. It will help you learn the fundamental skills needed to establish or strengthen your own forensic practice. Classes each week will explore business practices, work products, skill development, and the types of work in which forensic genealogists engage.

Faculty includes:

  • Angie Bush, MS
  • Kelvin L. Meyers
  • CeCe Moore
  • Michael S. Ramage, JD, CG
Watch this interview with course coordinator Catherine Desmarais:


This online course is intended for those with strong genealogical methodology skills who are interested in learning more about the field of forensic genealogy as a career. You will find it helpful to be familiar with The Board of Certification of Genealogists, Genealogy Standards, 2nd edition revised (Nashville: Ancestry.com, 2021) and Elizabeth Shown Mills, editor, Professional Genealogy: Preparation, Practice & Standards (Baltimore: Genealogical Publishing Company, 2018).

Fundamentals of Forensic Genealogy is scheduled to meet online February 16 through April 20, 2023, on Thursdays from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm Mountain Time.

See the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 2:00 pm MDT.

Saturday, July 2, 2022

SLIG Scholarship Winners

The Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy is pleased to announce the winners of several SLIG-related scholarships.



UGA Jimmy B. Parker Scholarship: Susan Plummer Hoffman

The UGA Jimmy B. Parker Scholarship is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated commitment to genealogical excellence and community involvement. It provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at either SLIG 2023 or SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023.

Susan Plummer Hoffman of Ringoes, New Jersey

After researching family casually for years, Susan discovered educational opportunities to expand her genealogy knowledge through webinars, RootsTech, and National Genealogical Society courses. She volunteers with her local genealogy group and her county's historical society, and she is looking at becoming a professional genealogist.

Holding a bachelor of science degree in nursing from The College of New Jersey, Susan is a retired registered nurse. She now oversees the financial and human resource aspects of the small manufacturing business she owns with her husband. Finding researching for others rewarding, she looks forward to more time in retirement for education, research, volunteering, and possibly attaining certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists.


Laura G. Prescott Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship: Edward Swierczewski

The Laura G. Prescott Scholarship is awarded to an individual who exhibits a passion for genealogy, appreciates the importance of education and standards in the field, and serves the community through volunteerism. It provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at SLIG Fall Virtual 2022, SLIG 2023, or SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023.

Edward Swierczewski of Flushing, New York

Edward has been a professional education for over thirty years, researching and lecturing in psychology and human services at several major universities and government agencies in New York City. He has attended many webinars and conferences, completed ProGen 53 and several institute courses, and is planning to earn the Certified Genealogist and Certified Genealogy Lecturer credentials. He has researched his family history for over twenty-five years and is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. Ed is the founder and chief genealogical officer of Integrative Genealogy, LLC, and is a member of the Utah Genealogical Association.



SLIG Scholarship for First-Time Attendees: Scott Allen Magoon

The SLIG Scholarship for First-Time Attendees is awarded to an individual who has never attended a national genealogical institute prior to SLIG 2023, has sought to improve their genealogical education through formal or informal means, has an intermediate or above level of research knowledge and skills, and is ready for an in-depth learning experience. It provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at SLIG 2023.

Scott Allen Magoon of Choctaw, Oklahoma

Scott has deep New England roots going back to 1650. Upon retiring after thirty years of service with the United States Air Force, Scott started exploring professional genealogy. He holds a master of public administration degree from Troy State University and a certificate from the Boston University Genealogical Research course, and will graduate from ProGen 58 later this year. He has been accepted into the ICAPGen study group this fall and will submit his level one project for ICAPGen accreditation in the New England region next spring.



MyHeritage Chris Darrington Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship: Michelle Gardner

The MyHeritage Chris Darrington Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship is awarded to an individual who is at an intermediate level or above and who has a genuine passion for family history, a strong desire to improve their research skills through quality education, and an enthusiasm for serving the genealogical community. It provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at SLIG 2023.

Michelle Gardner of Wellsville, Utah

Michelle works as a virtual assistant and is the director of operations for the Family Connections Experiment. She grew up in Arizona, where at age sixteen, she was part of a pilot program indexing ship records using an overhead projector and hard disk. She is always looking for a new and better way to improve her research and genealogy options. She notes that she is stuck on a tough line but figures that if she is helping someone else, then maybe in the future, someone else will provide a key for her line.





SLIG Intermediate Foundations Scholarship: Auriette Hahn Lindsey

The SLIG Intermediate Foundations Scholarship is awarded to an individual who has a strong working knowledge of basic genealogy principles, has had several years of experience applying those principles using a variety of record sources to identify ancestors and confirm relationships, has utilized a variety of formal and informal educational opportunities to obtain and strengthen knowledge, and is ready for an in-depth, curriculum-based learning experience. It provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to the Intermediate Foundations course offered at SLIG Fall Virtual 2022.

Auriette Hahn Lindsey of Pensacola, Florida

Auriette always liked to hear family stories but did not get seriously into genealogy research until 2015. Her most exciting discoveries include evidence that she is a seventh-generation Floridian: a college and a city park are named after different branches of her family. The brick walls she would most like to break relate to her 2nd great grandfather William F. Hahn from Germany and her "illegitimate" 2nd great grandfather John Cook of Marion County, Georgia. When she is not working on the family tree, Auriette is a TV news producer and amateur theatre aficionado. She is married with cats.

Friday, July 1, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments

For the first time, DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments is being offered in a multi-week format. This course has received excellent reviews! Are you read to work on or to polish that case study that incorporates DNA evidence?


DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG, is a hands-on course designed for those genealogists who have completed research about a biological relationship and now wish to "write it up" into a polished complex argument. It will teach you how to craft a genealogical proof argument demonstrating that a conclusion about a genetic relationship meets the Genealogical Proof Standard.

Faculty will be available for consultation during weekly sessions and students will partner with another student for peer review.

This is an advanced course and assumes the student is well-versed in beginning and intermediate DNA topics including inheritance paths, interpretation of markers and mutations, genetic relationship predictions, endogamy, pedigree collapse, clustering, chromosome mapping, targeted testing plans, and DNA-related Genealogy Standards.

Please see the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Courses web page for required advanced readings, required reference books, the course outline, other essential details, and updates.

Faculty includes:

  • Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
  • Nancy A. Peters, CG, CGL
  • Scott Wilds, CG
DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments is scheduled to meet online February 17 through March 24, 2023, on Fridays from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm Mountain Time.

See the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 2:00 pm MDT.


Wednesday, June 29, 2022

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023: Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum

Offered for the first time ever! Here is a practicum course constructed specifically for intermediate-level genealogists. Come test your skills in a guided practicum course.


Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum, coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, provides step-by-step guidance for engaging in genealogical research through hands-on experience solving two research problems. This course features a combination of individual work toward solving a case, as is typical in the SLIG Practicum, along with instruction on research planning and analysis strategies for tough cases.

Participants will put their research skills into practice while receiving structure and guidance. Students will analyze background information, create a research plan, conduct research online, track their findings, analyze and correlate information, and report conclusions.

The weekly sessions permit time for students to conduct research on a case, gather to discuss their progress with classmates, conduct further research, and learn to write up conclusions. Students should plan to spend ten to twenty hours per week researching the cases to get the most out of the course.

This course is perfect for genealogists who are not quite ready for the challenge of the Advanced Evidence Analysis Practicum course or anyone who wants to work through each step of a case with guidance.

Faculty includes Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, and Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG.

Intermediate Evidence Analysis is scheduled to meet online February 16 through March 30, 2023, on Thursdays from 9:00 am until 12:45 pm Mountain Time.

See the SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 Course web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 2:00 pm MDT.

Monday, June 27, 2022

SLIG 2023: Guided Research and Consultation

Do you want some guidance on your current genealogy research project? Do you want a week to focus just on your project questions but would like some expert advice on how to proceed? Try Craig Scott's Guided Research and Consultation course during SLIG 2023.


Guided Research and Consultation, coordinated by Craig Roberts Scott, MA, CG, FUGA, provides you with your own personal research guide for an entire week. During the week, as you work on your own project, you will engage in virtual regular group meetings and one-on-one consultations. Assistance will be available as needed during specific research hours.

Although the group and individual sessions take place virtually and many students will choose to research and participate from home, some students might choose to travel on their own to Salt Lake City for the week and research in person at the famous Family History Library.

Watch this interview with course coordinator Craig Scott:


Guided Research and Consultation is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Friday, June 24, 2022

SLIG 2023: Applied Genealogical Methods Workshop: Hands-on Skillbuilding

Looking for a course that takes you on your next step beyond Intermediate Foundations, but you're not quite ready for Advanced Genealogical Methods? This is that "in-between" course that might be right for you!


Applied Genealogical Methods Workshop: Hands-on Skillbuilding, coordinated by Michael G. Hait, CG, AG, provides a unique blend of lectures and instructor-led exercises through which students will work directly with documents to learn and hone skills relating to the research process as a whole. These skills include source citation, research planning, evidence analysis, evidence correlation, and resolving conflicting information.

Faculty includes:

  • LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson, JD, LLM, CG, CGL
  • Paul K. Graham, AG, CG, CGL
  • Scott Wilds, CG
This course includes a week-long homework assignment in which students will write a complete report for their files documenting a research problem of their choosing. The coordinator will provide critiques on their reports to help students further refine their techniques.

This is an intermediate-level course. Students should be familiar with most record types. Prior to class, a published, peer-reviewed case study will be assigned for reading along with questions for discussion in a class session.

Genealogy Standards (2nd edition, revised) is a required textbook for this course. Students should familiarize themselves with chapter 1 before class starts.

Applied Genealogical Methods Workshop: Hands-on Skillbuilding is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

SLIG 2023: Advanced Genealogical Methods

Are you an intermediate-level genealogist, comfortable with research but ready to tackle more challenging and complex genealogical problems? Do you want to learn more advanced research skills? Maybe it's the right moment for you to take Advanced Genealogical Methods!


Advanced Genealogical Methods, coordinated by Paul K. Graham, AG, CG, CGL, addresses the advanced use of evidence derived from various genealogical sources and explores research techniques for populations for which the usual records are in short supply. You will learn how to assemble and use evidence, document your research, and develop proof summaries to reach accurate conclusions and create a credible record of your findings.

Faculty includes:

  • Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FUGA, FNGS
  • Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
  • Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
  • Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG
This intense course is intended for high intermediate genealogists who have completed an intermediate-level course or have equivalent experience. Their research has led them to encounter relationships that cannot be documented only with direct evidence. Students are expected to have taken at least one DNA test.

Students are also encouraged to obtain and read Mastering Genealogical Proof by Thomas W. Jones before the start of the course.

Watch this interview with course coordinator Paul K. Graham:


Advanced Genealogical Methods is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Monday, June 20, 2022

SLIG 2023: Advanced Research Techniques for German Genealogy

Offered for the first time, this course will teach you how to research your German-speaking ancestors.


Advanced Research Techniques for German Genealogy, coordinated by Michael D. Lacopo, DVM, will bring you into conversation with knowledgeable speakers from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean who will help you navigate German genealogy. From history and geography to record groups and archives, you will leave this course abundantly equipped to break down your German genealogical brick walls.

Fluency in German is not required to take this course.

Advanced Research Techniques for German Genealogy is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Friday, June 10, 2022

SLIG 2023: Corpus Juris: Advanced Legal Concepts for Genealogy

This course will take you deeper into using legal resources and records to solve genealogical questions.


Corpus Juris: Advanced Legal Concepts for Genealogy, coordinated by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL, is an advanced-level course offering an opportunity for a deeper understanding of the rich research resources of the law, including those generally available only at law libraries. Students will work with legal records and sources, gaining a better grasp of legal history and its implications for research, as well as the skills to find and apply the law to solve genealogical problems.

Faculty includes:
  • LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson, JD, LLM, CG, CGL, FASG
  • Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGS
  • David McDonald, DMin
  • Forrest R. Hansen, JD
  • Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
This is an advanced-level course. Completion of a basic courese in genealogy and law--Family History Law Library (SLIG) or Law School for Genealogists (GRIP) is recommended.

Corpus Juris: Advanced Legal Concepts for Genealogists is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Wednesday, June 8, 2022

SLIG 2023: African American Genealogy Methods and Strategies

If you are engaged in researching African American ancestors of your own or of others, then this course is for you.


African American Genealogy Methods and Strategies, coordinated by LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson, JD, LLM, CG, CGL, FASG, is an intermediate-level course designed to build skills that will take researchers to the next level by focusing on methodologies and strategies for meeting the Genealogical Proof Standard when researching families that survived slavery. In-class exercises and a focus on case studies will give students the conceptual tools needed to overcome the challenges of researching during the antebellum period.

Faculty includes:
  • Deborah A. Abbot, PhD
  • Tony Burroughs, FUGA
  • Michael G. Hait, CG, AG
  • Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
  • Richard G. Sayre, CG, FUGA
  • Diane M. Warmsley, MS
  • Scott Wilds, CG
Watch an interview with course coordinator LaBrenda Garrett-Nelson:



African American Genealogy Methods and Strategies is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Monday, June 6, 2022

SLIG 2023: DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases

Back by popular demand with all-new case studies!


DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG, is an advanced course designed to deconstruct and study researcher decisions, strategies, and methodologies employed in the correlation of documentary and genetic evidence to establish proven genealogical conclusions. Familiar genealogical skills will be dissected with a DNA twist. Besides working through faculty-provided case studies, several lucky volunteers will have the opportunity to present a real-life "stuck case" and participate in a "think-tank" around options for next steps.

Faculty includes:
  • Catherine Desmarais, CG
  • Melissa A. Johnson, CG
  • Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
  • Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
  • David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FUGA, FIGRS
  • Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
  • Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG
This is an advanced-level course with prerequisites:
  • Completion of a full-week institute course at any genealogical institute in each of three categories:
    • Advanced Methodology, Advanced Genealogical Methods, or Mastering Genealogical Proof;
    • Beginning DNA, Introduction to Genetic Genealogy, or Practical Genetic Genealogy;
    • Establishing Genealogical Proof with DNA, Intermediate DNA, Chromosome Mapping, Advanced DNA, or SLIG Virtual DNA Practicum.
  • If a registrant does not meet the prerequisites, a work sample that correlates genetic and documentary sources to establish a conclusion meeting the Genealogical Proof Standard may be submitted for consideration to the course coordinator.
DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Friday, June 3, 2022

SLIG 2023: Metes & Bounds Land Platting

Land platting skills and the ability to use land plats can help you solve genealogical problems. This advanced course will teach you how.


Metes & Bounds Land Platting, coordinated by Gerald H. "Jerry" Smith, CG, is a practicum-based course in which, after learning essential skills, students will learn by doing real-world research problems with guidance from faculty. Topics include reading and abstracting metes and bounds legal land descriptions, hand-drawing, plats, computer platting, platting over base maps (including USGS), resolving common plat problems, constructing connected tract maps, and geo-locating base maps and plats. Related topics include land tenure, map resources, historical surveying equipment and practices, online resources, and using Google Earth. Much of the course is practicum-based using DeedMapper software.

Faculty includes:

  • Syndey Cruice
  • Kimberly Powell
  • Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
This is an advanced-level course. See the course description on the SLIG website for details about prerequisites and required equipment and software.

Metes & Bounds Land Platting is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.


Wednesday, June 1, 2022

SLIG 2023: Evidence-Based Writing for Genealogists

Are you an intermediate or advanced genealogist looking for help with getting words down on paper? Do you want to write for submission for certification or for publication? Then check out this course!


Evidence-Based Writing for Genealogists, coordinated by Melissa A. Johnson, CG, will help you communicate your thought processes and present evidence in writing. You will learn essential skills to convey complex concepts in genealogical work products, including proof arguments, affidavits, and research reports. The course will focus on meeting the Genealogical Proof Standard and writing in a professional, clear, and concise manner for various audiences.

There are no prerequisites for this course, although the course is recommended for intermediate to advanced genealogists. Some materials will be assigned for reading in advance of the course. Students will be asked to come prepared to begin outlining, strategizing, and writing a small part of their planned written work and bring a writing sample of no more than four pages. The writing sample may be related to the student's own family or another family they have researched. This writing sample will be used in collaborative in-class activities; as a result, students should not use a sample intended for use in the BCG certification portfolio, nor should they use a sample for which they do not have permission to use or that violates the privacy of living individuals. There will be light homework on some evenings.

Faculty includes:

  • Rick Fogarty
  • Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
  • Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
Evidence-Based Writing for Genealogists is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

WANTED: Hive Minders for SLIG 2023 and SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023

Hive Minders make our virtual classrooms function smoothly, addressing challenges that arise. If you are comfortable with technology, consider applying to serve during one of the courses offered during SLIG 2023 and SLIG Academy for Professionals 2023.


Hive Minder job responsibilities include:

  • starting Zoom for each weekly class session;
  • managing closed captioning, breakout rooms, polls, and recordings;
  • assisting faculty and students with light tech and announcements;
  • taking attendance with the provided Airtable attendance tracker;
  • keeping SLIG staff aware of classroom and student issues or concerns.
Hive Minders receive:
  • a tuition waiver for the course for which they serve as Hive Minder;
  • training to be a Hive Minder;
  • a Hive Minder reference packet;
  • assistance and support from SLIG's Virtual Coordinator, Tech Assistant, and Director for emergencies and questions.

To apply to be a Hive Minder during SLIG 2023 or for SLIG Academy for Professionals, please complete the application at this Airtable link. The deadline for applying to be a Hive Minder for either event is June 30, 2022. All applicants will receive notification whether they have been selected via email by July 15, 2022. Persons may apply to be a Hive Minder at either or both events.

Did we mention that Hive Minders receive a tuition waiver?

Monday, May 30, 2022

SLIG 2023: Bridging the Gap: New England to the Midwest, 1780–1850

Have you lost an ancestor who lived in New England or New York between 1780 and 1850? Don't know where they might have gone? This course might help you "bridge the gap!"


Bridging the Gap: New England to the Midwest, 1780–1850, coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA, focuses on strategies and records for tracing families from New England to the Midwest between 1780 and 1850, grounded in the historical context of this vibrant period in American history. Specific topics will explore key New England and Midwestern sources, migration patterns, manuscript materials, historical overviews, military records, land and property acquisition, and case studies documenting various techniques. Specific focus is placed upon tracing families who passed through New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio (though other states are included).

Students will have the opportunity to work on an optional project to "map" the families each is researching, to find common migration pathways and historical connections.

Faculty includes:

  •  Annette Burke Lyttle, MA
  • Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
  • Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
Bridging the Gap: New England to the Midwest, 1780–1850, is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 20-23. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more informaiton, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Friday, May 27, 2022

SLIG 2023: Virginia from the Colonial Period to the Civil War

This could be your last chance to learn about Virginia genealogy from Barbara Vines Little!


Virginia from the Colonial Period to the Civil War: Her Records, Her People Her Laws, coordinated by Barbara Vines Little, CG, FVGS, FNGS, FUGA, is intended for intermediate to advanced researchers seeking a broad knowledge of Virginia background and resources from the colonial period through the early 1800s. Commentary will be provided on unique resources, applicable laws, and the interpretation of information in specific record sources. Emphasis will be placed on records available either online or through microfilm loan programs; however, researchers will be introduced to records available only in manuscript form at either the local level or in larger research repositories.

Faculty includes:

  • Victor S. Dunn, CG
Watch this interviw with course coordinator Barbara Vines Little:


Virginia from the Colonial Period to the Civil War is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

SLIG 2023: Introduction to Genetic Genealogy

Are you starting from scratch with figuring out DNA? Or do you have a basic handle on genetic genealogy and want to move towards an intermediate level of knowledge and skill? Do you want to master the basics of genetic genealogy research? Then this is the course for you!


Introduction to Genetic Genealogy, coordinated by Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG, is a hands-on course guiding participants through applications in a variety of investigative contexts. Participants will practice basic interpretation of Y-DNA, Mitochondrial DNA, X-DNA, and autosomal DNA evidence within the context of traditional document research. Students will receive written feedback on daily homework assignments, in-class lab assistance, and a 15-minute DNA consultation to review a DNA goal and related results, and outline a research plan.

Faculty include:

  • Angie Bush, MS
  • Melissa A. Johnson, CG
  • Gretchen Jorgensen
  • Leah Larkin, PhD
  • Dana Leeds
  • Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
  • Tanner Tolman
This course has no prerequisites, and is designed for participants with no background in genetics as well as those with a basic understanding but who want to move on to an intermediate level.

Introduction to Genetic Genealogy is scheduled to meet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.

Monday, May 23, 2022

SLIG 2023: Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features

You already likely know about FamilySearch as the go-to website for anyone wanting to research their ancestors. Did you know that FamilySearch is also an organization with a proud 128-year history and that constantly grows and keeps current with new opportunities? This new course will provide you with unique insights and resources to enhance your genealogical efforts.


Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features, coordinated by David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FUGA, FIGRS, will guide you in exploring the many features and products FamilySearch has to offer. At FamilySearch, it is all about the individual and the experience you will have either in person or online.

Faculty includes:

  • John Alexander, MA, MLIS
  • Daniel Atwell, MLIS
  • Brandon Baird AG
  • Daniele Batson AG
  • Rebekah Grow
  • Debbie Gurtler, AG
  • Sandy Joseph
  • Robert Kehrer, MBA
  • Savannah Larson
  • Rachel Crump Matheus
  • Whitney Peterson
  • Robert Raymond, MS
  • Lynn Turner, AG
  • Janell Vasquez
  • Lauren Vasylyev
FamilySearch: Technology and Features is scheduled to meeet online January 23–27, 2023. All SLIG 2023 courses will be offered virtually this year. (See you in person in Salt Lake City in 2024!)

See the SLIG 2023 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2023 registration opens Saturday, July 16, at 10:00 am MDT.