SLIG 2024 and SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Registration Begins July 22

SLIG 2024 registration opens July 22, 2023, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 registration opens July 22, 2023, at 2:00 pm MDT.

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

SLIG 2024: meets online January 22–26, 2024.

• Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features, coordinated by Lynn Turner, AG
• Immigration from Colonial Times to 1890, coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA
• Exploring Their Life: The Social History of Your Family, coordinated by Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR
• Advanced Research Tools: Land Records, coordinated by Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CGL
• The Family History Law Library, coordinated by Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL, and Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
• Guide to Treasures Found in Federal Records, coordinated by Michael L. Strauss, AG
• Genealogy Research in France: An Introduction, coordinated by Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG
• Researching Along the Northern Plains, coordinated by Gary Ball-Kilbourne, PhD, CG
• The Fundamentals of Southern U.S. Research and Resources, coordinated by J. Mark Lowe, FUGA
• DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
• Beyond the Brick Wall: Strategies for Pre-1850 U.S. Research, coordinated by Julia A. Anderson, MA, AG; Beth Taylor, CG; Lyn Rasmussen, CG, and Jacqueline Kanyuck, AG
• Advanced Genealogical Methods, coordinated by Paul K. Graham, AG, CG
• Guided Research and Consultation, coordinated by Craig Roberts Scott, MA, CG, FUGA

Click here for SLIG 2024 course details, outlines, schedules, and videos.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: meets on various dates.

• Bring 'Em Back to Life: Writing Our Ancestors' Stories, coordinated by Annette Burke Lyttle, MA
• You're Invited: Public Speaking from Concept to Delivery, coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA
• The Art of Writing a Research Report, coordinated by Debra A. Hoffman, PLCGS
• BCG Certification: Understanding and Meeting Standards, coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, and Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
• DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
• Editing Genealogical Writing, coordinated by Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA
• Gothic Script and Fraktur: Reading Records of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic, plus German-American Church Books and Newspapers, coordinate by F. Warren Bittner

Click here for SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 course details, outlines, schedules, and videos.

Registration Website: The registration webpage is here. Bookmark it now!

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 the SLIG polices to which you much agree when registering:
• Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
• Registration and Cancellation
• Privacy

Waitlists: If your desired course sells out before you complete you order, you will be automatically waitlisted and sent back to the course selection page where you can choose another course for which to register. After placing an order, you may add yourself to the waitlist for another course in the registration dashboard.

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

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: Gothic Script and Fraktur

Just announced! F. Warren Bittner is offering his course on Gothic Script and Fraktur: Reading Records of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic, plus German-American Church Books and Newspapers, during SLIG Spring Virtual 2024!

German handwriting is troublesome with seven forms of the letter s, h's that look like f's, e's that look like n's, p's that look like nothing ever seen before, and r's that are just plain upside down. In this course, you will learn to read Gothic script and Fraktur typeface, having fun in the process. German genealogical vocabulary and Latin terms are included. By the end of this course, you will have the tools to read basic German genealogical records.

Check back on the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for updates, including dates and times the course will meet, as well as the course schedule.

SLIG Spring Virtual registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 2:00 MDT.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: Editing Genealogical Writing

Editors are not born editors. They become skilled at their craft by editing their own writing. They play with words, massaging their thoughts, turning sentences and paragraphs on end, reducing paragraphs to sentences, ripping out irrelevant thoughts, and experimenting with organization. Editing Genealogical Writing, coordinated by Karen Mauer Jones, CG, FGBS, FUGA, will provide opportunities for you to hone your editorial skills.

Editing Genealogical Writing is a new course and a continuation of the SLIG course on Writing and Documenting for Peer Review, which is a prerequisite. It provides more opportunities for hands-on work and peer-to-peer collaboration, expanding on topics introduced in the Peer Review course.

As pre-course homework, each student is asked to bring to class a proof argument in the formative stage. In other words, most of the research is completed (there will always be more you can do), you're sure you've solved the problem, but you haven't started writing it up or you've just started. You will write the proof argument throughout the class, then do peer-to-peer editing at the end.

Other instructors:

• Paul K. Graham, AG, CG, CGL
• Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FUGA, FNGS
• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA

Editing Genealogical Writing will meet online on Tuesdays, 11:00 am to 3:30 pm MT, March 5, through May 7, 2024.

See the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Spring Virtual registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 2:00 MDT.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments

After receiving excellent reviews, DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments is back again, offered in a virtual, multi-week format. Are you ready to work on or polish that case study that incorporates DNA evidence?

DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG, will help you learn how to craft a genealogical proof argument demonstrating that a conclusion about a genetic relationship meets the Genealogical Proof Standard. This hands-on course is designed for students who have completed research about a biological relationship and now wish to write it up into a polished complex proof argument. You will have the opportunity to incorporate each session's learnings into their own proof argument. You will also benefit from private consultations with faculty and from paired peer review experiences.

Other Instructors:

• Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
• Scott Wilds, CG

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 Standard.

DNA Dreamers in Action: Writing Proof Arguments will meet online on Fridays, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm MT, March 1–29, 2024.

See the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including required reading and updates.

SLIG Spring Virtual registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 2:00 pm MDT.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: BCG Certification: Understanding and Meeting Standards

Whether you are only pondering whether seeking certification by the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) is for you, or whether you are actively making preparations to work on your certification portfolio, or whether you are already "on the clock," then you will want to take BCG Certification: Understanding and Meeting Standards.

BCG Certification: Understanding and Meeting Standards, coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, and Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG, centers around BCG's requirements for credentialing, the Genealogical Proof Standard, Genealogy Standards, and Rubrics for Evaluating New Applications for BCG Certification. The course will use class discussions, hands-on activities, and at-home practice to help you build foundational skills in transcribing records, planning efficient research, analyzing records, correlating information, reporting on research results, and writing about evidence.

Note: 

• This is an advanced methodology course targeted to individuals preparing for BCG certification, although genealogists seeking to improve advanced skills will also benefit from this course.
• This course is not sponsored by the Board for Certification of Genealogists. The opinions expressed by the faculty are entirely their own.
• The BCG Application Guide and Genealogy Standards represent the authority in all matters related to certification. Please refer to the Board for Certification of Genealogists website for more information about certification.
• Consistent with BCG Application Guide instructions, any projects submitted by new applicants to BCG must be their own work. While this course emphasizes the skills tested by BCG, students will not work on their own portfolio projects in class.

BCG Certification: Understanding and Meeting Standards will meet online on Thursdays, 8:00 am to 3:30 pm MT, February 15 through March 28, 2024.

See the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including the reading list for this course and any updates.

SLIG Spring Virtual registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 2:00 pm MDT.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: The Art of Writing a Research Report

Want to effectively capture your research whether writing for yourself or a client? Do you find writing effective research reports to be a challenge? Here's a course that will provide instruction and hands-on experience in creating an efficient and effective report.

In The Art of Writing a Research Report, coordinated by Debra A. Hoffman, PLCGS, a team of professional genealogists will share their expertise in technical writing, evidence analysis, incorporating visual elements, organizing materials, time-saving strategies, and documentation. You will receive a variety of reporting formats covering simple to complex research problems from an array of professional perspectives. You will learn both by evaluating provided reports and writing a research report during the course.

Other Instructors:

• Catherine B. W. Desmarais, CG
• Diana Elder, AG
• Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
• Karen Matheson, AG
• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
• Nancy A. Peters, CG, CGL
• Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
• Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG

Watch this interview with course coordinator Debra A. Hoffman as she talks about The Art of Writing Research Reports.

The Art of Writing a Research Report will meet online on Wednesday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm MT, February 28 through March 27, 2024.

See the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: You’re Invited: Public Speaking from Concept to Delivery

Are you ready to become a genealogical speaker? Maybe try your hand (your voice?) at presenting a case study at a genealogy conference? Or may teach a webinar? Or offer a live workshop? This course will help you begin as a genealogical speaker. And if you have already started speaking and presenting, this course will assist you in honing your speaking skills.

You’re Invited: Public Speaking from Concept to Delivery, coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA, will help you transform an initial concept into a full-fledged presentation delivered in front of an audience. It is also ideal for existing speakers seeking to brush up on their skills and expand their portfolios. All can explore how public speaking might align with their aspirations.

This is an intensive, interactive course that explores many key components of public speaking for genealogists within the general framework of understanding the business of speaking, knowing your audience, developing your presentation, and delivering your presentation.

Other instructors:

• Annette Burke Lyttle, MA
• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
• Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

You’re Invited: Public Speaking from Concept to Delivery will meet online on Thursdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm MT, February 15 through April 25, 2024.

See the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024: Bring ‘Em Back to Life: Writing Our Ancestors’ Stories

How are you going to tell the stories of your ancestors? This course can teach you how!

Bring ‘Em Back to Life: Writing Our Ancestors’ Stories, coordinated by Annette Burke Lyttle, MA, will help researchers understand how to tell the stories of their ancestors, avoid pitfalls, and gain the skills and techniques that will give them confidence as writers. Don't just be a guardian of your family's history; be a teller of those family stories. At the end of this course, you will have a completed writing project and a plan for how best to share it.

Other instructors:

• Lisa Alzo, MFA
• Jenifer Kahn Bakkala
• Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR
• Kimberly T. Powell
• Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL

Watch this interview with coordinator Annette Burke Lyttle as she talks about the course:

Bring ‘Em Back to Life: Writing Our Ancestors’ Stories will meet online on Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm MT, February 14 through April 18, 2024.

See the SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 2:00 pm MDT.

SLIG 2024: 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 one-on-one sessions take place virtually, and many students 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 FamilySearch Library.

Watch this interview with course coordinator Craig Scott:

Guided Research and Consultation will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: 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.

Advanced Genealogical Methods will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Beyond the Brick Walls: Strategies for Pre-1850 U.S. Research

Do you get stumped when you try to research an ancestor earlier than the 1850 U.S. census? Hate beating your head against that particular brick wall? Then take this course to learn how to avoid that research headache.

Beyond the Brick Wall: Strategies for Pre-1850 U.S. Research is designed to show you how to overcome the unique challenges of researching in the United States before 1850. Records from that earlier time often contain less information, are seldom indexed, and can be challenging to find. You will be introduced to pre-1850 record types and learn strategies for identifying relationships prior to 1850. You will gain hands-on practice in applying advanced research skills, record analysis, and evidence correlation.

Beyond the Brick Wall is coordinated and taught by

• Julia A Anderson, MA, AG
• Jacqueline Kanyuck, AG
• Lyn Rasmussen, CG
• Beth Taylor, CG

Watch this interview as the coordinators discuss this course:

Beyond the Brick Wall: Strategies for Pre-1850 U.S. Research will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases

Back again by popular demand!

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 a next step.

Faculty includes:

• Catherine Desmarais, CG
• Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FNGS, FUGA
• David K. Larsen, PhD, MSLIS
• 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 these 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 may be submitted for consideration that correlates genetic and documentary sources to establish a conclusion meeting the Genealogical Proof Standard.

DNA Dreamers: Integrating DNA Evidence to Resolve Complex Cases will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses web page for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT,

SLIG 2024: The Fundamentals of Southern U.S. Research and Resources

Do you have ancestors who lived in the southern United States? You might want to consider taking The Fundamentals of Southern U.S. Research and Resources.

In The Fundamentals of Southern U.S. Research and Resources, coordinated by J. Mark Lowe, FUGA, you will start with basic methodologies and review the records and resources that lead to answers when researching ancestors in the southern United States. Highlights include transportation routes, manuscript collections, occupational resources, land, court and estate records (and the laws that created them) along with problem-solving techniques used by real Southern researchers.

Other instructors:

• Deborah A. Abbot, PhD
• Clint Alley
• Gail Jackson Miller, CG
• Ari Wilkins

The Fundamentals of Southern U.S. Research and Resources will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Genealogy Research in France: An Introduction

Research has led you back to ancestors living in France? You've had no experience with genealogical research in French records? Do you want to know what to do first and next? Then this course is for you.

Genealogy Research in France: An Introduction, coordinated by Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG, will teach you to trace your French ancestry through civil registration, church, census, military, and newspaper records. You will gain hands-on experience working with real cases and associated documents. Several case studies will be shared, highlighting methodological considerations of research in different areas of mainland France. Even if you don't know French, this course is for you!

Other instructors:

• Brandon Baird, AG
• Amberly Beck, AG
• Forrest R. Hansen, JD
• Aimee Marie
• Renaud Marie, AG
• Ariel Munger, BA, CG

Genealogy Research in France: An Introduction will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Researching Along the Northern Plains

The Great American Desert, Flyover Country, and Buffalo Commons are all terms used to describe the Northern Plains of the United States. they imply an empty country, with little of interest and few residents. Nothing could be further from the truth. This region--which embraces the entirety of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska, plus western Minnesota, western Iowa, and eastern Montana--is filled with intriguing people, rich and varied histories and cultures, and wide-ranging genealogical challenges and opportunities. Researching Along the Northern Plains will enable you to uncover genealogical gems about your ancestors who settled in or passed through the Northern Plains.

Researching Along the Northern Plains, coordinated by Gary Ball-Kilbourne, PhD, CG, will provide you with insights into researching the region as a whole as well as its distinctive states. Special attention will be given to Native Americans of the Northern Plains and key ethnic immigrant groups. Important brick-and-mortar repositories, online availability of sources, and helpful agencies will be discussed. Guidance for participants to develop their own locality guides will be provided. 

Other instructors:

• J. H. "Jay" Fonkert, CG
• Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CGL
• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
• Julie Miller, CG, CGL, FNGS
• Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR
• Paula Stuart-Warren, CG, FMGS, FUGA
• Jeff Svare, AG

There is no nightly homework for this course. However, students will be asked to select one county or larger city within the Northern Plains region. Throughout the week, students will develop their own locality guide for the county or city they selected. During the last class session, students will be encouraged to share their guides and the insights gained from developing them.

Watch this video as coordinator Gary Ball-Kilbourne talks about Researching Along the Northern Plains:

Researching Along the Northern Plains will meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

WANTED: Hive Minders for SLIG 2024 and SLIG Spring Virtual 2024

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 2024 or SLIG Spring Virtual 2024.

Hive Minder job responsibilities include:

• starting Zoom for each weekly 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.

Courses offered during SLIG 2024 may be viewed here. Courses offered during SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 may be viewed here.

To apply to be a Hive Minder during SLIG 2024 or SLIG Spring Virtual 2024, please complete the application at this Airtable link. The deadline for applying to be a Hive Minder for either event is June 30, 2023. All applicants will receive notification whether they have been selected before registration in July. Persons may apply to be a Hive Minder at either or both events.

Did we mention that Hive Minders receive a tuition waiver?

SLIG 2024: Guide to Treasures Found in Federal Records

Are you ready to go to the next level by digging deeper into federal records? What might you discover in compiled military service records, pension records, private and public military acts and laws, dog tags, and federal and state bounty land records among other places? Find out in Guide to Treasures Found in Federal Records!

In Guide to Treasures Found in Federal Records, coordinated by Michael L. Strauss, AG, you will learn about a variety of records maintained and held by the National Archives of the United States. You might not have been exposed to some of these records before! What might these federal records show you about the life and times of your ancestors?

Faculty includes:

• Michael Brophy, MBA
• Annette Burke Lyttle, MA
• Rich Venezia

Guide to Treasures Found in Federal Records is scheduled to meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

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

Seats are still available for SLIG Fall Virtual 2023. Grab yours while they last!

Seats are still available for:

• Intermediate Foundations (coordinated by Annette Burke Lyttle, MA)
• Introduction to Genetic Genealogy (coordinated by Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG)
• Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum (coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA)
• Proving Your Pedigree with DNA (coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG)
• Discovering Quaker Records--In the US and the British Isles (coordinated by Steven W. Morrison, MPA)
• Assemblage: Preparing, Writing, and Revising Proof Arguments (coordinated by Jan Joyce, DBA, CG, CGL, AG)
• Advanced Evidence Analysis Practicum (coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA)

You can register for any of these courses here.

We look forward to seeing you online at SLIG Fall Virtual 2023!

SLIG 2024: The Family History Law Library

Want to know one of the key differences between a good genealogist and a great one? Knowledge of and experience with court records! And who better to learn from than The Legal Genealogist herself, Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL, and the knowledgeable Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA.

The Family History Law Library will cover the basic legal concepts and legal research approaches appropriate for genealogists. Topics will include courts and their records, estate laws, legislative records, pensions, land law, and more. Elements of both English common law and Roman law will be introduced through classes on the legal concepts found in Irish, German, and French law that relate to research in those countries and their relevance to research in the United States.

Faculty includes:

• F. Warren Bittner, MS
• Forrest R. Hansen, JD
• David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FUGA, FIGRS
• Marian L. Smith (retired from USCIS)

The Family History Law Library is scheduled to meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for prerequisites and more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Advanced Research Tools: Land Records

"The major fortunes in America have been made in land," is a quote attributed to John D. Rockefeller. The major economy of the nation from the colonial period through the 1860s was agriculture. The acquisition of land was a promise of a better life and a major draw to immigrants from other nations.

In Advanced Research Tools: Land Records, coordinated by Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CG, you will explore land development, law, and acquisition across the nation's history. State and federal land records will be discussed as well as maps and land platting, Genealogically-rich, deed and other types of land records are full of relationships, community, and context for the savvy researcher.

Faculty includes:

• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
• Kimberly T. Powell
• Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
• Richard G. Sayre, CG, CGL, FUGA
• Gerald H. "Jerry" Smith, CG

Watch this interview in which course coordinator Rebecca Whitman Koford talks about the course:

Advanced Research Tools: Land Records is scheduled to meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for prerequisites and more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Exploring Their Life: The Social History of Your Family

Social history looks at the ordinary person. It's "history. . . with the people put back in." It examines family life, food, education, immigration, death, labor, and industry as experienced by "real people." For family historians, social history helps us understand our ancestor's life and adds historical context.

Exploring Their Life: The Social History of Your Family, coordinated by Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR, introduces social history systematically by modeling new research skills, introducing sources, and imparting historical backgrounds to events of interest to the genealogist. You will learn how to do comprehensive historical research, benefit from a focused look at historical topics, and learn how to present this information to your family. This course will be different from any social history course Gena Philibert-Ortega has offered before.

Faculty includes:

• Donna Cox Baker, PhD
• Dan Bouk, PhD
• Tammy A. Helps
• Jan Joyce, DBA, CG, CGL, AG
• Annette Burke Lyttle, MA
• Ari Wilkins

Exploring Their Life: The Social History of Your Family is scheduled to meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Course webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Immigration from Colonial Times to 1890

Uncovering an ancestor's immigration story is a rich experience for many genealogists. However, challenges exist when tracing immigrants during the colonial period through 1890. In Immigration from Colonial Times to 1890, students will discover resources for identifying an individual's or family's immigration while exploring methods to contextualize and further understand their experience.

 

Immigration from Colonial Times to 1890, coordinated by D. Joshua Taylor, MA, MLS, FUGA, explores various compiled and original source materials, including online and onsite resources. Case studies will provide methodologies for finding immigrant stories despite missing or inconsistent records. Other topics covered included forced immigration, colonial settlements, indentured servants, passenger lists, customs passenger lists, naturalization records, foreign passenger records, name variants, compiled databases, newspapers, and immigrant societies.

Faculty includes:

• Grant Din
• Debbie Gurtler, AG
• Janice Lovelace, PhD
• Annette Burke Lyttle, MA
• Rich Venezia

Immigration from Colonial Times to 1890 is scheduled to meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG 2024: Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features

You already know FamilySearch as the go-to website for researching your ancestors. But did you know that FamilySearch is also an organization with a proud 128-year history that constantly grows and keeps current with new opportunities? At FamilySearch, it's all about the individual and the experience you will have either in person or online.

Behind the Scenes at FamilySearch: Technology and Features, coordinated by Lynn Turner, AG, will illustrate the array of different opportunities to use the resources of FamilySearch and to understand the foundations of each experience. Come explore the many features and products that FamilySearch has to offer.

Faculty includes:

• John K. Alexander, MA, MLIS
• Daniel Atwell, MLIS
• Brandon L. Baird, AG, MEd
• Danielle Batson, AG
• Charlotte Noelle Champenois, AG
• Tim Cross
• Rebekah Grow
• Debbie Gurtler, AG
• Sandra Joseph
• Amber Larsen, AG
• Caleigh McGraw Oldroyd
• Whitney Peterson
• David E. Rencher, AG, CG, FUGA, FIGRS
• Lauren Wake, AG
• Darris G. Williams

FamilySearch: Technology and Features is scheduled to meet online January 22–26, 2024. All SLIG 2024 courses will be offered virtually this year.

See the SLIG 2024 Courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG 2024 registration opens Saturday, July 22, at 10:00 am MDT.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023: Advanced Evidence Analysis Practicum

Back again with all new cases!

Coordinated by Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA, the Advanced Evidence Analysis Practicum provides an opportunity for advanced genealogists to gain hands-on experience solving tough cases. Participants work on five complex genealogical research problems—a new one each week. This practicum is for you if you are an advanced researcher and want to gain experience conducting research on challenging problems, analyzing and correlating information, and writing conclusions.

You will practice using indirect evidence, broadening research to include the FAN club, resolving conflicts, and organizing evidence into a written summary. The research problems are varied, offering the challenge to stretch your mind and skills in new directions. You will work individually on the case each week and then gather to discuss your progress with classmates and the instructor. In addition, you will compare sources, strategies, and methodologies, discuss difficulties encountered, and receive guidance from the case study author.

Case Study Instructors:

• Gary Ball-Kilbourne, PhD, CG
• Nicole Gilkison LaRue, CG
• Stephanie O'Connell, CG
• Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG
• Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG

This course is designed for advanced genealogists who have sufficient experience and education to work on complex genealogical problems. Most students plan 15–20 hours per week to work on the cases and write up a summary of findings.

Prerequisites:

• An advanced-level methodology course such as:
• SLIG—Advanced Genealogical Methods with Tom Jones or Paul Graham
• IGHR—Advanced Genealogy and Evidence Analysis with Elizabeth Shown Mills or Judy Russell
• GRIP—Advanced Genealogical Methods with Tom Jones
• BYU Family History degree
• NIGS certificate
• Boston University Certificate in Genealogical Research
• ProGen Study Group completion

    OR

• Equivalent experience:
• Students may demonstrate their experience with genealogical research by submitting a paper detailing how they solved a genealogical problem. Please include source citations to support your conclusions. Students may register for the course and submit the paper for consideration by August 20.
• Or students may submit a summary of their educational and research background instead of a report.

The Advanced Evidence Analysis Practicum will meet on Thursdays, 9:00 am to 11:00 am Mountain Time, September 7 through October 12.

Watch this interview in which course coordinator Angela Packer McGhie talks about the practicum:

See the SLIG Fall Virtual courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Fall Virtual registration opens Saturday, June 10, at 12:00 Noon MDT.

NOTE: Registration for all SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 courses has been postponed to June 10!

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023: Assemblage: Preparing, Writing, and Revising Proof Arguments

You're a good writer and a great researcher. You have been told that by mentors, instructors, peers, and probably your family! But why does it seem like your written product sometimes doesn't work? Perhaps it is a case study, a client report, or a family narrative. It might have been during a course, a peer study group, or an institute setting that you struggled with putting it all together. If this sounds like you, then Assemblage: Preparing, Writing, and Revising Proof Arguments, coordinated by Jan Joyce, could be what you seek.

Assemblage is the writing, splicing, dicing, editing, and piecing together of your proof argument and other writing. You will want to take this course for a variety of reasons, including:

• preparing for certification through BCG or accreditation through ICAPGen
• fine-tuning articles for submission to journals
• enhancing client reports
• crafting work for sharing with family
• writing proofs of kinship for attachment to online family trees.

Other faculty includes:

• Shannon Green, CG
• Debra Koehler
• Cynthia Richardson
• Kim Richardson

Course coordinator Jan Joyce talks about the Assemblage course in this interview:

Assemblage: Preparing, Writing, and Revising Proof Arguments will meet online on Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Mountain Time, September 13 through November 15, 2023.

See the SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 course webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 registration opens Saturday, May 20, at 12:00 Noon MDT.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023: Discovering Quaker Records—In the U.S. and the British Isles

If you have a colonial dead-end from New England, the Mid-Atlantic, or the Carolinas, you might have a Quaker hiding in your family tree.

Although few in number, Quakers left a mountain of records, with many originals now available online. In this course explaining Quaker records in both the United States and the British Isles, you will learn of unique finding aids to help you locate records residing in on-site repositories. Discover how Quakers' historical origins and their views on the military and slavery affected their migration patterns across the U.S. Grasp how radical it was for women to play an equal role in a religion and its record keeping. Leave the course with a massive bibliography of Quaker records in print and online.

Faculty:

• Steven W. Morrison, course coordinator
• Annette Burke Little, MA

Discovering Quaker Records will meet online on Thursdays, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Mountain Time, September 14 through November 16, 2023.

See the SLIG 2023 Fall Virtual course webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 registration opens Saturday, May 20, at 12:00 Noon MDT.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023: Proving Your Pedigree with DNA

Back by popular demand!

Proving Your Pedigree with DNA, coordinated by Karen Stanbary, MA, LCSW, CG, will guide you in applying your DNA analysis skills to the documentation of one of your ancestral lines back to a second great-grandparent couple. Learn to incorporate genetic evidence in a proof of parentage as part of a fully documented compiled genealogy meeting Genealogy Standards. Taught during SLIG Fall Virtual since 2021 and receiving excellent reviews, this is the intermediate-level course you need.

Highlights of the course:

• Practical step-by-step examples
• Hands-on practice with your own DNA results and research project
• Private one-on-one consultations with expert faculty members.

By the end of the course you will have:

• A source-cited lineage, including proof of biological parentage that meets Genealogy Standards
• A graphic descendant tree
• A unique, student-generated "Golden Nuggets" Quicksheet.

Prerequisites: This is an intermediate methodology course focusing on autosomal DNA. This course will not cover beginning DNA topics such as inheritance patters, tools, and references. The prerequisites require previous completion of the following full-week institute courses at any genealogical institute in two categories:

• An intermediate-level methodology course such as:
• Intermediate Foundations
• Intermediate Genealogy and Historical Studies
• Digging Deeper: Records, Tools, and Skills

AND

• A DNA course such as:
• Beginning DNA
• Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
• Practical Genetic Genealogy
• All-DNA Evidence Analysis 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.

Completion of this course will serve as a prerequisite for the advanced DNA courses offered at SLIG and IGHR.

Additional faculty includes:

• Nicole Dyer
• Thomas W. Jones, PhD, CG, FASG, FUGA, FNGS
• Rebecca Whitman Koford, CG, CGL
• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
• Paul Woodbury, MEd, AG
• Jennifer Armstrong Zinck, CG

Watch this interview as Debra Hoffman shares her experience in the Proving Your Pedigree with DNA course:

Proving Your Pedigree with DNA will meet online on Friday's, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Mountain Time, September 29 through November 3, 2023 (no class on October 20).

See the SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 course webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 registration opens Saturday, May 20, at 12:00 Noon MDT.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023: Intermediate Evidence Analysis Practicum

Back by popular demand! This 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 advanced practicum, along with group work on research planning and instruction on analysis strategies for touch cases.

Participants will put their research skills into practice while receiving structure and guidance. Students will work together to analyze background information and create a research plan for each case, and then conduct individual research online, track 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 Practicum is scheduled to meet online on Thursdays 9:00 am to 1:30 pm Mountain Time, October 19 through November 16, 2023.

Watch this interview in which course coordinator Angela Packer McGhie talks about the practicum:

See the SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 registration opens Saturday, May 20, at 12:00 Noon MDT.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023: Intermediate Foundations

Do you already has some experience in genealogy, either self-taught or from a beginner's course? Are you looking to enhance your research skills from home around your busy schedule? Are you looking for a course that will lead you into an intermediate skill level and prepare you for more advanced genealogical education and research? Then check out the Intermediate Foundations course offered during SLIG Fall Virtual 2023!

Coordinated by Annette Burke Lyttle, MA, this course provides an in-depth institute course to elevate your knowledge and skills. You will expand your ability to find and analyze a number of record types and learn to conduct research using best practices and following genealogical standards.

You will gain experience in your new skills through homework involving original records. In addition, a closed Facebook group will provide further conversation with participants and instructors.

Additional instructors for this course include:

• Angie Bush, MS
• Angela Packer McGhie, CG, FUGA
• Nancy A. Peters, CG, CGL
• Gena Philibert-Ortega, MA, MAR
• Kimberly T. Powell
• Judy G. Russell, JD, CG, CGL
• Michael L. Strauss, AG
• Rich Venezia

Intermediate Foundations will meet online Wednesdays, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Mountain Time, September 13 through November 15, 2023.

Watch this video in which Taralyn Frost Parker shares her experience in the Intermediate Foundations course:

Course coordinator Annette Burke Lyttle talks about the course in this interview:

See the SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 courses webpage for more information, including updates. This course is taught each fall.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 registration opens Saturday, May 20, at 12:00 Noon MDT. 

SLIG Fall Virtual 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 various 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. In addition, students will receive written feedback on weekly 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 requires that students have intermediate-level experience in document-based genealogical research and access to the autosomal DNA test results of at least one individual at one of the major DNA testing companies (23andMe, Ancestry, Family Tree DNA, MyHeritage).

Introduction to Genetic Genealogy will meet online on Thursday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Mountain Time, September 14 through October 19, 2023. (No class October 12.)

Watch this interview in which Paul Woodbury talks about the course.

See the SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 courses webpage for more information, including updates.

SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 registration opens Saturday, May 20, at 12:00 Noon MDT.

Wanted: Hive Minders for SLIG Fall Virtual 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 Fall Virtual 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.

Courses offered during SLIG Fall Virtual 2023 may be viewed here.

To apply to be a Hive Minder during SLIG Fall Virtual 2023, please complete the application at this Airtable link. The deadline for applying is May 1, 2023. All applicants will receive notification via email whether they have been selected.

A separate call for Hive Minders during SLIG 2024 and SLIG Spring Virtual 2024 will arrive in June.

Did we mention that Hive Minders receive a tuition waiver?

May 1st Deadline to Apply for SLIG Scholarships

Applications are now being accepted for several scholarships available to participants in upcoming SLIG events. The deadline for each SLIG-specific scholarship is May 1, 2023. 

In this video interview SLIG's scholarship chairperson, Kathleen Carter, talks about opportunities to win a scholarship for a course from SLIG. 

For information about specific available SLIG scholarships, look over the summaries below and click on each scholarship title for links to additional details and application procedures.

SLIG Scholarship for First-Time Institute Attendees

The SLIG Scholarship for First-Time Institute Attendees provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at SLIG 2024. Applicants should meet these qualifications: (1) never have attended, nor will be attending, any of the national genealogical institutes prior to SLIG 2024; (2) have previously sought to improve their genealogical education through formal or informal means; (3) have an intermediate or above level of research knowledge and skills, and are ready for an in-depth learning experience; and (4) have identified a SLIG 2024 course that meets their ongoing educational objectives.

Watch this interview with Scott Magoon, last year's First-Time Institute Attendee scholarship winner, as he talks about his experience:

SLIG Intermediate Foundations Scholarship

The SLIG Intermediate Foundations Scholarship provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to the Intermediate Foundations course offered at SLIG Fall Virtual 2023. For more information about the Intermediate Foundations course, click this link. Applicants should meet these qualifications: (1) have a strong working knowledge of basic genealogical research principles and have had several years of experience applying those principles using a variety of record sources to identify ancestors and confirm relationships; (2) have utilized a variety of formal and informal educational opportunities to obtain and strengthen knowledge, and now feel ready for an in-depth, curriculum-based learning experience; (3) have time available each week during the course to spend at least three hours in class sessions plus five to ten hours to complete homework; and (4) have reviewed the course description and outline to identify how this course will help meet their educational objectives.

Watch this interview with last year's Intermediate Foundations Scholarship winner, Taralyn Trost Parker, as she talks about her experience:

UGA Jimmy B. Parker Scholarship

The UGA Jimmy B. Parker Scholarship provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at either SLIG 2024 or SLIG Spring Virtual 2024. This scholarship will be awarded to an individual who has demonstrated commitment to genealogical excellence and community involvement.

Laura G. Prescott Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship

The Laura G. Prescott Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at SLIG Fall Virtual 2023, SLIG 2024, or SLIG Spring Virtual 2024. Applicants may be of any age or skill level but should exhibit a passion for genealogy, appreciate the importance of education and standards in our field, and serve the community through volunteerism.

MyHeritage Chris Darrington Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship

The MyHeritage Chris Darrington Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy Scholarship provides a guaranteed seat and full tuition to one course of choice at SLIG 2024. Applicants may be of any age or skill level (most SLIG courses require at least an intermediate level of skill) and have 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.

Applications for each of the above SLIG scholarships are due by May 1, 2023.

Other Scholarship Opportunities

In addition to SLIG-specific scholarships, several other scholarships are available for institute education: the American Society of Genealogists Scholar Award and three institute scholarships offered by the Board for Certification of Genealogists, including the Paul Edward Sluby Sr. African American Scholarship. Each has its own provisions, requirements, application procedures, and deadlines.

Welcome Francine Griffis as the New SLIG Director

We are pleased to announce that Francine Griffis will serve as the new director of the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG), effective February 1, 2023.

Francine joined the SLIG Committee in May 2021 as the SLIG Technical Coordinator. The entire SLIG community has benefitted from her organization, patience, and kindness in that role. Anyone who has had a tech issue can attest to her ability calmly to help them resolve the problem and get them smoothly back to class. SLIG will be in excellent hands under Francine's leadership.

Francine resides in Massachusetts with her husband, Paul, and is a Certified Genealogist® specializing in forensic heir, real estate, and land court research.

She credits her genealogical and lifelong learning interests to her mother. Francine is enrolled in the MSc Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies Programme through the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow. She is also seeking New England region accreditation through ICAPGen.

Francine expresses gratitude to Amberly and UGA for the confidence to serve as SLIG's director.

Please join us in welcoming Francine to her new role as SLIG director!