I’m excited to announce that Nicole and I have been invited as official bloggers to Brigham Young University’s Conference on Family History & Genealogy held July 26th -29th. Whether you’re looking for a way to boost your family history knowledge, get inspired to tackle your next project, or just need to kick start your efforts, you’ll find what you need at this conference. Held on the beautiful BYU campus in Provo, Utah, this conference combines fabulous classes with access to the BYU Family History Library. Plan to come a day early or stay a day extra to take advantage of the many resources of the library.
I attended last year’s conference for the first time with the main purpose of attending the ICAPGen track of classes. I was looking into becoming an Accredited Genealogist and two solid days of classes cemented my determination to go forward with this goal. If you’re interested in learning about the Accreditation process, this track of classes will get you started. The ICAPGen networking luncheon on Friday will give you an additional opportunity to talk with Accredited Genealogists and get their insights into the world of professional genealogy.
This year’s conference features keynote speakers Paul Cardall, musician and heart transplant survivor; Ann Madsen, Old Testament professor and expert on the book of Isaiah; Paul Milner, British professional genealogist, author, and lecturer; and Steve Rockwood, President and CEO of FamilySearch. Nicole and I believe that family history is for everyone and looking at this lineup, I’m interested to hear their different perspectives.
The conference features several research tracks (classes grouped around a certain topic.) Last year I attended the ICAPGen track the first two days, then spent the remainder of the conference enjoying a wide variety of classes. Interested in US/Canada, German, Scandinavian, or British research? Those tracks will help you get started in the locality of your choice. New to family history? Tuesday’s beginner classes will start you off right. Various other topics include: DNA Research, Online Research, LDS Ancestral Research, Methodology, Record Types, Preserving & Sharing Family History, and Family History Ward Consultants.
Looking at this year’s schedule, I’m impressed with the quality of presenters. I just watched Jill Morelli’s excellent Legacy Webinar on Fire Insurance Maps which she will be presenting at the conference along with several other classes. As well as his keynote address, Paul Milner will teach a slew of British research sessions. Lisa Louise Cooke will be sharing her popular classes on using technology for family history. Many of the classes will be taught by Accredited Genealogists and BYU Family History professors. I plan to attend a wide variety of presentations in order to hear as many perspectives as possible.
Lastly, I need to mention the vendors. At the BYU Conference it is possible to visit each vendor booth and learn about the creative, innovative products out there to help us in our Family History efforts.
Mark your calendar for July 26-29, we hope to see you there!
You can register for the BYU Conference on Family History & Genealogy at their website, here.
The Conference Center pavilion and view of “Y” mountain across the way.
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