The 2017 conference offers an exciting selection of genetic genealogy sessions. Debbie Parker Wayne, CG, CGL, presents two sessions on DNA.

Debbie Parker Wayne began studying genetic genealogy in about 2003 and has focused on this area since 2007. She coordinated the first genetic genealogy courses offered at U.S. genealogy institutes; developed the NGS online course on autosomal DNA; and co-authored the first genetic genealogy workbook, Genetic Genealogy in Practice. Since 2013, Debbie’s column on genetic genealogy has appeared in NGS Magazine. The first articles contain basic information covering mitochondrial DNA, Y-DNA, autosomal DNA, and X-DNA. Later articles progress into analysis of DNA matches and segment triangulation. Many of these articles are now available at http://debbiewayne.com/pubs.php. Debbie recently started the Early Texans DNA Project for the Texas State Genealogical Society to explore the DNA of descendants of those who arrived in Texas by 1900. This project should reveal information about the origins of Texas pioneers by analyzing the DNA passed to their descendants. More information is available at http://www.txsgs.org/programs/dna-project/early-texans/.

DNA, W122, “DNA and Genetic Genealogy Today” at 11 am, Wednesday, 10 May 2017

“DNA and Genetic Genealogy Today”is an introduction for beginners and covers the types of tests available today for genetic genealogy. Debbie’s easy-to-understand explanation of basic genetic inheritance factors is illustrated with her famous gingerbread families.

DNA, S421, “MAXY DNA: Correlating mt-at-X-Y DNA with the GPS” at 11 am, Saturday, 13 May 2017

“MAXY DNA: Correlating mt-at-X-Y DNA with the GPS” may be beneficial to researchers of all levels. The session demonstrates correlation and analysis of DNA test results with documentary research as part of the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS). Case studies demonstrate real-life situations, some with multiple types of DNA used when one type alone does not provide conclusive evidence. Analysis included provides evidence both supporting and contradicting hypotheses about family relationships.