National Genealogical Society Announces Virtual 2021 Family History Conference-Registration Now Open

Registration for the National Genealogical Society (NGS) 2021 Family History Conference opens 1 February 2021 at 1:00 p.m. (EST). Plans for NGS’s forty-third annual conference include a full week of virtual events* for individuals, societies, and organizations 17−21 May 2021.

Monday, 17 May, begins the week with a Kickoff Workshop for the NGS Delegate Council. The Delegate Council is the new advisory committee for NGS member organizations created as part of the 2020 merger with the former Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS). This inaugural workshop focuses on helping delegates understand their role within the National Genealogical Society.

Tuesday, 18 May, presents the debut of the SLAM! Idea Showcase, which highlights creative and innovative projects or programs by societies, libraries, archives, and museums (SLAMs). This day also includes presentations that assist librarians and others who serve genealogists.

On Wednesday and Thursday, 19‒20 May, NGS’s premier two-day virtual conference event―NGS 2021 Live! ―features award-winning authors Dani Shapiro and Ric Murphy; an opening session by esteemed genealogist and Virginia expert Barbara Vines Little; and presentations by nationally recognized speakers including Elizabeth Shown Mills, Thomas W. Jones, Judy Russell, Eric Grundset, Craig Scott, Janice Lovelace, and more.

Program content includes bonus lectures provided by conference sponsors and sponsoring organizations.

The week ends with Focus on Societies on Friday, 21 May. The all-day event is devoted to presentations offering expert advice for society leaders on managing and growing their genealogical or historical society. Furthermore, fourteen session topics are featured, and Jill Morelli will kick off the event with ideas and new opportunities for societies based on lessons learned during the pandemic.

In addition to NGS 2021 Live!, choosing either a twenty or forty lecture package on-demand will significantly enhance your experience. Those purchasing a package may choose from more than eighty-five on-demand sessions available for viewing starting in June. Pricing is separate for other programs. Throughout the week a virtual Expo Hall is available.

Take advantage of the discounted Early Bird registration fee, plus member discounts, when you sign up by 15 March 2021.

*Note:  Ongoing mandates in Virginia regarding COVID-19 and our concern for the well-being of our attendees, exhibitors, volunteers, and staff, prohibit NGS from being able to host an in-person conference in Richmond, Virginia in May 2021.

____________________________________________