Currently accepting clients for...

• Family History Research
• Speaking / Presenting

Genealogy has profoundly enriched my life, unveiling hidden family stories and connections that have shaped my identity.
When I took a DNA test, I discovered I could identify my mother’s mysterious parents. A couple adopted her in Los Angeles back in the 1920s and had never known the origins of her biological family. DNA analysis and many hours studying family trees and evidence led me to the discovery of my maternal grandparents, sadly several years after my mother passed away.  Solving a genealogical puzzle has the thrill of the chase and the hunt for clues to discover more ancestors in one’s history.
I have discovered and met wonderful new family relationships with DNA connections. I traveled to the Los Angeles area, was welcomed into my former grandmother’s almost preserved home by the current owner, and dropped rose petals on her gravestone. I connected with Danish cousins from my father’s side, who graciously invited us into their lovely Southern Denmark home on an overseas visit.
I gained the stories one discovers along the way. My bootlegger adopted grandfather was “kidnapped” in Los Angeles. I enjoyed watching episodes of the Cisco Kid that my paternal grandfather worked on as a Set Decorator. This journey not only connected me with family but also propelled me into a professional realm where I could help others.
I am a professional genealogist specializing in family history research and consulting. I am currently pursuing full accreditation and am scheduled to test for Level Two and Level Three to achieve full AG® accreditation. I achieved Level One toward accreditation by passing the requirements for a Four Generation Project research paper. I am working toward accreditation in the Upper South region, which includes Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. I am experienced in research throughout the United States.
Professional Research Planning: Identifying clear research questions and the appropriate research plan for the region
Research and Project: Provide extensive knowledge of regional research sources for the Upper South region. I identify and analyze key sources with the evidence to support the research questions. I then write an analysis of all evidence, with conclusions and future research suggestions.
Documentation: Abstracted/Extracted document images from sources, research log, family group sheet, and pedigree chart is included with the research project
Efficiency:  To maximize the use of client’s time, I’ve trained and will be testing on completing projects on a single research question in a window of time. This allows me to provide the most value for the hours required for the project.
Professional Research Projects:
Luxembourg Citizenship
Provided documents for client to obtain citizenship in Luxembourg citizenship, through immigration analysis (Illinois)
4 Generation Research project
Created research paper starting with an early twentieth-century ancestor of African descent in Warren County, North Carolina, tracing back three generations to a community of free people of color in Mecklenburg County, Virginia.
DNA Analysis
Identified DNA matches and probable relationships. Using family history research and evidence analysis, identified maternal grandparents.
Additional Experience:
Accepted and participated in ICAPGen Level One and Level Two/Three study groups
Mentor, ICAPGen Level One study group
Through genealogy, I have not only uncovered my family's past but also forged a path for my future as a dedicated genealogist. I invite readers to explore their own genealogical journeys and consider professional assistance.
 

Geographic Specialities
United States Upper South
Tennessee
West Virginia
Virginia
Kentucky
North Carolina

Additional specialities or search keywords
Tennessee, North Carolina, West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky

Research Time Periods

• 20th Century
• 19th Century
• 18th Century

Honorifics/Credentials
Level One ICAPGen

Affiliations
National Genealogical Society

Degrees
MBA, Strategies for Sustainability
BA, Retail Marketing