I’ve been interested in genealogy for as long as I can remember.  Probably, it’s a consequence of being named after my 2nd great grandmother, and my 5th great grandmother.  I was very lucky that many of my older relatives were interested in family history and got me off to a good start.

My interest in genetics also stems from my childhood, and memories of not being able to play mastermind or go-fish with my color blind brother.  We had colored, fish-shaped cards, and he could never play those two games because he couldn’t tell the difference between green, red, and brown.  My mother explained that this ran in families, and that her father was also color blind. I thought that was pretty interesting, and ended up studying genetics in college, and went on to get a Ph.D. in molecular cell biology and biochemistry.  As a graduate student, I was at the forefront and able to hear Dr. Mary-Claire King speak in the early 1990s about using mitochondrial DNA to reunite families torn apart by politics in Argentina.  

After leaving research to raise a family, I went back to work as a part-time substitute teacher and private tutor.  I enjoy helping others, and sharing my knowledge. When my adult children went to college, I revisited my love for genealogy and began integrating DNA into projects.  I’ve used DNA to break down brick walls in my own research, and help others resolve more recent unknown parentage cases.  

My life as a professional genealogist is the culmination and intersection of all my skills and interests: family, genealogy, biology, research, and teaching.  My training as a scientist stands me in good stead and has prepared me to perform thorough, methodical research in genealogy and to analyze complex problems for clients. My excitement about genetic genealogy and teaching experience means that I will enthusiastically, patiently, and supportively coach you through research if that is your preference. 

Let me know how I can help you!

 ¹Carina Storrs, “Mary-Claire King: Genetics as a Way of Thinking,” Lasker Foundation (https://laskerfoundation.org/king-genetics-as-a-way-of-thinking/ : viewed 30 Dec 2022).

Education

B.S. Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1986

Ph.D. Molecular Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Washington University, 1995.

Certificate in Genealogical Research, Boston University, 2021.

Additional Genealogical Training

Research Like a Pro, Study Group 6, 2020

Research Like a Pro with DNA, Study Group 2, 2020

Research Like a Pro with DNA, Study Group 3, Peer Group Leader, 2021

Salt Lake Institute for Genealogy, Proving Your Pedigree with DNA, 2022

Memberships

Association of Professional Genealogists

National Genealogical Society

New England Historic Genealogical Society

Benton County (Oregon) Genealogical Society

Tazewell County (Virginia) Historical Society

Community Service

Volunteer, FamilySearch Center, Corvallis, OR