Thursday, November 13
Technology • Partnerships • Resources
While the challenges facing genealogical societies are real, they also present opportunities for renewal and reinvention. Societies that embrace change can transform themselves into vibrant, relevant organizations that serve today’s researchers in fresh and exciting ways. This begins with a willingness to rethink traditional structures, explore innovative programming, and actively seek new audiences who may not yet realize the benefits of belonging to a genealogical society. By leveraging technology, fostering partnerships, and highlighting the unique resources and expertise that only societies can provide, organizations can position themselves as indispensable in the broader landscape of family history research.
A part of the 2025 TxSGS Family History Conference, this one-day Partner Society program is designed to spark ideas and provide practical strategies for sustaining and growing genealogical societies in the 21st century. Our speakers will share proven methods for engaging members of all ages, using technology effectively, creating meaningful learning experiences, and building stronger communities both online and in person. Together, we will explore ways to transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring that our societies not only survive, but thrive—becoming dynamic hubs where family historians connect, learn, and share their passion for discovering the past.
This event is open to any current or prospective genealogical society leader. Leaders from libraries, museums, or historical societies are welcome to attend as is anyone interested in helping their society thrive.
Topics / Schedule
Bringing Genealogical Societies into the 21st Century
Speaker: Paula Stuart-Warren
Beyond technology, a large component of managing thriving societies is attracting members and volunteers. Social media, a helpful society website, publications that interest members, and a sense of camaraderie will keep societies evolving. Learn methods used by growing societies to keep websites, social media, and publications current. Effective leadership and talented volunteers are the mainstays, and recruiting and keeping these members eagerly involved at all ages needs planning and easy interaction.
Panel Discussion of TxSGS Partner Society Leaders
This moderated panel will discuss everything from society structure, bylaws, policies and procedures, finances, volunteers, programming, marketing, and publications. Three different-sized societies will be represented to ensure that your society has a voice on the panel. There will be ample time for questions and answers so that you walk away with ideas you can put to use immediately.
How to Start a SIG (Special interest Group) in your Society
Speaker: Kelli Bergheimer
Using a DNA SIG as an example, this presentation will focus on the essentials of making a SIG successful. Some of them include: leadership, topics, resources, group problem-solving, hands-on demonstrations, small groups, and collaborative efforts with other SIG groups.
Collaborative Efforts for Strengthening a Society
Speakers: Emily Coffman Richardson and Sandra Crowley
Collaboration is the process where two or more entities work together to achieve a common goal, often sharing ideas, resources, and responsibilities. What does collaboration look like for partner societies? For state societies? Where has collaboration worked? Where has collaboration failed and what lessons can we learn from that failure?
Successful collaboration can result in better society finances, more exposure to the genealogical world in which societies operate, and strength in the areas where a society may be weak. Learn ways for your society to work towards success, regardless of location and size.