Not all family discoveries are joyful. In this session, learn how to navigate painful truths—such as abuse, discrimination, or betrayal—with empathy and trauma-informed research strategies. We'll explore how to process difficult information, reframe narratives for healing, and share responsibly with others. This essential session provides both practical tools and emotional support for handling genealogy's most challenging moments. You'll leave equipped with techniques to honor both truth and compassion in genealogical storytelling, transforming potentially harmful discoveries into opportunities for healing and understanding.
About Our Speaker
Kate Penney Howard is a genetic genealogist and speaker specializing in endogamy and breaking down challenging research barriers with DNA. She brings decades of experience in family research and hundreds of successfully solved genetic genealogy cases.
Known for her compassionate approach, Kate helps clients uncover ancestral mysteries while providing them with more complete family medical histories and a stronger sense of identity. Her presentations captivate audiences by seamlessly blending historical context, technical guidance, and well-placed humor that keeps listeners engaged throughout. Kate discovered her passion for teaching during her cancer journey, finding fulfillment in sharing knowledge with fellow genealogists. She approaches her work with integrity, deliberately addressing historical injustices and dispelling common myths in her presentations.
Her speaking engagements include RootsTech, Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies, East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference, the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies, the New England Regional Genealogical Consortium, and the Foundation for East European Family History Studies, in addition to many state and county level organizations.
Kate studied vocal music and earned a Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis in 2011. She has served as a pastor in Fort Wayne since her ordination in 2012.
This program is not sponsored or endorsed by L.A. County Library.