Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized more than 400 outstanding volunteers, nominated by their local society or genealogical organization for their service and dedication. These volunteers are the backbone of their local society, giving their time and expertise, to the organization and the field of genealogy. In the coming months, you will be introduced to each of the 2014 award recipients and learn why they received the 2014 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award.

Today we’re introducing Shirley Penna-Oakes of Tum Tum, Washington, who was nominated by the Eastern Washington Genealogical Society (EWGS). She was recognized for her leadership, knowledge, and volunteer efforts toward the goals and operation of the Eastern Washington Genealogical Society (EWGS).

Shirley Penna-Oakes

Ms. Penna-Oakes has been an outstanding member of EWGS and several other genealogical societies over the years. She has been President and Vice President of EWGS; Cascade Genealogical Society, Montana; and the Stillaguamish Genealogical Society, Arlington, Washington. She has also been a WSGS Regional Representative for Districts 1 and 7, as well as Chair of the WSGS Conference in Everett in 1992. She worked on EWGS’s “State Fair” and their “Walking with Ancestors” from 2010 to 2014. She served as EWGS’s Outreach/Educational chairman from 2010 – 2011, and was the founder/director of the Elizabeth Doherty Genealogical Library.

Ms. Penna-Oakes has published 16 surname and query books and lectures in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and California. She is an outstanding volunteer at the EWGS and richly deserved being a recipient of a WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Roxanne Lowe, Recognition Chair, at Roxanne@thekeeffes.com.