Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized over 600 outstanding volunteers and teams, 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 2023 award recipients and learn why they received the 2023 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer and Team Award.

Today we’re introducing Kerry McHugh Upton of Olympia, Washington, who were nominated by the Olympia Genealogical Society (OGS).

For 20 years, Kerry has been a strong leader and encouraging member of OGS. She has served as president and secretary, and assisted on committees and teams planning the annual seminars, retreats and other special events. In 2019, she organized a number of special interest groups, which are still going strong.

Kerry established OGS’s first Facebook page. She initiated recording of monthly programs, posting them for member viewing on the website. Then, in 2020, when OGS learned that their seminar had to be cancelled because of the pandemic and social isolation, Kerry worked tirelessly to choreograph their first virtual seminar, in just one month’s time, cementing her place as a member of the newly formed tech team. Today, she is helping plan how to hybridize future meetings to be both physical and virtual.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Info@wasgs.org. Please type “Volunteer Award” in the subject line.