Category Archives: Outstanding Volunteers

Katherine Pettersen Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Katherine Gibson Pettersen of Longview, Washington, who were nominated by the Lower Columbia Genealogical Society (LCGS).

As one of LCGS’s newer members, Katherine, affectionally known as Kat, has been a great asset to the society.  She has been a strong voice as a trustee.  As a member of the program committee, she offers great suggestions for potential speakers and facilitates the speakers’ virtual presentations.

Kat’s greatest contribution has been in assisting in the transition from meeting in person to meeting virtually. She has moderated all of the society’s general and board meetings, as well as assisted those who have had difficulty grasping the technology of meeting via Zoom.

Kat handles issues in a calm manner.  One member stated that she has the patience of a saint, and another said that she never seems to get ruffled.

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.

Monica and Don Peters Named Two of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Monica and Don Peters of Pullman, Washington, who were nominated by the Whitman County Genealogical Society (WCGS).

Monica is among the 1984 “Founding Mothers” of WCGS, and has served on the board since. As corresponding secretary, she efficiently manages the society’s communications and promotes activities at the core of its purpose.  With deep roots in Whitman County, she serves as the society’s primary researcher.  Her sleuthing uncovers intriguing stories, which she generously shares in newsletter articles.

Monica was instrumental in establishing an endowment fund which allows the society to provide college scholarships to high school seniors demonstrating interest in family history. Her communication of fiscal matters enhances the financial business of the society.

In partnership with Monica, Don unfailingly provides behind-the-scenes support to WCGS.  He assists in the society’s efforts to wrangle technology needed to accomplish its goals. He is generous with his time and expertise in any matter under consideration.  

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.

Lisa Oberg Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Lisa Oberg of Shoreline, Washington, who was nominated by the Seattle Genealogical Society (SGS).

Lisa, a 14-year member of SGS, is currently co-chair of the SGS100 Committee, which is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing SGS’s year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of its founding.  She conceived the idea that became the SGS100 Writer’s C(r)amp, a three-day writer’s retreat on San Juan Island, during which she provided consultations based on her professional expertise as well as light meals for the attendees. The event was such a success that SGS is considering making it an annual program.

Prior to the COVID-19 disruption of group meetings, Lisa led many SGS-sponsored cemetery tours such as a trip to the Seattle Civil War Cemetery, where she had members of the group research some of the soldiers interred there. She has also helped with many of the less glamorous SGS jobs, serving several times on the Elections Committee, helping with the creation and early testing of SGS’s internet-based ballot system.

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.

Jill Morelli Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Jill Morelli of Seattle, Washington, who was nominated by the Puget Sound Chapter of the Association of Professional Genealogists (PS-APG).

Jill’s genealogical journey began with “Roots” from the 1970s. It really took off after completing a University of Washington certificate course, which led to the ProGen 19 study group. Along the way, Jill attended numerous national conferences and multiple genealogical institutes. She became a Certified Genealogist (CG) and later a Certified Genealogical Lecturer (CGL). Jill is a past president of the Seattle Genealogical Society, blogger for more than a decade, and co-founder of the Applied Genealogy Institute.

Jill joined the PS-APG in 2014. During 2018-19, the chapter nearly folded due to ailing attendance at onsite meetings. In 2020, chapter meetings went virtual and Jill volunteered to recruit interesting and notable speakers. Her efforts culminated in 2022 when the PS-APG chapter received the “Golden Chapter” award for the most improved APG chapter.

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.

Bob Monn Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Bob Monn of Olympia, Washington, who was nominated by the Olympia Genealogical Society (OGS).

Joining OGS in 2015, Bob accepted the position of membership lead in 2017. Not only tracking membership and dues, he quickly began suggesting ways to improve the processes of joining and renewing membership and ways to attract new members.

In 2018, Bob took leadership in building OGS a comprehensive new website, adding new features such as a membership directory, access to the library directory, electronic registration for events, and PayPal for payments and contributions. He has been persistent in leading OGS to make use of new technologies to improve and streamline many operations, clearly teaching and gently leading those stuck in old methods and practices.

Working quietly behind the scenes, Bob’s contributions benefit the work of secretary, treasurer, board, newsletter team, publicist, program team, special interest groups, and every aspect of society business practices. With humor and professionalism, he helps OGS to better serve its members and community.

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.

Janice Moerschel Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Janice Moerschel of Spokane, Washington, who was nominated by the Eastern Washington Genealogical Society (EWGS).

For several years Janice has continually chaired a special software interest group, The Ancestry Group (TAG). She invites presenters and develops content for the monthly meetings that she initially provided with her personal Zoom account. As an important follow-up to each meeting, she provides group members with a detailed summary of the various concepts that were covered. Also, if there is a question on the society’s Facebook page about Ancestry software, Janice is quick to reply.

 Janice shepherds the EWGS annual Writing Contest from topic selection, collecting entries and forming a judging committee.  As coordinator for Digital Digest, EWGS’s quarterly periodical, Janice has an integral role in providing invaluable support to the editor by soliciting articles, sharing ideas, providing content, and giving feedback during their many collaborations.

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.

Sue McNeil Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Sue McNeil, Washington, who was nominated by the Stillaguamish Valley Genealogical Society (SVGS).

Sue is currently a volunteer librarian at SVGS. She also serves as the SVGS webmaster (a board position), working with our webpages, other web-related activities, as well as emailing meeting notices and other important information to the membership. This past year, she was also the featured speaker at a number of educational presentations for SVGS.

Prior to the Covid outbreak, Sue’s involvement in the Northwest Genealogical Conferences was integral to their success. She spearheaded the designing and ordering of banners and printed materials such as flyers, brochures, postcards, and the all-important syllabus.

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 subj

Glen McNay Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Glen McNay of North Bend, Washington, who was nominated by the Eastside Genealogical Society (EGS).

Glen has been a generous volunteer to EGS with time and talent. This year Glen took on the treasurer position mid-year. He updated the financial report, clarified the on-line donation process and worked with board members on a new deposit process. Glen took on these new duties while he was already performing the webmaster duties. As webmaster, Glen continued to update the EGS website. He also implemented Google Workspace and trained board members on its use.

Glen creates and runs the announcement slides for EGS monthly meetings and often volunteers for those extra jobs. As an EGS member, Glen participates in society activities engaging the wider community. He actively welcomes and advises the new attendees. His contributions at board meetings are thoughtful. He has expertise in computers that he shares with board members.

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.

Jo Linker Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Jo Linker of Aberdeen, Washington, who was nominated by the Grays Harbor Genealogical Society (GHGS).

In 2010, Jo Linker became one of eight new members in Grays Harbor Genealogy Society. Today, she is the only one of those eight who is still active!

Jo works behind the scenes for the good of the society – providing refreshments for meetings, volunteering for special projects, and helping others at the Genealogy Café. In 2013 Jo was part of a committee that organized a successful workshop featuring expert genealogist and popular lecturer Mary Kathryn Kozy. In 2015 and 2016, she served as a trustee.

Jo’s biggest contribution, however, has been as treasurer. In late 2015, the society’s longtime treasurer passed away leaving a huge void and a position no one wanted. Jo stepped up and has held the position for seven years. She has attended a number of statewide and regional genealogy conferences to hone her skills and stay current in the genealogy field.

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.

Linda Swank Lantis Named One of WSGS’s Outstanding Volunteers in 2023

by Roxanne Lowe

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 Linda Swank Lantis of Yakima, Washington, who was nominated by the Yakima Valley Genealogical Society (YVGS).

In 2005, Linda became a member of YVGS and has been an invaluable member ever since.

A semi-annual yard sale is the library’s primary fundraiser and Linda organizes the donated items along with Patricia Hert.  Linda schedules volunteer workers and the food donated during the week for the workers.  During Covid, Linda and Patricia kept the grounds around the library presentable by mowing the lawn, pulling and spraying weeds.

Linda served as past secretary of YVGS and has been an active librarian. This past spring, because of her experience, workmanship and excellent leadership, Linda was elected head librarian delegating librarians, training and keeping up with the abundance of donated books in a timely manner.

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.