I am thrilled to announce that I have been invited to be an Ambassador for the 2018 RootsTech genealogy conference. This means that I will be reporting on the blog and on all my social media accounts about the latest news and behind the scenes happenings before, during and after the conference. As a longtime attendee of the conference, let me share the top ten reasons that I love attending RootsTech.
1. Amazing selection of classes:
With over 200 class session, RootsTech offers classes for genealogists of every level and a variety of interests. See the full schedule of classes here.
2. National recognized teachers:
RootsTech draws in some of the best genealogy teachers from around the country, and even the world. Come learn from Amy Johnson Crow, Lisa Louise Cooke, Judy G. Russell, Michael Strauss and many more.
3. Gigantic vendor hall:
Emphasis on the word GIGANTIC! The vendor hall is packed full of all sorts of genealogy goodies from logo merchandise to tech vendors to experts offering consultations on photos or pedigrees. You could seriously spend the entire conference just perusing the hall.
4. Family History Library down the street:
Yes, when you finish with the conference for the day, you could walk down the street and do some genealogy research at one of the best genealogical libraries in the world.
5. Extra social events:
So many extra social activities are offered, it is hard to choose. Concerts, after-parties, sponsored lunches. Many of these are available to select with your RootsTech registration. But keep your eyes open for more social event announcements closer to the conference.
6. Learning about up and coming genealogy technology:
In past years, RootsTech has had a contest for new genealogy-related technologies called the Innovator Showdown. This year the new technologies will be highlighted in the Innovation Showcase. I’m excited to see the new tools that will aid in our genealogy pursuits.
7. Family Discovery Day:
Saturday is always the biggest day at RootsTech, when families join the fun at Family Discovery Day. This free event is for children and adults ages 8 and up. Family Discovery Day includes a separate set of keynote speakers and classes geared towards families. This event requires an additional registration, but can be added when you register for your regular RootsTech pass.
8. Collecting tags to add to my badge:
My 10-year-old twins caught onto the long-tag trend quickly when they attended Family Discovery Day with me last year. We ended up having a competition, and it is obvious from the photo that they beat me!
RootsTech 2017 Badge Tag family competition
9. Top-Notch Keynote speakers:
Past years have included Buddy Valastro, The Property Brothers, LeVar Burton, Liz Wiseman, and CeCe Moore. This year will feature equally awesome keynotes including Olympic Champion Scott Hamilton. One of the things I love most about the keynote addresses is that no matter what the specialty of the speaker (skating, remodeling, business), everyone has an amazing story and connection to family and their heritage.
Great list! My top favorite is geeking out with my genea-friends too!!! So happy that we met at RootsTech 2 years ago!!! You have influenced me in so many good ways since then. Thank you!
Awwww! Thanks. I value our friendship too and look forward to seeing you at the various conferences we both attend!