Heading to RootsTech 2025 – As a Speaker!

Register for RootsTech

This will be my third year attending and my second year as a speaker, and I couldn’t be more excited to return to the world’s largest genealogy conference.

What is RootsTech?

For those unfamiliar, RootsTech is an annual conference hosted by FamilySearch that brings together genealogists, historians, DNA experts, and family history enthusiasts from around the globe. With a mix of in-person and virtual sessions, hands-on workshops, an enormous expo hall, and incredible networking opportunities, it’s the ultimate event for anyone passionate about uncovering their roots. There are 2 ways to attend RootsTech... you can register for free to attend online or register for in person at Salt Lake City for $129 for 3 day or $79 for 1 day registration.

My Sessions at RootsTech 2025

I’m honored to be presenting three sessions this year alongside some truly amazing colleagues:

1. "Using DNA to Reveal Biological Relationships for Adopted Persons or Those with Unexpected Paternity" with Dr. Penny Walters

This session will explore how DNA testing can provide answers for adoptees, donor-conceived individuals, and those with unexpected parentage results (NPEs). We’ll discuss the tools, strategies, and ethical considerations involved in navigating these discoveries.

2. "Uncovering Connections: Genetic Genealogy, Empathy, and the NPE Community" with Kate Penney Howard and Jennifer Schweibinz

This session will focus on the emotional and technical aspects of helping NPEs (Non-Paternal Events) understand their biological identity. We’ll discuss how DNA, research, and empathy play a role in guiding individuals through these life-changing revelations.

3. "Unveiling Family Legacies: Verifying Native American Ancestry and Tribal Affiliation"

This session is particularly close to my heart. Many people discover potential Native American ancestry through DNA testing or family stories, but verifying tribal connections requires more than just DNA results. We’ll explore the historical, cultural, and genealogical aspects of confirming tribal affiliation and honoring these important family legacies.

What I’m Most Excited For:

Beyond my sessions, there’s so much to look forward to at RootsTech! Some of the highlights for me include:

- Reconnecting with colleagues I haven’t seen in months!

- Attending some of the amazing presentations. There are hundreds of class options to choose from.

- Exploring the massive expo hall... I love seeing the latest tools, technologies, and resources in genealogy and DNA research.

- Visiting the FamilySearch Library... One of my favorite places in Salt Lake City! There’s nothing like diving into records and discovering new pieces of history.

If you’ll be at RootsTech 2025, I’d love to connect! Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, this event is an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and celebrate the power of family history.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the event, and I can’t wait to see you there!

- Aimee Rose-Haynes