Deanne M. Benbrook

Deanne M. Benbrook is a passionate family historian, educator, and presenter who believes every family has a story worth discovering and preserving. With more than 20 years of genealogical research experience, she combines a love of family history with a talent for inspiring others to begin their own journey into the past.

Deanne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Technical Management with an emphasis in Small Business and Entrepreneurship and has completed coursework in genealogy, history, and anthropology through Brigham Young University. She has served as both a keynote speaker and class presenter for GenealogyKC, including a memorable 2024 keynote presentation shared with her daughter that celebrated the power of connecting generations through family history.

Currently serving as a Temple & Family History Consultant for the Kansas City, Missouri Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Deanne has helped countless individuals and families build family trees, uncover ancestral stories, and preserve treasured memories. Whether working one-on-one with beginners or presenting to large audiences, she is known for making genealogy approachable, engaging, and fun.

Recognized for her infectious enthusiasm and energetic teaching style, Deanne has trained leaders and researchers in using FamilySearch and other family history tools to help families discover their roots together. She finds great joy in fostering excitement for family history through meaningful, multigenerational experiences that connect the past, present, and future.

Making Connections Matter

Genealogy is about far more than names, dates, and records, it's about connections. In this story-filled keynote, Deanne Benbrook shares how family history research has created meaningful connections across generations, cultures, places, and communities.

Through personal stories and photographs, Deanne will explore how discovering ancestors' lives deepened her appreciation for her heritage, inspired travel to ancestral homelands, and led to treasured relationships with relatives both near and far. She'll share how preserving family stories and building family trees has strengthened connections with living family members while honoring those who came before.

As we commemorate our nation's 250th anniversary, this presentation will also highlight the important role genealogy plays in connecting us as a community. Together, we preserve the stories, traditions, and experiences that shape our families and our shared history.

Whether you are just beginning your family history journey or have researched for decades, you'll leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of connection, a few laughs, and fresh inspiration to make your own family history matter for generations to come.