2024 Keynote Speakers

                          Katie Smith

Katie Smith, MLS,  Director of the Midwest Genealogy Center, has led the renowned genealogy library since 2022. With a career spanning two decades in libraries and archives, Katie brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for preserving historical records and sharing the stories behind them. Prior to assuming her current role, Katie served as an archivist and chief clerk in the United States Senate in Washington, D.C. for over thirteen years.  During her tenure in the nation's capital, she garnered invaluable experience in archival and institutional administration, leveraging her expertise to manage and preserve the records of our nation’s history. Rooted in a deep-seated love for uncovering the past and an unwavering enthusiasm for family history, Katie strives to bring together traditional research practices, modern technological advancements, and the power of a good story to make genealogy accessible and engaging to a wide audience. Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Brigham Young University and a Master’s degree in Library Science from the University of Maryland. 

Deanne Benbrook and Ashley Arnett are a dynamic mother-daughter duo with a profound passion for family history. Together, they bring many years of experience in genealogy research, teaching, and presenting. They have successfully guided numerous individuals, from personalized one-on-one sessions to large group settings, in starting their family trees, navigating the intricacies of genealogy, and preserving their family heritage. 

Renowned for their infectious energy and enthusiasm, Deanne and Ashley have instructed leaders on using FamilySearch to help families embark on their genealogy journeys together. 

Their goal is to foster a love and excitement for discovering and preserving family history through multigenerational involvement in diverse and engaging ways.