More about the face behind the Genealogy Doula

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My journey into genealogy began with a deep longing to connect with my roots. I grew up knowing very little about my family's maternal and paternal lines. While I was familiar with some of my first cousins, I knew very little about our shared heritage. My maternal grandparents, Earl and Estelle Harper McGaughy, passed away before I was born, leaving me without the treasured memories of time spent with grandparents or great-grandparents that others often shared. I longed to experience those connections. This absence fueled my desire to know them—if not in life, then through the legacy of their lives.

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Driven by this longing, I began my genealogical journey to trace my family's roots. As a lifelong learner who believes in doing everything to the best of my ability, I knew that this journey would require preparation and commitment. I immersed myself in the world of genealogy by reading "how-to" books, attending family history presentations, and enrolling in a genealogy course at Chicago State University. My dedication led me to successfully complete the National Genealogical Society’s 18-month home study course and join the Afro-American Genealogical and Historical Society of Chicago (AAGHSC).

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Over the years, my passion for genealogy has grown beyond a personal quest into a mission to honor the memories of my ancestors and contribute to the field of genealogy.  I have authored and published four books, served as a consultant on several more, and written numerous articles. I’ve shared my knowledge and insights through presentations, newspaper interviews, and even by hosting a Cable Access Network program on genealogy.

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My educational and professional background has also shaped my approach to genealogy. I attended Chicago Public Schools and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology and a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Chicago State University. I completed a two-year Marriage and Family Therapy training program at The Family Institute, an affiliate of Northwestern University. For over 35 years, I worked in the human services field, providing high-quality care to people in need. This informs the work I do as "The Genealogy Doula."

 

Whether through the stories I uncover, the resources I share, or the connections I help others discover, my mission is to help others honor their ancestors, deepen their understanding of their family histories, and embrace the transformative power of genealogy.

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