Have you ever scrolled down your match list…past known family, to second, third, and fourth cousins, finding yourself in a harsh landscape of distant cousins? Kate will talk about when distant matches can be useful in confirming Colonial ancestors…and when they can be misleading.
She will share a case study of an ancestor who told an unlikely story – and DNA led her to Connecticut and nearby areas.

Bio:

Kate Penney Howard is a genetic genealogist and speaker specializing in endogamy and breaking down challenging research barriers with DNA. She brings decades of experience in family research and hundreds of successfully solved genetic genealogy cases.

Known for her compassionate approach, Kate helps clients uncover ancestral mysteries while providing them with more complete family medical histories and a stronger sense of identity. Her presentations captivate audiences by seamlessly blending historical context, technical guidance, and well-placed humor that keeps listeners engaged throughout.

Kate discovered her passion for teaching during her cancer journey, finding fulfillment in sharing knowledge with fellow genealogists. She approaches her work with integrity, deliberately addressing historical injustices and dispelling common myths in her presentations.

Her speaking engagements include RootsTech, Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies, East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference, the International Congress on Medieval Studies, the Society for German Genealogy in Eastern Europe, the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies, the New England Regional Genealogical Consortium, and the Foundation for East European Family History Studies, in addition to many state and county-level organizations.

Kate studied vocal music and earned a Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis in 2011. She has served as a pastor in Fort Wayne since her ordination in 2012.