Have you registered for RootsTech Connect? This is a virtual family conference to be held February 25-27, 2021, and will the largest family history conference in the world. The best part about it is that it is 100% free. Whether you are a new genealogist or a more experienced one there will be something at this conference for you. Here are just a few of the things you can look forward to:
Classes: Of course, the classes are the backbone of any family history conference and RootsTech is no different. The conference will feature 800 or so on-demand classes on a wide variety of topics, ranging from preserving memories to storytelling to genealogical research, DNA, and more. The classes will be just 20-minutes long–easy to fit in whenever it is convenient for you. Registrants will have access to the classes for at least a year, so don’t worry if you don’t have time to binge-watch during the conference. If you are interested in any aspect of family history, go to RootsTech.org and register for the conference today! The value of the classes alone is immeasurable. And did I mention the conference is 100% free?
Keynote Speakers: The Rootstech Team announced four keynote speakers a couple of months ago, including pro golfer Lorena Ochoa, musician Francesco Lotoro, author and bridge-builder Sharon Morgan, and author and motivational speaker Nick Vujicic.
Just yesterday they announced the addition of actors Sunetra Sarker and Erick Avari, along with Uruguayan pro footballer Diego Lugano.
I am always inspired by what the Keynote Speakers have to share about family connection as they draw upon their experiences and perspectives to share their unique vision. Go read about each of these keynote speakers and I’m certain you will be every bit as excited as I am to hear from them. More keynote speakers will be announced soon.
Family Discovery Day: This is always one of my favorite events of RootsTech. This year, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Sister Patricia Holland will be the featured speakers. Their presentation will be available beginning February 27 at noon Mountain Time.
Elder and Sister Holland and their family will be speaking from various locations in and around St. George, Utah, birthplace of Elder Holland. They will focus on how we can connect with our heritage, our ancestors, our families, and with God. Read more about this event and how to watch here.
Especially for Youth and Young Adults: Last year, RootsTech hosted a youth night and a young adult night, both of which were hugely successful. This year, RootsTech Connect will feature “Our Quest for Connection,” a virtual experience designed for everyone from ages 12-35, whether married or single. Through a series of challenges, participants will learn more about themselves and each other. The wrap-up event, available beginning 27 February at 1 pm Mountain Time, will feature Elder David A. Bednar, Sister Bonnie H. Cordon, and Brother Steven J. Lund.
Expo Hall and RootsTech Connect Store: The expo hall, including the RootsTech store and hundreds of other vendors, has always been an exciting place to be during RootsTech. This year, they too are going online. You will be able to interact with vendors and learn more about their products from the comfort of your own home. You can even begin shopping for RootsTech Connect swag today, because the RootsTech Store is already live. Head over there now to make your purchases!
Relatives at RootsTech: The last few years, this has been a fun and exciting part of RootsTech. Participants could opt in and then view their relatives that were in attendance using the FamilySearch Tree app. I have had the honor of meeting some of my not-so-distant cousins for the first time, and the unexpected experience of discovering I was related to people I already knew by opting in to this experience. You can opt in to Relatives at Roots Tech here and see how many registrants you are related to. Right now, you will only be able to see the number of relatives you have. Access to the names of your relatives who have opted in to the feature will only be available during the conference February 25-27. This is a great tool for making connections!
Register Today! These are only a few of the fun and exciting things that are planned for RootsTech Connect. This will be an event unlike any other. If you haven’t yet registered, what are you waiting for? Head on over and complete the 30-second registration process today!
