About Me

Jenny McKinney: Professional Genealogist

Hi, I’m Jenny, a professional genealogist with a passion for helping you explore, document, and preserve your family history. Whether you are just beginning your ancestral journey or seeking to verify lineage for a society application, my professional research services are here to support you along the way.

By combining proven research methods with access to extensive historical records, I work to uncover the stories and connections that shaped your heritage. From building a detailed family tree to tracing elusive ancestors, I approach each project with accuracy, thoroughness, and deep respect for your family’s legacy.

Contact me and let’s work together to bring your family’s history to life — one ancestor at a time.

For more than twenty years, I have been captivated by the stories hidden in birth certificates, census records, ship manifests, and family Bibles. What began as a personal curiosity about my own family's roots grew into a lifelong pursuit and, for the past fifteen years, a professional career dedicated to helping others uncover their ancestral stories.

The field of genealogy is constantly evolving — new record collections are digitized, DNA science advances, and research methodologies improve. I have made continuing education a cornerstone of my professional practice:

• Boston University Genealogical Research Program: I completed coursework through BU's respected genealogy program, widely regarded as one of the premier academic genealogy training programs in the country. As a side note, BU no longer offers this excellent program.
• Specialized Online Coursework: I have supplemented my formal education with numerous courses through other leading genealogical education platforms, keeping my skills current across a range of methodologies and record sets.
• Seminars and Training Events: I have attended numerous genealogy conferences, seminars, and workshops throughout my career, engaging with the broader genealogical community and staying current on best practices, technology, and research standards.
• Genetic Genealogy: I am actively expanding my expertise in DNA-based research methodologies, building my skills in using autosomal, Y-DNA, and mtDNA testing to support and strengthen traditional documentary research.

Board Certification

Building on this foundation of experience and education, I am currently working toward certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG). This certification represents the gold standard in the field, requiring genealogists to demonstrate their ability to produce well-reasoned, thoroughly documented research that meets the rigorous Genealogical Proof Standard.

Pursuing this credential is a natural next step in my professional development — a formal recognition of standards I have applied throughout my career, and a commitment to the highest level of accountability and excellence in my work.

 

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Genealogical Affiliations

Association of Professional Genealogists
National Genealogical Society
American Ancestors
Soule Kindred of America
The Mayflower Society