Each year, the National Genealogical Society (NGS) supports
genealogical learning through its education scholarships. The scholarships
invest in researchers who are committed to strengthening their skills and
advancing their work in family history research .
The 2026 scholarship cycle drew an inspiring response. We
received many thoughtful and high-quality applications from individuals
dedicated to genealogical education.
This year, NGS is delighted to recognize the recipients of
the Donn Devine Memorial Scholarship and the John T. Humphrey, CG, Memorial
Scholarship.
Donn Devine Memorial Scholarship—Charlie Wilson of
Sutton, Massachusetts
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| Charlie Wilson. Used with permission |
Since 2020, the GRIP Genealogy Institute has proudly offered
the Donn Devine Memorial Scholarship to support deserving individuals who wish
to attend the institute. Awarded annually, the scholarship recognizes a
prospective student who has not previously attended GRIP and who demonstrates a
strong commitment to advancing genealogy through volunteer service and
advocacy.
Our 2026 recipient is Charlie Wilson of Sutton,
Massachusetts.
Wilson learned about the scholarship through an NGS email
announcement. After reading more about the award, she recognized a clear
connection to her own values and work.
“I saw myself reflected in Donn Devine’s values of ethical
research and volunteer service and felt I had to apply,” she shared.
Wilson volunteers with the Sutton Historical Society in
Sutton, Massachusetts. Over the past three years, she has inventoried its extensive
museum collection to create a more accessible resource for researchers. In
reconstructing the lives of individuals and families represented in the
documents, she deepened her own understanding of Sutton’s social and historical
fabric.
Her continued research, which focuses on the lives of people on the margins, demands careful analysis, thoughtful
interpretation, and strong research skills. Wilson is looking forward to
reaching her genealogical goals by participating in the targeted,
in-depth instruction that GRIP offers. “My quiet work of researching unfamiliar
names can continue to meaningfully inform, educate, and challenge the public,” she
explained.
Wilson will attend the GRIP Genealogy Institute course
“Records Loss: Overcoming Destroyed, Missing, or Non-Extant Records,”
coordinated by Kelvin L. Meyers, FTxSGS.
We are pleased to welcome Charlie Wilson to GRIP. Her
commitment to learning and service embodies the spirit of the Donn Devine
Memorial Scholarship.
John T. Humphrey, CG, Memorial Scholarship—Shannon
Kupfer-Trausch of Galena, Ohio
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| Shannon Kupfer-Trausch. Used with permission |
The recipient of the 2026 John T. Humphrey, CG, Memorial
Scholarship is Shannon Kupfer-Trausch of Galena, Ohio.
Awarded annually, the John T. Humphrey Memorial Scholarship
supports genealogists preparing for advanced or professional work by providing
complimentary enrollment in the NGS Advanced Skills in Genealogy course. John
T. Humphrey’s leadership and dedication to genealogical education continues to
influence the field., The scholarship aptly recognizes individuals committed to
strengthening their research skills and methodology.
“When I submitted my application, I was hopeful but knew the
selection process would be highly competitive,” she shared. “To have been
chosen is both validating and incredibly exciting.”
Kupfer-Trausch brings a strong academic and professional
background to her genealogical pursuits. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in
History and a Master of Library and Information Science, and is currently
completing a Master of History. Her genealogical education includes coursework
through Boston University, the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research,
Samford University (IGHR),
and multiple Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy programs.
In her application essay, Kupfer-Trausch described her
progression from an enthusiastic “collector of names” to a focused researcher
committed to developing a deeper methodological skill set. She emphasized that
the Advanced Skills in Genealogy course represents an important step toward her
long-term goal of working as a professional genealogist, while also
strengthening her effectiveness as a librarian.
“For the next several years, as I serve patrons as a
librarian at the State Library of Ohio, the skills I gain through the Advanced
Skills in Genealogy course will guide me and help me to be a better, more
thorough librarian,” she noted. She also looks forward to applying those skills
in her own research and future professional work.
We congratulate Shannon Kupfer-Trausch on being selected for
the 2026 John T. Humphrey, CG, Memorial Scholarship. Her dedication to
continued learning and to supporting fellow researchers reflects the
educational spirit John Humphrey championed throughout his career.
Supporting Growth Through Education
NGS Education scholarships expand access to learning
opportunities that help researchers build stronger skills, apply sound
methodology, and contribute meaningfully to the genealogical community.
The National Genealogical Society congratulates Shannon
Kupfer-Trausch and Charlie Wilson. Their dedication to continuing education,
research, and service reflects the purpose of these awards.
Please visit our website to learn more about the Donn Devine Memorial
Scholarship, the John
T. Humphrey, CG, Memorial Scholarship, NGS Education learning
opportunities, and the GRIP
Genealogy Institute.
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