The Council for the Advancement of Forensic Genealogy is pleased to welcome Loren Schnell as
a new associate member.
Loren Schnell, BA, M.Ed., is a retired elementary teacher who has been involved with traditional
genealogy from an early age. He earned a graduate certificate in Forensic Genetic Genealogy
from the University of New Haven in March 2023. Since then, he has helped clients find
biological family members through analyzing and researching DNA matches. Taking a teaching
approach, Loren works together with clients, helping them learn how to use tools, interpret
results, and mine documents for information. He also coaches clients in how to contact potential
relatives.
Working in genetic genealogy, Loren has experienced the wide-range of client
emotions that accompany locating biological family members. While some cases end like a
Hallmark movie, others can culminate with a not-so-happy ending. Being a forensic genetic
genealogist is more than just researching matches and building trees. It also involves helping
clients navigate the emotions and anxiety that come with unexpected discoveries. Loren lives
with his wife Liz and their golden retriever Harvey in Michigan.
Welcome Loren to CAFG!