The Council for the Advancement of Forensic Genealogy (CAFG) is preparing for one of its most anticipated virtual events of the year: a special webinar featuring internationally known researcher, author, and lecturer Penny Walters. Scheduled for 23 September 2026, this session promises to deliver fresh insights, practical strategies, and thought‑provoking perspectives for professionals working at the intersection of genealogy, ethics, and forensic research.
Who Is Penny Walters?
Penny Walters is a respected voice in the genealogy community, known for her work on ethical dilemmas in family history, the psychology of identity, and the complexities of DNA testing. Her books Ethical Dilemmas in Genealogy and The Psychology of Family History have become essential reading for genealogists navigating sensitive research challenges.
Her teaching style blends academic rigor with real‑world application, making her a favorite among professionals seeking deeper understanding of the human stories behind the records.
What This Webinar Will Cover
While CAFG will release full session details soon, attendees can expect Walters to explore themes central to forensic genealogy, including:
- The practice of using genetic information for identifying suspects or victims in criminal cases.
- The use of super-sleuthing familial relationships to identify suspects or unknowns.
- Ethical dilemmas of using DNA information from public data bases.
- Pioneering and key case studies will be detailed.
Why This Matters for Forensic Genealogists
Forensic genealogy continues to expand into legal, investigative, and historical domains. Professionals must balance accuracy, ethics, and sensitivity—especially when working with living individuals, law enforcement, or disputed identities.
Walters’ perspective is uniquely valuable because she addresses not only what genealogists do, but how and why they make decisions. Her work encourages practitioners to think critically about:
- The emotional impact of discoveries
- The responsibilities tied to sharing sensitive information
- The biases that can shape research outcomes
- The ethical boundaries of forensic involvement
This webinar is an opportunity for CAFG members and the broader community to refine their approach and strengthen their professional toolkit.
Event Details
- Date: 23 September 2026
- Format: Live virtual webinar
- Host: Council for the Advancement of Forensic Genealogy
- Presenter: Penny Walters, PhD
Registration information for non-members can be found at Paypal. Members can attend for free by emailing genealogysafari@gmail.com.