Western New York has long been a key gateway and hub for both migration and settlement. Its abundant natural resources and agricultural bounty, key geographical location, extensive waterways and canals, and centers of trade, industry, and commerce have made it an important region for different people of all backgrounds to live, work, and raise families over many centuries.
Join the NYG&B and guest experts for an online exploration of resources and techniques for tracing ancestors in Western New York.
Online sessions include:
- Lectures on a range of topics
- Individual consultation sessions with guest expert genealogists
- Group Q&A periods
- Independent research time
Lecture topics (subject to change):
- An Orientation to New York State and Western New York Research with Rhonda Hoffman
- Top Websites for Western New York Genealogy with Rhonda Hoffman
- Lesser-known Western New York Records with Rhonda Hoffman
- Panel Discussion with Rhonda Hoffman and Jeanette Sheliga on Resources at the Grosvenor Room at the Central Library of the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library
Program runs from 11:30 a.m. to approximately 4:30 p.m. ET each day.
Program Fee
- NYG&B Members Early Registration Rate: $399 (ends June 9, 2025; after that registration rate is $469)
- General Registration: $469
Consultant Bios
Rhonda Hoffman is a genealogy librarian in Buffalo, New York, and a board member of the Western New York Genealogical Society. In 2024, Rhonda was honored by the NYG&B for her 25 years of service to genealogists. Rhonda is a Chautauqua County native, and her family tree includes settlers of all eight Western New York counties. Rhonda frequently lectures across Western New York and is working towards genealogical certification.
Jeanette Sheliga of Jeanette's Genealogy lives in Lockport, New York, and has been lecturing about genealogy since 2011. Jeanette is the President of the Virtual Genealogical Association (VGA), and she holds positions in local, state, and national societies. Jeannette has completed the study groups of ProGen 49 and ProGen Practicum 02 and has attended many genealogy institutes.
About Empire State Exploration
The Empire State Exploration program is an ideal interactive experience for tracing New York ancestors online under the guidance of genealogy experts. Participants join a small online group of fellow researchers for three daylong, at-home sessions of guided research and learning. Each online session is held live and features a special guest expert genealogist, lectures, individual consultation sessions, and group Q&A periods. Participants have access to materials for 30 days following the program.