Since 2003, the Washington State Genealogical Society has recognized over 600 outstanding volunteers and teams, nominated by their local society or genealogical organization for their service and dedication. These volunteers are the backbone of their local society, giving their time and expertise, to the organization and the field of genealogy. In the coming months, you will be introduced to each of the 2022 award recipients and learn why they received the 2022 WSGS Outstanding Volunteer and Team Award.

Today we’re introducing Kathy Erlandson of Olympia, Washington, who was nominated by the Olympia Genealogical Society (OGS).

Kathy is completing her third year (2019-2022) as president of the Olympia Genealogical Society.  She served as vice president the two prior years and earlier served as secretary.

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, the period of her presidency arguably was one of the more difficult periods for OGS and Kathy’s leadership through it was stellar. Like many other organizations, OGS quickly moved from in-person activities to virtual activities including their Spring Seminar, their major event of the year.

Membership at OGS has increased substantially, and they greatly expanded their Special Interest Groups. In short, OGS not only survived this period, they’ve thrived and Kathy’s skills as a “people person” and her ability to bring people together to get stuff done has been a major factor.  Not only has she been a great leader OGS, she always is ready to jump in to help anywhere needed.

For more information on the WSGS Outstanding Volunteer Award program, visit the Recognition page of the WSGS website or contact Info@wasgs.org. Please type “Volunteer Award” in the subject line.