Thinking about attending the RootsTech 2024 virtual conference? Here’s what you need to know. (If you’re not, keep reading. It offers some valuable education for family storytellers. And it’s FREE.)
As I pack my bags for a week in beautiful Salt Lake City to attend the in-person RootsTech event, I want to share what’s available for folks at home, or as we call them, the #notatrootstech peeps.
Let’s start at the beginning.
What’s RootsTech? A Brief History
Traditionally RootsTech has been the world’s biggest family history conference, combining technology and family history education with inspiring keynote speakers, an awesome vendor hall, and a fun, friendly environment.
Covid-19 rocked everyone’s world a few days after the lights shut down on the 2020 conference. In 2021, for obvious reasons, RootsTech went virtual. FamilySearch, the sponsors of the conference, realized the incredible reach of a virtual conference.
So what’s the difference between the RootsTech 2024 virtual conference and the in-person one?
During last year’s conference, FamilySearch’s CEO promised that although in-person experience is back, the virtual conference will continue to be a major focus. Of course, there are some differences in the speakers. Some are online only and some are in-person only. I’ve never toured the expo hall virtually, but I’ll bet the virtual one is warmer!
If this is new to you, read 8 Things to Know about RootsTech2023. Though the keynotes are different, it covers the structure of the conference for in-person and virtual attendees.
This year’s theme is REMEMBER—perfect for personal and family storytellers and writers.
How do I attend RootsTech 2024 online?
RootsTech.org is your virtual base camp.
Your first step if a free registration. This will give you access to;
- 200+ new online sessions in over 26 languages
- Livestreamed keynote sessions
- Chat online with other attendees worldwide, as well as with instructors
- Digital handouts for educations sessions
Don’t let the 200+ number scare you away. Most of these will become part of the RootsTech On-Demand Library. FamilySearch keeps these available for a while, assuming the information in them remains relevant.
How to find the RootsTech 2024 Virtual Conference Sessions you want to view
On the main page of Rootstech.org , click or tap on “RootsTech Event” at the top. You’ll get a drop-down menu. Click on “Class Schedule.”
You can also use the blue box on the main page with “Create Your RootsTech 2024 Schedule” or navigate directly to https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/schedule?day=2024-02-29
On the left of the class schedule page, you’ll see filters that let you sort by skill level or speaker.
Family Search will add the 2024 online videos to the RootsTech OnDemand Library on Wednesday afternoon. You’ll find the search and filter functions are much more robust on that part of the website. I think this is because they simply add to it and don’t have to reprogram it each year.
In the meantime, though, you can peruse each days’ classes and add them to your “playlist.”
Note: My three sessions are in-person only, so unfortunately you won’t find me in this online search.
Don’t Miss the Keynotes
The way the RootsTech 2024 Virtual Conference is structured, #notatrootstech views can watch the keynotes as the live audience sees them. This way, you get a feel for the excitement in the room.
Thursday
Comedian Henry Cho will open the both the in-person and online conference with humor and storytelling. I’m hoping to hear more about how he uses his comedy to educate audiences about the Korean-American experience.
Friday
Lynne Jackson is the President and Founder of the Dred Scott Heritage Foundation. She’s the great-great granddaughter of Dred and Harriet Scott of the Dred Scott Decision of 1857. She’s also the great-great-great niece of Oscar Charleston, Negro League Superstar
But wait, there’s more!
Nancy Borowick, a world-renowned Sony artisan photographer, speaker, and teacher, has a unique gift and talent for capturing the moments to not be forgotten. I can’t wait to see what wisdom she has for wordsmiths on capturing those same moments.
Saturday
Kristin Chenoweth –Yes, Glinda from Wicked, not to mention her roles in Your’re a Good Man Charlie Brown The West Wing, Pushing Daisies Glee, and Hairspray Live! Will share her adoption story.
Don’t Miss Connecting via Social Media
Look for the hashtags #notatrootstech and #rootstech and #rootstech2024.
Your Turn
What are you looking forward to about RootsTech 2024 Virtual Conference. What have I forgotten to share?
.
