As the membership became more diverse, it became apparent that there was interest in other software packages. Meeting topics began to change to encompass these new interests although the organization’s name remained unchanged. In 1998, realizing that more people might find the group if its name reflected the software neutral nature of its new broader focus, the name was changed to Computer-Assisted Genealogy Group of Northern Illinois (CAGGNI).
CAGGNI has grown significantly since its early days as a PAF users group. The organization offers a variety of educational opportunities to help its members become better researchers and family historians.
In 2014, CAGGNI introduced GeneaQuest, a one-day genealogical conference, held at Elgin Community College and open to members and nonmembers alike. The day included many speakers, presentations, classes and lunch. Between events, the hallways were filled with genealogical vendors and local genealogical groups. During the first two GeneaQuest conferences, CAGGNI “Genies” at the GeneaUs Bar answered questions about software and online databases. The second GeneaQuest, in 2016, was at the American Society of Anesthesiologists Conference Center in Schaumburg. The third conference was held in June 2018 at the Northern Illinois University (NIU) Conference Center in Hoffman Estates, IL.
Read the full history of CAGGNI here!
The 2020 CAGGNI GeneaQuest Conference will be held VIRTUALLY on September 11th-12th- registration NOW OPEN!
Events will include an "early bird" bonus- a Friday Morning GeneaUs Bar, Friday afternoon workshops, and well-known speakers for Saturday's programs, including Maurice Gleeson, Jane Haldeman, Kitty Coooper, Aniel Hubbard, and Gail Lukasik!
Presentations will be LIVE and recorded for later viewing! Register HERE!
ISGS is proud to include CAGGNI as one of our Member Societies!
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