FGS – Genetic Genealogy, Empathy, and the NPE Community
February 8 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
The Falmouth Genealogical Society Presents Talk with
Genetic Genealogist Kate Penney Howard
Genetic Genealogy, Empathy, and the NPE Community
Saturday, February 8, 2025, 10:00 am–12:00 pm
FALMOUTH — The Falmouth Genealogical Society (FGS) will hold its monthly meeting on
Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 10:00 am-12:00 pm in the Hermann Foundation Room of the
Falmouth Public Library, 300 Main Street.
Kate Penny Howard will present Genetic Genealogy, Empathy, and the NPE Community.
She describes ‘NPE’ as what happens when a person takes a consumer DNA test and
discovers that their biological parent is ‘Not the Parent Expected’. Kate says that it’s often a
shock for individuals, and the discovery can trigger conflict and rejection in the family in which
they were raised as well as in their biological family. She will lead an exploration into the history
and culture surrounding how we identify family, and how consumer DNA testing has reframed
these concepts. She hopes that attendees will gain insight into the challenges faced by those
experiencing ‘NPE’ and develop empathy and practical skills for supporting individuals through
this often-turbulent journey of self-discovery. The talk aims to equip participants with the
knowledge and sensitivity needed to approach genetic surprises with understanding and grace.
Kate Penney Howard is a genetic genealogist, specializing in brick wall work, HighRoH, and
endogamy. During a bout with cancer, she discovered that she loves sharing her knowledge
with other genealogists. She is intentional about addressing injustice and myths in her
presentations. Kate has presented at Rootstech, East Coast Genetic Genealogy Conference,
the International Congress on Medieval Studies, NAAP/RTK’s Untangling Our Roots, and the
General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). 2025 speaking engagements
include Rootstech, Ohio Genealogical Society 2025, and Ontario Ancestors Webinar Series, as
well as local library and genealogical society gatherings. Kate studied vocal music and earned a
Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis in 2011 and has been
pastor of North Christian Church since her ordination in 2012. She will join FGS via Zoom.
This talk is free and open to the public. It is also available via Zoom. For the Zoom
credentials, please contact [email protected] by February 7, 2025.