Descriptive List of FGS Awards

Awards presented by the Federation of Genealogical Societies are intended to serve two purposes. First, they recognize and thank individuals and organizations who make significant contributions. Second, they illustrate the many things that can, and need, to be done, and provide examples and ideas on how we can accomplish similar goals.

Nominations for awards may be submitted at any time during the year by individuals or organizations. Some awards are normally announced in each issue of the FGS FORUM. Some are announced during the banquet at the annual FGS Conference if the winners are present.

Ruth C. Bishop Family History Volunteer Hall of Honor The Federation of Genealogical Societies is proud to host the Ruth C. Bishop Family History Volunteer Hall of Honor. It is the goal of the Federation to make this the most prestigious yearly award recognizing volunteers in the genealogical community.

Certificate of Appreciation A certificate presented to an individual or organization expressing thanks for duty performed in an exemplary and outstanding manner. Several can be given each year. (Established July 1983.)

Award of Merit A certificate presented in recognition of meritorious service or distinguished work in genealogy and family history. Several can be given each year to individuals or organizations. (Established July 1983.)

President's Citation A certificate presented to an individual or organization whose contributions or service to FGS or the genealogical community are singled out for recognition by the FGS President. (Established July 1993.)

Delegate Award A certificate presented to a current Delegate of a member society in recognition of exemplary service to FGS as a member of an FGS standing committee or as an active participant in an FGS project. Generally, but not necessarily, given once each year. (Established February 1993.)

Distinguished Service Award A certificate presented to an individual or an organization, in recognition of outstanding service to FGS or to a member society. The organization must be a member of FGS, and the individual must be a member of an FGS member society. More than one such award could be given each year. (Established July 1983.)

Director's Award A plaque presented in recognition of both exceptional contributions to the field of genealogy and family history, and extra-mile efforts to promote good will and improve services. It is generally presented to an individual or non-member organization, but all organizations are eligible. (Established September 1984.)

George E. Williams Award A plaque presented to an individual in recognition of outstanding contributions within a single year to either FGS, a member organization, or both. Given generally, but not necessarily, once each year. (Established October 1981.)

David S. Vogels, Jr. Award A plaque presented to an individual in recognition of outstanding career contributions to FGS. Generally, but not necessarily, given once each year. (Established 9 March 1990.)

Rabbi Malcolm H. Stern Humanitarian Award A plaque presented to recognize the lifetime contributions of a rare individual whose positive personal influence and example have fostered unity in the genealogical community, provided leadership to its individual members, and helped make family history a vital force in the community at large. (Established January 1994.)

Archives Award A plaque presented to an organization or an individual in recognition of exceptional contributions in the area of archival access, preservation, or services. (Established May 2000.)

Note: Not all awards are presented each year.