The Southern Arizona Jewish Genealogical Society won the Member of the Year Award at the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies’ 45th International Conference on Jewish Genealogy held in Fort Wayne, Indiana, from August 10-14, 2025. The IAJGS represents more than 90 Jewish genealogical societies worldwide. Rich Schlesinger and Nancy Grayson, co-presidents of the Southern Arizona Jewish Genealogical Society, announced the award at the group’s monthly membership meeting on Sept. 7.

The Southern Arizona group was recognized for its efforts over the past year to revitalize the original genealogical organization formed in 2009. Noteworthy accomplishments included fostering collaboration with other local Jewish organizations, developing an in-person and virtual speakers series, and sponsoring field trips, study groups, and other outreach initiatives. The group also expanded its board of directors, increased membership, reincorporated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and relocated membership meetings to the more centralized Tucson Jewish Community Center location.

“Winning the Member of the Year Award was the result of a lot of work put in by the entire board, and I was honored to receive the award on behalf of our membership,” Schlesinger said. 

Likewise, Grayson was ebullient about the recognition, adding, “I am inspired to do even more for everyone in Southern Arizona, and those out of state, researching their Jewish heritage and starting their genealogical adventure.” 

Grayson also announced that on Sunday, Oct. 5, genealogist and family history researcher Jordan Auslander will discuss “Global Genealogical Research Without Airfare or Postage” via Zoom. On Sunday, Nov. 16, Crista Cowan, The Barefoot Genealogist, will deliver an in-person lecture entitled “Jewish Records on Ancestry,” and on Sunday, Dec. 7, DNA expert Gil Bardige will present “Help! I Got My DNA Results and I’m Confused” via Zoom. Meetings begin at 2 p.m. at the Tucson JCC. 

For more information or to arrange an introductory presentation for your organization, email info@sajgs.org.