Meet Collette - Professional Genealogist, Educator, and Speaker
Collette Fenlason
Professional Genealogist, Educator, and Speaker
• 25+ years researching family history
• President, Wichita Genealogical Society (Kansas)
• Member, Association of Professional Genealogists
As a professional genealogist and educator with more than 25 years of experience researching family history, I help individuals and families uncover accurate, well-documented stories about their ancestors through careful research and sound genealogical methods.
My interest in genealogy began in the late 1990s during a college course in genetics and DNA. That class sparked a lifelong interest in understanding how historical records and DNA evidence work together to tell a family’s story. Over the years, I have documented multiple family lines back to the 1600s and continue to strengthen my research skills through ongoing study and hands-on experience.
In addition to traditional record research, I work with DNA results to help individuals better understand their family connections. I assist clients in interpreting DNA matches and building research plans based on genetic clues. I also work with individuals navigating adoption research and unknown parentage cases, approaching each situation with care, discretion, and respect.
With a background in education, I bring patience and clarity to every project. I specialize in helping beginners build strong research foundations and guiding researchers who feel stuck toward reliable, well-documented conclusions.
I currently serve as President of the Wichita Genealogical Society and am committed to promoting thoughtful, ethical genealogy practices. Whether you are just starting your family history journey or seeking professional assistance with a challenging research question, I provide experienced guidance you can trust.
My Passion
Genealogy is more than collecting names and dates. It is about understanding where we come from and preserving stories that might otherwise be lost. I care deeply about helping people move beyond online hints and assumptions toward research that is thoughtful, accurate, and supported by historical evidence.
For individuals navigating adoption or unknown parentage, genealogy can carry profound personal meaning. In those situations especially, I approach the work with care, discretion, and respect. Every discovery deserves to be handled responsibly.
My Goals
When someone chooses to work with me, my goal is simple. I want you to feel informed, confident, and supported throughout the process.
I aim to communicate clearly, evaluate evidence honestly, and present research findings in a way that is understandable and well documented.
Above all, I want the work we do together to be something you can trust and feel proud of.
Professional Standards
Research is conducted using established genealogical methods, careful evaluation of evidence, and full source documentation. Conclusions are based on the best available historical records and DNA evidence available at the time of research.