NGS Honors Jane Van Tour with Posthumous Volunteerism Award

Longtime SCGS volunteer recognized for a lifetime of service to the genealogical community

From left: Jane at the SCGS Library (courtesy of Paula Hinkle); Jane volunteering at an SCGS event; Jane as a young stewardess; the National Genealogical Society's 2026 Family History Conference, where Jane was posthumously honored with the Shirley Langdon Wilcox Award for Exemplary Volunteerism.

On May 30, 2026, longtime Southern California Genealogical Society member and volunteer Jane Van Tour was posthumously honored with the Shirley Langdon Wilcox Award for Exemplary Volunteerism at the National Genealogical Society Family History Conference in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

The award recognizes an individual whose generosity, dedication, and years of service have benefited both the National Genealogical Society and the broader genealogy community. According to NGS, Jane began volunteering at the 2013 NGS Family History Conference in Las Vegas and quickly became known for her willingness to help wherever needed.

A Familiar Face at Conferences

At NGS conferences, Jane volunteered in numerous roles, from staffing registration desks and assisting attendees to troubleshooting technology and supporting conference operations behind the scenes. Her friendly demeanor and readiness to help made her a favorite among attendees and organizers alike.

NGS noted that at every conference she attended, Jane stepped forward to assist wherever needed, always welcoming newcomers and helping to solve problems large and small.

Service Beyond NGS

Jane's dedication to genealogy extended well beyond the National Genealogical Society. NGS also recognized her volunteer contributions to the Southern California Genealogical Society, the Federation of Genealogical Societies, the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, and, after her retirement and return to Tennessee, the Tennessee Genealogical Society.

In announcing the award, NGS stated that Jane "truly exemplified an extraordinary spirit of volunteerism."

A Lasting Legacy at SCGS

Many SCGS members remember Jane from our annual Jamborees, where she served as a gracious hostess for speakers, helped evaluate prospective presenters, and welcomed attendees with warmth and enthusiasm. Whether working behind the scenes or assisting a first-time conference participant, Jane's kindness and generosity left a lasting impression.

Her contributions helped strengthen not only SCGS but the wider genealogy community, reflecting the collaborative spirit that makes genealogy organizations successful.

A Well-Deserved Tribute

This national recognition is a fitting tribute to a volunteer whose impact was felt across genealogical societies, conferences, and educational programs throughout the country. Jane's legacy lives on through the countless people she encouraged, supported, and inspired.

SCGS congratulates Jane's family, friends, and colleagues on this well-deserved honor. We are proud to have counted her among our members and volunteers.