DAR Genealogy Research Institute-Registration Opens January 16, 2026

Gale Markley, National Chair, DAR Genealogy Research Institute
GRI

The DAR Genealogy Research Institute (GRI) is excited to announce that registration will open on Friday, January 16, 2026. Be sure to mark your calendar and prepare to secure your spot for this enriching educational opportunity. 

Whether you are just starting on your genealogy research journey or have been researching for years, the GRI experience will aid you in that quest. Industry renowned experts will share their expertise on timely genealogy topics and DAR experts will share information and tips on DAR-related subjects.

The GRI will be held Monday, May 4, through Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in our own DAR Headquarters in Washington, DC. A Welcome Reception will be held on Sunday, May 3, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the O’Byrne Gallery for all registered GRI attendees. Registration packets can be picked up there. Registration packets can also be picked up on Monday morning from 8:00-8:30 a.m. in the foyer of Constitution Hall.

Diana Elder AGⓇ, AGLTM professional genealogist

Master class lectures will be presented by Diana Elder AG, AGLTM professional genealogist with special accreditation in the Gulf South region of the United States and serves as a Commissioner for The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen). Elder will present two sessions on Tuesday morning, May 5 and two on Wednesday morning, May 6.

Elder will share the research process she developed and introduced in her book Research Like a Pro. She will also present on the ever-changing use of artificial intelligence in research and give tips for discovering new avenues of exploration with it.

Michael N. Henderson

Michael N. Henderson is a Navy veteran, author, historian, and genealogist. Henderson brings both scholarship and storytelling to the GRI. He is a past recipient of the James Dent Walker Award for Excellence in African American Genealogical Research. Henderson is a frequent lecturer nationwide and recognized for his book, GOT PROOF! My Genealogical Journey Through the Use of Documentation. Henderson will present two session on Monday morning, May 4.

2025 GRI

Concurrent sessions will be offered on Monday and Tuesday afternoons, to allow attendees to choose from a wide selection of DAR specific genealogy sessions. These sessions will address how to resolve the challenge of two men living in the same place and time, both with the same name, both having pensions and primary sources to make the claims; tips to avoid the dreaded Additional Information Required (AIR); using New England town records to prove service, what happens when papers get to Washington, and much more!

The GRI schedule will feature extended research hours in the DAR’s world-class library on Tuesday evening. The behind-the-scenes tour of DAR Headquarters will be available once again. 

The GRI registration fee is $485 per person (inclusive of the Eventbrite service fee), which includes all master class lectures, concurrent sessions, and group meals.

Tea Around Town is offered as an optional event on Monday evening, May 4 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The private coach will pick up and drop off at the State Plaza. This unique sightseeing tour combines a tea experience with a tour of the city’s landmarks on a floral-themed, double-decker bus. Passengers can fill up on a selection hot and cold teas, scones, tea sandwiches, and an array of other savory and sweet items while enjoying live tour guide narration, entertainment, and panoramic views on this moving tea party experience. The cost is $150 per person, which includes the Eventbrite service fee. Seating is limited.

Pre-Institute Zoom sessions to provide tips on maximizing the benefits of the GRI are scheduled for mid-February, March, and April for all registrants. The first Zoom session will be held on Thursday evening, February 19 with helpful hints such as what to bring with you and GRI attire. If you don’t have a friend or family member attending with you to share hotel expenses, the February Zoom session will be a potential opportunity to make a roommate connection.

Refund Policy: Must contact event organizer by Friday, April 3, 2026 for refund of registration (minus $35 processing fee) if cancellation is necessary. No refunds will be issued after April 4, 2026.

DAR members will be given an exclusive opportunity to register for the Institute until March 1. Any spaces available after March 1, 2026, will be opened to the friends and family of DAR members.

A link to register for the 2026 GRI will be posted as an announcement on the landing page of the DAR Members’ Website at 10 a.m. EST tomorrow (January 16) morning. Attendance is limited, so mark your calendars and register right way! We look forward to seeing you in May!


Click here DAR GRI 2026, to make a reservation in the GRI room block at the State Plaza Hotel. To reserve by phone, call 1800 424 2859 to speak with a reservation agent. You must refer to the required code 67J1VD to receive group rate. 

The State Plaza is located at 2117 E Street NW, Washington, DC and is within walking distance of DAR Headquarters buildings where GRI sessions will be held. The State Plaza features spacious apartment-style suites with two queen beds – most rooms include a fully-equipped kitchen with full size stove, refrigerator, microwave, sink and eat-in dining area, providing GRI attendees the economical and convenient option of preparing food in their hotel room. Many rooms also feature a separate dressing alcove to facilitate morning routines with roommates. The negotiated nightly rate of $289 plus applicable taxes includes complimentary bottled water and Wi-Fi. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the rate of $50 per day, inclusive of taxes, with unlimited in/out privileges. There are three covered and secured garages: two on-site and one overflow garage located one block away. 

The Marriott Courtyard Foggy Bottom is located at 515 20th Street NW, Washington, DC and is also within walking distance of DAR Headquarters. This hotel offers an on-site bistro restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a bar offering food and drinks in a comfortable setting. The nightly rate for a queen/queen double room is $399 plus applicable taxes includes free breakfast daily. Amenities include high speed internet and an indoor pool. Valet parking is available at the rate of $56 plus tax daily.

Please use this link for reservations at the Marriott Courtyard Foggy Bottom: https://app.marriott.com/reslink?id=1768417155250&key=GRP&app=resvlink

If you have questions as you plan your travel please email [email protected]. Rooms are limited, so don’t delay in securing your reservations!

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