Genealogists' Council Member
Dr. Shelley Viola Murphy, known as “familytreegirl,” is a dedicated genealogist with over three decades of experience. Born in Michigan and now residing in central Virginia, she specializes in genealogy workshops nationwide, emphasizing her “SO WHAT” approach and problem-solving techniques, including timeline use. Murphy serves on the boards of the Library of Virginia, Albemarle Charlottesville, and Fluvanna Historical Societies. She coordinates and teaches at the Midwest African American Genealogy Institute (MAAGI) and develops educational programs for the International African American Museum’s Center for Family History.
Murphy holds positions as Genealogist General for the Society of the First African Families of English America and Trustee for the International Society for British Genealogy and Family History, alongside memberships in multiple genealogy organizations. She is currently the Descendant Project Researcher at the University of Virginia and hosts “Freedmen’s Bureau Friday’s.” Since 2009, she has been an Adjunct Professor at Averett University and conducts personal research across several states.