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Staff

Mailing Address
New England Historic Genealogical Society
101 Newbury Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02116-3007

Telephone
Toll Free: 1-888-296-3447
Local: 617-536-5740
Fax: 617-536-7307

Group photo from staff outing at Crane Estate, Ipswich

Executive Office

Ryan J. Woods

President & CEO
An educator and historian, Ryan Woods is President & CEO of American Ancestors. For nearly two decades, he has led the development of award-winning experiences for exploring family history, heritage, & culture.

D. Brenton Simons OBE

President Emeritus and Chief Stewardship Officer

Author of the award-winning Witches, Rakes, and Rogues, and other books, Brenton Simons is the former President and CEO of American Ancestors the nation’s flagship genealogical institution, since 2005. In 2024, he stepped into his new role of President Emeritus and Chief Stewardship Officer.

Robyn Sears

Executive Assistant
Robyn is an award-winning Customer Success professional with a diverse background spanning multiple industries.