Letter from the Editor

It’s hard to believe that 2022 is drawing to a close, yet a glance out the window in Wisconsin confirms that winter is indeed around the corner. Here’s hoping that the articles gathered in this edition of the ISHI Report provide a hint of warmth and opportunity to appreciate the dedication and perseverance of the forensic professionals who contributed to the Report.

We start out with a recap of the 33rd International Symposium on Human Identification from first time attendee, Jordan Nutting. She shares her impression of the symposium including highlights from the general session talks, workshops and social activities. This year’s symposium was both educational and a lot of fun. If you weren’t able to attend this year, make sure to mark your calendar for ISHI 34. The venue will be Denver, Colorado. Conference dates are September 18-21, 2023. Workshop proposals are being accepted now through the official symposium website, www.ishinews.com

Author and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Ed Humes provides a sneak peek at his recently released book, The Forever Witness. This true story details how Investigative Genetic Genealogy was employed by CeCe Moore to solve a double murder of two young lovers that had been cold for decades. The book is fascinating and provides a behind the scenes look at how this powerful technology was first deployed. Ed and CeCe shared behind the scenes details on the case during a table topic presentation at ISHI.

We check in with Kelly Knight, also known as Kelly the Scientist who was interviewed for this issue. A forensic scientist and educator, Knight is working to break down barriers for women and especially women of color who would like to enter the sciences. Kelly talks about finding mentors, staying focused, leading with authenticity and appreciating your own unique gifts.

Guest contributor Rebekah Zemansky chronicles the efforts of various agencies struggling to identify the remains of migrants who perish during border crossings. Their work is made more difficult by a lack of government records, distrust of governmental authorities and the poor sample quality of many remains from exposure to the elements.

MOXXY Forensic Investigations is the name of a new start up formed by the team of young women including recent ISHI Student Ambassador, Olivia McCarter. Their success is further proof of the power of investigative genetic genealogy to solve previously unsolvable cold cases. We wish them success in their endeavors.

As always, we hope your enjoy this ISHI Report. Feel free to contact the editorial board with ideas for future topics, or to contribute an article. It’s our hope that the remaining days of 2022 bring you good health and joy. See you in 2023.

The Editorial Board