Laura Olmsted is a world-renowned genetic genealogist and the Founder and Executive Director of DNAngels, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reuniting individuals with their biological families through the power of DNA. Since launching DNAngels in 2019, Laura has led the organization to astonishing success, with over 7,000 cases solved to date—a number expected to exceed 8,000 by the end of 2025 and reach 10,000 by Christmas 2026.
Laura’s passion for genealogy began as a family project inspired by her Aunt Shirley. While creating a heritage book for her grandchildren, she took a DNA test—and discovered a life-altering truth: the man she believed to be her father was not her biological parent. Determined to uncover her origins, Laura immersed herself in genetic genealogy. Within two weeks, she identified her biological father and, in doing so, experienced firsthand the complex emotional terrain that Not Parent Expected (NPE) individuals, adoptees, and the donor-conceived often face.
What started as a personal journey quickly grew into a mission to help others. Laura founded DNAngels to provide free, compassionate support to those seeking answers about their biological parentage. Under her leadership, DNAngels has grown from a volunteer initiative into a nationally recognized nonprofit that consistently solves complex cases with speed and sensitivity. In fact, the majority of cases are resolved within a week.
Laura’s expertise and empathy have made her a trusted figure in the world of genetic genealogy. She has helped uncover the truth in high-profile cases, including exposing fertility fraud in Rochester, New York, which garnered national media attention. Her work has been featured in the New York Times, ABC News, and the Democrat and Chronicle, among other major outlets.
An advocate for ethical genetic research and emotional healing, Laura is a frequent presenter at conferences and workshops across the country. She served as a keynote speaker at the Illinois State Genealogical Society’s Annual Conference and has led professional trainings for FamilySearch and other genealogical platforms. In 2024, she published her first book, Finding My Roots: A Journal of Discovery and Reunification with DNAngels—a guided journal that helps readers process their DNA discoveries with intention and care.
Laura is a proud member of the National Genealogical Society (NGS), the International Society of Genetic Genealogy (ISOGG), and the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG). She is currently working toward dual certification in genealogical research and genetic genealogy.
Through her unwavering dedication, Laura has created a community where truth, healing, and family connections flourish. She believes deeply that everyone deserves to know where they come from—and no one should be denied that right because of financial constraints or someone else’s secrets. Her work continues to transform lives and reunite families, one DNA case at a time.
email Laura: Laura@DNAngels.org