In 1998 the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies began to honor those who have made significant contributions to the field of Jewish Genealogy. These first awards were announced at the 18th Annual Conference on Jewish Genealogy held in Los Angeles, July 1998.

IAJGS Lifetime Achievement Award

Presented to Gary Mokotoff

Outstanding Contribution to Jewish Genealogy via the Internet Award

Presented to Susan King

Outstanding Contribution to Jewish Genealogy via Print Award

Presented to Jewish Genealogical Society of Great Britain  for its Shemot journal