2019-2020 Academic Newsletter Volume 11, Issue 1
A message from the Chair...
As I reflect on this past semester, I am struck by the professionalism of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and leadership. My sincere appreciation goes out to all of our students and faculty who pivoted to online delivery of courses in two days and worked diligently to make this semester a success. Several students have reached out to me this semester to praise the faculty in our department. Our faculty and staff were calm and gracious as they navigated this challenging situation. Our students know how much our faculty care about their academic, professional, and personal success. I am blessed to work with a great Administrative Assistant, Ms. Tara Francis. She quickly facilitated working remotely so there was no gap in our office processes that keep the department running smoothly. We did not get to hold our Scholarship Reception and Alumni Luncheon in person, but thanks to the generosity of our alumni and sponsor Witsell Evans Rasco (WER Architects/Planners), we were still able to award scholarships and recognize four amazing alumni. Finally, I am grateful for the leadership of our Dean, Dr. Jimmy Ishee. He has kept us informed and provided strong leadership and humor throughout this trying time. As we look to the future, we are excited to share two important updates. First, the faculty in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences after much deliberation, are considering a name change for the department. Faculty are considering changing the name of the department to the Department of Nutrition and Family Sciences. They feel this more accurately reflects our curriculum, mission, and vision as well as our research and teaching expertise. Second, we are remodeling a room in McAlister Hall into a Research Lab space for students and faculty. This space will support our efforts to focus on research and community involvement with an emphasis on interprofessional education and service learning. This move formalizes the work we are already doing in the department, champions student research, and supports faculty’s efforts for tenure and promotion. As you can see, we are not just surviving, but thriving. Our students are progressing to graduation. Our faculty are teaching, conducting research, and serving their communities. Our alumni are improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities in their work settings. I encourage you all to continue to stay safe and look out for each other. Please enjoy just a brief snapshot of our 2019-2020 academic year.
Inside this Issue New Degrees…………...…..2 Career Champion………….3 Fast Facts………….………….4 Service-Learning…………..5 RD Day………………………….7 FCS Dine in Day…………...10 FCS Big Picture Award….12 FCCLA Week………………..13
