AAFCS News

AAFCS Announces Keynote Speaker for the 2026 Annual Conference

By AAFCS Team
AAFCS Announces Keynote Speaker for the 2026 Annual Conference Alexandria, VA . – December 04, 2025, The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) announces that its keynote speaker for the 2026 AAFCS Annual Conference will be Susan Weinstock, CEO of the Consumer Federation of America (CFA). Susan Weinstock is the CEO of the Consumer Federation of America. Previously, she was vice president of financial resilience programming at AARP, responsible for the overall strategic direction of AARP programs and education competencies to improve the financial security of persons age 50 and older. Prior to AARP, Susan worked at the ...
0 comments

Ready, Set, Design! Join the FCS Week T-Shirt Contest

By AAFCS Team
Ready, Set, Design! Join the FCS Week T-Shirt Contest One of the most exciting parts of FCS Week is our first T-Shirt Design Contest , where creativity meets community celebration. This year, we’re inviting YOU—students, educators, members, and supporters—to help us design the official 2025 FCS Week t-shirt! Not only is this a fun way to show off your artistic talents, but it’s also a meaningful opportunity to highlight what Family & Consumer Sciences means to you. Whether you’re inspired by nutrition, design, wellness, financial literacy, leadership, or the power of FCS as a whole, your design can help share that story with others. Why Participate? ...
0 comments

Julia Roberts on SmartLess: “I Probably Would Have Wanted to Be a Home Economics Teacher”

By AAFCS Team
Julia Roberts on SmartLess Podcast : “I Probably Would Have Wanted to Be a Home Economics Teacher” In a recent episode of the SmartLess podcast, Julia Roberts joined hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett for a lively, heartfelt, and humorous conversation. The episode is full of personal stories and laughter, but one moment at around 19:50 stands out to anyone connected to Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS). When asked, she shares what she might have done if she hadn’t pursued acting. With her signature charm, Julia admits, “I graduated high school in 1985… and I probably would have wanted to be a Home Economics teacher.” She goes on to reminisce ...
0 comments

Fall Back Into Balance: Tips for Family Routines

By AAFCS Team
🍂 As the leaves begin to turn and school bells ring again, fall is the perfect time to reset and bring balance back to your family’s routine. Between work deadlines, school schedules, extracurriculars, and the general chaos of daily life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with a few intentional strategies, you can create a rhythm that supports everyone in your household. 🕒 1. Establish a Consistent Weekly Routine Consistency helps kids feel secure and adults stay sane. Try creating a weekly schedule that includes: Morning and evening routines (wake-up times, breakfast, homework, bedtime) Dedicated family time (game night, Sunday dinner, ...
0 comments

Updated Resources for the FCS Body of Knowledge

By AAFCS Team
The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences is proud to announce the completion of the Body of Knowledge (BOK) re -tooling process. This completes the work started in 2023 and updated following the 2025 AAFCS Annual Conference. Members of the FCS Body of Knowledge Re-tooling Task Force, along with the AAFCS Board and staff, listened to stakeholders and have integrated additional updates to the FCS- BOK Framework document s and resources . These changes address the requests for additional materials that were made during and after the annual conference in June . N ew ...
0 comments

Back to School: Ready, Set, School!

By AAFCS Team
🏫 Back to School: Ready, Set, School! The backpacks are out, the pencils are sharpened, and the countdown to the first day of school has officially begun! At AAFCS, we’re here to help everyone transition smoothly into the new academic year with our Tuesday Tips campaign — your weekly dose of smart strategies and helpful resources to make school prep a breeze. ✨ What is Tuesday Tips? Every Tuesday, we share practical tips, tools, and ideas to help students, parents, and educators stay organized, motivated, and ready to tackle the school year. From productivity hacks to educational resources, Tuesday Tips is your go-to guide for making school ...
0 comments

Embrace Sustainability: Simple Eco-Friendly Habits for Every Day

By AAFCS Team
Embracing sustainability isn't just a trend—it's a responsibility. The good news? Living an eco-friendly lifestyle doesn't require a complete overhaul of your daily routine. Small, consistent changes can make a big impact. Here’s how you can start living more sustainably today. 🌱 Everyday Eco-Living Tips Reduce Single-Use Plastics Swap out plastic bags, bottles, and straws for reusable alternatives. Keep a tote bag in your car or backpack, carry a stainless steel water bottle, and opt for bamboo or metal straws. Conserve Energy at Home Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug electronics when not in use, and switch to LED bulbs. ...
1 comment

Adventure Awaits: Summer Adventures with Family & Friends

By AAFCS Team
Summer is a season of exploration, connection, and renewal. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a full family vacation, summer adventures offer a chance to create lasting memories and strengthen relationships. At AAFCS, we recognize the importance of shared experiences in enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and communities—core principles of Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS). 🌞 🧭 Why Summer Adventures Matter Quality time with loved ones contributes to emotional health, resilience, and lifelong learning. Travel and exploration can: Foster family bonding through shared experiences Encourage cultural appreciation ...
0 comments

Council for Accreditation (CFA) in Family and Consumer Sciences Strengthens Higher Education Programs

By AAFCS Team
The Council for Accreditation in Family and Consumer Sciences (CFA), a n accrediting body of the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS), has been recognized for its excellence in higher education programs since 1971 . Given our long-standing history and dedication to ensuring high quality programs, the Council appreciates the federal commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, innovation, and student-centered outcomes in higher education—a vision that aligns closely with the mission and practices of our specialized accreditation program. For over a century, AAFCS has been committed ...
0 comments

💚 May – Mental Health and Self-Care: Nurturing Your Well-Being

By AAFCS Team
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional well-being, not just for individuals, but for families as a whole. In the midst of busy schedules, school runs, work deadlines, and household responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the mental and emotional needs of ourselves and our loved ones. This month, let’s take a collective breath and focus on nurturing mental health within the family. By fostering supportive environments and practicing self-care together, we can build stronger, more resilient homes. 🏡 Why Family Mental Health Matters Mental health isn’t just a personal journey—it’s a shared ...
0 comments

April is Financial Literacy Month: Take Control of Your Future

By AAFCS Team
April is Financial Literacy Month, a perfect time to take control of your financial future. At the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS), we are committed to providing you with the resources and knowledge you need to enhance your financial knowledge. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your financial strategies, here are some essential tips on budgeting, investing, and saving smartly for the future. Budgeting Tips: Your Roadmap to Financial Success Track Your Spending : The first step to effective budgeting is understanding where your money goes. Use apps or a simple spreadsheet to track your expenses for a ...
0 comments

Announcing the 2025 Ruth O’Brien Project Grant Funding

By AAFCS Team
Alexandria, VA . – April 9, 2025 - The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2025 Ruth O’Brien Project Grant. The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) Ruth O’Brien Project Grant was established in 1972 through a bequest from Ruth O’Brien, who served as assistant chief of the Bureau of Human Nutrition and Home Economics in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Ruth O’Brien Project Grant supports research and development in family and consumer sciences (FCS) to assist members of the FCS profession to develop and use their full potential ...
0 comments

Announcing the 2025 Chalkley Fenn Public Policy Scholar Grant

By AAFCS Team
Alexandria, VA . – March 26, 2025 - The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2025 Chalkley-Fenn Public Policy Scholar Grant. The Chalkley ‐ Fenn Public Policy Scholar Grant was established in 1990 to honor Gladys Branegan Chalkley, president and treasurer of AAFCS from 1940 ‐ 1942. Dr. Chalkley founded the Montana Affiliate of AAFCS, as well as the state’s dietetic association and its chapter of the American Association of University Women. The grant is also funded by a gift from the estate of Geraldine G. Fenn, a South Dakota native ...
0 comments

Spring into Wellness: Revitalize Your Health this Season

By AAFCS Team
Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, making it the perfect season to focus on your health and wellness. As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it's an ideal opportunity to embrace new habits and refresh your routine. Here are some tips to help you revitalize your health this spring: 1. Get Moving Outdoors With the arrival of spring, take advantage of the pleasant weather by engaging in outdoor activities. Whether it's a brisk walk, a bike ride, or a hike, spending time in nature can boost your mood and improve your physical health. 2. Eat Seasonal and Fresh Spring brings a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Incorporate seasonal ...
0 comments

Spring into Healthy Habits with a Home Garden

By AAFCS Team
As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it's the perfect time to start your own home garden. Gardening not only provides fresh, nutritious produce but also offers numerous wellness benefits. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started: Start Small Begin with a few easy-to-grow plants like tomatoes, herbs, or lettuce. These plants are perfect for beginners and can thrive in small spaces. Companion Planting Pair plants that benefit each other. For example, basil and tomatoes grow well together and can enhance each other's flavor. Use Organic Soil Opt for organic soil to ensure your plants get the best nutrients without harmful ...
0 comments

Strengthen Your Bonds: Tips for Building Strong Relationships

By AAFCS Team
February is the perfect month to focus on building healthy relationships. Strong relationships are the foundation of a happy and fulfilling life. Whether it's with your partner, children, friends, or extended family, nurturing these bonds is essential. Here are some tips to help you build and maintain strong relationships. 1. Prioritize Communication Effective communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Here are some tips to improve your communication skills: Listen Actively : Pay attention to what the other person is saying without interrupting. Show that you value their thoughts and feelings. Express Yourself Clearly : Be honest ...
0 comments

Announcing the 2025 AAFCS Board of Directors Election Results

By AAFCS Team
The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) is pleased to announce the results of the 2025 Board of Directors Elections. This year the AAFCS Leadership Council has elected two individuals to serve as Directors-at-Large and one individual to serve as our 2025-2026 President-Elect. All elected individuals will begin their terms in June following the closing ceremonies of the AAFCS Annual Conference. Please join us in congratulating our incoming board members. The AAFCS Leadership Council has elected Gayla Randel to serve as the AAFCS Board President Elect. Gayla has 20 years as a classroom Family ...
0 comments

Join Us in Kansas City, Missouri at the 2025 AAFCS Annual Conference!

By AAFCS Team
We are thrilled to be hosting the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) 2025 Annual Conference in Kansas City, Missouri! The conference will be taking place June 25-27, 2025. This conference promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. Why Attend the 2025 AAFCS Annual Conference? Our conference offers high-quality professional development and numerous opportunities to: Address Issues and Challenges: Engage with experts to discuss and find solutions to the pressing issues impacting individuals, families, and communities. Network and Build Relationships: Participate in critical dialogues and networking sessions ...
0 comments

Announcing the 2025 Board of Director Ballot

By AAFCS Team
The AAFCS Nominating Committee announces the following candidates for President-Elect and Directors at Large of the 2025 AAFCS Board of Directors. Ballot Deadline: January 31 at 5pm EST. Note: A link to submit your ballot was sent to Leadership Council members on 01/17/2025. Check your email and submit your ballot today! President Elect Landon Calderwood, CFCS-HDFS Gayla Randel, CFCS Directors at Large Angela Gott Carol Erwin, CFCS Gayla Randel, CFCS Valerie Giddings Ballot Deadline: January 31, 2025 at 5:00 pm EST. Landon Calderwood, CFCS-HDFS: Born and ...
0 comments

Take the FCS Industry Survey Today!

By AAFCS Team
Help Us Shape the Future of Family and Consumer Sciences – Take the FCS Industry Survey Today! The holidays are here, and while you might be busy with festivities and year-end plans, we have an important opportunity for you to help make a lasting impact. We invite you to take part in the FCS Industry Survey , a crucial initiative aimed at strengthening the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) profession across the country. Your voice is not just important—it’s essential. Why Should You Participate? As advocates and supporters of the FCS profession, we need your insights to understand the trends, challenges, and opportunities that are shaping the field ...
0 comments