WHEREAS, in the late 19th century, Ellen Swallow Richards, the first female graduate and faculty member of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, began teaching home economics as a way to address the growing needs of families regarding water quality, food safety, and management of the home; and
WHEREAS, rebranded as Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) in 1994, this field of study continues to be family focused, while expanding in scope to include aspects beyond home life; and
WHEREAS, FCS equips and empowers individuals and families to manage the challenges of living and working in today's society, offering education in food and nutrition, human and child development, personal and family finance, family relations, housing and interior design, textiles and apparel, and consumer issues; and
WHEREAS, FCS professionals work in a diverse array of careers, including secondary and higher education, extension, and outreach, family and child agencies, and consumer protections; and
WHEREAS, there is a growing need for Family and Consumer Sciences, as financial and personal strains on the family and individuals continue to rise; FCS professionals promote communal and household traditions to strengthen families’ ties; and
WHEREAS, it is important to increase understanding and awareness of Family and Consumer Sciences across our state, ensuring the preparedness and strength of North Carolina families and communities;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim December 3, 2021, as “FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.