Administrative/Biographical History
The DeKalb County Home Economists formed on January 11, 1983 with the purpose of offering members “opportunities for gaining more information about home economics and related areas.” The group hosted speakers, toured businesses, and attended meetings toward this end. Relevant topics include food/nutrition, fashion/needlecraft, child rearing, healthcare, and changing gender roles in the home. Membership was open to anyone with a post-secondary degree in Home Economics or Family and Consumer Sciences. The group had a close relationship with Northern Illinois University’s School of Family, Consumer, and Nutrition Sciences and often attended University sponsored programs. The organization formally changed its name to the Home Economics/Family and Consumer Sciences of DeKalb County in January 1998 to reflect a change in professional attitudes regarding home centered activities. The group officially disbanded on June 1, 1999 due primarily to diminished interest and a lack of volunteers to undertake leadership and planning positions.
