American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences AAFCS

Overview

The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) is the premier professional association in the United States dedicated to advancing the field of family and consumer sciences. Established in 1909, AAFCS serves a diverse membership of over 5,000 professionals working across various sectors, including education, government, industry and community organizations. The association aims to enhance the well-being of individuals, families and communities through leadership in education, research and practice in areas such as nutrition, housing, human development and consumer affairs.

1. Historical and Legal Framework

Founded as the American Home Economics Association in 1909, AAFCS originated from the Lake Placid Conferences held between 1899 and 1908. These conferences sought to establish a unified platform for home economics education. The association was renamed to its current title in 1994 to better reflect the evolving scope of the profession, encompassing a broader range of disciplines beyond traditional home economics .

2. Mission, Vision and Objectives

AAFCS envisions a society where individuals and families thrive in a complex and diverse world. Its mission is to provide leadership and support for professionals in family and consumer sciences to improve the quality of life for individuals, families and communities. The association's objectives include:

• Advancing knowledge and practice in family and consumer sciences.
• Promoting professional development and education.
• Advocating for policies that support the profession and its members.
• Fostering collaboration among professionals and organizations in related fields.

3. Governance, Structure and Independence

AAFCS is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for defining policies and overseeing the implementation of the association's mission and objectives. The governance structure includes various councils and assemblies, such as the Leadership Council and the Assembly of Higher Education, which provide input and guidance on specific areas of focus . As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, AAFCS operates independently, ensuring that its activities align with its mission and the needs of its members.

4. Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

AAFCS plays a critical role in accrediting undergraduate family and consumer sciences programs through its Accreditation Program. This program ensures that accredited institutions provide high-quality educational experiences that prepare students for professional roles aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals, families and communities . The association also develops and maintains accreditation standards to guide program design, operations and evaluation.

5. International Cooperation and Network Memberships

In 2006, AAFCS founded the Alliance for Family and Consumer Sciences, a coalition of organizations representing academia, industry, professional associations and honor societies. This alliance leads family and consumer sciences efforts globally, with AAFCS serving as the managing partner. Through this network, AAFCS collaborates with international organizations to promote the profession and share best practices .

6. Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

AAFCS continues to influence higher education by providing leadership in curriculum development, professional standards and policy advocacy. The association's initiatives support the integration of family and consumer sciences into educational programs, ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in areas such as health, sustainability and community development.

7. Summary

The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences is a longstanding professional association committed to enhancing the well-being of individuals, families and communities. Through its accreditation programs, advocacy efforts and international collaborations, AAFCS plays a pivotal role in shaping the field of family and consumer sciences and supporting the professionals who serve in this vital area.

8. FAQs

1. What is the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences?
   AAFCS is a professional association dedicated to advancing the field of family and consumer sciences through education, research and practice.
2. When was AAFCS founded?
   The association was founded in 1909 as the American Home Economics Association and was renamed in 1994 to reflect the evolving scope of the profession.
3. What is the role of AAFCS in higher education?
   AAFCS accredits undergraduate family and consumer sciences programs, ensuring they meet high-quality educational standards.
4. How does AAFCS support its members?
   The association provides professional development opportunities, resources and a platform for collaboration among family and consumer sciences professionals.
5. What is the Alliance for Family and Consumer Sciences?
   Founded by AAFCS in 2006, the Alliance is a coalition of organizations leading family and consumer sciences efforts globally, with AAFCS serving as the managing partner.

Organization Name

American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences

Acronym

AAFCS

Year of Establishment

1/01/1909

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

400 North Columbus Street, Suite 202
Alexandria
22314 Virginia United States

Phone

+1 (703) 706 4600

Fax

+1 (703) 706 4663

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

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Wikipedia Article

American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences's Wikipedia article

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