Jan Scholl

A Historical Picture of Family and Consumer Science Careers in Children's Literature

Five family and consumer sciences career novels written for young people were reviewed for commonalities in theme, experience and setting. Professionals in these books were portrayed as resourceful in designing effective solutions to solve local problems. Since most of the books are about Extension careers and the last book was written in the 1960s, additional promotion of family and consumer sciences as a career is suggested.

Early FCS Extension Specialist: Martha Van Rensselaer

A review of the early Extension career of Martha Van Rensselaer. It has been determined that hers was one of the first Extension home economics or family and consumer science programs in the United States, and this work led to contributions establishing new programs throughout the country and in parts of the world. She received many awards, but sadly few books or articles have been written about her. This historical study attempted to address and clarify aspects of her life.