Source: Carol Kellett, 785-532-5502, ckellet@k-state.edu
News release prepared by: Jane Marshall, 785-532-1519, jpm2@k-state.edu

Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2010

SIDEBAR: 'LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP' THEME OF SPECIAL BOOK ABOUT COLLEGE OF HUMAN ECOLOGY

MANHATTAN -- Throughout its 137-year history the leaders of the College of Human Ecology have made contributions that helped draw national attention to Kansas State University, including:

* In 1873 K-State established the first for-credit academic program in domestic science at a land-grant institution. It became the national model for curriculum and facilities.

* Nellie Kedzie lobbied for the first building ever constructed specifically to house human ecology students. In 1889 Domestic Science Hall, now Kedzie Hall, housed the department of household economy and domestic science.

* Dean Margaret Justin increased the number of departments offering graduate degrees in the college, and in 1975 added a doctorate program in home economics.

This "Legacy of Leadership" is the focus of a new book to be available at the College of Human Ecology Celebration of Excellence Friday, Oct. 8. The awards luncheon, at 11:30 a.m. at the Manhattan Country Club, will recognize alumni, benefactors and friends for contributions to their professions and to K-State.

"The softcover publication focuses on the people -- the deans and directors -- who made the college a success," said Carol Kellett, professor and former dean of the college. The book is adapted from her scholarly work -- to be published next year -- about the history of the College of Human Ecology.

The 60-page volume contains nearly 200 photographs taken between 1873 and 2010. Copies of the book are available for $25 by contacting Debby Hiett at hiett@k-state.edu.