News release Public Information Office  SLU 10880   Hammond, LA 70402   phone: 985-549-2341   fax: 985-549-2061 publicinfo@selu.edu Spring 2004 news releases Public Information home News archive Contact: Christina Chapple Date: 2/2/05   SOUTHEASTERN’S FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES PROGRAM ACCREDITED       HAMMOND – The Southeastern Louisiana University Department of Human Development’s undergraduate degree program in Family and Consumer Sciences has been nationally accredited.       The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences issued accreditation for a 10-year period, said Department Head Brian Canfield. In giving its academic stamp of approval, the association commended the program for having well-respected courses, faculty well-versed in their areas of specialty; and good collegial relationships across campus.       The accrediting body also praised strengths such as the program’s growing enrollment, faculty accommodation of student needs, faculty participation in decision-making, student involvement in planning and outreach activities, and good support from administration across campus.       “Accreditation signals to students and the public that a program meets national standards and criteria,” said John Crain, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Successfully achieving this academic benchmark reflects the quality of our faculty and their dedication to providing nationally competitive programs.”        “The College of Education and Human Development strives for excellence in all of our programs,” said Dean Diane Allen, “and accreditation is testimony to the challenging programs of study we offer our students.”       “We’re delighted,” added Canfield. “Our faculty, graduates, and students know that we have a strong degree program, but this affirms its quality. For our students, having a degree from an accredited program opens doors to jobs and post-graduate study.”       Family and Consumer Sciences Coordinator Deborah Johnson, associate professor of human development, said approximately 150 students are majoring in the degree, which has three concentrations -- family studies, fashion merchandising and foods and nutrition. The degree prepares students for careers in business, industry, agencies, hospitals, and educational settings.