Past and Present

Past and Present

DHN: Past and Present

Making History Since 1906

In the early 1900s, the first 40 students at the University of Kentucky were taught food and elementary dietetics, followed by the development of Domestic Science and Home Economics programs, and family cooking demonstrations through Extension. All played a role in leading to the establishment of the Department of Nutrition and Food Science, which was renamed the Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition.

The Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition has been making history since it was first founded in 1906, and it continues to make history today as our students tackle the nutrition challenges of our modern world. Explore where DHN began and where we are going!

History of the Department

DHN History

In the early 1900s, the first 40 students at the University of Kentucky were taught food and elementary dietetics. Review the full timeline below.

 

Timeline

  • 1906: Food and elementary dietetics taught to 40 students
  • 1908: School of Domestic Science became department in College of Arts and Sciences
  • 1908: Course outline for Bachelor of Science with a major in domestic science developed
  • 1910: Home Economics became department in College of Agriculture
  • 1913: Helen Wolcott becomes first State Extension Agent
  • 1914: Home demonstration agents hired to serve 12 counties
  • 1918: Food labs equipped in Agriculture Hall & department operated cafeteria established
  • 1922: “A Manual for Home Demonstration Clubs for Women” published

  • 1925: The first county homemakers’ organizations were established

  • 1934: First cooperative house for women established on campus
  • 1940: The Home Economics Building opened
  • 1941: The college name changed to College of Agriculture and Home Economics
  • 1942: Funkhouser building completed
  • 1968: Department of Nutrition and Food Science established
  • 1976: Lemon Tree Restaurant opens
  • 2023: Food as Health Alliance is founded

DHN in the News

Students serving food

Every day, DHN students are making waves for their contributions to nutrition, research, and their community. Check out the latest stories below.

 

News Reel

Connect With Us

Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition

204 Funkhouser Building
Lexington, KY 40506
859-257-3800

DHN@UKY.EDU

Dr. Tammy Stephenson
DHN Department Chair

Contact Dr. Tammy Stephenson

Contact Information

Dr. Tammy J. Stephenson, PhD, FAND
Department Chair & Professor

202 Funkhouser Building Lexington, KY 40506-0054

+1 (859) 257-3800

tammy.stephenson@uky.edu