As we approach our 50th anniversary as an academic department at Virginia Tech, I reflect on all the dynamic changes and accomplishments HNFE has experienced in the last 50 years. Beginning in the Department of Home Economics in 1921-22, HNFE continues as a highly successful and prominent department at Virginia Tech.

In 1961, the Department of Foods and Nutrition was established within the School of Home Economics. The name was changed in 1964 to Department of Human Nutrition and Foods, with strengths in teaching, research, and extension. The department expanded when we merged with exercise science in 1994 to become the Department of Human Nutrition, Foods and Exercise.

Wallace Hall opened in 1968, and faculty members continue to use laboratory and teaching space there, as well as additional facilities in War Memorial Hall, the Corporate Research Center, and Virginia Tech Riverside in Roanoke.

HNFE excels in its established programs and is offering new academic opportunities that extend innovative learning experiences to students. Faculty members are conducting exciting research on a wide spectrum of topics, engaging students and the community while making a difference across the commonwealth through Extension efforts. HNFE students and alumni are winning prestigious awards and securing cutting-edge positions in the workforce. Our department is highly visible in the college, throughout Virginia, and in the world.