On March 13, department chair and professor of fashion design and merchandising, was honored at the 2023 State Conference. Pasricha received the MAFCS Outstanding Professional Award, which recognizes outstanding leaders who have contributed to the field of family and consumer sciences. These professionals use cutting-edge techniques to provide research, leadership, and visibility in education, business, home, and community.
"I am humbled and honored. This, and past awards, tell a part of my story of innovative, positive change that hopefully impacts the lives of our students and community members," said Pasricha. "St. Kate’s mission and vision have further inspired and motivated me to engage in purposeful work and prepare our students to solve real-world problems. It is where I have worked with mission-driven, like-minded colleagues who have supported and encouraged me. This enduring support has shaped my worldview, leadership, and who I am today."
A long-time MAFCS member and a faculty member of St. Kate's since 2005, Pasricha has shaped the St. Kate's fashion and merchandising curriculum's focus on sustainability, instilling the practices of upcycling, local sourcing, and eco-friendly fashion into endeavors such as the students' yearly Katwalk and Pasricha's own 2016 sabbatical project. She received the 2017 Bonnie Jean and Joan Kelly Award for Faculty Excellence in recognition of this work.
"St. °µÍø½ûÇø is so proud of Anu's achievement in winning this wonderful recognition from MAFCS," said Ben Whitney, JD, dean of the School of Business. "She is an extraordinary professor, both as a master teacher and a national expert in sustainability. Her leadership, innovation, and total commitment to student success make her a truly Outstanding Professional deserving of this honor."
About the Minnesota Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (MAFCS)
MAFCS was founded in 1922 and is an affiliate of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. MAFCS is a scientific and educational association of family and consumer sciences professionals. The Association is an affiliate of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) and thus supports the mission of AAFCS to improve the quality of life for individuals and families.