Promoting The Art and Science of Smart Living
News - Events - Calls for Papers and Proposals
May 2026
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Dear Members,
The Speakers’ series has been wildly successful. We learned everything from natural dyes to the ten facets. Thanks to Diane O’Shea who had the brilliant idea to have the facets exist as a graphic. Your executive took it one step farther and hired a graphic designer, Maggie Giles, to design Home Economics at a glance. The design is in this Newsletter. Let us know what you think. Linda Robbins suggested an iron on. Of course the design will be presented at the Annual Meeting for approval. In the meantime you can call Cathy 613 825-4623 or email. Coco Liang is our new Newsletter writer and editor. Welcome! You may send any ideas to Coco directly: [email protected]. Cathy and Jason your co presidents. |
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Introducing our 2026 Spring Speaker Series Panelists! Annual Meeting Invitation: Thursday, June 11 at 7 pm EDT
To all our current OHEA members, you are invited to join the 2026 OHEA Annual Meeting. It will be held virtually on Thursday, June 11 at 7pm EDT. If you are unable to participate, you can fill out a Proxy Form and return to Eileen Stanbury by June 10th through email. You can also review Annual Meeting documents at the OHEA website on the members only tab. Your presence and voices are valued, thank you for your continual support of OHEA.
Please register to attend the meeting or contact Eileen (705-874-3264 OR [email protected]).
To all our current OHEA members, you are invited to join the 2026 OHEA Annual Meeting. It will be held virtually on Thursday, June 11 at 7pm EDT. If you are unable to participate, you can fill out a Proxy Form and return to Eileen Stanbury by June 10th through email. You can also review Annual Meeting documents at the OHEA website on the members only tab. Your presence and voices are valued, thank you for your continual support of OHEA.
Please register to attend the meeting or contact Eileen (705-874-3264 OR [email protected]).
Spring Speaker Series Recap
The Spring Speaker Series has been a hit, but it’s not over yet! In our first session, Diane O’Shea refreshed the Ten Facets using life and career examples, while Sheila Stark revived the home economics rings. Attendees from across Canada reflected on their journeys as P.H.Ec., and shared enthusiasm for navigating the future of home economics.
In our second session, Ash Alberg, Lori Preshing, and Mary Johnston shared their work within the textiles sector to advocate for sustainable solutions in our modern world. From natural dyes, and meditation pillows, to menstrual kits, our speakers define how to Reinvent and Repurpose. Their passion shines through and inspires us to make a change.
The series could not be made possible without the support of our sponsors:
Do not miss our last session in the series on June 18th @ 7pm EDT (Toronto time) From Chores to Care: Revaluing Domestic Work, Food, and Family Contribution, a session co-presented by Canada Beef. It’s free. It’s virtual. There will be prizes. Register today!
The Spring Speaker Series has been a hit, but it’s not over yet! In our first session, Diane O’Shea refreshed the Ten Facets using life and career examples, while Sheila Stark revived the home economics rings. Attendees from across Canada reflected on their journeys as P.H.Ec., and shared enthusiasm for navigating the future of home economics.
In our second session, Ash Alberg, Lori Preshing, and Mary Johnston shared their work within the textiles sector to advocate for sustainable solutions in our modern world. From natural dyes, and meditation pillows, to menstrual kits, our speakers define how to Reinvent and Repurpose. Their passion shines through and inspires us to make a change.
The series could not be made possible without the support of our sponsors:
- Canada Beef – Gold Sponsor ($2500)
- Egg Farmers of Ontario – Silver Sponsor ($1000)
- Canadian Sugar Institute – Silver Sponsor ($1000)
- Food Focus – Conference Supporter ($500)
- Ottawa HEA – Conference Contributor ($250)
Do not miss our last session in the series on June 18th @ 7pm EDT (Toronto time) From Chores to Care: Revaluing Domestic Work, Food, and Family Contribution, a session co-presented by Canada Beef. It’s free. It’s virtual. There will be prizes. Register today!
March 2026
Introducing our 2026 Spring Speaker Series Panelists!
Introducing our 2026 Spring Speaker Series Panelists!
Session 1: Ten Facets of Home Economics
Thursday, April 23 at 7:00pm to 8:30 pm EDT
Introducing our 2026 Spring Speaker Series Panelists!
Session 1: Ten Facets of Home Economics
Thursday, April 23 at 7:00pm to 8:30 pm EDT
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Diane O’Shea
Diane O’Shea is a retired Family Studies (Home Economics) educator, teaching at high school and university levels. Diane farmed with her husband, Mike, for over 40 years – beef feedlot, field crops of wheat, corn and white beans, but mainly fresh market produce and agri-tourism. They owned O’Shea’s Farm Fresh Vegetables and Berries with on-farm and farmers markets venues. Now a community volunteer, many of the core facets of Home Economics continue to dominate her days in service work with the Rotary Club of St. Marys, the Huron Fidget Makers, and other community and church organizations. Mom to four, Grammie to eight. |
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Sheila Stark
Sheila holds a Master of Education and an integrated Human Ecology degree. Her teaching experience has expanded over 30+ years. She currently teaches Grades 5 through 8 at East Selkirk Middle School in the Lord Selkirk School Division. Each day brings new accomplishments and challenges. There is NEVER a dull moment in middle school!! Sheila is a long-time member of both professional organizations – MAHE – the Manitoba Association of Home Economists and MHETA – the Manitoba Home Economic Teachers Association. Her active involvement has opened doors to unique opportunities from Breakfast Television to developing curricula. She sees her role as a Professional Home Economist and Educator as a ‘calling’ more than a ‘career’. |
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Session 2: Reinvent and Repurpose
Thursday, May 14th at 7:00pm to 8:30 pm EDT ash alberg ash alberg (they/them) is an artist-educator from Treaty 1 territory who spends most of their time making textile art with natural dyes. They love supporting learning through all stages of life, including writing K-12 curriculum resources for using natural dyes in the classroom and founding the Cosmos Conference for natural dyers. ash loves to create interesting worlds for others to enjoy, and providing people with the knowledge and resources they need to create their own interesting worlds. ash is currently pursuing their PhD in Education at the University of Manitoba, looking at the role of material knowledges and more-than-human relationships in supporting anticolonial classrooms. ash loves to travel and to go on adventures with their dog/furry assistant, Willow. Their hands are almost always cold and almost never still. |
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Lori Preshing
I have always collected fabrics, batiks, scarves and textiles from around the world- the colours, patterns and textures capture my attention and soul. The shut down enabled time we don't normally have- time of introspection and quiet, which allowed creativity to blossom. During which I developed a community of people who also contribute to recycling fabrics keeping them out of landfills for the purpose of creating cushions so others could find a space for peace and quiet. I am overjoyed to be able to share these vibrant bursts of colour and light with the community for a meaningful purpose. |
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Mary Johnston B.H.Sc., B.Ed., P.H.Ec.
A graduate of the University of Guelph in Clothing, Textiles and Design, Mary has always enjoyed sewing. The use of textiles in both clothing and home furnishings has always been an interest both personally and in teaching. In 2016 Mary and a colleague started the Days for Girls Nepean Team to make and distribute washable, cloth menstrual health kits. The Nepean Team has distributed over 7500 kits in Canada and around the world which uses miles and miles of fabric. Much of the fabric for the kits is donated, which means we need to sort and wash and make sure it is appropriate. There is also the opportunity to indulge in selecting appropriate fabrics for the various kit components and to repurpose new fabrics such as off cuts from quilting to use them in the kits. Nepean Team members all enjoy handling and using fabric and are part of a network of organizations/individuals who repurpose and exchange fabrics regularly. |
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Session 3: From Chores to Care: Revaluing Domestic Work, Food, and Family Contribution
Thursday, June 18th at 7:00pm to 8:30 pm EDT Lori Sugarman-Li
Lori Sugarman-Li is a family systems strategist, corporate educator, and Certified Fair Play Facilitator who helps organizations and families address the hidden impact of caregiving on performance, wellbeing, and retention. She equips professionals with tools to create equitable home systems that protect focus, reduce burnout, and strengthen family partnerships. Her work reframes caregiving as strategic infrastructure for thriving families and high-performing workplaces |
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Michele McAdoo
Michele recently joined Canada Beef as the social media and website lead. Michele has over 20 years of experience managing projects in consumer relationship marketing, content creation, media, TV production and digital programs within the Kraft Kitchens at Kraft Canada. Michele is skilled at website and email content planning and execution. She is grounded in understanding how consumers interact with digital platforms and thus is able to effectively deliver content marketing plans that not only meet business and brand objectives but also delight and engage the consumer. Michele’s role is to connect consumers and producers to the Canadian Beef brand story through strategic, collaborative, consistent and authentic content on all social and digital channels and in doing so, builds trust and an appreciation for Canadian Beef. |
February 2026
Dear Members,
Home Economists work and lead across ten dynamic and interconnected facets that reflect the breadth and depth of our profession. This diversity is what makes our field distinctive — strengthened further by our incorporation under the laws of Ontario and our shared commitment to advancing home economics across the province.
Dr. Sue McGregor, PHEc, thoughtfully outlines the ten facets on her website, and OHEA looks forward to featuring them in an upcoming edition of the Newsletter. Recently, OHEA’s Treasurer, Membership Chair, and Co-President engaged in a strategic discussion on how these facets are represented and lived within our membership.
We invite members to share their perspectives: Which webinars have you found most valuable? Which facet best reflects your professional focus? Your input helps strengthen and shape our collective work.
OHEA Board of Directors
Promoting The Art and Science of Smart Living
Home Economists work and lead across ten dynamic and interconnected facets that reflect the breadth and depth of our profession. This diversity is what makes our field distinctive — strengthened further by our incorporation under the laws of Ontario and our shared commitment to advancing home economics across the province.
Dr. Sue McGregor, PHEc, thoughtfully outlines the ten facets on her website, and OHEA looks forward to featuring them in an upcoming edition of the Newsletter. Recently, OHEA’s Treasurer, Membership Chair, and Co-President engaged in a strategic discussion on how these facets are represented and lived within our membership.
We invite members to share their perspectives: Which webinars have you found most valuable? Which facet best reflects your professional focus? Your input helps strengthen and shape our collective work.
OHEA Board of Directors
Promoting The Art and Science of Smart Living
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Build Your Leadership Story with the Ontario Home Economics Association (OHEA)
Want to grow your leadership skills, expand your network, and make a real impact—without leaving your day job? Serving on the Ontario Home Economics Association (OHEA) Board of Directors is more than volunteering. It’s a career-building opportunity to gain hands-on experience in governance, strategy, communications, and sector leadership—while advancing food, health, and life skills education across Ontario. ✨ Board service = experience employers value ✨ Low-cost, high-impact professional development ✨ Mentorship, visibility, and influence |
We’re currently recruiting for the following roles:
💰 Treasurer
🤝 VP of Membership
🌱 President-Elect
🎓 VP of Professional Development
📣 VP of Communications
💡 Why Join the OHEA Board?
✔ Gain real leadership experience you can list on your resume
✔ Build a provincial professional network
✔ Contribute to advocacy, education, and community impact
✔ Flexible, supportive, and ideal for working professionals or new grads
✔ Be part of shaping the future of home economics in Ontario
🌟 Ready to Lead, Learn, and Make an Impact?
Step into a role that builds your skills while building the profession.
Interested or curious? Reach out to learn more—no pressure, just a conversation. DM us or email [email protected]. Your experience matters. Your voice matters. Join OHEA.
💰 Treasurer
🤝 VP of Membership
🌱 President-Elect
🎓 VP of Professional Development
📣 VP of Communications
💡 Why Join the OHEA Board?
✔ Gain real leadership experience you can list on your resume
✔ Build a provincial professional network
✔ Contribute to advocacy, education, and community impact
✔ Flexible, supportive, and ideal for working professionals or new grads
✔ Be part of shaping the future of home economics in Ontario
🌟 Ready to Lead, Learn, and Make an Impact?
Step into a role that builds your skills while building the profession.
Interested or curious? Reach out to learn more—no pressure, just a conversation. DM us or email [email protected]. Your experience matters. Your voice matters. Join OHEA.
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Home Economics: More Than Just Cooking & Sewing
Home economics is about building strong individuals, families, and communities through practical life skills and informed choices. From nutrition and financial literacy to sustainability, relationships, and home design, it connects every part of daily living. These 10 core facets show how home economics supports lifelong well-being—at every stage of life. • Food and Nutrition 🍎 • Textiles and Apparel 🧵 • Consumerism and Resource Management 💳 • Housing and Interior Design 🏡 • Human Development and Family Studies 👨👩👧👦 • Healthy Relationships 💬 • Environmental Sustainability 🌱 • Child Development and Parenting 🧸 • Home Maintenance and Technology 🛠️ • Health, Hygiene, and Safety 🧼 Which area speaks to you most? |
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New Grad Membership Application
When you wish to upgrade your status to Professional Home Economist, please send us a request to change your status to New Grad member. You are entitled to pay New Graduate fees (25% of the Registered member fee) for two years following your graduation. For the next two years the New Graduate Fee will be half the Registered Fee. We will require your university transcript from the University confirming that you qualify as a Registered member at that time. You may be required to complete a self study course before qualifying. |
January 2026
Dear Members,
Welcome to the Ontario Home Economics Association. We are pleased to welcome new members and invite you to become actively involved in the life and work of OHEA.
We encourage you to collaborate with our Board and contribute to new and exciting initiatives - from blog writing and resource development to food bank recipe projects and community outreach. All volunteer involvement provides valuable professional experience and strengthens your résumé. Support is also available for members who would like assistance with résumé development.
We value your voice and your expertise. We invite you to share your professional journey, experiences, and aspirations with our community. Our members are eager to learn from one another and to help shape the future of OHEA together.
If you would like to get involved or learn more, please feel free to contact Cathy at 613-825-4623. She recently connected with a new member, and together they reflected on the importance of food and fellowship as the foundation of our Association.
At OHEA, food and fellowship remain at the heart of who we are.
Cathy and Jason
Welcome to the Ontario Home Economics Association. We are pleased to welcome new members and invite you to become actively involved in the life and work of OHEA.
We encourage you to collaborate with our Board and contribute to new and exciting initiatives - from blog writing and resource development to food bank recipe projects and community outreach. All volunteer involvement provides valuable professional experience and strengthens your résumé. Support is also available for members who would like assistance with résumé development.
We value your voice and your expertise. We invite you to share your professional journey, experiences, and aspirations with our community. Our members are eager to learn from one another and to help shape the future of OHEA together.
If you would like to get involved or learn more, please feel free to contact Cathy at 613-825-4623. She recently connected with a new member, and together they reflected on the importance of food and fellowship as the foundation of our Association.
At OHEA, food and fellowship remain at the heart of who we are.
Cathy and Jason
What Do You Remember About the Schools You Attended?
Long before smartboards, Wi-Fi, and standardized classrooms, Ontario students learned in spaces shaped as much by community as curriculum. In this reflective piece, Jan Bushfield, P.H.Ec., a retired Home Economics/Family Studies teacher based in London, Ontario, shares vivid memories of the schools that shaped her early education - from one-room schoolhouses to university lecture halls, and everything in between.
Visit our blog page to read the story.
Have a Story to Share?
Are you an OHEA member with a story to tell about your home economics journey, classroom experiences, or career path? We’d love to hear from you.
Submit your story by emailing [email protected] to contribute.
Your story helps preserve our shared history and inspire the next generation.
Long before smartboards, Wi-Fi, and standardized classrooms, Ontario students learned in spaces shaped as much by community as curriculum. In this reflective piece, Jan Bushfield, P.H.Ec., a retired Home Economics/Family Studies teacher based in London, Ontario, shares vivid memories of the schools that shaped her early education - from one-room schoolhouses to university lecture halls, and everything in between.
Visit our blog page to read the story.
Have a Story to Share?
Are you an OHEA member with a story to tell about your home economics journey, classroom experiences, or career path? We’d love to hear from you.
Submit your story by emailing [email protected] to contribute.
Your story helps preserve our shared history and inspire the next generation.
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Financial Resolutions for January 2026
Start the new year with financial wellness and realistic resolutions that support everyday life. As the new year begins, January is an ideal time to reflect on financial goals and set practical resolutions for the year ahead. Whether focusing on budgeting, saving, managing debt, or planning for long-term financial security, small, intentional steps can lead to lasting positive change. Home economics offers practical tools for managing money, from budgeting and meal planning to smart shopping, food skills, and caring for clothing and household resources. These essential life skills help individuals and families reduce costs, avoid unnecessary debt, and build confidence in their financial decisions. A strong foundation in home economics supports sustainable habits and long-term financial well-being—making it a smart place to begin the year. |
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Home economics has a direct and practical connection to financial well-being. At its core, the discipline equips individuals and families with everyday skills that support sound financial decision-making across the lifespan. Concepts such as budgeting, meal planning, consumer awareness, housing choices, and resource management all help reduce costs, avoid debt, and build financial resilience. Skills like cooking at home, understanding food labels, repairing clothing, and making informed purchasing decisions contribute to long-term savings and sustainability. Home economics also emphasizes financial literacy within real-life contexts—teaching people how to balance needs and wants, plan for future expenses, and adapt to changing economic circumstances—making it a powerful foundation for financial confidence and smart living.
Canadians looking for reliable, government-endorsed tools and information to support their financial goals can explore resources available from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada; through the Government of Canada’s finance services portal.
Canadians looking for reliable, government-endorsed tools and information to support their financial goals can explore resources available from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada; through the Government of Canada’s finance services portal.