User:Nikisinh/Mary Lockwood Matthews

Mary Lockwood Matthews (1882-1968) was an influential figure in the field of home economics and a passionate advocate for women's education.

Early Life
Mary Lockwood Matthews was born in 1882 to Harriet Matthews and was subsequently adopted by Virginia Meredith, an agricultural pioneer who was a friend of her mother.

Career
Mary Matthews began her impactful career at Purdue University in 1910 as a home economics instructor. Her dedication and leadership were quickly recognized, leading to her appointment as head of the Department of Household Economics in 1912. Matthews' tireless advocacy for women's education was instrumental in transforming the department into the School of Home Economics in 1926, where she served as the founding dean. Her efforts were further honored with the construction of a home economics building in 1922 that bears her name. Matthews' influence extended beyond Purdue, with her invention of "Master Mix" revolutionizing home baking. After nearly five decades of service, she retired in 1958 as Dean Emeritus and left a legacy of influential publications.