Barbara Stewart

Barbara Stewart serves as Professor and Department Chair of Human Development and Consumer Sciences at the University of Houston's College of Technology. Her interdisciplinary work bridges retail education, consumer behavior research, and digital learning innovation, with significant contributions during the pandemic era examining retail reconfiguration and online education transitions.

Her educational foundation includes:

• Doctor of Education, Curriculum and Foundations (Higher Education specialization), Brigham Young University, 1979
• Master of Science, Home Economics and Consumer Education (Social-Psychological Aspects of Apparel), Utah State University, 1974

Stewart's research centers on retailing and consumer science, particularly visual merchandising and global retailing dynamics. She investigates consumer behavior during crises like the pandemic, revealing how supply chain disruptions affect shopping patterns. Her online education scholarship examines time management variables, mobile technology integration, and pandemic-driven digital transitions, with innovative work promoting STEM education for girls through fashion-tech integration. Current projects emphasize mentoring frameworks for diversity in Family and Consumer Sciences professions.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications shows dominant pandemic-era themes (2020-2023) in consumer behavior adaptation, online pedagogy refinement, and STEM accessibility initiatives. These works span retail management, educational technology, and gender equity in professional development, demonstrating consistent methodological rigor in mixed-methods consumer research.

Her extensive recognition includes:

• Research Excellence Award, College of Technology (2019-2020)
• Technology Alumni Association Outstanding Faculty Award (2003)
• University of Houston Alumni Association Outstanding Faculty Award (1999)
• Fluor Daniel Award for Excellence in Research (2002-2003)
• Multiple Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals International awards

Stewart actively mentors through the AAFCS Leadership Academy, developing professional capacity in Family and Consumer Sciences. Her grant-funded initiatives include pandemic-response studies on STEM education accessibility and retail format evolution, with current projects focused on mentoring frameworks for underrepresented professionals. She maintains leadership in professional associations including the International Textiles and Apparel Association and Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals.