Amarie Bartel, president of the Oklahoma CattleWomen’s Association, recently spoke with associate farm reporter Carli Davenport following the group’s return from CattleCon and the American National CattleWomen meeting in Nashville. Bartel said the event was a standout moment for Oklahoma members, calling it “really a proud time to be an Oklahoma cattlewoman,” as several leaders were recognized on the national stage.
Bartel highlighted three major honors earned by Oklahoma women, noting that immediate past president Connie Tabor was named the American National CattleWomen Cattlewoman of the Year. “This only goes to one lady from the entire country, and we are so proud of Connie in that award,” Bartel said. She added that Cheyenne Sparks was elected vice president of the American National CattleWomen, while Dr. Cheryl DeVuyst was selected to serve as Cattlemen’s Beef Board chairman. “We are extremely proud of all three of those women and their impactful contributions to our industry on the national stage,” she said.
Looking ahead, Bartel discussed Oklahoma’s role in hosting the Region IV meeting for American National CattleWomen this spring in Stillwater. “This year is Oklahoma’s turn to host,” she explained, adding that the two-day event will include agricultural tours, OSU activities, and visits to agritourism destinations. Bartel emphasized the fellowship aspect of the meeting, saying it’s a chance “to show off Oklahoma and our excellence” before members shift to business discussions representing the region.
Bartel also encouraged listeners to attend even if they are not currently members. “This is not just for members,” she said, explaining that anyone interested can register through the Oklahoma CattleWomen’s Association website, with events scheduled for April 17 and 18. “Hopefully by the end, we can convince you that you should certainly join this wonderful group of ladies,” Bartel added.
In addition to the regional meeting, Bartel outlined a full slate of upcoming activities, including the association’s new “Behind the Gate” tour series. “We are taking a peek behind the curtain… to aspects of our industry where maybe women don’t get to spend as much time,” she said. The tours will cover livestock marketing, stocker and feeder operations, processing facilities, and pasture-to-plate experiences. Bartel noted that all events are open to members and non-members alike, saying, “We encourage everyone to join us.”
