The Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee continues to expand its outreach through education programs, leadership opportunities, and advocacy efforts that highlight the role of women in agriculture. During a recent conversation with associate farm reporter Carli Davenport, Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Chair Mignon Bolay discussed several initiatives aimed at supporting teachers, connecting women across the state, and encouraging participation in agriculture programs.
Bolay first highlighted the Bushels for Books program, which provides accurate agriculture books to classrooms and libraries across Oklahoma. She explained that the program is open to educators serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as county extension offices. “It’s such an exciting program that we offer through our Women’s Leadership Committee, and it’s for any Oklahoma educator, and they can apply for a chance to receive what we call a bushel of books, or a package of accurate agriculture books,” Bolay said. Applications, which can be found here, are submitted online and reviewed based on classroom needs, with the goal of helping students better understand farming and ranching.
Bolay emphasized that the program is designed to reach as many classrooms as possible, noting that even applicants who may not receive a full set of books can still benefit. “The great thing about this is everyone is a winner, because if you fill out the application thoroughly, accurately, and show us your needs for an accurate ag book, you will receive one book,” she explained. She also reminded applicants to include complete information such as their school name and address so books can be delivered properly.
Another major event on the calendar is the upcoming Women’s Leadership Conference in Norman, which brings together Farm Bureau members from across Oklahoma. Bolay said the conference provides education, networking, and hands-on learning opportunities. “The Women’s Leadership Conference is really an exciting time that the women from all across the state come together,” she said. The event will feature tours, workshops, and speakers discussing topics ranging from farm profitability and digital media to agriculture advocacy and education.
Bolay also encouraged participation in a national Women in Agriculture survey and highlighted additional programs such as youth leadership opportunities and an agricultural tour. She noted the importance of recognizing women’s contributions to agriculture. “People don’t realize how many women we really have involved in agriculture, and they play a vital role,” Bolay said, adding that gathering data through the survey will help highlight women’s leadership and engagement in the industry for future generations.
