The Oklahoma Farm Bureau awarded Blayne Arthur, the State Secretary of Agriculture, with the group’s prestigious Distinguished Service Award during the annual banquet. This award honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to agriculture and the Farm Bureau organization. Arthur’s acceptance speech resonated with attendees, highlighting the vital role the Farm Bureau plays in representing the agricultural community.
In her remarks, Arthur expressed her surprise and gratitude for receiving the award. “What Farm Bureau does and who they represent is invaluable,” she stated. “To my husband and me, they are our voice at the state capitol and in Washington, D.C. The passion for production agriculture that drives their policy work is hard to duplicate.”
The Importance of Advocacy
Oklahoma Farm Report’s Ron Hays talked with Secretary Arthur after the presentation and asked about her comment of being in the unique position as often being the sole rural voice in various discussions. “Many in agriculture are busy trying to make a living, which can limit their presence in important meetings,” Arthur explained. “It’s crucial for us to be represented, as those outside the agricultural sector may not fully understand the challenges we face.”
Arthur emphasized the dedication of Farm Bureau volunteers who commit their time to ensure that agricultural and rural voices are heard at local, state, and national levels. “Their efforts are incredibly important,” she added.
A Journey of Collaboration
Reflecting on her tenure, Arthur shared her journey since being appointed by Governor Kevin Stitt in 2019. “It’s been an opportunity of a lifetime,” she remarked. “Many of the people in this room were among the first to congratulate me and have continued to support me in this role.”
Arthur acknowledged the collaborative spirit within the agricultural community, crediting the governor for his unwavering support of rural Oklahoma. “We’ve all tried to work together to do good things for agriculture,” she said, highlighting the importance of unity in addressing policy issues.
Blayne Responds with Tribute to Outgoing OKFB President Rodd Moesel
During the event, Arthur also took a moment to recognize the contributions of Rodd Moesel, the President of Oklahoma Farm Bureau for the past eight years. “Agriculture sticks together,” she noted, praising Rodd’s role in policy development and his ability to keep many different ag groups aligned. The Secretary gathered several comments from the “Barnyard Coalition” and she has shared them with us to share with you:
The Secretary began with her personal tribute: “Rodd I have met a lot of folks in my life but I am confident there will only ever be one Rodd Moesel. I have been so fortunate to work with you in several professional capacities, from all my time at the Department as well as my time at the 4-H Foundation. You are always a phone call away and I have a tremendous appreciation for your thoughtfulness, political savvy and kindness. We have wrangled some tricky political hurdles and you are always steady in your approach. And I think you are the only person I know that ends a phone call with fun words like “groovy” !
“Aside from your professional acumen I want to also mention your character and the personal side of your life which I respect so much. When I think about you Rodd I think about your love for Dona, your tremendous love and appreciation for your parents- seeing you support your Mom’s passion for the 4-H program was extra special and your faith lived out that I believe guides you each day. I also can’t forget your love for Oklahoma State University and especially the Extension program. You are a very special person and Farm Bureau has been lucky to have you at the helm this past 8 years. I am not the only one who respects you so much and I wanted to share a few comments from several of our ag friends:
Michael Kelsey with the Cattlemen’s Association said:
“Rodd approaches every issue from a positive direction sharing a smile along with his “we’ll get this done” outlook.
Kylee Deniz with the Oklahoma Pork Council said:
“Rodd has always made sure the pork industry’s perspective was represented and more importantly, he’s built strong relationships across Oklahoma and in Washington, D.C. that serve all Oklahoma agriculture. His leadership, respect for others, and ability to bring people together have made a lasting impact.”
Heather Buckmaster with the Oklahoma Beef Council said:
“Rodd is a caring and thoughtful leader who consistently looks out for others and lifts up those around him. He leads with grace, integrity, and genuine kindness- a true gentleman and an exceptional example of leadership.” Heather also noted- “you can’t honor Rodd without also honoring Dona. Behind so many exceptional leaders is an equally extraordinary partner. My heartfelt thanks and appreciation go to both of them for their service to Oklahoma agriculture”
Bray Haven said:
“Rodd’s calm strength and unmatched knowledge of agricultural policy and history have been a compass for many of us in the ag policy realm. Thank you Rodd for your wisdom, leadership, and steady hand through the years. Wishing you the best.”
Mike Schulte with the Oklahoma Wheat Commission shares:
“The Oklahoma Wheat industry has always appreciated the guidance and support from Rodd. We are also appreciative of his wife Dona for sharing him with wheat and all of Oklahoma agriculture. The both of them working together for the greater good for everyone involved in our industry has benefited all of us in this room tonight and for that we are grateful!”
Oklahoma State Dean of the Division of Ag Dr. Jayson Lusk shared:
Rodd has been a trusted advisor to me, even before day one on the job. He was one of the first people to give me the lay of the land and let me know when trouble was brewing or good things were happening.
And
Tyler Norvell with OYE said:
“Rodd Moesel is an old-school principled conservative to his core. Right is right, and wrong is wrong. When it came to policy he was always well thought out and open-minded but he never sacrificed his principles. He always did what was best for the membership as a whole and led with integrity.”
