Temple Grandin to speak at OSU Women in Ag Conference

Tuesday, July 12, 2016

An impressive lineup of speakers and presenters will highlight this year’s Oklahoma Statewide Women in Agriculture and Small Business Conference slated Aug. 4-5 in Oklahoma City.

Temple Grandin is one of the most accomplished and well-known animal welfare experts in the country. She will share her expertise on livestock handling and facility design to reduce stress in livestock, as well as why it is important for those in the agriculture industry to tell their story and be transparent about the work they do.

“Dr. Grandin’s work has made quite an impact on animal agriculture,” said Sara Siems, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension assistant specialist and conference coordinator. “We are extremely fortunate and grateful to have her speaking at our conference.”

Also on the docket are Kim Bremmer and Michelle Miller. Bremmer, the creator of “Ag Inspiration: Sharing the real story of agriculture,” has been a dairy nutritionist for 15 years and a vocal champion of agriculture everywhere she goes. She is the Wisconsin state coordinator for Common Ground, a national movement of farm women who share information about farming and the food we grow.

Self-proclaimed “Farm Babe,” Miller grew up involved in 4-H, horseback riding and doing chores on her friend’s farms. However, when the high school aptitude tests told her to go into agriculture, she ignored them and headed west for college and a career in fashion.

“Michelle has a very unique story,” said Siems. “I think her fashion to farm narrative will resonate with a large group, who will find it both encouraging and entertaining.”

Going from Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California, to a 2,000-acre farm in Iowa allows Miller to help educate the public about the truths of modern agriculture while debunking popular myths about the industry that even she once believed.

The Women in Agriculture and Small Business Conference also will feature a mini mall, where vendors will be selling Made in Oklahoma products. There will be exhibits with available resources to help people be more successful in their farming or small business efforts.

The event will take place at the Moore Norman Technology Center, 13301 S. Penn Avenue in Oklahoma City.

“This conference really has something for everybody,” said Siems. “I would encourage anyone with an interest in agriculture or small business to consider attending this event.”

Registration before Aug. 1 is $50, while anyone registering after that date will pay $60. Registration will begin at 8:15a.m. Aug. 4 with cinnamon rolls provided by the Oklahoma Wheat Commission.

Breakfast, lunches on both days and all break refreshments are covered by the registration fee. For more information, or to register for the event, visit OKWomenInAgAndSmallBusiness.com.