“It’s also inspiring to see women from all parts of Nevada stepping into leadership roles, gaining national and even international recognition for their work. Their success brings visibility and strength to the entire industry, and it’s a reminder of how important it is to support and invest in women-led agricultural efforts.”

Q: Do you farm or participate in agriculture?

Yes, I own and manage a wheat farm in Oklahoma. For me, it’s more than just a business—it’s a way to help keep a family legacy alive. Continuing this work allows me to stay connected to the land and the values I was raised with, while contributing directly to the agricultural community I serve. It’s both a personal commitment and a point of pride to be actively involved in the same fields that have sustained generations of my family.

Q: What valuable lessons have you learned as a woman in agriculture?  

One valuable lesson I’ve learned as a woman in agriculture is that it’s not always lucrative especially when you’re part of a wheat farm and living states away. It requires a great deal of trust and resilience. Relying on others to take charge of the day-to-day operations comes with its risks. But it’s taught me the importance of building strong relationships, clear communication, and having a solid support system.

Q: What valuable lessons have you learned specifically in your current role?

In my current role as the State Education & Information Officer under the Business Development and Marketing Team, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of finding meaningful ways to help small businesses grow. Supporting local producers and entrepreneurs has shown me how vital their success is to the overall health of our agricultural economy. As a woman in this position, it’s been especially rewarding to use communication, outreach, and education to bridge gaps and create opportunities for these businesses to thrive.

Q: How do women in agriculture impact your state or the agriculture industry as a whole?  

Women in agriculture play a huge role in shaping Nevada’s ag industry. Across the state, they’re creating real impact, not just through traditional farming, but by launching and growing small businesses that bring added value to what we grow here. Programs like the Farm2Food Accelerator have been a great example of this, helping women turn crops like fruits, vegetables, honey, and herbs into market-ready products like jams, teas, and flours.

I’ve seen how this kind of innovation opens up new opportunities, not just for profit, but for reaching more customers and keeping local food systems strong. It’s also inspiring to see women from all parts of Nevada stepping into leadership roles, gaining national and even international recognition for their work. Their success brings visibility and strength to the entire industry, and it’s a reminder of how important it is to support and invest in women-led agricultural efforts.

Q: What do you wish the next generation of women in agriculture would know about your work?          

I hope the next generation of women in agriculture understands that this work is about more than just crops or livestock, it’s about community, connection, and creativity. In my role, I’ve had the chance to support small businesses, share stories that matter, and help others grow their ideas into something real. I’d want them to know that their voice and perspective matter, and that there’s room for innovation and leadership in every corner of agriculture. It’s not always easy, but it’s meaningful and there’s so much opportunity to make a difference.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in agriculture?

I actually got my start in agriculture working for UNR Extension as a Community Based Instructor, and that’s really where my passion grew. I loved being able to educate kids about where their fruits and vegetables came from and getting my hands dirty helping with school gardens. I was also involved in programs like the Beginner Farmers and Ranchers Program, RMA, and Native Waters on Arid Lands, and spent a lot of time supporting 4-H—something close to my heart since my daughter is involved in 4-H too.  That experience really opened my eyes to the impact ag has on every part of life, and I knew I wanted to keep going. Now in my current role, I get to meet people from all over the world who are involved in agriculture, and I help businesses grow and succeed. It’s a great feeling to know the work I do helps others thrive.