OKLAHOMA CITY—Meriruth Cohenour of Yukon was recently named the Director of the Market Development division at the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry by Secretary of Agriculture, Blayne Arthur.

“With her extensive background in agriculture and leadership, I am confident in Meriruth’s abilities to lead this division,” said Secretary of Agriculture, Blayne Arthur. “For the last three years, she has done an exceptional job as Agritourism Coordinator and I am eager to watch her thrive in this new capacity.”

Cohenour’s agriculture roots run deep, beginning early with involvement in 4-H through horse, leadership and citizenship projects. In 2005, she received bachelor’s degrees in agricultural communications and animal science from Oklahoma State University. After working for the Pinto Horse Association in youth programs and as Communications Director, she obtained a master’s degree in agricultural education in 2010 and became an instructor at Redlands Community College in agricultural and equine courses.

She has continued her education in the agriculture industry through the Oklahoma Agricultural Leadership Program, where she was a member of Class XVI. Cohenour also continues to stay involved with Oklahoma youth and the 4-H organization, as she is on the Oklahoma State 4-H Horse Advisory Board, volunteers throughout the year at countless district and state events, and coaches a team in the Youth Equestrian Development Association. 

“With a new administration comes new opportunities and new energy,” said Cohenour. “I know I speak for my team when I say we are very excited to expand our programs in order to help producers be more successful, guide the public’s understanding of agriculture and improve communities around the state.”

The Market Development division at ODAFF helps Oklahoma’s agricultural economy by broadening its outlets for agricultural commodities. They assist producers, processors, wholesalers, and retailers in marketing Oklahoma-based agricultural products.