Harvey Schroeder, formerly of Frederick, Oklahoma, attended OSU but graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1969. Following graduation, he taught high school chemistry, physics and general science for six years in Davidson and Tipton, before deciding to pursue farming full-time. A Tillman County native, Schroeder began farming at age 14 and was a diversified farmer and rancher until his retirement.

 

He was elected to the Oklahoma Cotton Council and served as executive director for 18 years. During his time on the council, Schroeder worked with the state legislature as an advocate for cotton farmers, diversified farms, gins and cotton warehouses. His work was pivotal in establishing a National Committee for the Advancement of Cotton. Schroeder spent 17 years as an advisor to the National Cotton Council, and he served 14 years as an alternate delegate to the Board of Cotton Incorporated.

 

The Oklahoma Cotton Council recently honored Schroeder for his lifetime achievement and contributions to the cotton industry. Because of his industry experience and knowledge, he was regularly invited to participate in National Cotton Council meetings and other boards and groups. Schroeder served five years on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service Committee on Trade for Cotton, Tobacco and Peanuts meeting with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and staff in Washington, D.C. He was also chair of Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur’s Pesticide Advisory Committee for seven years.

 

As an agricultural advocate, supporter and policy expert, he served on the OSU Agriculture Dean’s Advisory Council under Thomas Coon and the late Robert Whitson.