Mentor Recognition Programs

Gretchen Mafi is a Professor and the Ralph & Leila Boulware Endowed Chair in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at Oklahoma State University, where she conducts research and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in meat science. Gretchen earned her bachelor's degree in 1994, from Texas Tech University, a Master of Science degree in 1996, from Colorado State University, and a Ph.D. in Animal Science with emphasis in meat science in 2000, from Texas Tech. 
 
Gretchen teaches three to five meat science courses each semester at OSU, along with her advising and research responsibilities. She conducts research in the area of meat cutability and quality, with over 80 published articles in scientific journals. Also, Gretchen coaches the Oklahoma State Meat Judging Team. She was a recipient of the American Meat Science Association Signal Service Award making her a Fellow of the organization in 2021.  Gretchen received the USDA Excellence in Teaching Award in 2020, as well the American Meat Science Association Distinguished Teaching Award in 2019. 

Gretchen has been instrumental in the growth and success of the AMSA.  She has served in numerous capacities on committees, the Board of Directors and most notably as President of the organization.  She has provided tremendous leadership around Meat Judging and is passionate about student growth and development in the organization preparing them to be future leaders in our industry.  She is an extremely worthy candidate for this honor.   
 
Gretchen and her husband, Jeff Mafi reside on their farm in Coyle, OK, raising purebred Angus Cattle. 

Specific Purpose of Funds:  The funds from this mentorship will go toward supporting recognition of Meat Judging Programs.