Khara Strum Joins OEFFA as Executive Director

The Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association (OEFFA) is pleased to announce that Khara Strum has joined the organization as executive director, effective May 1, 2024.

“With over two decades of leadership and conservation experience, Khara embodies the qualities necessary to propel OEFFA forward as a leader in organic certification, land stewardship, and local food advocacy,” said OEFFA Board President Sarah Paul. “By embracing Khara’s wealth of expertise, fresh perspective, and collaborative spirit, we are eager to embark on this new chapter.”

For most of her professional career, Strum has worked in conservation and agricultural land protection. She most recently served as director of the Philander Chase Conservancy, guiding the organization in its work to protect farms, woodlands, waters, and open spaces around Kenyon College. Before then, her work at both Audubon California and Point Blue Conservation Science involved managing projects, partner relationships, and programs and strategies for the organizations’ conservation goals.

“I am thrilled to be joining OEFFA as executive director,” Strum said. “I am excited to work with the staff, Board, and partners to advance organic farming and access to local food with tools that combat climate change and ensure local ecosystems and communities thrive.”

As executive director, Strum will continue building on a strategic vision to achieve OEFFA’s mission. By overseeing the organization’s operations, fundraising, program leaders, and budgets, the executive director guides OEFFA’s impactful long term work.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff and the invaluable guidance of Interim Executive Director Bonnie Chavez throughout a transformative year for OEFFA,” Paul said. “The OEFFA Board reaffirms its unwavering commitment to stewarding the organization and our vibrant community of members with integrity and compassion. Together, we will carry on OEFFA’s legacy of excellence in organic and sustainable agriculture for generations to come.”

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Founded in 1979, OEFFA cultivates a future in which sustainable and organic farmers thrive, local food nourishes our communities, and agricultural practices protect and enhance our environment through a number of programs, including:

Annual Conference | OEFFA’s popular annual conference features nationally-recognized speakers, an exhibit hall, children’s activities, entertainment, locally-sourced meals, and more than 60 workshops about sustainable agriculture taught by experienced farmers, advocates, and researchers.

Education | OEFFA regularly offers educational workshops, webinars, resources, and one-on-one technical support to help new and existing producers. Staff is dedicated in a variety of areas to work with farmers to build their farming, business, and marketing skills. And each year OEFFA hosts a series of open farm tours and workshops for consumers and growers alike to see, taste, feel, and learn directly from farmers.

Organic Certification | One of the oldest and most respected programs in the nation, OEFFA’s Certification program ensures that farmers and processors meet organic’s high standards, which protect farmers, consumers, and the environment. To help farmers navigate the transition to organic, OEFFA has dedicated education staff, resources, and services.

Policy | OEFFA’s Policy program advocates for state and federal policies that protect and benefit sustainable agriculture, research and education, and the public’s right to know. Working with members, OEFFA gives voice to concerned citizens and family farmers who are safeguarding the environment.

Stay connected with OEFFA and its ongoing work at oeffa.org.