The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has exceeded $500 million in its total commitment to support Texas youth and educational programs since 1932, following today’s announcement of the Rodeo’s 2020 educational commitment of nearly $27 million.
“The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is extremely proud to reach this extraordinary milestone,” said Rodeo president and CEO Joel Cowley. “Such a remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the longstanding support of our volunteers, attendees, donors, auction buyers, sponsors and staff.”
The Rodeo’s 2020 educational commitment will award more than $14.2 million in scholarships, more than $8.3 million to junior show exhibitors, more than $3.7 million in educational program grants and more than $650,000 toward graduate assistantship programs.
As one of the largest scholarship providers in the U.S., the Rodeo has presented more than 19,000 scholarships valued at more than $230 million since 1957. In addition, more than $180 million has been committed to exhibitors through premiums and calf scramble certificates, nearly $80 million has been allocated to research, grants and educational programs, and $14 million has been awarded to graduate assistantship programs in Texas since 1932.
SCHOLARSHIPS
More than 800 scholarships will be awarded through the Rodeo’s nine scholarship programs in 2020, with each recipient receiving a $20,000 scholarship to apply toward a four-year undergraduate degree. Recipients may pursue a major in any field of study at an accredited, not-for-profit Texas college or university. For full eligibility requirements, click here. The application process opens online Nov. 4, 2019, and closes Feb. 3, 2020. Scholarship recipients will be formally recognized during the Rodeo’s annual Scholarship Banquet July 23, 2020. To learn more about Rodeo scholars, click here.
JUNIOR SHOW EXHIBITORS
Education extends beyond the classroom, which is why the Rodeo supports students who demonstrate leadership as members of Texas 4-H or FFA. Each year, The Houston Livestock Show™ draws thousands of Texas 4-H and FFA exhibitors to compete at the world's largest livestock show, each hoping to take home the coveted title of Houston Champion. Sizable prizes and premiums will be awarded to junior show exhibitors, including calf scramble contestants who participate in the 2020 Houston Livestock Show.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM GRANTS
Grants will be awarded to 501(c)(3) charities and accredited institutions of higher education that align with the Rodeo’s mission. The Rodeo’s 2020 grant recipients include Brookwood Community, the Houston Grand Opera, NASA – Texas Aerospace Scholars and The Center for Hearing and Speech, among others. To view the complete list, click here.
GRADUATE ASSISTANTSHIPS
Funds will also be awarded to graduate assistantship programs at 11 Texas universities, with each university program given the opportunity to administer the application and selection process. The selected universities include: Angelo State University, Sam Houston State University, Stephen F. Austin State University, Sul Ross State University, Tarleton State University, Texas A&M University, Texas A&M University – Commerce, Texas A&M University – Kingsville, Texas State University, Texas Tech University and West Texas A&M University.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $500 million to the youth of Texas. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and connect with #RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all of the latest news. The 2020 Rodeo is scheduled for March 3 – March 22.