Today, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials announced that 99 deserving Texas college students will receive $1.2 million in additional educational funds through the Rodeo’s Achievement Scholarship Program.
The Achievement Scholarships are awarded to current Rodeo scholars who are working toward an undergraduate degree, have completed four semesters and at least 60 hours of coursework, and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher at a Texas college or university. Each student will receive an additional $4,000 scholarship for each eligible semester.
“These students have been a part of the Rodeo family since they received their first educational scholarship from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and their academic accomplishments continue to make us proud,” said Chris Boleman, Rodeo president and CEO. “These Achievement Scholarships will further support these dedicated students as they work toward obtaining their undergraduate degree from some of the finest colleges and universities in Texas.”
These Achievement Scholarships are awarded following the initial Rodeo scholarship for a maximum combined total of up to $36,000 in educational funding. Of these 99 scholars, nearly 20% are the first in their families to graduate high school, and 36% are the first to attend college. These scholars attend 18 different Texas colleges and universities, and the top five schools represented are: Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, Texas Tech University and Sam Houston State University. These students also represent a wide range of chosen majors. The top five majors are biology, animal science, nursing, computer science and psychology.
The Achievement Scholarships represent a share of the Rodeo’s annual commitment to Texas youth and education. In 2021, nearly $21.7 million has been committed to scholarships, junior show exhibitors, educational program grants and graduate assistantships. Since 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $500 million to the youth of Texas and education. Additional information about the Rodeo’s educational commitments can be found here: rodeohouston.com/Educational-Support/Commitment.
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 and education. The 2022 Rodeo is scheduled for Feb. 28 – March 20. The 2022 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest is scheduled for Feb. 24 – 26. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and connect with #RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.