The Rodeo’s scholarship program opens doors for future leaders in agriculture, STEM, education, and more.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials are honored to announce that 529 Texas students will each receive a $20,000 scholarship to support their college journey. The scale of this year’s scholarships reflects the continued growth of the Rodeo’s commitment to Texas students and is part of the organization’s $14.7 million scholarship commitment this year.
“These students represent the very best of Texas, and supporting their education is at the heart of everything we do,” said Chris Boleman, Rodeo president and CEO. “With the support of our donors, volunteers, sponsors, and loyal attendees, we are able to remain one of the largest annual scholarship providers in the country. Watching these students shine is a powerful reminder of our purpose.”
These 529 recipients represent most of the Rodeo’s scholarship programs, including Area Go Texan, Exhibitor, Military, and Houston Area. Each scholarship can be applied toward a four-year undergraduate degree, for a total scholarship commitment of more than $10.5 million. These scholarships are a portion of the Rodeo’s total annual commitment of more than $28 million to support Texas youth and statewide educational programs, and a total $630 million commitment since 1932.
At a glance:
- 66% female and 33% male
- 29% of the recipients will be first-generation high school graduates
- 49% will be first-generation college attendees
- Will attend 54 colleges and universities across the state
- Top three attending schools among the class being Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin and the University of Houston
- 117 different fields of study
- Top chosen majors: Animal Science, Biology, Business, Mechanical Engineering, Nursing
The 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo scholarship recipients were celebrated at the Rodeo’s annual scholarship picnic Saturday, July 12 at NRG Center. For photo and video assets, please click here. All usage of the assets can be credited to ‘Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’.
Additional information about the Rodeo’s continued educational commitment can be found here.
About the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
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 $630 million to the youth of Texas and education. The 2026 Rodeo is scheduled for March 2 – 22. The 2026 World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Contest, presented by Cotton Holdings, is scheduled for Feb. 26 – 28. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com, download the RODEOHOUSTON app and follow @RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news.