The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will award $523,000 through its Graduate Assistantship Program to support 27 students pursuing advanced degrees in agriculture-related fields at Texas universities.
“This increased investment reflects the Rodeo’s continued commitment to preparing the next generation of leaders in agriculture and education,” said Chris Boleman, president and CEO of the Rodeo. “By supporting graduate students as they deepen their expertise, conduct meaningful research and prepare to serve Texas communities, we are helping build a stronger future for the industries and institutions that are central to our mission.”
The Rodeo’s new commitment to the program increased more than $40,000 compared to 2025. Each university partner administers the Graduate Assistantship Program application and selection process. Awards vary by university and program. The stipends vary based on program and range from $12,500 up to $27,000.
By the Numbers:
- 24 students pursuing master’s degrees
- 3 students pursuing doctoral degrees
- 9 graduate-level fields of study represented
- Master’s degrees: Agricultural Communications, Agricultural Education, Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, Agriculture, Animal Science, Horticulture, and Range and Wildlife Science
- Doctor of Philosophy degrees: Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, and Natural Resource Management
- Students will attend 11 Texas universities: Angelo State University, East Texas A&M 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-Kingsville, Texas State University, Texas Tech University, and West Texas A&M University.
The Graduate Assistantship Program represents a portion of the Rodeo’s annual commitment to Texas youth and education. The program began in the early 1970s to expand the Rodeo’s involvement with the state’s agricultural schools and further its commitment to institutions, education and agriculture. Since then, the Rodeo has awarded more than $23.5 million to Texas institutions in support of agriculture professions.