The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will award 541 Texas students with $20,000 scholarships, representing a $10.8 million investment in the next generation of leaders. The scholarships are part of the Rodeo’s record $15 million scholarship commitment and more than $30 million educational commitment for the year.
“Education has the power to change lives, and we’re proud to help open doors for these remarkable students,” said Chris Boleman, Rodeo president and CEO. “These scholarships are possible because of the extraordinary support of our volunteers, donors, sponsors and attendees. Together, we’re investing in future leaders who will shape the future of our state.”
These 541 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 $10.8 million. Since 1932, the organization has committed a total of $660 million, making the Rodeo one of the largest scholarship providers in the nation.
“Every scholarship represents an opportunity to invest in the potential of a Texas student,” said Wesley Sinor, chairman of the board of the Rodeo. “On behalf of our 36,000 volunteers, there’s no greater reward than knowing our year-round work helps students pursue their dreams and create opportunities that will impact families and communities for generations.”
At a glance:
- 66% female and 34% male
- 30% of the recipients will be first-generation high school graduates
- 53% will be first-generation college attendees
- Recipients will attend 49 colleges and universities across the state
- Top five attending schools among the class being Texas A&M University, University of Texas at Austin and the University of Houston, Texas Tech University, and Texas State University
- 126 different fields of study
- Top chosen majors: Animal Science, Biology, Psychology, Mechanical Engineering, Nursing
The 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo scholarship recipients were celebrated at the Rodeo’s annual Scholarship Picnic on Saturday, July 11, at Reliant Center. Scholarship recipients met with donors while proudly representing their colleges and universities. Families, friends and Rodeo volunteers gathered for photo opportunities, while games and activities filled the center. Members of the Rodeo’s World’s Championship Bar-B-Que Committee also served a true Texas-style lunch.