Jenna Thornton '24 March 20, 2023 9:10 AM updated: March 23, 2023 12:15 PM
Throughout the past few months, Aggies have taken on many roles in the major Texas stock shows and rodeos. Whether it was participating in a Texas A&M night, exhibiting an animal, serving as an intern or even as president and CEO, Texas A&M current and former students "saddled up."
Texas A&M was recognized for its ongoing support to the agricultural industry in an inaugural event, Texas A&M Night at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. The current yell leaders led the arena crowd in singing the Aggie War Hymn, the Singing Cadets performed and the Parsons Mounted Cavalry rode into the arena on horseback.
The Parsons Mounted Cavalry was featured in the Western Heritage Day Parade and Cattle Drive in downtown San Antonio in early February. This special unit of the Corps of Cadets served as the color guard for military appreciation night at the rodeo, which showcases Texas A&M’s rich military history and traditions. A display of the the Spirit of ‘02, a 76mm M1902 field gun and the Parsons Mounted Cavalry escort wagon was also featured on fairgrounds for the general public to interact and connect with the history of Texas A&M's leadership in horsemanship.
Cody Davenport '98 also serves as the executive director and CEO of the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo.
A former professor and graduate of Texas A&M currently serves as the president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Dr. Chris Boleman '96, who has six degrees from Texas A&M, presides over this event, which is the largest rodeo in the world.
The Capital City A&M Club in conjunction with Rodeo Austin is hosting Aggie Night at Rodeo Austin where Aggies may get discount tickets by using a code at tx.ag/RodeoTix. Glen Alan Phillips '92 serves as the chief executive officer of Rodeo Austin, a position he was elected to in 2022.
Current students in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences are also afforded many opportunities to gain real-industry experiences through a variety of internship positions offered at these events. These internships range from media and writing to animal science. Students get a chance to learn valuable skills as well as network with professionals in their desired industry.
Harley-Anne Horn '24, an animal science major, had the opportunity to intern at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's educational birthing center within the Agventure exhibition. Agricultural advocacy and education is important in the hearts of many Aggies, Horn said.
"At the HLSR I learned proper techniques for parturition of multiple species," she said. "These species included pigs, sheep, and dairy cattle. I answered any and all questions to the best of my abilities and kept the audience engaged and learning. I am so thankful that Texas A&M has these great relationships with these organizations that allows for opportunities like this one."