2024 Memorial Rodeo Scholarship Awarded to Riley Jo Gossett

For 13 years, the Big Hat Rodeo family has been awarding scholarships to deserving young people who are enrolled in college on a full-time basis, carry a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, and are invo

lved in rodeo in any way. We’ve had recipients from IL-WI-TX-CO-OK-Ml-AL-AR- KY and MO. There has been a wide range of majors represented from attendees of a nursing prog

ram, multiple ag business majors, Accounting, pre-vet, physical therapy, early education, special education, and social work. IN addition, some of our winners have been contestants, specialty acts, a graphic arts major who designed rodeo programs and marketing programs as well as a young lady who created a brand new inventory system for novelty sales.

These kids have been unique, hard-working, and highly deserving of a little extra help to make their education goals a reality. Our newest recipient will get a call from Lenora on Monday morning, giving her the news that she will receive a check for her next semester at the University of TN-Martin, where she will also be on the rodeo team.

RILEY JO GSSETT comes from a rodeo background. She’s been a National Qualifier in the Little Britches, Jr High and High School Rodeo Association Finals. This young lady has taken on the responsibility of paying for 100% of her college education through scholarships, hard work, and student loans. She has been actively involved in FFA and has served in several leadership roles. She is also a rodeo queen and shares her passion for the sport. Riley Jo Competes in Barrel Racing, Reined Cow Horse, and Goat Tying.

Please join us in assisting with tuition for these accomplished young people. There are donation jars at all of the vendors, so please give what you can. If that’s not possible, please keep these kids in your prayers and send them some positive energy to keep moving forward.

Thank you all and CONGRATULATIONS RILEY JO ON BEING SELECTED FOR THE NEXT MEMORIA RODEO SCHOLARSHIP!

Rodeo: A Journey of Passion, Perseverance, and Family Legacy

Growing up in Pollard, Arkansas, rodeo isn’t just a hobby-it’s a way of life. I’m Riley Jo Gossett, a third-generation rodeo cowgirl, and from the moment I could walk, I was immersed in the world of rodeo. In my family, the running joke is that children are born to rodeo, and I’ve proudly embraced that tradition.

My rodeo journey began at the tender age of five, entering junior rodeos with the guidance of my family. With a grandmother who was a rodeo secretary and former competitor, an uncle who’s a senior pro judge and ex-bull rider, a mom who still dabbles in rodeo, a dad who’s a two-time IFR qualifier in team roping, and a cousin who’s a four-time IPRA world champion bareback rider and many other family members that compete, rodeo isn’t just a pastime–it’s in our blood.

Throughout my years of competition, I’ve been fortunate to achieve numerous accomplishments. I’ve clinched three all-around saddles and garnered multiple individual awards. I’ve qualified for prestigious events like the National Little Britches Rodeo Association Finals, the National Junior High Rodeo Finals twice, and the National High School Finals three times. These victories aren’t just about the accolades; they represent the culmination of dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of my family. Despite my busy rodeo schedule, I’ve also prioritized education. With my parents emphasizing the value of academic excellence, I’ve maintained a stellar academic record, graduating in the top 5 of my senior class as an Honor Graduate. I’ve been actively involved in FFA, competing in various events and serving in leadership roles, including as Chapter Vice-President and President. My commitment to education will continue as I pursue a degree in Animal Science at the University of Tennessee at Martin, with aspirations of entering dental hygiene school. However, rodeo isn’t just about winning buckles and titles-it’s a way of life that shapes character and instills values like perseverance and resilience. This past senior rodeo season hasn’t unfolded as planned; losing my goat-tying horse last August and dealing with injuries to my main barrel horse presented formidable challenges. But setbacks don’t define me; they fuel my determination to overcome adversity and emerge stronger. As I look ahead to the next chapter of my journey, I’m excited to join the University of Tennessee at Martin’s rodeo team, where I’ll continue to hone my skills and compete alongside some very tough competition. I’m confident that my experiences in rodeo, coupled with my academic pursuits, will equip me with the resilience and determination to excel both in the arena and beyond.

Rodeo isn’t just a sport for me; it’s a passion, a legacy, and a way of life that has shaped me into the person I am today. I’m grateful for the opportunities it has afforded me and excited for the adventures that lie ahead. Thank you for considering me for the Calzavara Memorial Rodeo Scholarship, as it would greatly support my continued pursuit of excellence in both rodeo and academics.