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Since 1983, the National Western Scholarship Trust has been transforming the lives of students dedicated to shaping the future of agriculture, rural medicine, and veterinary science. Every year, 120 students receive scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, alleviating financial burdens and empowering them to become the next generation of leaders and innovators in these vital fields.
Since 1983, the National Western Scholarship Trust has been a beacon of hope for students pursuing careers in agriculture, rural medicine, and veterinary science. With the establishment of the Trust, a commitment was made to invest in the future of these vital fields by providing financial support to dedicated students. Today, the Trust proudly awards 120 scholarships annually, with individual awards ranging from $2,500 to $15,000. These scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators. A cornerstone of this transformative effort is the Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale. This annual event, alongside the Citizen of the West dinner, the Auction of Junior Livestock Champions, and the Boots ‘n Business luncheon, contributes significantly to the Scholarship Trust. The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale, in particular, merges the worlds of art and agriculture, celebrating Western heritage while supporting educational pursuits. The proceeds from these events have propelled the Trust to award over 1,800 scholarships, with the fund surpassing $10 million in total contributions.
Kassandra Shoemaker
Gill, CO, majoring in Animal Science with a Minor in Agriculture Business
The impact of these scholarships is profound, as evidenced by the heartfelt testimonials from some of our recipients:
Kassandra Shoemaker from Gill, CO, majoring in Animal Science with a Minor in Agriculture Business, shares her gratitude: “I feel so grateful to have been chosen as a recipient of the National Western Stock Show Scholarship. I wish I could shake the hands of each and every donor that made this opportunity possible. It is such a challenge articulating what receiving the scholarship means to me. I grew up ranching in Northeastern Colorado where I was an active participant in 4H, FFA, FBLA, high school rodeo, and high school sports. The culmination of these activities along with my upbringing inspired me to pursue a degree in Animal Science and a Minor in Agriculture Business while competing on the rodeo team at the University of Wyoming.”
Jane Goldy from Centennial, CO, majoring in Agricultural Education, Animal & Veterinary Science, reflects on her journey: “As a daughter of a veterinarian, I have been around animals my whole life. When I was 10, I joined 4-H and started showing chickens. It started with the Arapahoe County Fair and quickly led to the National Western. Since I was little, I always knew I wanted to become a teacher, but through all the time in the barn, I eventually realized that I want to teach agriculture. The life in the barn has taught me so much, and though it is far from glamorous, I truly love it and hope to teach others the same rewards. I am so incredibly grateful to receive this honor. My whole life I have grown up attending and eventually showing at the Stock Show every January. From the first time I showed, to the friendships I have made along the way, to the wonderful experiences of helping my friends and getting to hold their banners in the sale ring, to being fortunate enough to win senior poultry showmanship, the National Western Stock Show will forever hold a spot near and dear to my heart.”
Jane Goldy
Centennial, CO, majoring in Agricultural Education,
Animal & Veterinary Science
Bailey Fitzwater from Wheatland, WY, majoring in Agriculture Communications, expresses deep appreciation: “Words cannot express the gratitude I feel for once again receiving this honorable award, as I genuinely respect the NWSS and what they stand for. I have always had a passion for agriculture and continue to look forward to seeing what opportunities lie ahead for me in the future and how I can make an impact in the industry.”
Paige Parish from Laramie, WY, majoring in Animal and Veterinary Science, shares her thoughts: “I am thankful for this scholarship because it encourages me to be optimistic for my future. It may seem like a small, silly thing that receiving a scholarship instills a sense of purpose in me, but it does – it allows me to acknowledge that other people believe in me, so I should believe in myself. This opens my eyes to the potential that I have and what I can achieve in the future.”
Through the Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale, we are not only preserving the rich cultural legacy of the West but also planting the seeds for a brighter future. Each piece of art sold, each bid placed, and each dollar donated is a step toward empowering students and nurturing dreams. Join us in this impactful journey and be a part of something truly meaningful.
The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale would not be possible without the generous contributions of our patrons and sponsors.
The Coors Western Art Exhibit & Sale proudly features some of the most prominent and talented Western artists working today. Our roster showcases a dynamic mix of long-standing favorites, emerging talent, and returning artists who bring fresh perspectives to the ever-evolving world of Western art. Whether they are seasoned veterans or exciting new voices, these artists contribute to the diverse and vibrant range of styles and mediums that define our annual exhibition.
