COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has committed a record $7.6 million to education in 2007 in the form of college scholarships, grants, endowments, junior livestock auctions, calf scramble program and show premiums paid to youths.
The more than 300 scholarships awarded this year to students pursuing a career in agriculture increases the number of active scholarships to more than 1,000, encompassing 65 colleges and universities throughout Texas.
The San Antonio Livestock Exposition (SALE) began the program in 1984 to encourage 4-H and Future Farmers of America high school students to continue their interest in agricultural studies and it has thus far made commitments in excess of $79 million. More than 3,000 Texas college students have benefited.
SALE is involved in youth development and curriculum programs through the 4-H, FFA and by direct contact with schools. The organization's highly successful Leadership Extension Programs supports continuing career education.
During the Stock Show & Rodeo, guides from area high schools give educational awareness tours to elementary school students and other visitors.
These programs are made possible by the efforts of more than 4,000 SALE volunteers and a core group of corporate sponsors.
