Baylor’s Roots at the Houston Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and Baylor University have a partnership rooted in service and scholarship. 

Don Buckalew, B.B.A. ’56, served as Rodeo executive committee member, vice president and director in a career that spanned 48 years, according to Rodeo records, including his tenure as officer-in-charge of Area Go Texan. Buckalew also is credited for originating Baylor Night at the Rodeo. Arlene Hinsley, B.A. ’87, and Lynda Winne, B.B.A. ’89, devoted Houston Rodeo volunteers, have been instrumental in supporting Baylor’s presence and success through the annual Baylor Night. 

This past Baylor Night at the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo featured a performance by Cross Canadian Ragweed for over 56,000 people, including a special Baylor section in the stadium. 

In addition to the leadership positions held by Baylor Bears, there are always numerous volunteers with a Baylor connection who help make the Rodeo run seamlessly. More than 36,000 individuals serve on 109 different committees responsible for helping maintain the Rodeo’s charitable purpose year after year. 

As one of the largest scholarship providers in the United States, the Rodeo has presented more than 23,000 scholarships valued at more than $320 million since 1957. Since 1988, Baylor students have received more than $3 million in scholarships from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. In 2025 alone, 12 Baylor students received scholarships from the Rodeo at $20,000 each. Scholarships include Houston-Area Rodeo Scholars, Texas 4-H, Texas FFA, Military and Exhibitor. 

“We are grateful to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for their continued work providing scholarship opportunities for students throughout Texas,” said Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D. “Their focus on academic achievement and leadership development is commendable and aligns with Baylor’s own commitment to preparing leaders for impact in the world.”