Titleholder Tuesday: MEET THE 2023 STATE TITLEHOLDERS!

There is no better way to start our blog back up again than meeting the lovely ladies that will promoting rodeo and the western way of life this year! Read below to find out more about some of the state titleholders for 2023. These ladies will go on to compete for the title of Miss Rodeo America 2024 in December in Las Vegas, NV held in conjunction with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo!

Miss rodeo Alabama 2023
​Ashton libel

Ashton Libel grew up on her family’s ranch in Darby, Montana, and in 2019 she moved to Tuscaloosa, Alabama to pursue a degree in public relations and business from The University of Alabama. Over the past four years, she fell in love with the state of Alabama and its agricultural background. Ashton received her Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and began working on her Master of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising with a concentration in Digital Communications this year. In the second year of this program, she plans to continue her western and agricultural-based research in the changing digital landscape, and to direct and implement research-based plans for organizations in my future career. Upon completion of her graduate degree, Ashton plans to attend a top-tier law school to continue studying media law and current issues in fields based in public relations. Her long term goal is to own a public relations organization that specializes in helping western and agricultural-based organizations and brands. In her free time, Ashton enjoys hiking, snowboarding, or painting. 
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What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Alabama?
From the time I was first placed on a horse at age 3, I fell in love. As the years passed and my knowledge expanded, my love for my western heritage, agriculture, and professional rodeo grew from facets of my life to my passion. When I was 13 years old, I learned about rodeo queens and I decided to run for my first local title. After receiving my first title, I decided that one day (when I was old enough) I wanted to run at a state level. In recent years there has been an awakening of interest in the western lifestyle due to emerging media trends, exposing people from diverse backgrounds to our sport and way of life. Serving as an effective ambassador for the sport of rodeo has never been more important. Through my training in public relations, my goal is to effectively advocate, represent, and inspire others to develop the same love for rodeo. Over the past four years, I fell in love with the state of Alabama and its agricultural background. I wanted to be Miss Rodeo Alabama to share this passion with people from all walks of life, no matter their background or exposure to our lifestyle. As Miss Rodeo Alabama 2023, I could not be more proud to represent Alabama throughout my reign across the nation.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
I am looking forward to traveling across the state and nation, growing the Miss Rodeo Alabama and Miss Rodeo America brands and inspiring others. I enjoy meeting new people and listening to their experiences and in turn sharing my own. I am excited to begin my lifelong mission to expand the sport of rodeo and teach others about our way of life. Two specific rodeos I am looking forward to attending are the Southeastern Livestock Exposition (SLE) Rodeo in Montgomery, Alabama and Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Alabama?
My personal platform, “Plant the Seed”, promotes providing insight, knowledge, and confidence by educating new members of our community. One of my passions is to specifically serve as a mentor to members of the special needs community. I am excited to spend time at hippotherapy and equine-assisted therapy organizations across the state and educate others on how to plant the seed in their own lives, one seed at a time. Regardless of age, ability, or previous experiences, educating new community members in rodeo, horses, and agriculture is the most important aspect of growing our industry. The individual seeds of knowledge we plant every day will create a successful harvest for our sport and growing community.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
The biggest piece of advice I would offer to a young woman wanting to become a rodeo queen is to start reading and researching. When I first decided I wanted to be a rodeo queen, I began searching for local pageants in my area and reading everything I could about them. I also recommend contacting women who previously held the title you wish to earn. Next, start reading every article you can about the sport of rodeo, agriculture, local events and national events, not only in rodeo and agriculture, but also politics and government. One thing you have full control over at the pageant is how much you prepared in advance in terms of knowledge. You may not be able to control if your curls fall or you draw a horse that does not want to get on the correct lead, but you can control the amount of knowledge you have about the industry.

miss rodeo Alaska 2023
​Katelynn house

Katelynn House is the 21-year-old born and raised Alaskan. She lived in Anchorage throughout my elementary school years, then in 2012 my family and she moved out to the Mat-Su Valley. Katelynn started riding when she about 12 at Victory Bible Camp, which is where she received her foundation in horsemanship. She was gifted her first horse as a surprise from my parents and hasn't looked back since. She worked at the Williams Reindeer Farm for about 7 years and did everything from being a horseback trail guide to reindeer herd handlings. When Katelynn turned 16, she began to volunteer at Victory Bible Camp as a ranch hand in their Ranch Camp program. Her whole family started to get into rodeo in 2018, and they have loved every moment of it. She is blessed to be on the Rodeo Alaska Grand Entry Team and is excited for the 2023 rodeo season. Although, she doesn't compete in rodeo yet, she is  grateful to barrel race with 907 Barrel Racers. Katelynn is currently working as a Veterinary Assistant and looks forward to becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician. She enjoys spending time with her family, horses, and occasionally she likes to draw or paint.
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What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Alaska?
I initially was not interested in being a rodeo queen. I was approached about competing for the title 3 times and refused each time. Then I really started thinking about it, this was something that I prayed about for a long time. It was a decision that was not made lightly, but I knew that God had a plan for me in this. The opportunities that I get to be able to share my love for this sport and this industry is amazing. I am grateful that God has put me in this position and I am excited to glorify Him through this journey.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
I am looking forward to bringing more attention to Alaska, especially when it comes to the sport of rodeo. I want people to know that Alaska does, in fact, have rodeos. I’m grateful that I will be able to go meet people and share this sport with them. I am excited to be able to share and educate about the sport of rodeo, the western way of life, and the western industry.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Alaska?
My personal platform that I will be promoting this year is ‘Faith Over Fear’. This is a very common saying, but it is something that is very personal to me and I want to share it. My platform is all about keeping your faith in those hard times and the good times. To have that faith over those doubts, the things that you are worried about, all of the ‘what if’s’. To have faith in the celebrations, the good times, and when you are at peace. Most of all to keep faith in God and know that He is with you through everything. He walks before you, He walks beside you, and He walks behind you.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
If this is something that you want to do, do it. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. I won’t lie, there is a lot of hard work that goes into it, but if this is something that you are passionate about, don’t hesitate. The chance to be a rodeo queen is an honor and a once in a lifetime opportunity. Seize the moment, because you never know when you will get another chance.

miss rodeo Arizona 2023
​Katie ramos

Katie Ramos grew up working ranches, showing horses and livestock, hunting, and hiking all across the mountains of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. Her background in  4-H and volunteering with multiple mentorship programs set a passion in her heart to share this western lifestyle with those around her. Katie is currently a student at the University of Arizona completing her degree in Agricultural Technology Management and Communications with a focus on Education and Marketing. With this degree, she plans on using it to work alongside rodeo committees to grow their youth and community outreach programs.

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Arizona?
Deciding to run for Miss Rodeo Arizona was a goal that I had set three years ago when I saw the potential influence a titleholder could have to feed the future of the western and rodeo industries. Knowing that every single interaction could create a future fan, sponsor, contestant, or volunteer for the industry has shown me the  level of impact that my position as Miss Rodeo Arizona can have. 
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
It is the opportunity and adventure of a lifetime. I am so thankful and blessed to be getting to do what i am doing. I honestly cannot wait to look back at all of the amazing interactions that i have had with individuals from all walks of life this year and getting to truly learn and know the heart and soul of the western industry. 
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Arizona?
Feed The Future. Without instilling a passion for the future of rodeo, agriculture, and the western way of life we will have a dying industry. At a time where it is "cool to be a cowboy", we have an opportunity to grow the community and further feed the future for generations to come. 
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
I always tell young ladies three things. First, be your unique self. One of my favorite things about all of the state titleholders this year is we all bring something so unique to the table and with that uniqueness comes different ideas and perspectives that make us all want to grow and be better. Second, you get out what you put in. There's going to be some long nights and early mornings, but God put you in this place meeting these people at this time for a reason so take every single moment gifted to you and run with it. Third, Have fun! This is the adventure of a lifetime, you will grow and learn more things about yourself and life in just one year than you ever fathomed, but the experiences you are going to have are once in a lifetime. 

miss rodeo Colorado 2023
randilyn Madison

Randilyn Madison is the 25-year-old daughter of Chuck and Kim Madison. She was born and raised on the Western Slope of Colorado, in Montrose, with her twin sister. Randilyn didn't grow up in the rodeo world, but her grandpa had a cattle ranch in New Mexico and staying on the ranch with him was the highlight of every summer. From the cultivation to the livestock, she's continuously advocated for the western way of life. Growing up, Randilyn was in 4-H, FFA, livestock judging, soccer, and volleyball. She enjoys dirtbiking, snowmobiling or anything in the beautiful outdoors. Randilyn says her family is her world, and she truly wouldn’t be where she is today without them.
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What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Colorado?
I have always had a passion for agriculture and livestock. I grew up participating in 4H, FFA and livestock judging. Throughout my years in 4H, I knew I wanted to hold a rodeo title at some point in my life but my “queening” journey didn’t start until I was 17 years old. I was the Montrose County Fair and Rodeo Queen, and it taught me so much. When my year was done, I continued to college and began coordinating the Montrose Royalty program, knowing that in the future I wanted to run for Miss Rodeo Colorado. I graduated from CMU and dove into the hard studying for MRC. I competed in July 2022, and won the title of Miss Rodeo Colorado 2023.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
This year is going to be so amazing and full of adventures. It’s hard to pick one thing! I am very excited to travel to different states, but I think I am most excited for Greeley Stampede and my home rodeo in Montrose, Colorado.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Colorado?
Family and serving others have always been of utmost importance to me. I love giving back to my community along with other local small towns. One of the ways I get involved is delivering blankets to the University of Colorado Children's Hospital and other various cancer centers. This was my mother’s passion as she endured her own battle with cancer. In 2014, my mother, Kim, lost her battle with cancer, but my twin sister and I continue her beautiful work. This is a huge part of my platform, as I continue to live a driven, compassionate life, while educating others on the importance of Melanoma dermatology appointments and cancer awareness. I am blessed with amazing family and friends who have helped me pursue this dream. My father, Chuck, has always been the rock in my family and encourages me to follow my dreams and live a fun, adventurous life.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
My advice for someone starting in the rodeo queen industry would be that it doesn’t matter where you come from or what your background is. If you have a passion for agriculture, the Western lifestyle, and rodeo, pursue it and chase your dreams!

miss rodeo Idaho 2023 
​Lydia ROSE miller

Lydia Rose Miller was crowned at the 106th annual Snake River Stampede in Nampa, Idaho this past July and it is a huge honor for her to be the 66th woman to wear the iconic Miss Rodeo Idaho Crown. She greatly looks forward to the opportunity to represent the Gem State! She loves everything about the western way of life, and she hope that some of her passion for agriculture, ranching and rodeo is contagious for the people she comes in contact with this year. Lydia is 22 years old and the daughter of David and Erin Miller. Having already obtained an associate’s degree from the College of Southern Idaho, she has plans to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Agri-Business, and will use that education to continue on the path of continuing her family’s ranching legacy. In her spare time, Lydia enjoys doing leatherwork, and being a Longhorn Project 4-H leader.

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Idaho?
I didn’t start actively riding horses until I was almost 13 due to an accident when I was younger. I began showing horses in 4-H, and shortly after that, I decided it would be fun to compete in high school rodeo. While preparing for my first rodeo season at just 14 years old, I met a previous Miss Rodeo Idaho who helped me prepare for my very first pageant. Because of her, I decided to be the best ambassador for the sport of rodeo that I possibly could, and one day compete for the coveted title of Miss Rodeo Idaho. Nine years later, that dream is coming true. Being an advocate for agriculture and rodeo is something I am very proud of, and I have big plans for this year. I want to remind people everywhere of the service our farmers and ranchers provide to people around the globe.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
Aside from the chance to represent my home state, meeting new people and sharing my western heritage with them is something I am very excited for. Seeing new places and visiting rodeos that I have never been to are also just a few of the many opportunities that I am looking forward to.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Idaho?
Through 2023, I will be sharing my platform: “Ride With Me.” This multi-dimensional platform serves as a way to encourage others to be part of my journey – through social media and more, reminding those I come in contact with that they always have a friend, and never ride alone.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
Regardless of your age, experience with horses, or knowledge of rodeo, becoming a rodeo queen is something that can truly change your life. On top of it being so much fun, it is a lot of work, too. But, the opportunities are endless. The people you’ll meet, along with the memories you’ll make, are priceless. There are so many wonderful current and former queens that would love to be a part of your journey! All you have to do is ask, and remember that there is always something to learn about everything.

miss rodeo Illinois 2023
​Kayla walker

Kayla was born and raised in Quincy, IL where she graduated from Quincy Senior High as a Junior Graduate. She obtained her Associates Degree in Arts from John Wood Community College where she was also a cheerleader for the Blazers basketball team. Kayla then attended Oklahoma Panhandle State University where she was a member of the OPSU equestrian team, team captain her senior year, the OPSU spirit rider, and 2021 Miss Panhandle State. In May of 2022, she graduated with her Bachelors Degree in Agribusiness with a minor in Animal Science. Kayla enjoys competing in rodeo events, showing ranch horse, IHSA, NRHA, AQHA, and society breed shows. She is currently working as a brokers assistant and hopes to purse a career as an Ag Commodity Trading Broker. 

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Illinois?
​In Junior high and high school I competed a in few rodeo queen pageants as I also had started running barrels, and fell in love the community of supportive people. Every pageant I attended I learned something new about myself. I then took a few years off to tune my horsemanship skills, and knowledge. After showing for a few years I really missed being involved in rodeo, but I knew that with the new skills I had gained from showing I had the confidence to pursue my dream of becoming a rodeo queen. The opportunity presented itself to compete for Miss Rodeo Illinois and I couldn't have been more excited to represent my home state!
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
 I am really looking forward to all the new people I will get to meet while traveling across the country. With this title I will get the meet so many people involved in rodeo and people outside of the rodeo community. Closing the gap between the rodeo community and those who haven't had the opportunity to enjoy the sport will be a wonderful sight to see. Along with doing everything with my incredibly talented and unique sash sisters is icing on the cake!
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Illinois?
 My platform is Long Live Rodeo. I feel that the future of rodeo is beyond more than what we could ever imaging. Whether you're someone in the stands, horseback, or apart of a committee everyone has a special place in the sport of rodeo. It does not matter how old or young you are! You are the future of rodeo!
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
 My number one piece of advice, is always be teachable! You can learn so much from the incredible people around you and their experiences. it does not matter if this is your first pageant or your 100th pageant, you can always improve in some way. The more focused you are on being at least 1% better everyday, the more you will accomplish. Rodeo Queen pageants are a great way to learn life skills that you will use every day in your future endeavors!

Miss rodeo michigan 2023
khalilah smith 

Khalilah Smith is the 24-year-old from the heart of Detroit Michigan! She is a Michigan State University graduate with a Bachelor of science degree, the youngest of her mother's two children and the first-generation graduate. Growing up they participated in several sports including snowmobiling, but as she entered 8th grade she was diagnosed with ADHD. This diagnoses is what led her to her passion for horses today. Khalilah started with Gaited horses then transitioned to Quarter horses to compete in rodeo. Currently, her grade Quarter Horse named Oops (4 years old) is who she spends most of my time with. Along side horses, she is what her mother refers to as Doctor Dolittle, as she owns 3 ferrets, two dogs and dabble in the saltwater aquarium hobby. As you probably could guess with all the animals she wishes to pursue a Conservation Veterinarian in the near future.
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What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Michigan?
Miss Rodeo Michigan Association has made a come back for the 2023 year! The current program has pushed to make sure they can have a sustainable organization for young ladies who would like to represent their state and the PRCA. With the goals and passion of the team I was chosen to represent for this year to jump start the evolution to come for this pageant. As I have a passion of pushing boundaries, I felt this was another step to diversifying the Rodeo queen world on a national level. As I hope to inspire more people of different Ethnicities and races to pursue the same!
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
There are a few this I am looking forward to like making new friends, traveling, and gaining experience in the western industry. The biggest one of them all will be education throughout my travels to different states and cultures. I’m hopes to return home each time with a piece of knowledge from one of my fellow state queens home!
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Michigan?
For my year as Miss Rodeo Michigan, I will be promoting Building Diverse Bridges. Building Diverse Bridges came to me when so many community members would express “I’ve never seen a black cowgirl” or “ I go to the grocery store and that is where my food comes from”. Promoting agriculture as a Rodeo Queen to communities that have been secluded from experiencing the ins and outs of farming. So, my goal is to educate, Build the bridge from the agricultural community to the urban community. Detroit has programs doing an amazing job with building green spaces and now I want to build onto the production/farmer Rancher knowledge. I was always taught you don’t know what you don’t know! So why not educated the unknown?
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
To look back at the few years I’ve been studying in the rodeo queen world, the most honest and heart felt advice I can give to a young woman wanting to start would be don’t give up. I ran for a title and happened to win a trophy bracelet in a category that reminded me of this. Things may get hard, things may become stressful but the largest statement you can make as a rodeo queen is to get knocked down and to come back stronger. Keep going!

miss rodeo Minnesota 2023
​Kendra klosterman

Kendra Klosterman is 25-years-old and grew up just outside of Breckenridge, MN. She recently graduated from North Dakota State University with her Master's in Business Administration (MBA), and she plans on using her degrees in a way that brings together her love of agriculture, the western way of life, communications, and the business world. Kendra loves enlightening the public on agriculture and our western heritage, and believes everyone should have an understanding of the industry, its history, and what it takes to put food on our tables.

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Minnesota?
While furthering my education, I discovered that I really have a passion for public relations pertaining to agriculture and livestock. Serving as a state title holder in the rodeo queen industry is a perfect match for that passion! 
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
All of the people that I will get to meet! I absolutely love meeting new people and getting to share conversations with them! I am also extremely excited about attending out-of-state rodeos and learning more about rodeo and agriculture across the country!
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Minnesota?
My platform is to “Engage, Enlighten, Encourage.” It’s about being present in the moment, engaging with the people around you, creating meaningful conversations, and inspiring others to do the same! Growing up with a multi-generational farming background has provided me with so many opportunities that not everyone gets the privilege of having. I love striking up conversations with people and creating a space where they can ask questions about our industry, while also having the opportunity to share their knowledge gained through their unique life experiences as well!
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
To do it scared. It’s the best advice that I received, and I think about it all the time when I encounter new situations. Putting yourself out there, especially to be judged, is a scary thing – even more so if you haven’t done it before or only a handful of times. You study and prepare, but there’s always going to be things that you don’t know and that make you nervous. That’s okay! Do it scared! I guarantee you’ll be glad you did!

miss rodeo Mississippi 2023
Jacqueline Ervin

Jacqueline Ervin is from McComb, MS, and is currently a Senior at Mississippi State University. She is pursuing her degree in Business Administration and will graduate in the Spring. Jacqueline is one of five quintuplets! A fun fact: they are the first born healthy quintuplets in the state of Mississippi dating back to half a century. She owns and operates an online boutique which brings her so much joy to help others feel confident in themselves while looking their best!

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Mississippi?
What kick started my rodeo queen career was of course my love for rodeo and the western way of life. However, it extends to more than just that. What really made me interested in it was when I became a flag girl for the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo of which I was apart of for 3 years. Then, I told myself “We’ll, I’ve accomplished this; I might as well try out for Miss Dixie National! Getting to represent the rodeo that I grew up going to was a dream! After that, I realized how much I truly loved being an ambassador for the sport we all love, which then inspired me to go for it and become Miss Rodeo Mississippi, and now I am currently living a dream and am honored to represent my state.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
The thing I’m looking forward to most is promoting the sport of rodeo and all that encompasses. I’m looking forward to growing and learning while making memories that I know will last me a lifetime. As a rodeo queen, it is our job, or one could say passion, to promote what we believe in and encourage others to witness or be a part of it.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Mississippi?
My personal platform is “Women empowering women.” With this platform I will speak with, interview, have meaningful conversations, and take an inside look on what it is like to be a woman in business and also agriculture. I personally am involved in the business world as I operate my online boutique, Quintz & Company. Women every day work so hard, and my goal is to understand and learn from those women while promoting their businesses and accomplishments as well!
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
My one piece of advice would be to be confident! At Mississippi State University I am a member of the Delta Omega Chapter of Kappa Delta where we have a confidence coalition designed to inspire young women and teach them about how to be confident in themselves. Through working in our philanthropies, I’ve learned to be confident in myself! My advice would be that confidence is the best piece of “clothing” you can wear! Confidence is something that is powerful and motivating to be around. When we encourage others to be confident, it benefits you as well. As a rodeo queen, we speak with many people, and we are the voice for our state, so, therefore, confidence is key in your knowledge, skills, personality, and the way you carry yourself! With confidence comes truth, so be truthful to yourself and walk into that room with shoulders back and eyes up! You’ve got this!

MISS RODEO New Mexico 2023 
​EMMA CAMERON

Emma Cameron grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico competing in rodeos, 4H, and AQHA horse shows. In 2018, she served as the National High School Rodeo Queen before moving to New York to attend Cornell University. While at Cornell, she competed on the Varsity Hunt Seat Equestrian Team, worked in a research lab analyzing data on immune responses in dairy heifers, and completed a research project in Chile where she worked with a team doing consulting and molecular diagnostics. She also became involved with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, which provides children with cancer the opportunity to “sign” with a college sports team and become an honorary team member. Upon graduating with honors in May 2021, she began working as a Commodity Risk Management Analyst where she worked one on one with agriculture producers to help them understand market dynamics and manage their price risk. She thoroughly enjoys working with producers and business owners to help them reach their financial goals. She now works in diagnostic technology for an animal health company. In the future, she will attend law school and pursue a career representing the interests of producers to ensure sustainability of the agriculture industry in the Southwest. When she is not working, Emma enjoys rodeoing, showing ranch riding and reined cow horses, weightlifting, and working as a coach and mentor to the next generation of 4H and rodeo contestants. She has been involved in Santa Fe County 4H since 2004- first as a member, and now as an adult leader. She also enjoys announcing, timing, and being a secretary at junior rodeos and jackpots. She is beyond grateful for the opportunities junior rodeos provided her, and wants to ensure the next generation has the same support and opportunities as she did throughout her childhood. After taking a break from rodeo to show equitation horses during college, it has been such a blessing to have horses that allow her to compete again. In 2021, Emma qualified for the AQHA World Show, where both of her horses placed in the Top 15. Now being back in New Mexico, she cherishes competing in the same arenas she grew up in, and is so grateful for the opportunity to ride in them as Miss Rodeo New Mexico. 
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What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo New Mexico?
After living in New York and Kansas City for several years, I am thankful my career progressed to allow me to move back to New Mexico. I know nothing will ever compare to the feeling of hearing the national anthem play in Lovington at the Lea County Fair and Rodeo, watching the mutton busting inside Tingley Coliseum, cheering as my best friend runs her good horse in Socorro, or being at the Turquoise Circuit Finals the final year Sherry Cervi had Stingray on the road full time. Growing up in New Mexico instilled in me the foundation to move to New York to pursue my education and career. It also gave me a rodeo family who has welcomed me back with open arms since graduation. Rodeoing in New Mexico provided me invaluable opportunities and mentors growing up, and becoming Miss Rodeo New Mexico offers me a platform to represent the community and sport that has made me the cowgirl I am today.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
As Miss Rodeo New Mexico, I am genuinely looking forward to every experience this year will yield. Rodeo queens have the opportunity to share the magic of rodeo with both people who have been involved with the industry for generations and people who are excited to say “this IS my first rodeo!” Being a rodeo queen is a unique and versatile role in the industry, and I love every side of it. As Miss Rodeo New Mexico, I look forward to learning from the veterans of rodeo while also connecting with the next generation at events across the country. 
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo New Mexico?
My platform as Miss Rodeo New Mexico is “Fuel your passion.” I encourage everyone to be on fire for their passions in life, and recognize that as a rodeo athlete, proper nutrition is an essential element to being competitive in the arena. New Mexico is the 7th most food insecure state in the nation with over 20% of children not always knowing where their next meal will come from. Those heart wrenching statistics inspired me to partner with the 1017 Project and other nonprofit organizations across the state. Together we work to provide beef as a nutritious protein source to food banks and food pantries in our local communities. As Miss Rodeo New Mexico, I look forward to working alongside my rodeo community to bring both awareness and tangible solutions to the issue of food insecurity in our communities. 
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
You have to expect the best and prepare for the worst, rather than expecting the worst and hoping for the best. The way you approach your preparation will make all the difference when it is time to ride into the arena. 

MISS RODEO North Carolina 2023
​RACHEL GAGLIARDI

Rachel Gagliardi is from Raleigh, North Carolina and is currently a student at North Caroline State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She is pursuing her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine and a PhD in Comparative Biomedical Sciences. She grew up competing in rodeos and was a multi-event cowgirl, competing in barrel racing, pole bending, goat tying, and breakaway roping. Rachel currently has three horses, Shorty, Sissy, and Lola, and a dog name Chutney! In addition to riding horses, she enjoys all things outdoors, traveling, and reading. 
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What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo North Carolina?
I chose to run for Miss Rodeo North Carolina because I’m passionate about advocating for the sport of rodeo. It is my goal to reach as many people as possible to teach them about rodeo and our western community. I want to make everyone feel welcome and encourage them to give rodeo a try, whether that be spectating, taking horseback riding lessons, or competing.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
I’m most looking forward to impacting my community in North Carolina as well as future generations of cowboys and cowgirls across the nation.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo North Carolina?
My platform “Embrace You!” is based on celebrating individuality by welcoming everyone into the rodeo community and western lifestyle. As a first-generation cowgirl, I understand how daunting it can be to enter a community or try a hobby with no knowledge or experience. The rodeo community welcomed me with open arms and taught me many valuable skills and life lessons. My goal is to pay it forward, by welcoming everyone to give rodeo a try – by attending a rodeo performance, taking a
horseback riding lesson, or learning about how we care for our incredible athletes!
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
One piece of advice I would give to someone serving as a rodeo queen is to be yourself! Everyone brings something unique to the community and by using your talents and working together with other queens we can all amplify our impact to advocate for
rodeo.

miss rodeo North Dakota 2023
​LINDSEY MILLER

Lindsey Miller hails from the northern edge of North Dakota on her family farm near Flaxton, North Dakota. She is the daughter of Steve and Denise Miller and the oldest of four children. In her free time, you can find Lindsey announcing local youth rodeos and 4-H events, as well as barrel racing, cowboy mounted shooting, and searching for unique western finds at the thrift stores hidden in the gems of North Dakota. 
​
What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo North Dakota?
After I won my first rodeo queen title I knew I one day wanted to be Miss Rodeo North Dakota. Before I became a rodeo queen I was quite shy and had low confidence in myself, after I discovered my new found passion a fire was lit inside my soul and I discovered a new level of confidence and passion. As, I got older and closer to running for Miss Rodeo North Dakota I decided I wanted to follow through with it to help share my personal story of confidence and passion while promoting a sport that I grew up in and truly believe has made me the young lady I am today.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
First and foremost, I simply look forward to living my dream of being Miss Rodeo North Dakota for the year. However, to be more specific I am looking forward to attending our North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Season Premiere in April. This is the time that our Hall of Fame opens back up for the season and you can look at the updated exhibits. We do have a Rodeo Royalty Exhibit for Miss Rodeo North Dakota and in there it includes a list of all past Miss Rodeo North Dakotas and a headshot/ biography of the current one. I have visited this display countless times and to have my very own biography and headshot showcased for the entirety of 2023 is such an honor. Every time I visited the display I would imagine that moment and how much a young girl would look at my picture and want to be a Miss Rodeo North Dakota just like I did. It leaves you feeling humbled and honored. The Miss Rodeo North Dakota legacy is one that I’ve greatly admired and to be making my own mark on it is absolutely priceless. All in all, I look forward to cherishing this year, while making genuine connections promoting the legendary state of North Dakota, sport of professional rodeo, and our great western heritage. 
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo North Dakota?
My personal platform is “Find your light” where I encourage people of all ages to seek their passion and confidence in life just as I found mine through becoming a rodeo queen. I look forward to promoting this across North Dakota and beyond with my recently published Children’s book, The Girl in Lime Green Jeans.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
The one piece of advice I would give any young lady starting out in the rodeo queen industry is to stay true to your roots. You may feel the need to change as you progress, but always stay true to who you are and where you come from. Lastly, know why you want to be a rodeo queen and never lose sight of that. Work hard and never give up- your goals and dreams are possible it just takes hard work and determination!

MISS RODEO OKLAHOMA 2023 
​ALLIE MAE BAKER

Allie Mae Baker grew up around horses and longhorn cattle in Osage County of Northeastern Oklahoma. She has been involved in barrel racing and rodeo queen pageants from the age of 9. Allie credits her late stepdad, Dave Thennes, with her commitment to the rodeo industry. She is a licensed cosmetologist and barber working in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. She enjoys making people feel good about themselves. Her work does not deter me from her love of horses which began at a very early age. Allie looks forward to riding various horses throughout my many travels. She is proud of my Cherokee heritage that links me to Oklahoma as a Native American and a cowgirl.

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Oklahoma?
I got started in Rodeo Queen Pageants at the age of 9 and have held numerous titles, such as Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Teen 2019 and Miss ACRA 2021. Since meeting Lauren Heaton (MRO 14, & MRA 15) and Elisa Wade (MRO Teen 14), I knew all I ever wanted to be was a State Title holder for Oklahoma. I started setting goals and working towards my dream job as Miss Rodeo Oklahoma.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
The traveling and making the connections along the way! This is a once an a lifetime opportunity, that it is going to go by a lot quicker than any of us 2023 ladies expect. I am so excited to see where it takes me.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Oklahoma?
Be The Reason. “Be the reason someone smiles today.” I started my platform and life motto since I was the Miss Rodeo Oklahoma Teen in 2019. There are many different ways you can be a reason in someone’s journey, by sharing a simple act of kindness, lending a helping hand or doing the right thing when no one is watching. We have the power to help each other in many different ways… we can “Be The Reason”
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
If you lose, learn. Don’t think you have to be someone else. I ran for an Oklahoma State title 4 times before winning. Every year that I walked away without the crown, I grew and learned. Inevitably, I feel as it made me a better ambassador for our sport, and I took away so many life lessons from all the losses.

MISS RODEO TENNESSEE 2023
​ALEX FULLER

Alex Fuller is 24 years old, from Culleoka, TN. She is a life-long horse woman who comes from a family of reining horse riders. When she is not riding her 12-year-old mare, Lil Spook, Alex is traveling the country as a Sales Representative for FarmVet, a Tennessee based company.

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Tennessee?
​Ms. Sue Lynn, the National Director for Rodeo Pageantry, has been a role model to me for a long time and encouraged me to run for Miss Rodeo TN for years now. I finally had the opportunity to truly dedicate my time to the role to the best of my abilities this year. In addition, after watching my good friend and role model, Laura Sumrall, Miss Rodeo Mississippi 2015, compete and represent within her role, I’ve been inspired to do the same. I wanted to run for Miss Rodeo TN to have the opportunity to be a role model for other horse women of all ages and encourage them to have confidence, take risks, and try new things within the rodeo and western world.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
Though I’ve traveled to many places through my work with FarmVet, this role that I have taken on will allow me to see more of the country and make new connections within the western and rodeo world. One of my goals for this year is to promote rodeo and put forth a good example of what it means to be part of this industry through proper equine husbandry and agricultural management.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Tennessee?
I’m taking some time to develop this area of my platform and I want to fully develop my ideas before kick starting my platform and before making it known to the public.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! Step out of your comfort zone and try something new! Western riding and the western industry has been a part of me for my entire life. This competition is about representing something you love. I love horses and I love what this role represents in its entirety. It is okay to step out of our comfort zone and represent Miss Rodeo Tennessee because the role is more than just rodeo. This role represents the entire western industry and what it means to be a cowgirl.​

MISS RODEO WASHINGTON 2023
​BAILEY NACHTIGAL

Bailey is 25 years old from Davenport, a small town in Eastern Washington. She recently graduated with her Doctor of Chiropractic Degree and became a certified animal chiropractor. Bailey opened her own mobile chiropractic practice that focuses on helping both two and four-legged rodeo athletes perform at their highest level! In her free time, she enjoys paddle boarding, snowboarding, and training horses from her roping/barrel horse breeding program.

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Washington?
Rodeo has always been a large part of my life. I began competing in rodeos at just 4 years old, continuing through high school and college. I knew I wanted to go beyond being a competitor. I wanted to give back, promote our way of life and help to improve the industry for the next generation. Being the representative for the PRCA, our sponsors and Washington state is an honor!
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
I’m looking forward to traveling to places I’ve never been, promoting rodeo in unique opportunities and meeting western enthusiasts from every corner of the United States! From snowboarding in Colorado to wrestling alligators in Florida and catching flying fish right here in Washington with thousands of miles in between, these are once in a lifetime experiences!
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Washington?
“Behind the Chutes”; An exclusive look into everything that goes on behind the scenes to produce a rodeo that most people don’t get to see. From stock contractors and office personnel, to competitors and even the animals-there is much more to rodeo than what meets the eye!
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, you either win or you learn! Find someone you look up to in the industry and ask for advice. Remember every journey begins with a single step!

MISS RODEO WYOMING 2023 
REATA COOK

Reata was born and raised in Sheridan, WY, where she grew up on a cattle. This involved helping fix fence, gather cows, helping her dad train horses, feed, and all the chores in between. She graduated from Big Horn High School in 2019 and is currently perusing a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education at Chadron State College. 

What made you decide to run for Miss Rodeo Wyoming?
I have been around the rodeo queen world since I was born. My mom and aunt were Sheridan County queens in the 90’s and my mom is currently the president of the Sheridan WYO Rodeo Queen board and has been since I was born. From an early age I wanted to be a rodeo queen. The opportunities through this program are endless. Whether that be making connections, traveling, or educational scholarship opportunities.
What are you looking forward to the most this year? 
I am looking forward to traveling around the state of Wyoming, meeting new people, and riding a lot of great horses.
What is your personal platform that you will be promoting during your year as Miss Rodeo Wyoming?
I will be promoting the youth in Wyoming by empowering young women and girls through out the state. I have partnered with Joey’s Fly Fishing Foundation to inspire and “cast” for a better future. I will also be traveling to various schools through out Wyoming speaking on our western values and of course rodeo. 
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone starting out in the rodeo queen industry?
Look to advice from those who have come before, as they are wise in their ways and have been around an arena a time or two. 

*We did reach out to all state titleholders and can't wait to hear back from the remainder ladies so we can feature them. All photos were provided to us with permission to use from the state titleholders.*