Presley Cooper Awarded the 2026 National Day of the Cowgirl Scholarship

Durango® Boots, in partnership with the Dude Ranch Foundation, is proud to announce Presley Cooper as the recipient of the third annual National Day of the Cowgirl Scholarship—a $30,000 scholarship supporting the next generation of cowgirls blazing their own trails in the Western industry.

Presley is pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business with a minor in Water Studies at California State University, Fresno. She plans to attend law school and specialize in agricultural law, using her passion for water and land rights to protect farmers, ranchers, and the future of agricultural communities.

“I am so honored to join the amazing group of girls who are continuing these traditions and making an impact in agricultural communities. This scholarship motivates me to keep working hard and to represent the values I believe in.”

Presley’s connection to the Western lifestyle began at an early age through 4-H, livestock showing, horseback riding, and rodeo. She continued developing her leadership and public speaking skills through FFA and High School Rodeo.

“To all the young cowgirls out there—don’t be afraid to get involved and try something new. The agricultural and Western lifestyles teach you skills that go far beyond any arena or show ring. If you work hard, stay consistent, and surround yourself with people who support your goals, the opportunities will be endless.”

ABOUT THE NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWGIRL SCHOLARSHIP

The National Day of the Cowgirl Scholarship, presented by Durango® Boots, will be awarded in the amount of $30,000 distributed over three years of continued education. Each year, the scholarship will be awarded to one undergraduate female student currently in her first year of college who aspires to contribute to the Western way of life through the passionate pursuit of a career within the Western, agriculture, farm and ranch, equine, or Western sports industries.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS

We’re incredibly thankful for this year’s partners. Together, we’re proud to champion cowgirls like Presley who are preserving Western traditions while building a stronger future for agricultural communities.

NOW'S YOUR CHANCE: 2027 APPLICATIONS OPEN SOON

Are you a first-year college student with a passion for the Western way of life? Applications for the next National Day of the Cowgirl Scholarship open on September 15, 2026. Visit nationaldayofthecowgirl.com to learn more.

•   Applications open September 15, 2026
•   Deadline to apply is December 31, 2026