Odessa, TX — Odessa College and its Rodeo Program recently received a surprise gift from Chevron that will have a lasting impact on rodeo student-athletes for years to come. Chevron presented an $80,800 endowed scholarship to the OC Rodeo Program during the OC Wrangler Rodeo Cowboy Ball, presented by the Sandhills Stock Show & Rodeo.

The endowed scholarship is the latest milestone in a growing partnership between Chevron and the Odessa College Rodeo Program that began in June 2024 with the inaugural Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Chevron Showdown. The event was originally created by Chevron as an employee appreciation experience while also supporting collegiate rodeo and the OC Rodeo Program.

As part of that first event, Chevron brought the Ariat Texas Rattlers, the 2023 PBR Team Champions, to West Texas. At Chevron’s suggestion, the Rattlers hosted a training camp for OC Rodeo bull riders, followed by a scrimmage between the professional riders and the Odessa College team. Ticket sales from the event were donated to the OC Rodeo Program, generating $21,400 in its first year.

The Chevron Showdown has continued to grow each year, with Chevron maintaining its support of the program. This year, however, Chevron elevated its commitment in a way that came as a complete surprise to OC Rodeo Head Coach Tom Kelly.

Throughout the Rattlers’ professional season, Chevron pledged $800 for every successful 8-second ride completed by a Rattlers rider, with the proceeds designated to establish an endowed scholarship for the OC Rodeo Program. By season’s end, the team recorded 101 successful 8-second rides, resulting in a total of $80,800.

Coach Kelly said he was overwhelmed by the announcement.

“I am incredibly humbled by this and so grateful for the partnership with Chevron,” Kelly said. “They are fantastic people. This will help with the growth of the program and the quality of our athletes. It’s a game changer.”

Kelly added that the gift reflects the broader impact of the program beyond competition.

“This is also evidence that the Rodeo Program is a positive impact on our community,” he said.

Now in his eighth year as head coach, Kelly noted that building a successful rodeo program takes time and consistency.

“It takes five to seven years to rebuild a program and to see the fruits of your labors,” Kelly said. “Support like this confirms that we’re on the right path.”

The Odessa College Rodeo Program will showcase that progress later this month as it hosts the 42nd Annual Odessa College NIRA Wrangler Rodeo, scheduled for February 26–28 at the Ector County Coliseum. The event will feature student-athletes from 10 colleges and universities, competing in traditional collegiate rodeo events over three nights of competition.

The new endowed scholarship will provide permanent financial support for Odessa College rodeo student-athletes, ensuring Chevron’s investment continues to benefit students and the program well into the future.

For more information about the Odessa College Rodeo Program, visit odessa.edu.