EWC’s Brenna Herring Honored at Wyoming Tourism’s Annual Salute to Team Wyoming Breakfast

Eastern Wyoming College (EWC) sophomore, Brenna Herring, was recently selected by the Wyoming Tourism Office to speak at their annual Salute to Team Wyoming Breakfast, held on Dec. 6, at Resorts World Event Center during the National Finals Rodeo (NFR).

Each year, Wyoming Tourism recognizes a Wyoming resident attending a Wyoming college and competing on its rodeo team. Herring was chosen this year for her outstanding performance in the arena and her dedication to representing Wyoming with pride and integrity outside of it.

Currently ranked in the Top 10 in the region for team roping, Herring’s success on the rodeo circuit is matched by her academic accomplishments. She has earned Academic All-American honors from the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA), reflecting her commitment to both her sport and her studies.

“Brenna has been a huge asset to the rodeo team during her time here at EWC, EWC Rodeo Coach Whit Peterson said. “She excels in the classroom and is someone I can always rely on—whether it’s helping with practice or at a rodeo. She consistently goes the extra mile, both inside and outside the arena.”

The Salute to Team Wyoming Breakfast was attended by over 400 people, including notable Wyoming residents such as Governor Mark Gordon, Representative Harriet Hageman, and Senators Cynthia Lummis and John Barrasso. The event celebrates Wyoming’s top rodeo athletes and provides them with an opportunity to showcase their talents while honoring the state’s rodeo heritage.

Herring’s selection for this prestigious event highlights not only her athletic ability but also her role as a representative of Wyoming’s values and traditions.

Brenna’s Speech

Good Morning,

My name is Brenna Herring, and I am proud to call my home town Veteran, Wyoming. I’m a sophomore at Eastern Wyoming College, where I’m studying animal science and competing on the rodeo team. The events that I compete in are team roping, breakaway, and barrel racing, all of which have been passions of mine since I was five years old. My love for rodeo started at our local junior rodeo, and from that moment on, I knew it was something I wanted to dedicate my life to.

Growing up, the arena became my second home. Thanks to my family, friends, and neighbors, there was always a roping practice or event to attend. My entire family ropes, and we’ve spent countless hours together in the arena or on the road traveling to jackpots and rodeos. Those times gave me more than just experience—they gave me unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.

As I got older and started competing in junior high rodeo, I noticed how connected the rodeo world truly is. Many of my peers were the children of people my dad had competed with when he was young. That sense of legacy and community in rodeo is something special. It’s more than a sport; it’s a family that spans generations. Throughout junior high, high school, and now college, rodeo has continued to connect me with incredible people. The community in Wyoming especially stands out—it’s one big family. Whether it’s someone lending me a piece of equipment, helping push a calf, or just offering encouragement, the generosity and support within this sport is unmatched.

Now, as a college athlete, I’m grateful for teammates and coach who push me to be better and encourage me every step of the way. College rodeo has also introduced me to new people who have already made a lasting impact on my life, and I know these friendships will endure long after our time in the arena is over.

In addition to rodeo, ranching has been a cornerstone of my life. I’m a fifth-generation rancher, and my family has been raising registered black Angus cattle for 90 years. It all began with my great-great-grandpa, George F. Haas, who was the first purebred black Angus breeder in Wyoming. Growing up in this environment has instilled in me a strong work ethic, a sense of responsibility, and pride in what we do. Ranching has also introduced me to another incredible community—one where “help thy neighbor” isn’t just a saying; it’s a way of life.

One of my favorite parts of ranching is branding season. Brandings bring people together in a way that feels both productive and celebratory. Friends, neighbors, and fellow ranchers gather to help, transforming hard work into a day filled with camaraderie, laughter, and shared meals. It’s a tradition that highlights the best aspects of rural life and Wyoming’s strong sense of community.

Another unique aspect of living in Wyoming is the state’s unwavering support for rodeo. On my Eastern Wyoming College competition vest, I proudly wear the Wyoming patch that represents Team Wyoming. This program is exceptional—Wyoming is the only state with a rodeo initiative that supports athletes from the high school level all the way to the professional circuit.

Team Wyoming has made a tangible difference in my life and the lives of my teammates. Their scholarships and funding have helped our team in countless ways, from putting on the annual EWC rodeo to feeding our practice stock and hosting clinics. For example, we’re excited to host our second annual bronc riding and bareback school, made possible by Team Wyoming’s support and Wyoming-bred bucking horses from Summit Pro Rodeo. These opportunities help us grow as athletes and individuals, and I’m so grateful to be part of a program that values and invests in the sport of rodeo.

I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Governor Mark Gordon and the Wyoming legislature for their continued support of this program. Your contributions make a real difference, and we are deeply appreciative.

Being born and raised in Wyoming has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. This state is more than just my home—it’s where I’ve learned the values of hard work, resilience, and community. I am proud to represent Wyoming and to share the incredible opportunities and experiences it has given me.

Thank you, and I hope everyone has a fantastic time in Vegas!