Randa DeCock

Randa DeCock, Sheridan Community College, WY

What does Pursuit of Excellence mean to you?

"If I had to write about the Pursuit Of Excellence and its affect on my life I would say you never give up on something you believe in. You do your best at everything you do and be dedicated to it. Work hard for what you get, don’t just expect them, earn them. Always stay positive even when something goes wrong. Never give up, always strive for excellence."

Who has inspired you?

"I have been inspired a great deal by both my parents. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. They have helped in the arena and outside the arena. I would also like to mention Deb Ploszaj Gunderson; she has made me the goat tier I am today. Also Paul Tierney has helped me and inspires me greatly with my roping. His advice goes along way, even if it’s just a few words. All in all I would like to thank you to my parents for being my heroes as well as role models."

Tyler Erickson

Tyler Erickson, Montana State University, MT

What is Pursuit of Excellence to you?

"Pursuit of Excellence makes you a better competitor in the arena and out. I would touch on setting goals, working hard every day, and never give up your dreams."

What has inspired you to set and achieve goals?

"My mom and dad have always inspired me to work hard every day not only in rodeo or other sports but also in academics. Mentors like Nick Stubblefield gave me the tools I need to be a steer wrestling champion along with others, each in their own way inspiring me at all levels."

Cheyenne Gasper

Cheyenne Gasper, Washington State University, WA

What is Pursuit of Excellence to you?

“In Pursuit of Excellence I would emphasize the importance of goal setting and progressions. As long as you have a goal and continue to move toward it, you are still perservering and striving toward success. Goals can be large or small, short or long term. As long as you continue to pursue excellence, you will continue to better yourself as a scholar, an athlete, and as a person.”

Who has inspired you to set and achieve goals?

“I draw my inspiration a number of places, including my family, past experiences, as well as PRCA role models. My family has always encouraged me to succeed, with my past experience; I know that any goal can be accomplished with hard work.”

Beth Pyles

Beth Pyles, Somerset Community College, KY

What is Pursuit of Excellence to you?

"My accomplishments have come in life from experiences in 4-H and FFA. I set my goals at an early age in 4-H in the equine field. My dad passed away when I was eleven, he was my horse riding buddy. He did not live to see me accomplish my goal of winning the high point award in the senior racking division but I never gave up, I was determined to win and I did. Never give up."

What has inspired you to set and achieve goals?

"My dad, my mom and my 4-H club leader."

Shannon Watson

Shannon Watson, Oklahoma State University, OK

What is Pursuit of Excellence to you?

“Pursuit of Excellence in the personal tense has developed my character.

• Enables me to pursue my dreams
• Gain respect for others and their hard work
• Follow dreams and be successfull in various endeavors
• Utilize talents and gifts for personal success and God’s Glory”

What has inspired you to set and achieve goals?

"My parents have always been instrumental in the development of my various goals and aspirations. My dad pushed me in my FFA goals & successes. Career goals have been a combination of parents and various AG-industry leaders. And in terms of my rodeo/horse experience; my mom, Charmayne James, and various Miss Rodeo America title holders."

Sarah Whitaker

Sarah Whitaker, Auburn University, AL

What is Pursuit of Excellence to you?

"I do not win every time I compete, but I think that I learn from my experience. I always try to improve on my performances whether it is in the horse show or in the arena, my studies, volunteer activities and family and personal relationships. I am always in the Pursuit of Excellence!

What has inspired you to set and achieve goals?

I can’t pick just one person. I am so blessed in the fact that many wonderful people that I love and admire have influenced me: my parents, trainer, church leaders, and guidance counselor in high school, 4-H leaders, college professors, coaches, and many others.