ABOUT
BPIRF Overview Strategic Plan Administration
PROGRAMS
Education Programs Community Outreach Crown Royal Hats Off Grant Traveling Museum
SCHOLARSHIPS/GRANTS
Scholarships Overview Applications 2025 Recipients 2024 Recipients 2023 Recipients
NEWS CONTACT US
DONATE

 

Message from BPRIF Board Chair - Corey Vason

I am extremely excited and truly honored to assume the role of the new Executive Director of the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation (BPIRF). The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR) and BPIRF are near and dear to my heart. As the son of BPIR Founder Lu Vason, I am elated to be integral in continuing the Foundation’s success, honoring our values, and leading our organization into the future.
It is my privilege to lead an organization committed to preserving the legacy and contributions of Black Cowboys and Black Cowgirls in the western United States.


It is my heartfelt goal to dedicate my focus and that of the Foundation. To support our initiatives of education, diversity, partnership, community engagement, and our love for Rodeo.


I look forward to continuing the Foundation’s Mission of supporting the next generation of talent, and ensuring our rich history, is celebrated, honored, and recognized for years to come.
As our Black Cowboy and Cowgirl ancestors built a legacy based on the principles of hard work, selflessness, loyalty, fair play, honesty and dedication. We, too, at the BPIRF, will continue these principles, with a rock-solid work ethic, and commitment to serve our communities with grace and excellence.


I am honored to work alongside our company’s President, Valeria Howard Cunningham, and the entire BPIRF family. Together, we will build on the incredible work that has already been established, and chart a course forward, for sustained success, new initiatives, and amazing opportunities, for the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation.


Lastly, I want to thank all our supporters, sponsors, donors, contributors, volunteers, financial partners, rodeo participants, and rodeo fans for an Amazing 2024! We look forward with great excitement, and anticipation to a momentous year in 2025.

Thank you. I am always happy to hear your questions, ideas, and feedback. Please contact me at [email protected]


Sincerely,


Corey Vason
Executive Director
Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation

Board Values

  • Integrity – We act with honesty and integrity in everything we do
  • Passion – We are driven by providing opportunities
  • Diversity – We value, appreciate, and respect all people for their uniqueness
  • Quality – We support the BPIR in providing a unique and meaningful rodeo experience
  • Stewardship – We operate a fiscally responsible organization built on providing financial support to the community
  • Community – We engage with regions where the BPIR is active
  • Partnership – We develop strong partnerships throughout the nation
  • Heritage – We honor culture and the contributions African Americans have made to the American West!

To be considered for board service please contact [email protected] or (720) 290-2778.

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Administration

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation Board of Directors

  • Valeria Howard-Cunningham, President, Chair & Treasurer
  • Corey Vason - Executive Director
  • Ken Johnson - Grant Director
  • Margo LaDrew - Community Outreach Director
  • Sonya Adams - Member at Large
  • Breianna Fenner - Secretary
Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation Advisory Board of Directors
  • Obba Babatunde'
  • Reginald T. Dorsey
  • James Pickens, Jr.
  • Glynn Turman
  • Barbara Shannon-Bannister
  • Terrance Carroll
  • Ronnie Cunningham
  • Stephanie Haynes
  • Maurice Wade
  • Peggy Wortham