Contestants

2023 Miss Rodeo Utah Contestants

Alyssa Adair MRU Contestants

Alyssa Adair

Age:  22
Hometown:  Hooper
Parents:  Joe Adair and Chantel Taylor

Education:  Alyssa is a graduate of Fremont High School and received her Associates of Science in General Studies Degree from Weber State University.  She plans to continue her education this fall at Weber State to obtain her bachelor’s degree in business management.  She attended Therasage EMC and received her certification in Equine Massage Therapy and plans to receive further certification in other massage techniques.  She now runs her own business called Double A Equine Therapy offering massage therapy to her fellow equine athletes.  

Background:  Alyssa has had a passion for barrel racing and training her own horses since she was a little girl.  When she is not on the rodeo trail, she enjoys skiing, trail riding, fly fishing and hiking in the Utah mountains.  She loves spending time with her family, especially her nieces Chandler and Dakota.  Along with running her equine massage business, Alyssa currently works at Northside Animal Clinic as a Veterinarian Technician with small and large animals.  

Alyssa is a member of the Rocky Mountain Barrel Association and the Turn Pro Barrel Racing Association, competing in barrel racing and pole bending.  She is a member of the RMPRA and plans to fill her WPRA permit this summer to become a WPRA card member.  She is the Co-Chairman for the Hooper Tomato Days Junior Queen contest, along with the Hooper Youth Rodeo, and is on the board for the RMPRA Hooper Tomato Days Rodeo.  She is a member of the WSU Student Association as well.  

Alyssa has carried flags for both the Wilderness Circuit Finals and the WNFR.  She was the 2017 Silver State International Rodeo Queen, 2019 Hooper Tomato Days Queen, 2020 Miss Utah State Fair Rodeo Queen, 2021 Miss Rodeo Ogden, 2022 Miss Wilderness Circuit and is the current 2023 Mountain Valley Stampede Rodeo Queen.

 Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah: “Growing up traveling throughout the state of Utah to rodeos, including my hometown rodeo, Ogden Pioneer Days, I was inspired by each rodeo queen I was able to meet.  These women inspired me to follow my dreams and now I want to do the same for our next generation of cowgirls.  Growing up watching and competing in rodeos has taught me to have dedication, honesty, integrity, and how to work hard.  My western heritage has shaped me into the person I am today. I would not be where I am without it.  I would be honored to be a part of the great legacy built by the past Miss Rodeo Utahs and be the face that could inspire many future generations of cowgirls to follow their dreams by promoting the sport of rodeo I love.”

Cora Butler MRU Contestant

Cora Butler

Age:  22
Hometown:  Draper
Parents:  Brett and Tracie Butler

Education:  Cora is a graduate of Corner Canyon High School where she was on the honor roll and graduated ahead of schedule in 2019.  While in high school, she spent her nights at the Falling Creek Dental Assisting School to become a Certified Dental Assistant.  She is currently a student at Stringham Real Estate to become a Real Estate Agent. She is focused on working independently, leveraging her entrepreneurial spirit to create a real estate business with virtually unlimited earning potential.

Background:  Cora enjoys mounted shooting, volleyball, sewing, embroidery, and coaching young aspiring rodeo queens.  Helping others, whether in the context of real estate or personal endeavors, has always been a source of satisfaction and fulfillment.  Ultimately, her goal is to be successful in the real estate industry and ensure a bright future for her family.  Her passion for the equine world and the rodeo will always be a vital part of her life. 
Cora was a Utah state 4H qualifier in 2015 & 2019, placing 7th overall out of 100 senior riders.  Her queen titles include Miss Rodeo Draper Queen 2017 and Miss Strawberry Days first Attendant.

 Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah: “I have been dreaming of becoming Miss Rodeo Utah since I was a little girl.  This dream has fueled my passion and dedication to the sport of rodeo and the lifestyle that surrounds it.  As a strong-willed woman who has always pursued my goals with unwavering determination, I am more than ready to take on the challenge and responsibilities that come with wearing the crown.  I have a deep love of rodeo and a profound appreciation for the opportunity to serve as an ambassador for the sport and the state of Utah.   As Miss Rodeo Utah, I will work tirelessly to represent the values of the rodeo community, inspire others to pursue their passions and make a positive impact in the lives of those around me.  I would be deeply honored to be part of Miss Rodeo Utah and represent our beautiful state just like many women throughout the years. “

McKinley Drake MRU Contestant

McKinley Drake

Age:  23
Hometown:  St George
Parents:  Chad and Natalie Drake

Education:  McKinley is a graduate of Desert Hills High School.  She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Dixie State University with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and a minor in Marketing and was selected as the communication Studies Department Student of the Year.  She is currently working at New America Funding as a Processor and Branch Marketing Coordinator and plans to become a licensed Loan Officer.

Background:  McKinley enjoys breakaway roping and team roping with her Dad and brothers and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.  She enjoys volunteering as a youth tutor, volunteering at Habitat for Humanity and Switchpoint.  She is an avid gym member and loves exploring the southern Utah desert, going to the beautiful Utah lakes, and hiking with her dog.  She also loves to read and work with young horses.

McKinley is a member of the AQHA, the World series, and RMPRA, and is a Women’s Professional Rodeo Association Card Holder.  She has held the titles of UHSRA Queen, Dixie Round-Up Queen, Lehi Round-Up Queen, and Strawberry Days Queen.

 Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:   “I still have the autograph signed for me by Miss Rodeo Utah when I was six years old.  In that moment, I decided that I would one day be Miss Rodeo Utah.  It’s been a long journey getting here but every time I thought life was taking me down another path, I was led right back to that night when I was six.  It wasn’t the sparkly clothes or big hair that captivated me, it was the kindness, grace, and positive attitude that Miss Rodeo Utah exemplified that caught my attention.  In the sport of rodeo and my rodeo queen journey, I’ve learned to focus on my effort rather than the results because if you give a perfect effort, results follow.  I learned to not be afraid of failure because it is part of success.  Rodeo has always provided me an opportunity to learn something new about life, rodeo, and myself.  I want to share the same kindness that was shared with me and inspire another little girl to save an autograph until she’s old enough to be a Rodeo Queen.  Years ago, I had a dream, worked hard to make it a goal, and now I’m here to make it a reality. “

Olivia Favero

Age:  19
Hometown:  Taylor
Parents:  Mike and Andrea Favero

Education:  Olivia is a graduate of Fremont High School where she was on the high honor roll with a GPA of 4.0.  She was awarded multiple academic scholarships and is using those to complete her associate degree in general studies and communications. And later, her bachelor’s degree in communications.  She would love to work for a company in public relations in the future.  Olivia attended Ogden Weber Technical College and graduated from the Cosmetology program.  She is now a licensed cosmetologist and enjoys doing hair for her clients.

Background:  Olivia enjoys working on the family farm and going with her family on dirt bike rides in the mountains by their cabin in Bear Lake.  She is currently employed at Dallas Green Farm and Home.  She carried sponsor flags at the Wilderness Circuit Finals and National Finals Rodeo in 2022.  She loves being active and involved, and anything to do with the sport of rodeo and the Western way of life.  

Olivia’s Queen titles include 2021 Utah High School Rodeo Queen, 2021 National High School Rodeo Queen 1st Attendant, 2022 Mountain Valley Stampede Rodeo Queen, 2022 Miss Wilderness Circuit 1stAttendant, and she is currently representing as Miss Rodeo Ogden 2023.

 Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:   “As I have prepared for and held previous titles, I have been blessed with countless opportunities to educate others about the Western way of life and the sport of rodeo.  Representing the state of Utah would be my honor, and I would do it with grace and grit!  The PRCA is growing, and it would be a dream come true to hold the title and wear the crown on my hat.  I believe that life is what you make of it!  I would be devoted to making the most of my year and cherish the experiences that come with the crown forever.  This prestigious title is full of opportunities, and I am so grateful to have the chance to compete at such a high level of competition with other amazing ladies!”

Cheyenne Gawreluk

Age:  21
Hometown:  Francis
Parents:  Craig and Jill Gawreluk

Education:  Cheyenne is a graduate of South Summit High School where she maintained a GPA of 4.0 and qualified for the High School Drama State Competition as a soloist.  She also received several certificates in various animal-related areas.  She received her certification from the Center of Neuromuscular Dentistry and hopes to pursue a ranch horse management program and an associate degree in Agricultural Science at Utah State University.

Background:  Cheyenne’s hobbies include art and watching musicals.  She is an avid reader and enjoys building her social media following for her equine Neuromuscular Dental business, which she plans to grow into the southwest United States.  In her spare time, she provides wrangler services on movie sets.  She would love to have a horse breeding ranch to breed and raise top-quality bloodlines for other breeders’ programs and stock contractors’ bucking stock strings.  She loves to explore the great outdoors with her red heeler, Chief.   

Cheyenne is a member of the Back Country Horseman, AQHA, PHSC, and Pleasant Valley Pheasant Hunting Club, as well as being an ambassador for Smokey Leather and Design, LLC, and BK Tack Solution.

 Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:   “I found a family within rodeo.  While representing Summit County Rodeo, I discovered how incredible it is to represent Pro Rodeo.  I would be honored to promote rodeo on a grander scale and share about agriculture – especially with my deep agricultural roots which come from my father’s Ukrainian relatives who immigrated here just three generations ago and established a farming business.  I want to give back to the communities that have given me so much.  Miss Rodeo Utah provides an opportunity to do all of that and share my platform, Climbing Mountains.  I will tell my story to encourage others to find their inner strength, ask for support, and become the best version of themselves. “

Dianne Huffman

Age:  23
Hometown:  Fort Duchesne
Parents: Jake and Suzzanne Huffman

Education:  Dianne is a graduate of Uintah High School and graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture education.  She used her degree as a high school ag teacher for the past year, and plans to continue to Veterinary School at Utah State University and receive her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, specializing in Large animals and equine reproduction.

Background:  Dianne enjoys training colts, hunting, fishing, barrel racing, and coaching FFA members for various competitions.  She is a member of Pay Dirt Barrel Racing, IRHA, NRA, National Association of Educators, National FFA alumni, and Utah Association of Agriculture Educators.  She plans to compete as a member of the WPRA in barrel racing and follow in her mom’s footsteps to compete at the Thomas and Mack at the WNFR. 

Dianne received the Basin’s Best Teacher award, Queen Ambassador for SAY YES to organ donation, and has held the queen titles of 2019 Miss Dinosaur Roundup Queen, 2020 Miss Utah State Fair 1st Attendant 2021-2022 Miss Rodeo Ogden 1st Attendant, 2022 Mountain Valley Stampede 1st attendant, 2023 Miss Rodeo Ogden 2nd attendant & 3rd runner up to Miss Rodeo Utah 2023.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:  “As a young girl, most of my time was spent either with my dad on the farm or riding horses with my mom and sisters.  I found a passion for the agricultural industry and the sport of rodeo from the way I was raised and have an inborn fondness for promoting the Western way of life and my heritage.  Competing in the sport of rodeo, I have been able to see the excitement it brings to people’s lives both from a contestant's and a fan’s point of view.  I truly believe that rodeo queens embrace the spirit of the West and are able to share their knowledge to educate, inspire and promote the sport that has taught me many life lessons as well as bring happiness and excitement to so many people’s lives.  With every autograph, I would sign and every fan I would convers with as Miss Rodeo Utah, the people of this state will know about the many wonderful things this industry and lifestyle have to offer.”

McKardy Kelly MRU Contestant

mcKardy Kelly

Age:  20
Hometown:  Midway
Parents:  Jason and Misty Kelly

Education: McKardy is a graduate of Wasatch High School, where she was Valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA and completed her Utah Career Pathway in Business, Finance, and Marketing.  She is currently attending Utah Tech University on a presidential academic scholarship and is on the dean’s list for academics with high honors.  She is studying communications with a minor in media and an emphasis in applied leadership.  She is also earning certificates for multimedia journalism and social media.  She plans to continue her education with Google advertising certification to help her in her career.”

Background:  McKardy loves all that Utah has to offer.  She enjoys paddle boarding, hiking, crawfishing, ice fishing, jeeping, hunting, snorkeling, and traveling.  This summer, she has turned her favorite hobby into a job, working at Rocky Mountain Outfitters guiding trail rides in the mountains by her home.

Upon graduating with her bachelor’s degree, McKardy wants to pursue a career in social media and marketing.  She loves to have a microphone in hand and is interviewing for her fourth year at the Utah Junior High and High School Finals Rodeos and working alongside the National High School Rodeo Association.  She plans to be a voice for the Western lifestyle through different industries including the PRCA and country music.  

McKardy was the National High School Rodeo Queen in 2019, and is currently representing as Miss Wilderness Circuit, traveling to Utah, Idaho, and Nevada.  She has also had the opportunity to carry flags at the WNFR.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah: “At the age of 10, I remember sitting in the announcer stand with my dad as he called a rodeo.  I loved to take over for a few minutes when he would leave the box.  That is where my love for the sport began.  Rodeo has given me so many opportunities and Becoming Miss Rodeo Utah is a way for me to give back to the industry that has given me so much.  I recognize that rodeo is evolving, and I believe I can help it grow from what it is now to what the future of rodeo can be.  There is no better way to do that than representing the PRCA and the state of Utah.  I believe in keeping the traditional values while also moving forward with today’s trends.  For me, this title represents the prestige and honor of being a woman in the Western industry.  I vividly remember the queens that touched my life and want to be that woman.  I want to show little girls that their dreams are achievable and that no matter what your title is you can make a difference.  It would be an honor to wear the gold, topaz, and variscite crown along with the uniquely shaped buckle for a year, impacting people’s lives for years to come.”

Morgan Perkins

Age:  24
Hometown:  Amalga
Parents:  Shane and Leslie Perkins

Education:  Morgan is a graduate of Sky View High School.  She is attending Utah State University and will graduate this fall with her bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications and Journalism with a minor in Agribusiness and Unmanned Aerial Systems.  She has been on the Dean’s Leadership Council in the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences and has been producing weekly newscasts and serving as the assistant producer for a 30-minute magazine show.  After graduation, Morgan plans to work in broadcast journalism either at a news station or for the Cowboy Channel as a reporter and anchor.  She would also like to use her degree as a freelance videographer for horse and livestock events. 

Background:  Morgan enjoys spending time with her family and friends.  If she isn’t talking or laughing, she isn’t living!  She has worked at Fast Forward Charter High School for over three years, where she has been the special education & evening school secretary, paraprofessional, and administrative assistant.  She enjoys the outdoors and anything to do with livestock or horses.  Morgan has a passion for helping youth inside and outside of the show ring.  In her spare time, she enjoys time sewing, making earrings or clothes, and runs a small business with her mom and sister selling western earrings, scrunchies, and custom orders.  

Morgan is a member of the IRHA, NRHA, NRCHA, USU Dean’s Leadership Council, Utah Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers, Agriculture Future of America, and National Association of Farm Broadcasting 

Morgan’s queen titles include Lewiston Rodeo Queen, attendants for the Cache County Fair & Rodeo, Famous Preston Night Rodeo, Mountain Valley Stampede, and the 2023 Cache County Fair & Rodeo Queen.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah: “Last year on Military Night at Ogden Pioneer Days Rodeo, three fighter jets flew over the rodeo arena as we stood to pay tribute to the men and women who serve our country they were a stark reminder of the importance of our liberties.  Utah is a place I call home, and because of those brave soldiers, I get the opportunity to do what I love surrounded by the beauty of this state.  I am where I am today because countess people took the time to help me.  Having the Utah crown placed on my hat and being known as Utah’s ambassador for rodeo would be an unforgettable moment.  My unique background in mass communications, agriculture, and social media and years spent serving others will allow me to influence generations young and old if I am given the opportunity to reign as your next Miss Rodeo Utah.”

hadley seeds

Age:  22
Hometown:  West Point
Parents:  Curt and Charlotte Seeds

Education:  Hadley is a graduate of Syracuse High School.  She has attended Weber State University where she focused on communications.  She is enrolled to attend Davis Technical College to pursue her master’s Esthetician Degree this fall. She enjoys assisting people, and in this growing field, she will have an opportunity to use her skills and degree to educate women on proper skin care and provide beautifying procedures. 

Background:  Hadley’s hobbies include ice fishing, snowmobiling, hiking, hunting and even hauling hay.  To her, nothing beats a good day at the horse races.  She enjoys country line dancing as well as western swing and looks forward to summer concerts.  Hadley also enjoys hitting the gym, building Legos, a Saturday Starbucks run, and trail rides in Utah’s great mountains.

Hadley is a member of the IRHA, NRHA, and the AQHA.  She has earned her Greener Than Grass buckle in the IRHA.  She volunteers for the non-profit recreational equestrian program known as Freedom Riders where she assists physically disabled children in learning horsemanship skills and therapeutic exercises on horseback.  She has served as a Pivot Girl for the Cervi Championship Rodeo Company at the Houston Rodeo & Livestock Show.   
Hadley’s Queen titles include 2020 Hooper Tomato Days Queen, 2021 Fiesta Days Queen, and 2022 Miss Rodeo Ogden.  She has also carried the 1st attendant titles to Miss Wilderness Circuit 2021 & 2022, the Lehi Roundup Rodeo, and the Famous Preston Night Rodeo.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah: “I feel abundantly blessed.  I am truly grateful to live in this great state of Utah!  As I have traveled to various rodeos, I’ve witnessed the hard-working individuals who make the sport of rodeo happen and the sell-out performances of our devoted Utah fans!  As Miss Rodeo Utah, I want to represent all of them and will do so with professionalism, the utmost integrity, and ethical behavior.  Miss Rodeo Utah not only represents the face of rodeo, but as an American, she also embodies all that America was built upon.  Rodeo has a legacy of honoring God and our Country.  At each performance Old Glory is posted, the National Anthem sung, and grace said.  In this very moment with cowboy hats off, America feels united, she feels protected and undefeatable.  What an incredible experience!  It would be a privilege to carry our flag in the arenas across this exceptional state and as Miss Rodeo Utah, be the ambassador for the beehive state, showing patriotism, enthusiasm, and kindness to both young and old.”

Shyanne Spencer

Age:  22
Hometown:  Neola
Parents:  Michelle Spencer 

Education:  Shyanne is a graduate of North Summit High School.  She is currently attending Utah State University Uintah Basin where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in human biology.  She plans to continue to Physician’s Assistant school and apply for residency with the University of Utah and specialize in neurology.  During her residency, she hopes to continue her volunteer work with Justin’s Sports Medicine Team to encourage safety for rodeo cowboys as well as help them prepare for their next rodeo.

Background:  Shyanne has been involved with dancing since the age of two.  At five years old, she began arena work with her horse Jack and found a love for reining patterns.  She is currently training Scooby, her first horse that she bought herself, and is working with him for queening, reining, flags, cow work, and parades.  She loves gardening with her grandmother and has been learning to can what they harvest so she can pass on the tradition to her family.

Shyanne was a founding member of the HOSA club at Union High School.  She is a member of the AQHA, serves as a leader for the Dust Busters 4-H club, and is a co-director of Altamont Longhorn Days Rodeo Royalty. She also serves as the director of the Uintah Basin In Celebration Baby Show.

 Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:  “My family has made their name in many other states.  As a first-generation Utahn, I know I will make my name in this great state.  Being able to represent this wonderful state I will be able to have an enhanced platform to make my name in Utah, and hopefully the nation.  I wish to bring knowledge to those who may have misconceptions about rodeo and the Western way of life.  STEM, Science Technology Engineering, and Mathematics are what drive our way of life.  Many people may not know how much agriculture has pushed the innovations of today.  The Western industry is a growing market that allows us to show the world what the future will look like.  As Miss Rodeo Utah I will be the voice of the agriculture, meat, and western industries.  All of which creates a connection with people, with nature, and a sense of direction of how they can go through life.  We all share a common love of rodeo, where we make sure each of our competitors is able to perform to the best of their ability, as well as new faces being taught the importance of our way of life, allowing the knowledge to travel for generations.”   

Jenessa Sullivan

Age:  22
Hometown:  Ogden
Parents:  Mark and Pam Sullivan

Education:  Jenessa is a graduate of Skyridge High School.  She found her passion for marketing while working for the Utah State Fair as a Marketing Intern.  She plans to earn her bachelor’s degree in marketing and communications from Weber State University.  A dream of hers is to one day work for the PRCA in marketing where she can work and do what she loves every day. 

Background: At the age of eight, Jenessa started riding Arabian horses in Endurance races, riding 25-50 miles in one day.  She once rode 100 miles in one weekend: two 25-mile and one 50-mile race within three days on two different horses.  She also has a love of trail riding through Utah’s mountains.  When she isn’t horseback in the mountains or in the arena, she loves camping and four-wheeling with her family.  

Jenessa participated in the Utah 4-H program for ten years and was very active in the FFA organization as well.  She is now an active Utah FFA alumni member and loves every opportunity to give back to the FFA organization.  

She had the opportunity to be a part of a National Youth Leadership Training Camp called Timberline.  Nestled high in the Wasatch Mountains, a group of youth are taught long-lasting leadership skills.  For three years Jenessa was chosen as a camp staff troop guide, teaching, and leading youth through workshops, activities, and devotionals.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah: “Many years ago, in the little farm town of Lehi, where my family resides, is where rodeo found me.  Just as the city I call home has grown into the metropolis it is today, so has my love for the Western way of life and the sport I hold so dear to my heart.  I see the quality of kindness throughout our beautiful state, and it is a characteristic that comes to my mind when I think of Miss Rodeo Utah.  She is strong willed and determined as she takes hardship by the horns and builds upon it.  She is humble and graceful in serving others.  Most important, she is a cowgirl, a woman who emulates positivity and educates others of our western history.  Miss Rodeo Utah represents everything I believe in.  I want to represent Utah and give back to the sport and way of life that has given me so much.  My dream is to fulfill the responsibilities of Miss Rodeo Utah with grace, professionalism and dedication while promoting the sport of rodeo.  It would be my honor and privilege to be selected as the 2024 Miss Rodeo Utah.”

Heather Thomson

Age:  24
Hometown:  Randolph
Parents:  Russ and Nancy Thomson

Education:  Heather is a graduate of Rich High School where she was the valedictorian with a 4.0 GPA.  She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Communications with a Journalism emphasis from Utah Valley University.  She was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and graduated Suma Cum Laude with honors.  She has been an intern for USU Extension and 4-H in Rich County as well as a Social Media Specialist Intern for Utah County 4-H Youth Programs. She plans to earn her master’s degree in Agricultural Extension and Education, along with certification as a therapeutic riding instructor.

Background: Heather enjoys working on her family’s cattle ranch, hunting, and fishing and documenting everything with the camera strapped to her back.  She loves bringing her favorite moments to life through photography and graphic design and doing the same for others.  She also enjoys writing, both journalistic and creative.  She is the founder of the Randolph Youth Town council and served one term as its mayor.  She currently manages the largest 4-H Horse program in the state.

Heather is a member of the AQHA, The American Youth Horse Council, member of the State & National 4-H Associations, Utah County Farm Bureau Board, Member of the Utah County Fair & Farm Field Days committees, Evanston Cowboy Days PRCA Rodeo Committee and Utah Cattlewomen’s Association member.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:  History of the American West runs deeply through Utah’s valleys.  I feel blessed to still be riding the same land my grandpa planted, and his father before him too.  It is this very legacy, I firmly believe, we should not only protect but help to advance.  From a very early age, I could be found in my dad’s back pocket as he was working on the ranch.  Not only did I learn the value of an honest day’s work by tagging along, but the characteristics of a true cowgirl were instilled into my heart.  I have developed traits of honesty, hard work, grit, grace, and faith while working alongside my greatest influences.  For me, Miss Rodeo Utah embodies all of these characteristics that create space for the Western way of life to grow.  She’s the spirit of the West, an educator, an ambassador, and above all, a cowgirl.  As Miss Rodeo Utah, it would be an honor to represent an industry such as this and be a voice for the cherished tradition of rodeo.

Rylee Warnick

Age:  21
Hometown:  West Jordan
Parents:  Russell Warnick and Tiffany Ostrander

Education:  Rylee is a graduate of Copper Hills High School and earned her associate degree in communications from Utah Valley University.  She is currently pursuing her second passion at Taylor Andrews Hair Academy studying hair design and barbering with plans of owning her own salon in 5 years.

Background:  Rylee is currently serving her community as part of a team that offers haircuts to the homeless and residents of The Point, a halfway house located in Salt Lake City. She is a member of the IRHA competing with two horses in multiple classes, with the goal to achieve her green hand buckle.  She is also a member of the Utah Versatility Ranch Horse Association where she competes in ranch pleasure, ranch trail, and ranch reining.  Her goal is to have her horses gain experience and expose them to multiple environments and objects with the goal of also earning her green rider buckle on her horse Britney.  When she’s not on a horse her favorite place to be is camping and spending time with her family outdoors.  

Rylee’s queen titles include Pony Express Rodeo Queen, Lehi Round-Up Queen, and the current Miss Dixie Roundup Rodeo Queen.

Why I want to be Miss Rodeo Utah:  “Rodeo has influenced my life in a way that I can’t imagine living without.  Growing up with rodeo, I have watched hundreds of volunteers donate thousands of hours to rodeo with stock contractors, rodeo committees, and contestants making up the backbone of the sport.  They are all great examples of the values that the Western way of life brings to the modern-day world we live in.  What an honor it would be to join the ranks of these fellow ambassadors.  Miss Rodeo Utah is a platform to educate by example and be a positive role model for young cowboys and cowgirls.  Teaching pride in the job you are doing, the importance of agriculture, and to respect your peers and animals around you are meaningful to me.  One of my goals as Miss Rodeo Utah will be to educate on the importance of mental health inside and outside of the rodeo arena.  Our western roots run deep in the State of Utah, and to be the representative of that legacy would be something I would cherish and serve with devotion.”