For Bret ’01 and Roxanne Richards ’01, Texas A&M Rodeo played a defining role in their lives, shaping both personal and professional paths. That lasting impact inspired the couple to help establish two key sources of support for the program: the Al Wagner Rodeo Coach Endowment and the Rodeo Excellence Fund.

“If it’s not us, then who’s going to do it?” Bret Richards said. “It takes someone to get it started.”

It all comes back to rodeo

Both Bret and Roxanne grew up immersed in rodeo culture, and their shared passion helped bring them together while at Texas A&M. Bret competed in team roping, while Roxanne participated in youth and high school rodeo events. Bret and Roxanne’s siblings also competed in rodeo, which Roxanne’s sister, Erica’02 competed at the College National Finals Rodeo and also attended Texas A&M’s vet school.

After graduation, Bret built a successful career as a real estate broker, auctioneer and co-owner of Coleman & Patterson Auctioneers and Real Estate. Many of his professional relationships developed through Texas A&M Rodeo. He also serves as president of the Texas A&M Rodeo Alumni Association.

“Everything comes back through rodeo,” Richards said. “My business partners, my closest friends and even my leadership opportunities all started there.”

Investing in the program’s future

The Richardses returned to campus in 2013 with a desire to give back and ensure the long-term sustainability of the rodeo program. Bret began working closely with longtime coach Al Wagner to help establish a permanent coaching position.

“The program wouldn’t be here without Dr. Wagner,” Richards said. “We wanted to protect the future while honoring the past.”

The Al Wagner Rodeo Coach Endowment was created to secure a full-time coaching role, while the Rodeo Excellence Fund provides ongoing support for student opportunities, travel and program needs.

“We still have goals,” Richards said. “The Excellence Fund allows the program to keep moving forward.”

For the Richardses, giving is about leadership, service and setting an example for future Aggies.

“I would never ask someone to do something I wasn’t willing to do myself,” Richards said. “You have to show up and be present.”

How to give

The Texas A&M Foundation manages gifts to the Department of Animal Science. Contributions of any size are welcome.

For more information, contact Jansen Merrill ’18 at 979-431-4148 or [email protected].

The Richards Family standing and smiling together in Aggie Park in front of Kyle Field.