By Barbara Jackson Contributing Editor

The first annual Cowgirl Cotillion Awards event was held during the Cattle Industry Convention in San Antonio, Texas. This event was organized by the American National CattleWomen Inc. (ANCW). A true gala with 140 CattleWomen and their guests, it was attended by industry leaders, ranchers and beef enthusiasts. The gala celebrated the contributions of women in the beef industry and recognized the outstanding achievements of ANCW members. Attendees were treated to an evening of live entertainment by acclaimed country music artist Red Steagall, as well as the presentation of the prestigious CattleWoman of the Year Award to Cheryl Foster.
“The Cowgirl Cotillion and Awards Gala was a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the remarkable women who have been shaping the future of the beef industry for 72 years,” said Nikki Weston, ANCW president. “As an organization, we are committed to empowering and supporting women in agriculture, and this event highlights the passion and dedication of our members.”
American National CattleWomen Inc., is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating consumers about the benefits of beef as the No. 1 source of protein. Through various educational initiatives, advocacy efforts and community outreach programs, ANCW works to support the beef industry and empower women in agriculture. ANCW was originally organized in 1952 as the American National CowBelles. Several states were already organized before 1952, including Arizona where it all began with “The Cowbelles” in Douglas in 1939.
Since 1939, these women have had the foresight to promote beef, its healthfulness as well as educating the public about the beef industry, the true stewards of the land. They were a major force to get the vote out when the Beef CheckOff was passed in 1986. Past programs include the National Beef CookOff and the National Beef Ambassador.
As the beef industry continues to evolve, ANCW remains steadfast in its dedication to empowering women, promoting the nutritional value of beef and advocating for the long-term success of the industry. The Cowgirl Cotillion and Awards Gala was a testament to the organization’s commitment to these goals and a celebration of the remarkable women who are leading the way.
ANCW is solely funded by its membership and generous sponsors. If you would like to support ANCW or the upcoming Cowgirl Cotillion and Awards Gala through sponsorship, please contact us at ancw@ancw.org.
Mark your calendars to attend the Second Annual Cowgirl Cotillion and Awards Gala at the Beef Industry national convention in Nashville, Tenn.
Thank You to All of These ANCW Sponsors
ANCW Gala Sponsors
CKP Insurance
Animal Health International
Cronus Pharma
Elanco
Merck/Allflex
Santa Teresa Livestock Auction
Animal Health Express Inc.
QPSE
Westway Feed
ANCW Sponsors
CKP Insurance
Moly Manufacturing
Zoetis
Boehringer Ingelheim
Powder River
Deseret Ranch & Citrus
Superior Livestock
ANCW Foundation
Axiota
FerAppease
Greeley Hat Works
Noble Research Institute
Western Ag Credit
State Beef Check Off Organizations
State CattleWomen Organizations