Board

Message from BPRIF Board Chair - Corey

I am extremely excited, and truly honored to assume the role, as 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 serve an integral part in continuing the Foundation’s success, honoring our values, and leading our organization into the future.
It is my privilege to lead an organization that is 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 Advisory Staff

Corey Vason - Executive Director

Ronnie Cunningham - Educational Director

Acynthia Villery - Social Media Director

Michelle Johnson - Public Relations

Margo Wade LaDrew - Community Outreach Director or Consultant

Valeria Cunningham - Foundation Chair

Ken Johnson - Grant Director

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation Board of Directors

Corey Vason - Chairman of Board
Honorable Angela Williams – Former State Senator, Colorado General Assembly & Director with Strive Education
Valeria Cunningham – Treasurer -President & CEO Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo
Margo Wade LaDrew –Community Liaison and Marketing – President & Owner Wade and Associates
Sheri Vason – Secretary - Event Planner
Allegra “Happy Haynes – Executive Director of Denver Parks and Recreations
Jerome Blackwell – Consultant – Kaiser Permanente of Colorado

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Foundation Advisory Board of Directors