The first Wrangler COWGIRL 30 Under 30 Empowered Gala, which took place on March 4 at Hotel Drover in Fort Worth, was a resounding success, attracting more than 250 guests from across the Western industry.

Honorees of the Class of 2022, family, friends, co-workers, and COWGIRL 30 Under 30 alumna, were treated to a pre-event champagne reception and red-carpet entry, followed by the Empowered Gala inside.

The Empowered Gala took place amidst the rustic-luxe grandeur of The Barn, Hotel Drover’s warmly appointed and intimate special events venue. Creating the perfect setting for the gala, The Barn features charming chandeliers, hand-hewn timber ceilings, lushly landscaped outdoor verandas, and large terraces against the backdrop of Mule Alley in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards.

Guest speakers included event sponsors from COWGIRL, Wrangler, Montana Silversmiths, Charlie 1 Horse Hats, Durango Boots, Cavender’s, and The Cowboy Channel.

Robin Rich, Senior Brand Marketing Manager for Wrangler Western, gave the keynote address with follow keynote comments by singer/songwriter Stephanie Quayle, who also performed a full concert with her band after the ceremony.

COWGIRL 30 Under 30 alumna Bryce Albright and Katie Schrock also served as speakers during the ceremony, which was hosted by veteran television host and reporter, Kadee Coffman Blair.

Each of the COWGIRL 30 Under 30 Class of 2022 honorees were invited on stage to give an acceptance speech, which on several occasions was quite emotional and all powerful.

The Empowered Gala was created to honor the COWGIRL 30 Under 30 Class of 2022, the flagship program created by the editors and executives at COWGIRL Magazine. Now in its third year, COWGIRL 30 Under 30 has successfully promoted 90 young women from within the ranks of the Western industry.

Wrangler, the title sponsor of the COWGIRL 30 Under 30 Empowered Gala, additionally provided for a live concert by Big Sky Music recording artist, and Wrangler endorsee, Stephanie Quayle. COWGIRL 30 Under 30 is also generously sponsored by Cavender’s, Charlie 1 Horse Hats, Durango Boots, Montana Silversmiths, and The Cowboy Channel.