WPRA NEWS

WPRA Names Caroline Lukens New Chief of Operations and Board Executive Secretary

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO – The Women’s Professional Rodeo Association is pleased to announce Caroline Lukens as the new Chief of Operations and Board Executive Secretary.

The WPRA Chief of Operations is responsible for the hands-on operational aspects of the WPRA activities and is a critical partner to the WPRA President and the Board of Directors in terms of growing and ensuring a healthy and viable not for profit membership-based business. In addition, this position leads the office team, headquartered in Colorado Springs, handling the day-to-day operations to be efficient, productive, and effective.

            “The WPRA Board of Directors is looking forward to working with Caroline Lukens as she joins the WPRA team,” said Heidi Schmidt, WPRA President. “Her passion for rodeo, strong work ethic, and effective problem-solving skills are certain to help the WPRA flourish as it strives to advance the women in rodeo into a new era.”

            Lukens resides in Kiowa, Colorado, and prior to joining the WPRA served as the Rodeo Operations Coordinator at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. In fact, she was the first female to hold that title in Denver. She was responsible for the planning and production of over 35 rodeo performances each year including the National Western Stock Show, Rodeo All-Star, and various private rodeos hosted at the National Western Complex. She began her time as an intern and continued to advance her way into her Rodeo Operations role. For a short time, she also worked as an Assistant Commodities Buyer for Pilgrim’s Pride. She graduated from the University of Wyoming, earning a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. During her time at the University of Wyoming she competed on the rodeo team in goat tying and breakaway roping. She was honored as one of the Cowgirl Magazine 30 Under 30 in 2024.

            “As the oldest women’s sports organization in the country, it is an honor to join the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association.” said Lukens. “With the rapid growth of breakaway roping and the strong roots of barrel racing, I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and longevity of women in rodeo.”

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