DALLAS — Taking part in all the excitement at the State Fair of Texas can get a bit pricey, but no one is as grateful for the costs as Sterling Pieniazek.
“I really wouldn't be who I am today if it weren’t for programs like the State Fair of Texas,” said Pieniazek, who now serves as the State Fair of Texas Livestock Coordinator.
Pieniazek started competing in the fair’s livestock events in third grade.
“I showed steer. So, that's why I started out showing and continued until I graduated,” said Pieniazek.
It was the fair and its guests that helped her go to college.
“I won a $6,000 scholarship from the State Fair of Texas in 2018,” said Pieniazek.
She is one of many Big Tex Scholars over the past 32 years.
“Education, agriculture, community, those literally are three tenets of our mission. And so, our scholarship program really brings us all together,” said Taylor Pulfer, State Fair of Texas Director of Communications.
Pulfer said that because of the money fairgoers spend, they have been able to give nearly $19 million in scholarships. They’ve provided $1.3 million in scholarships this year alone. The scholarships are not just for youth livestock competitors but also seasonal employees and South Dallas high school seniors.
“We always like to say we want to be a good neighbor, not a big neighbor. The State Fair is known for being a huge event, but we want to make sure that we are supporting the community,” said Pulfer. “Know that coming to the fair is fun, but we like to say it's partying with a purpose.”
It is a support that goes far for those like Pieniazek who is now a fair employee. She oversees livestock events.
“I think 'exciting' is the coolest word because I'm able to look back on the things that we've done in the past and also look at what can we do in the future and what are more opportunities that we can create for these students,” said Pieniazek.
So, before cutting costs at the fair, know the real price is giving back. For more information on the scholarship and how to apply, click here. The scholarship is one many initiatives the fair provides year-round.
