Hello Rodeo Fans!
My name is Isla Howard, and it is an honor to represent the 78th Elgin Stampede. I am the daughter of Heather and Derek Howard, and the proud older sister to Avery, Drew, step sister Violet, and step brother Joshua. Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, my family relocated to La Grande, Oregon, where I began as a kindergartener at Imbler Charter School. Growing up watching local rodeos quickly sparked my passion for horsemanship. With the encouragement of my family, I pursued riding lessons, and soon after my parents invested in my first horse, deepening my commitment and enthusiasm for equestrian activities.
Throughout my time at Imbler Charter School, I have been fortunate to experience numerous opportunities that have greatly contributed to my personal growth. Athletics play a significant role in my life and I have participated in sports from an early age. As a member of the Imbler varsity volleyball team, I competed in the state tournament last year as a sophomore, where our team secured fourth place. Additionally, during the winter season, I am actively involved with the Eastern Oregon Volleyball Club’s U18 team. In track and field, I competed on the varsity team and was honored to be part of the state championship-winning 4x400 relay team alongside teammates Paiten Braseth, Jeytt Cant, and Paige Braseth. Furthermore, my passion for equestrian sports has led me to compete at the state level in various events with the Oregon High School Equestrian Team (OHSET).
Beyond athletics, I actively participate in several student organizations. In FFA, I have competed at the state level in Agriscience and regularly participate in events at the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show (EOLS) and the Union County Fair, as well as horse judging in Career Development Events (CDE). As a committed member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), I have honed my public speaking and professional presentation skills, qualifying twice for national competitions during my four years of involvement. Additionally, my membership in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) allows me to share devotionals and deepen my faith. I am also honored to have recently become a member of the National Honor Society (NHS).
During the summer, I actively participate in local barrel racing clubs and playdays and also enjoy long trail rides through the mountains with my family. I have proudly carried a flag during the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show, contributing to a tradition I deeply admire. My family and I cherish camping adventures, frequently spending quality time wake surfing, tubing, and creating lifelong memories at our favorite destinations, including Wallowa Lake and the Snake River. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to make more incredible memories with Chelsie and Clara this upcoming summer.
As a sophomore in high school, I am eager to continue excelling academically and athletically throughout my high school career. Post-graduation, I aspire to attend college and compete in volleyball or track at the collegiate level. My academic goal is to pursue a degree in nursing, ultimately becoming a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) nurse.
I am genuinely thrilled about the journey ahead and deeply honored to represent the rodeo community that has profoundly shaped my life from an early age. It is my sincere commitment to serve as a distinguished ambassador for the 78th Elgin Stampede, proudly carrying forward the legacy established by past rodeo queens and empowering future generations to pursue their own rodeo aspirations with passion and determination.