Her face bears the lines of determination. Her eyes reflect the wisdom of life’s experience. Her hands bear the marks of days well lived. Her bearing sends a message of confidence and fortitude. She is a National Cowgirl Museum Hall of Fame Honoree.

Do you know her?

The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is now accepting nominations for Hall of Fame inductees. Nominations must be received by August 15, 2011, in order to be considered for the following year.

“The Museum’s Hall of Fame focuses on the diversity of contributions made by these women to the western lifestyle and agriculture industries,” said the Museum’s Director of Exhibits and Education Diana Vela, PhD. “The Hall of Fame works to recognize accomplished individuals, from the woman who has championed the role of America’s ranchers to top competitors in the rodeo arena.”

The purpose of the Hall of Fame is to preserve the history and highlight the impact of western women from the 19th century to the present – the artists and writers, champions and competitive performers, entertainers, ranchers (stewards of land and livestock), trailblazers and pioneers. More than 200 extraordinary women have been inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame since 1975.

Preparing a Nomination

Women are nominated in five broad categories: artists and writers, champions and competitive performers, entertainers, ranchers (stewards of land and livestock), trailblazers and pioneers.

Each successful nominee is reviewed by three independent committees comprised of men and women from varying backgrounds, and from around the country who have a vested interest in Western heritage. A successful nomination has addressed the following criteria: accomplishments in the field (lifetime achievements); ranking in the field (national importance); contributions made to the field; enduring value or historical significance of accomplishments; personal qualities (integrity, character, uniqueness); and recommendations.

Out of the impressive list of nominees – more than 500 women have been nominated since 1975 – only 4 to 5 successful candidates per calendar year are honored with the prestigious distinction of becoming a National Cowgirl Hall of Fame Honoree. “Not all nominations are formally accepted, so, even being accepted as a nominee is quite an honor,” explained Vela. “So, being inducted as an Honoree is truly exceptional.”

To download a copy of the nomination form, or for additional information, please visit www.cowgirl.net.

About the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame honors and celebrates women, past and present, whose lives exemplify the courage, resilience, and independence that helped shape the American West, and fosters an appreciation of the ideals and spirit of self-reliance they inspire. Open Tuesday through Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, Admission is $10 for adults ages 13 and up and $8 for children ages 3 to 12 and senior citizens. Group rates and docent tours are available. For more information please call (817) 336-4475 or (800) 476-FAME, or visit www.cowgirl.net.