Elizabeth Gates, a junior pre-vet major at West Texas A&M University, has a lifelong passion for horses that began in early childhood, inspired by her father. Growing up in New Mexico and Oklahoma, she actively participated in agricultural organizations like 4-H and FFA, which helped shape her skills in public speaking, horse judging, and hippology. Gates competes in barrel racing and other rodeo events but finds the most joy in training horses, appreciating the unique ways each horse moves and interacts with cattle. Her dedication earned her the title of Miss Tri-state rodeo Queen in 2024, where she served as an advocate for agriculture and represented the rodeo in public appearances.

Driven by her love for horses and a desire to improve their well-being, Gates is pursuing veterinary medicine with hopes of addressing common equine health issues such as colic. She plans to continue her education at Texas Tech University or Oklahoma State University after graduating from WT. Despite the challenges of veterinary work, Gates remains committed to her path, motivated by her passion and a strong sense of purpose. Above all, she aspires to be remembered as a kindhearted and God-fearing individual dedicated to her faith and her animals.