Alumni Stories
With a career spanning decades in horse science and coaching, Paul Rogers continues to champion student success and educational excellence. His work has helped countless young people—many following in his footsteps to Black Hawk College—build confidence, earn scholarships, and achieve their dreams through mentorship and dedication.
In the late 1980s, Paul Rogers was pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Horse Science at Black Hawk College. As a student, he earned Reserve High Individual honors at the Quarter Horse Congress in 1987. After graduation, Paul transferred to Middle Tennessee State University, where he completed a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and competed on champion teams at both the Quarter Horse Congress and Solid Gold Futurity in 1991.
More than three decades later, his connection to Black Hawk College and education remains strong.
With experience working alongside notable trainers and famous stallions, Paul began coaching collegiate teams in the 1990s, later expanding to nationally recognized youth teams in 2002. Over the years, he has coached 50 National and Reserve National Champion teams.
Paul takes great joy in mentoring young people, helping them reach their potential and thrive in their careers. He has helped his students earn over $200,000 in scholarships and takes pride in knowing he’s contributed to their affordable education, confidence, and work ethic.
More than 30 of Paul’s former students have attended Black Hawk College, a testament to his continued support and advocacy. Paul served on the BHC Ag Alumni Board for five years, including two years as treasurer, and contributed to initiatives like the freshman scholarship, banquet promotion, and grants committee.
He believes Black Hawk College enhances students’ character, has excellent faculty, and provides significant value to the region. Honored to receive the Black Hawk College Outstanding Ag Alumni Award, Paul remains confident the college will continue to be an outstanding educational institution for generations to come.