Provided by Texas Tech UniversityLUBBOCK, Texas (NEWS RELEASE) - The Ranching Heritage Association has raised more than $22 million, reaching 75% of its $28 million construction fundraising goal for the Red Steagall Institute for Traditional Western Arts at Texas Tech University's National Ranching Heritage Center, with groundbreaking planned for summer 2027.

The initiative is now entering its public fundraising phase to support a new institute dedicated to preserving Western arts, ranching traditions and cultural heritage through hands-on instruction, educational programming and engagement with master artists and artisans.

Why This Matters:* Preserving Heritage: The institute will safeguard traditional Western arts, craftsmanship and ranching values by passing skills and cultural knowledge from accomplished masters to future generations.* Expanding Opportunities: The institute will significantly enhance the National Ranching Heritage Center's educational offerings, providing students, visitors and the public with hands-on instruction in leatherwork, metalworking, painting, sculpture, songwriting and poetry.* Strengthening Engagement: With more than $22 million raised from over 150 donors, the initiative demonstrates strong philanthropic support for Texas Tech while creating an opportunity for the broader community to help secure the remaining $6 million needed to begin construction.