Yahoo in blue

This biology alum has traded in her lab coat for a crown. Sarah O’Brien (Bachelor of Science, 2023) is proudly representing Calgary this year as the 2026 Stampede Princess.

Having grown up immersed in the Stampede as a Show Rider and volunteer, O’Brien’s rodeo royalty status is a realization of a decade-long dream. We caught up with O’Brien on campus to talk about her lifelong connection to the Stampede and the education that shaped her journey.

What does the city of Calgary mean to you personally?

Calgary means so much to me because I grew up here, and I grew up within the Calgary Stampede. I was a Show Rider, then a volunteer and now Calgary Stampede royalty.

To me, Calgary represents Western hospitality, inclusiveness and making everyone feel welcome. That's one of my favourite things about this city, and I'm so proud to represent a place that embodies those values.

What inspired you to apply to become Calgary Stampede Princess?

I wanted to become Calgary Stampede royalty because I met the Princess and First Nations Princess when I was a Show Rider. I remember thinking they were some of the kindest, most well-spoken and inspiring people I had ever met.

Not only did I want to develop those same qualities in myself, I also wanted to be that role model for the next generation. Becoming Calgary Stampede Princess has been a goal of mine for about 10 years, so it's incredibly rewarding to finally be living that dream.

Sarah O’Brien stands confidently, showcasing a stylish and casual western-inspired outfit.

What's your favourite part of the Calgary Stampede?

There are so many amazing parts of Stampede that it's hard to choose just one, but if I had to, I'd say the Calgary Stampede Rodeo.

Were there particular mentors, programs or opportunities at MRU that had a lasting impact on your journey?

MRU as a whole had a huge impact on my journey. One of the reasons I chose Mount Royal was because of the smaller class sizes, and I think that made such a difference.

Many of my professors are people I still keep in touch with today. They helped me grow not only as a student but also as a person, and I'm incredibly grateful for everything they taught me.

Have you been back to campus since graduating?

Yes! I've come back to participate in the Alumni Classroom Takeover, and it's been really special to return and share my experiences as a biology graduate.

It's always fun to reconnect with the MRU community and encourage current students by sharing where my journey has taken me since graduation.

How has your education at MRU helped prepare you for your role as Calgary Stampede Princess?

It's interesting because my biology degree isn't directly related to this role, but my education gave me so much confidence.

This position involves a lot of public speaking, presentations and connecting with people. The communication skills I developed at MRU have been incredibly valuable throughout this journey.

Tell us about your career before becoming the Calgary Stampede Princess.

Before becoming Calgary Stampede Princess, I worked in biology as a conservation program specialist, and I absolutely loved it.

It was so rewarding to apply what I learned during my degree in a real-world setting. Becoming Calgary Stampede Princess was always a personal goal of mine, so I've taken this year to fully embrace the opportunity.

Once my reign is over, I look forward to returning to the biology field.

As you look to the future, what's next?

It's hard to say exactly what's next because right now I'm focused on living in the moment.

I only get one year as Calgary Stampede Princess, and I worked so hard for this opportunity. I'm soaking up every experience and embracing every moment of this incredible journey.

Learn more about MRU’s Bachelor of Science — Biology.

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