Get to know the hardworking team behind the scenes at the Hood County Stampede! Our next highlight in our Meet The Team series, introducing Ryan Payne.
Secretary, Ryan Payne
We are honored to recognize and have Ryan Payne as a Hood County Stampede Board Member since 2023. We are certain that you will be most impressed and fascinated by Ryan after learning a bit more about him.
Ryan serves as our current secretary and is a pillar within our local community. We are grateful to have Ryan as a volunteer, serving and helping to lead the Hood County Stampede. The value he brings to the organization is immeasurable.
Shared Passion For Serving Our Youth
Ryan is a leader in our community, especially for young kids and young adults. He is a high school teacher at Granbury High School where he introduces and teaches law enforcement to students. Everyday Ryan dedicates himself to helping our youth rise up and be the best that they can. Therefore, the mission and vision the Hood County Stampede has for helping local children in need within our community aligned well with his deep passion for shaping and empowering kids to have success in their life today and for their futures. And of course, what Texan doesn’t love a good rodeo?
In addition to teaching kids law enforcement Ryan is a certified Texas Peace Officer and current Reserve Deputy Sheriff in Hood County. He has worked his entire career serving the youth of our state, and providing them with opportunities that will help them have success in life. Prior to becoming a Peace Officer, Ryan was employed as a Juvenile Probation Officer/Deputy Director of Court and Detention Services in Ellis County for 9 years, and Program Director of Lake Granbury Youth Services for 6 years.
Ryan was recently awarded Teacher of The Year at Granbury High. Being that this was only his second year teaching is a true testament to his dedication and commitment to making an impact on our local youth. Additionally, two of his Granbury High School Law Enforcement students, a part of the GHS career and technical education program, competed at the Texas Public Safety Association State Conference this past month, in March. With one student even achieving 1st place in the Fingerprinting Collection & Analysis.
Family & Fun
Ryan and his wife Angie will celebrate their 15th anniversary this year and have two boys of their own; Ryder and Rhett who love playing sports, huntings, fishing, and any activity that could result in injury and general anxiety for their parents. Though not surprising that the apples don’t fall far from the tree considering Ryan was challenged to saddle and ride a bull in his younger year when he was 10 feet tall and bulletproof. A phase many young men seem to go through. He sees the scar everyday where he was gored and knocked unconscious. A stiff reminder to be selective in who you allow to lead you in life and exercise caution when accepting challenges.
Musician & Hidden Talents
When Ryan is not shaping and molding our future generations and spending time with his family you can find him recording and playing music. Ryan has been a professional musician since he was 10 years old, touring the state and playing alongside some of his country music heroes. While he’s fluent in just about any instrument, guitar and fiddle are his go to’s. His hidden talent is being able to play just about any song after hearing it only one time. As if Ryan couldn’t be more impressive and fascinating he is a recording artist, presently in the process of releasing original music from his solo album.
Making an Impact & Giving Back
It is a privilege to have Ryan serve on the Hood County Stampede Board of Directors. He is a valuable asset to our team and our community is fortunate to have him as a leader. His heart for serving our youth goes far beyond words. His actions and accolades speak volumes. We couldn’t be more proud to get to call such a human one of our board of directors and of course, our friend!
“I am truly blessed in life with a loving family, great friends, and good health. I am fortunate to have the energy and resources to give back to the community I call home as a board member with the Stampede. Seeing the smiling faces of the families and children at the rodeo, watching the excitement guests get while bidding in the gala's live auction, hearing the cheers for the rodeo athletes, and knowing all of the proceeds get poured back into the community gives me immense fulfillment that our coordinated efforts are making an impact in many different ways.” - Ryan
If you see Ryan around town give him a high five, shake his hand, and thank him for being such an exemplary role model and committed leader to this community.
