Last Updated on May 2, 2025 by Jordan Monaco
PENDLETON, Ore. – Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) proudly opened the doors of the long-anticipated Blue Mountain Equine Center (BMEC) on Wednesday evening with a grand opening celebration that welcomed community partners, supporters, and guests from across the region. The new facility represents years of planning, vision, and unwavering collaboration between BMCC and key regional partners, including the City of Pendleton, Pendleton Round-Up, InterMountain ESD, Port of Umatilla, and Umatilla County.
This level of community collaboration made the BMEC possible—and the grand opening was the perfect way to celebrate that shared success. Guests enjoyed a stunning charcuterie spread and bar provided by Pendleton Catering Company while wandering throughout the facility, exploring everything from the chutes to the expansive grandstands. The thoughtful design and spacious layout of the new center were on full display as attendees took in the facility’s many features.
Before the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to pause for two powerful moments that set the tone for the evening. Delaynee Angell of Athena, Oregon, delivered a moving performance of the National Anthem as a BMCC Rodeo Team member rode horseback through the arena carrying the American flag. This was followed by a traditional Blessing Song from Charles Woods III of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR), grounding the evening in respect for country, land, and community heritage.
The highlight of the evening followed, with the grand entry ribbon cutting—an unforgettable moment as eight members of the BMCC Rodeo Team burst through the ceremonial ribbon on horseback, followed by the rest of the team on foot with a burst of confetti to welcome them to their new home. The crowd erupted in applause, perfectly capturing the spirit and energy of the new Blue Mountain Equine Center.
“What better way to cut the ribbon than to have our Rodeo Team do it in true BMCC fashion,” said Jordan Monaco, Director of College Relations. “Watching them charge through the ribbon gave everyone full-body chills and left the room filled with smiles so wide it was impossible not to feel the pride in the air. It was a powerful, joyful welcome to a space that belongs to them and to our whole community.”
Earlier in the evening, Monaco also shared, “The grand opening came together beautifully. It was incredible to see so many community members and partners under one roof, celebrating something truly monumental for our region. This facility is a reflection of what’s possible when we work together—and this event was a powerful reminder of the pride and passion that define Eastern Oregon.”
A special thank you goes to the Pendleton Convention Center team, who partnered closely with BMCC to coordinate the event and helped ensure a smooth, memorable evening.
Adding to the excitement, Cattle Barons Weekend kicks off this weekend and will be the first official event hosted in the new BMEC facility—marking an inspiring start to the Center’s role in supporting both educational programs and community gatherings.
The Blue Mountain Equine Center is designed to enhance BMCC’s agricultural and equine studies programs while providing a versatile venue for regional events, rodeos, training clinics, and more. It will serve as a hub for students, educators, and the broader community to gather, learn, and celebrate the rich traditions of Eastern Oregon.
For more information about the Blue Mountain Equine Center, visit www.bluemountainequinecenter.com.