2022 Shepherd of the Year: Patricia Sanville
Each year, the Maryland Sheep Breeders Association (MSBA) recognizes an individual or couple for distinguished work within the industry, unique contributions to the organization itself, and dedication to volunteerism. For 2022, the selection committee chose Patty Sanville. They could not have chosen a more fitting representative—Patty embodies all of the qualities that warrant the title.
She is a former MSBA board member and has been a director for multiple terms both with MSBA and the Frederick Sheep Breeders Association (FSBA). Patty has been active in so many ways with both organizations. She served as secretary for FSBA from 2011 to 2017, then in 2018 became president, serving until 2021. FSBA expressed their regard for her volunteer service with the group’s Shepherd of the Year Award in 2016. She served as Maryland’s Director to the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) from 2020-2023, and was appointed by ASI to serve on its Legislative Action Committee.
Within MSBA, Patty often volunteered for additional duties above and beyond the board position, including on the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival Committee, a new springtime Shepherds’ Market held on the Frederick Fairgrounds in April, and MSBA’s education committee. To all of these positions she brings a positive voice and outlook.
Outside of ASI, FSBA, and MSBA, Patty chairs positions at the Great Frederick Fair such as being an ag educator and working in the fiber tent during fair time. She is active in 4-H programs as well, as a 4-H Extension volunteer in multiple counties and states. She is a University of Maryland Honorary Extension Agent and a 4-H All Star!
Patty and her husband bought their farm in 2009 and she purchased her first sheep that same year. Patty’s love of sheep and fiber have led her to teaching and demonstrating fiber arts through the Maryland Alpaca Breeders, the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival family tent, many 4-H clubs, the Frederick Fiber Festival, Rose Hill, the 4-H Camp Center, and many homeschool classrooms.
All of these organizations have been better served since Patty began her journey as a shepherd. She fully embraces her love of this industry by representing it in so many places.
MSBA represents a collective group of shepherds engaged in promoting the sheep and wool industry. We are here to encourage, educate, and shepherd not only our sheep but also our fellow shepherds and the general public. We rely solely on our volunteers, and Patty has been one of the great ones! She raises her hand, and then lends one wherever it is need in whatever way possible to make this organization the best it can be. Patty exemplifies the meaning of what it means to be a true Shepherd!