Sheep & Wool Ambassador

The first Maryland Lamb & Wool Queen Competition was held in 1972, when Kendra Hall from Frederick County, Maryland was crowned. This set the stage for 47 years of young ladies proudly representing the Maryland sheep industry. In 2020, the competition was re-named as Maryland Sheep & Wool Ambassador and opened to all genders. 

The main duty of the Maryland Sheep & Wool Ambassador is to educate the public about not only our growing sheep industry here in Maryland, but also nationally. They also hand out ribbons at various shows and show their support for our industry by mentoring younger shepherds.

2023 Maryland Sheep & Wool Ambassador

Rachel Zimmerman

Rachel Zimmerman is 17 years old and from Adamstown, Maryland. She joined the Montgomery County 4-H Sheep & Swine Club and began showing market lambs when she was 9. A few years later she acquired her first Bluefaced Leicesters from her aunt and uncle to start a small flock with her sister. Since then she has worked with her sister to improve the quality of their flock and create a sustainable breeding program. Rachel is still an active member in the Montgomery County Sheep & Swine Club and has served as club Secretary, Vice President, and President. She is also involved in many other activities through 4-H and the Montgomery County Fair such as Livestock Judging and the Fair Royal Court.

Rachel is currently a Senior at Tuscarora High School. She participates in Show Choir and Concert Choir as well as the Spring Musicals. She plans to go to college to study Animal Science and Animal Nutrition. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, and singing at school and in her church band.

Visit the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival website for information on entering the next contest.