Shepherd of the Year Recipient

2019 Shepherds of the Year: Marla and Andrew Keller

Posted: February 12, 2020

Both Marla and Andrew grew up on their family’s farms learning to properly care for sheep along with other assorted farm animals. They helped with daily chores around the farm, were active in 4-H, and showed their sheep at fairs. They were married in 2014 and soon after bought Vista

2020 Shepherd of the Year: Ron Allen

Posted: March 19, 2021

The Maryland Sheep Breeders Association’s Shepherd of the Year for 2020 was posthumously awarded to Ron Allen. Ron was a long time MSBA member, supporter, Festival Committee stalwart, and devoted shepherd of his Clun Forest flock. Ron died August 8, 2020 at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore of a

2022 Shepherd of the Year: Patricia Sanville

Posted: December 14, 2023

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

2024 Shepherd of the Year: Naveed Malik

Posted: November 8, 2025

Naveed began his journey into farming as many do – with chickens.  The flock of chickens went from a few to over 60 quickly. Next up was the garden.  If you have a garden, you start worrying about pollination – so bees were added to the farm. As the farm

2023 Shepherd of the Year: Steve Breeding

Posted: December 1, 2024

Each year, MSBA recognizes an individual or couple for their distinguished work within the Maryland sheep industry; their unique contribution to the organization itself and their dedication to volunteerism. For 2023, the selection committee chose Steve Breeding. Steve is an experienced shepherd, dedicated to the sheep industry. His sheep operation