AlpacaGram 12.66 | Help Us Honor a Shining Star in Our Community

Help Us Honor a Shining Star in Our Community

There is no better way to say thank you than by recognizing those who give their time, expertise, and heart to strengthen our community. Volunteers are the backbone of the alpaca industry. They support shows, guide committees, offer mentorship, and help their fellow members every step of the way. Their dedication makes our work—and our industry—possible.

Today, we invite you to celebrate the people who make a difference.

Nominations are open for the 2026 AOA Shining Star Award!

This award honors an individual, group, or AOA affiliate whose service has made a lasting and meaningful impact on AOA and its programs. If you know someone who gives generously of their time and talent, we encourage you to nominate them.

Recipient Criteria

• Affiliates must be in good standing with AOA.
• Individuals must be active, paid AOA members in good standing.
• If nominating a group, all members must be paid AOA members in good standing.

Selection Process

The AOA Board of Directors will review all nominations and select the 2026 recipient(s). The Shining Star Award will be presented at the 2026 Mazuri AOA National Alpaca Show presented by Cedar & Sage Alpacas, Red Granite Ranch, and Tierra Prometida Alpacas.

Deadline

Submit nominations by Sunday, January 18, 2026, using the Shining Star Nomination Form.

Nominate a deserving volunteer today and help us honor those who lift our community, strengthen our industry, and embody the spirit of service that defines AOA.

Past Recipients of the Shining Star Award

• 2025 — Randy Strong
• 2024 — Hillary Devin
• 2023 — Elden Harms
• 2022 — Judy Schroeder
• 2021 — Beth Anne Sheets
• 2020 — Wini Labrecque
• 2019 — Sue Ives
• 2018 — Steve Hull
• 2017 — Faye Farley
• 2016 — Stacie Chavez
• 2015 — C. Scott Gove
• 2014 — Fred Obenchain
• 2013 — Jerry & Libby Forstner
• 2012 — Ruth Fuqua, Jude Anderson, Michael Safley, Amanda VandenBosch, Cheryl Gehly
• 2011 — Dr. Jerilynn Booher
• 2008 — Amy McCroskie, Jan Davis
• 2007 — Jodi Weaver
• 2006 — Tom Costner
• 2003 — Deb Hill

Photos and videos of past recipients can be found online at www.alpacainfo.com/awards/shining-star-award.