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2025 Suri Network Election

Welcome to the online information center for the 2025 Suri Network Board of Trustees Election! Here you will find information on each of the candidates running for a seat on the Board of Trustees, as well as an outline of the electronic voting process.  Below the Trustee Job Description, you will find this year's Trustee Candidate Statements. More information on how and when to vote will also be emailed directly to each member by Simply Voting, the organization managing our election process.

This year we have 5 candidates running for 3 Suri Network Board of Trustee positions, each with 3 year terms.  The 2025 candidates for the Board election are Karen Ball, Jean Van Effen, , .  Chris Fredericks,  Candy McMahan, Leslie Rebtoy and Laurel Shouvlin, will be returning to the Board.   Nikki Griffith and Randy Brealey are completing their terms and Karen Ball is seeking re-election.

Scroll down to view the 2025 Suri Network Board Trustee Candidates' statements. Members will be notified when the electronic vote opens mid May. Links to vote will be included in that email. Votes must be cast within 2 weeks of the start of the vote. Results will be tabulated and announced shortly after the voting period is completed. Please watch for the upcoming election email.

Suri Network Board of Trustees – Trustee Job Description

The Suri Network, is a 501(c)(5) organization, governed by a seven member Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees has legal responsibility for all activities of the organization. Responsibilities of Board members include, but are not limited to:

  • Understand and make financial decisions for the organization.
  • Provide consideration of and decision-making concerning proposed policies and activities.
  • Prepare budgets for specific areas of responsibilities.
  • Assume coordination of specific projects, which could include:
    a.
    Planning and implementing the annual Suri Network Symposium and Fleece Show
    b. Serving as editor for PurelySuri magazine, including solicitation of articles, editing, and layout and recruitment/coordination of advertising volunteers
    c.
    Planning and coordinating fundraising eventsd.Planning and conducting the annual membership drive
    e.
    Ensuring that promotional materials are current and available
    f. Maintaining the Suri Network website
    g.
    Planning and coordinating Suri Network educational webinars
    h.
    Preparing Suri Network membership newsletters, news briefs, and email blasts
    i. Serving as liaison with the Suri Network Product Development Committee
    j. Coordinating and leading Suri Network Rallies at various alpaca shows
    k.
    Ensuring that the Suri Network Members Facebook Group and Suri Network Facebook page are active and up to date
    I. Soliciting donations for Suri Network auctions and events
    m. Serving as liaison with the Suri Herd Improvement Program committee
    n. Serving as liaison with the Branding Committee
    o. Managing Suri Network Intellectual Property
  •  Assist in implementation of above stated projects.
  • Represent the Suri Network to members and non-members.

    The following skills and
    abilities are desired:
  • leadership skills
  • strong and positive communication skills
  • decision making skills
  • computer literacy
  • social networking
  • marketing skills
  • ability to relate in a constructive way with a wide variety of people

    The estimated time commitment for members of the Board is approximately 15-20 hours per month. In addition, the Board holds regular monthly meetings via conference call. Potential Board members should be aware that there is and will be no financial remuneration for their work on the Board.

2025 Suri Network Board of Trustees Candidates' Statements

The Trustee Candidates were asked the following questions:

1. In your opinion what makes the suri breed unique and marketable? 

2. What do you feel you bring to the Suri Network Board that would enhance and strengthen the Suri Network's support of Suri breeders?

3. If you had one sentence to summarize your potential contribution to the Suri Network, what would it be?

4. What would you like the Suri Network to look like in 3 years and how will you help it get there?

5. What is one strength of the Suri Network that you feel should be built upon and how can you help do that?

6.  What is one challenge that the Suri Network faces and how do you believe you can help to address it?

7. What skills or experience do you feel you have that could be a benefit to the Suri Network board? 


JEAN VAN EFFEN

In your opinion what makes the suri breed unique and marketable?
People are drawn to things that are rare and beautiful. We offer farm tours mostly  to people who have never even seen an alpaca close up, and rarely have touched one. We have both Suris and Huacaya on our ranch. Our visitors are always surprised by how soft and silky the Suri fibers are, as they are expecting it to feel coarse for some reason. We always point out the amazing luster and glow on the Suri, and talk about how they glow in the field, even after shearing. The end products speak for themselves. I believe that Suris are an acquired taste, because people expect the fluffy, teddy bear look of Huacayas and are surprised by the Suri type.

What do you feel you bring to the Suri Network Board that would enhance and strengthen the Suri Network's support of Suri breeders?
As a mill owner and SGC Master Sorter, Classer, Grader, I see a lot of Suri fleeces. I feel that fiber education is the best thing we can do to support our membership. After all, that is our end product, and properly growing and preparing fiber for processing is the key to premium quality end products. I also support working with the judges and standards in the show ring and fleece shows to reward fleeces that are easy (therefore, more economical) to process.

If you had one sentence to summarize your potential contribution to the Suri Network, what would it be?
I have practical, hands-on knowledge of fiber processing and end products, and believe in using all of the fiber appropriately for maximum profit.

What would you like the Suri Network to look like in 3 years and how will you help it get there?
I would like to see every AOA member who has Suris to also be a member of Suri Network. We need to reach out to Suri owners at shows and by email. Offering a non-voting associate membership at a lower cost, or an introductory first time member discount may also increase membership.

What is one strength of the Suri Network that you feel should be built upon and how can you help do that?
Our biggest strength is the recognition of a breed standard and the SHIP program. Now that there are more SHIP judges, more farms can participate. We can continue to build on that with more testimonials like the one that was recently published by Nikki Griffith. I recently participated in SHIP, and was able to include my Huacayas. It was very valuable, as I think that we all become a bit “barn blind” to our own alpacas.

What is one challenge that the Suri Network faces and how do you believe you can help to address it?
Maintaining current members and adding new members. I addressed it in a previous answer, which is to offer introductory and associate member discounted membership.

What skills or experience do you feel you have that could be a benefit to the Suri Network board?
I have owned Huacaya alpacas for over 30 years, and Suris for 9 years. I have participated in all aspects of fiber production from shearing to end products, both by hand and using mini-mill equipment. I became an SGC Master Sorter in 2017, so my specific area of expertise is in fiber knowledge, and as a mill owner, seeing the fiber from shearing to stunning end products.


MAUREEN MACEDO

I am writing to express my interest in becoming a part of the Suri Network and contributing to its continued growth and success. As the owner of Macedo's Mini Acre in Turlock, California, I have had the pleasure of owning and working with alpacas for over 20 years. With my husband, Larry, we offer a variety of educational experiences, on and off the ranch, as well as operate mill equipment..

The Suri breed stands out to me due to its unique and marketable characteristics, including its lustrous fiber that takes dye exceptionally well and retains its smooth, cool hand. The commanding presence and standout quality of the Suri alpacas are also notable, making them highly desirable.

As a member with a diverse background in genetics, nutrition, and fiber arts, I believe I can bring a unique perspective to the organization, particularly in leveraging this expertise to inform and enhance our use of Suri fiber.

My experience in genetics and nutrition has given me a deep understanding of the factors that influence fiber production. This knowledge will allow me to contribute innovative ideas for importing the craft potential of Suri fiber, which in turn will support breeders and further develop the network's initiatives.

In the next three years, I envision the Suri Network continuing to grow, with a focus on the fiber area and expanding markets for it. I am particularly interested in pursuing this goal, and I am confident that my background and experience make me a strong candidate to help achieve this objective.

One of the Suri Network's greatest strengths is the level of education it provides. I would like to see this valuable resource brought to the attention of others outside the organization and believe that I can assist in spreading the word.

A challenge facing many organizations today is membership growth. To address this, I propose that the network increase its online presence and engage in various marketing strategies to effectively communicate its value and benefits to potential members.

I graduated from the University of California at Davis with a BS in Genetics.  Following graduation, I went to work for Ralston Purina Company, first in Quality Assurance at their Sparks, Nevada production facility, at corporate offices in St Luis, Missouri.  While there I worked in Research and Development, was heavily involved in formulation and nutritional analysis.  Changed hats yet again, earned a teaching credential and taught Science, Yearbook and Leadership before retiring to work full time on our ranch.  I am a certified AOA Spin Off judge, as well as a judge in another camelid organization.  I feel that this wide range of life skills brings a unique perspective and set of life skills.




JULIE ROY

1. What makes the Suri breed unique and marketable?
While the fiber is a standout, it’s also the animal itself — Suri alpacas are visually striking and make a big impression. Their “Muppet-like” look (as Mo Rocca once called them during a CBS Sunday Morning interview) captures the public’s imagination, making them perfect for marketing farm experiences and drawing visitors to your farm.

2. What do you bring to the Suri Network Board?
With over 20 years in the alpaca industry, I bring experience, marketing skills, and a passion for sharing heart-centered business ideas that can help grow membership and support all Suri breeders.

3. One-sentence summary of your contribution:
I help alpaca farms market meaningful services that educate, inspire, and build profitable, sustainable business models.

4. Vision for the Suri Network in 3 years & your role in it:
I see a more inclusive Network, reaching farms that own both Huacaya and Suri, offering training in farm tourism and marketing — and I’d love to help make that happen through my ideas and connections.

5. One strength to build on, and how you’d help:
The Suri Network is a trusted organization — now it can lead by helping farms boost profitability through education on services like farm tourism. I know numerous farms that are excellent at promoting their farm tourism. I can share their ideas and make introductions.

6. One challenge and how you’d address it:
The Suri Network is still a “best-kept secret.” I’d help it grow by developing messaging and programs that connect with alpaca owners who aren’t focused on showing, offering more value for all members especially those farm that are yet to join because they are on the fringes.

7. Skills or experience you bring:
I’m a retired alpaca owner, author, educator, and speaker with experience in show management, board service, and farm mentoring. I research current marketing trends and lead weekly online business trainings for alpaca farms. I have a passion of helping others succeed through creative marketing techniques and strong networks. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service to the Suri Network.


SUE KING

Hello, my name is Sue King, and I am asking for your vote to serve on the Suri Network Board of Trustees.  I previously served on the SN Board two consecutive terms from 2016-2021 as President of the Board, chair of the Symposium/Fleece Show planning committee, chair of the nominating committee and other important activities to support the Suri Network and our members. 

I have over 38 years of experience in finance, accounting and operations in senior management and executive positions with CH2M, KPMG and other firms.  I graduated from Montana State University with a BS degree in accounting and was a CPA early in my professional career.  The skills I developed over my career include financial and operational analysis, team building, strategic planning, start up organizations, mergers and acquisitions, and general management skills.  In 2008, I retired from CH2M and since have been engaged in finance/operations consulting on a part time basis and beginning in 2010, managing our alpaca business, Big Timber Alpacas.

 I have broad experience in serving on both corporate and not-for-profit boards and committees.  I served on the CH2M board of directors and committees for ten years prior to my retirement and served on the corporate board of SSOE Engineers for six years after my retirement. My nonprofit board experiences include the Union Gospel Mission, Rose Haven, Sherwood Community Senior Center, Sherwood YMCA, World Affairs Council of Oregon, Samaritan Counseling Center of Portland and Portland Impact.

My husband, Kevin and I have been married 47 years.  We were raised in the Midwest, attended college in Montana and moved to Oregon in 1980 after college.

Although I spent most of my professional life in the corporate world, I have agricultural roots, as my parents and past generations were dairy farmers in the Midwest. I have a deep respect and love for the livestock industry.

We purchased our first Suri alpacas in 2011 after falling in love with their fine, luxurious fiber at the Oregon Flock and Fiber Festival.  We focus primarily on breeding high quality Suri alpacas, but have a few high end huacayas as well.   We maintain a herd size of about 50 alpacas. In 2024, we partnered with Gerald and Colette Peterson to further advance our mission of creating the highest quality Suri alpacas with superior fleece traits, exceptional conformation and outstanding service.

 We participate in alpaca fiber and product sales through primarily regional sales outlets including retail stores and fiber festivals.  In addition, I utilize our fiber into my weaving projects through Big Timber Weaving Studio.


KAREN BALL

Hi my name is Karen Ball and I am running for my second term as a Suri Network Board Trustee. Although I raise both huacaya and suri alpacas I feel both have very unique qualities and should be marketed that way. Suri’s in full fleece are unbeatable, in my opinion, as the most luxurious fiber breed out there. Their fleece as it drapes and rocks and rolls as they walk has the same quality when processed to end product. That being coupled with its cool slick sheen makes this fiber very unique and should be marketed as such. 

In my first term (3 years) on the board I feel I have been a valuable member of the trustee team. I have served as the committee chair on both the marketing committee and more recently the education committee. The marketing committee was a new committee that was pulled together when I started my term . While on the committee we developed the beautiful 3 part banners that are displayed at shows and fiber events to market the breed and the Network. Currently the marketing committee is in the process of developing a video clip similar to the video clips the fiber committee created a few years back. This video will be of the animal itself to be made available to all members for use. Also in the works is a fashionable landing webpage developed to match the elegance and uniqueness of the suri breed as a marketing tool to new potential breeders. I feel I have made my best effort to work as the liaison for the board and committee to bring these projects towards fruition. I make a strong effort to make every meeting and to answer our emails in a timely fashion. I am also currently serving as the treasurer. 

In the next term I would like to see the Suri Network increase in membership and bring more suri breeders into our industry. I would also like to see our marketing efforts become more current and relevant within the internet and social media options. Of course maintaining a solid economic foundation is also important. 

I think the biggest challenge to the Suri Network, and to the suri industry is nurturing new suri breeders to success. The network offers some really great resources such as the SHIP program, many, many educational videos that can be accessed on the website and new breeder support. I would like to see the Network come up with successful procedures to get this information out and onto more platforms.

 I think I have done a good job as a trustee and would be honored to serve a 2nd term if I am voted in.




Suri Network
Phone: (970) 586-5876
Fax: (970) 591-0007

P.O. Box 1984

Estes Park, Colorado
80517

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Suri Network


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