President- Marcus Taz Skildum
Mesa Trail Alpacas, 1295 State Rt 22A S, Jacks Creek, TN 38347
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Marcus brings over a decade of experience in alpaca farming and fiber processing, along with a deep commitment to education and outreach in the alpaca industry. He has held multiple
leadership roles, including serving on the Wisconsin Alpaca Association Board, where he supported breeders, promoted fiber knowledge, and strengthened member engagement.
Marcus is also actively involved in the show arena, bringing hands-on experience in evaluating conformation, fleece quality, and overall herd development. In addition, he is the co-owner of Mesa Trail Fiber Mill, giving him practical, day-to-day expertise in fiber processing and value-added production.
Passionate about advancing the alpaca community, Marcus brings a collaborative mindset and a strong educational focus—qualities that make him a valuable contributor to the future of TAA.
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Vice President: Brandon Sigler - , Elderwood Farms, Millington, TN
Brandon co-owns Elderwood Farms, located just north of Memphis, where the focus is on high-quality huacaya alpacas, with an emphasis on diverse fleece traits, solid conformation, and innovative breeding practices.
Since beginning his journey in alpaca farming in 2012, Brandon has taken a forward-looking, sustainability-minded approach — striving to build a healthy, genetically diverse herd while also offering mentorship, fiber production, farm products, and husbandry guidance to both new and experienced owners.
Brandon’s energy, modern outlook, and commitment to long-term herd health make him a strong advocate for younger or new alpaca owners and for the future-focused initiatives of TAA.
Brandon’s experience in progressive breeding, farm management, and outreach aligns well with the goals of TAA and can help connect and support members across the state.
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Tresurer - Michael Chissler -Valley View Farm and Garden
Mike and Joanne own and operate Valley View Farm and Garden in Manchester Tn.
Valley View is a 30-acre working farm. We began our alpaca journey in 2020 when we
purchased 9 alpacas, 7 females and 2 males and one LGD (Becky). In 2021 we purchased 6
additional alpacas, 1 male and 5 females bring our total to 15.
In addition to raising alpacas, we have 9 chickens, bees, butterflies and have a large garden.
Our farm is a certified TN Smart Yard in addition, we are butterfly and monarch garden
certified.
I’m a member of the TN Alpaca Association, The National Alpaca Association, Pick TN, and I’m
a Coffee certified Master Gardener.
I’m a retired restaurant professional and now have time to enjoy my all our new adventures.
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Secretary: Patricia Hassan – Alpaca Ridge Ranch and Retreat, Shelbyville, TN 37160
Patricia Hassan brings over 20 years of experience in high-level administrative roles within Higher Education, along with two years as an Office Manager in a veterinary clinic. This professional background has prepared her well for the role of Secretary through strong skills in organization, documentation, reporting, and committee support. She has extensive experience taking accurate minutes, managing confidential files, preparing detailed reports, and serving on planning and communications committees.
Patricia and her husband own Alpaca Ridge Ranch and Retreat in Shelbyville, Tennessee, where they care for four alpacas and two llamas. Although she is relatively new to alpaca ownership (since September), Patricia is fully committed to learning, growing, and actively contributing to the alpaca community.
She is eager to support the Tennessee Alpaca Association by applying her administrative expertise and building connections with fellow alpaca owners across the state. Her background in board-level administration and document management aligns well with the responsibilities of the Secretary position.
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Past President - Ruth Anne Goss
Ruth Anne served as President of TAA. She and her husband Brad run an alpaca ranch
in Greeneville Tennessee. Their journey started in 2013 and has grown to what
it is today.
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West Tennessee Member-at-Large:
Bradley Barnett — White Barn Alpacas, West Tennessee
Bradley operates White Barn Alpacas, where he is actively involved in both breeding and showing his animals. His hands-on experience in the show ring and his focus on developing a strong, well-rounded herd reflect his commitment to quality and continual improvement within the alpaca industry.
Bradley is especially passionate about youth involvement, farm tours, and public education. He enjoys welcoming visitors to the farm and introducing new audiences to alpacas, fiber, and farm life. His outgoing nature and positive, enthusiastic personality make him a natural ambassador for the West Tennessee alpaca community.
Dedicated to supporting regional farms and strengthening member connections, Bradley brings energy, openness, and a community-focused mindset to the TAA board.
Middle Tennessee Member-at-Large:
Kelly Laurenzi - Arlington, TN
Kelly is deeply involved in fiber production and marketing and represents Middle Tennessee with a strong interest in member education and consumer outreach. Her creative energy helps promote alpacas and fiber farming the region.
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East Tennessee Member-at-Large:
Rich Brennan — Ebfort Alpaca Farm, Chuckey, TN
Rich owns and operates Ebfort Alpaca Farm, originally established in Colorado and relocated to Tennessee last year. With years of experience in breeding, showing, and herd development, he brings a strong foundation in both the animal and fiber sides of the industry.
During his time in Colorado, Rich was actively involved with MAPACA, contributing to programs that supported breeders, promoted education, and strengthened the regional alpaca community. His continued involvement in breeding and the show circuit reflects his dedication to maintaining high-quality standards within the industry.
Now based in East Tennessee, Rich is committed to fostering collaboration, networking, and resource sharing among regional farms. His combination of experience, leadership, and community focus makes him a strong voice for East Tennessee and a valuable addition to the statewide board.
The Tennessee Alpaca Association is pleased to welcome Dr. Ethan Darrow as an advisor to the TAA Board. Dr. Darrow brings professional veterinary expertise, hands-on alpaca ownership, and a deep commitment to serving Tennessee’s agricultural community. His guidance to the TAA board will strengthen our efforts in education, health, and best practices for alpaca owners across the state.
Bachelor of Animal Science: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2017
Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine: University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, 2022
Dr. Ethan Darrow — Veterinary Advisor to the TAA Board, Fentress County, TN
Dr. Ethan Darrow is a lifelong resident of Fentress County and is grateful to be raising his family in the community where he grew up. As a veterinarian with a strong interest in surgery and comprehensive animal care, he is dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of livestock across the region.
Ethan and his wife, Breanna, also own their own small herd of alpacas, giving him firsthand insight into the rewards—and challenges—of alpaca ownership. This combination of professional and personal experience makes him especially attuned to the needs of TAA members and the wider alpaca community.
When he’s not working, Ethan enjoys time on their hobby farm and the quiet routines of country life. He looks forward to building long-lasting relationships within TAA and offering support wherever he is able. His practical knowledge, steady leadership, and genuine commitment to helping others make him a valuable advisor to the board.
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