The Biewer Terrier Club of America Committees are the backbone of the Club’s work, and each chair generously volunteers their time, expertise, and passion to support our members and advance the Biewer Terrier breed.

Standing Committees

Advisory Committee

The Advisory Committee provides strategic guidance to support the Board of Directors in making informed decisions. This role is typically reserved for past president(s) to offer technical advice, insights, and recommendations in areas beyond the Board’s typical expertise to help the Club stay current with trends and best practices. While the committee provides recommendations, the Board determines their implementation.

• Advisory Chair: Debarah Billings
• Debarah is the Chair of the Advisory Committee, a role traditionally held by past Presidents in recognition of their experience and service to the Club. A dedicated BTCA member since 2016, Debarah has served the Club in numerous leadership capacities, including chairing multiple committees. Most recently, she completed four years of service as BTCA President, providing steady leadership and guidance during her tenure. She currently serves as the Club’s AKC Delegate, representing the BTCA on the national stage and continuing her commitment to advancing the interests of the Club and the Biewer Terrier breed.

Awards Committee

The Awards Committee oversees the design, coordination, procurement, and distribution of the BTCA’s annual awards. It plays a key role in recognizing and honoring members’ achievements, ensuring that outstanding contributions to the Biewer Terrier community are properly acknowledged and celebrated.

• Awards Chair: Denise Mathews
• Denise has been a BTCA member since 2022 and is a long-time dog enthusiast and the proud owner of two Biewer companions. Retired from the U.S. Coast Guard, she brings strong organizational skills and a structured approach to the role, having served as Chair since 2024. Denise is dedicated to expanding the Club’s awards recognition program each year, ensuring that the achievements of all members—whether in conformation, performance, or companion sports—are celebrated and acknowledged.

Breeder Education Committee

The Breeder Education Committee supports responsible, ethical breeding and the long-term preservation of the Biewer Terrier. The Chair provides education, resources, and guidance to breeders on health, genetics, temperament, adherence to the breed standard, and best breeding practices. They are also knowledgeable in the history of the breed and its diverse pedigrees, helping breeders make informed decisions that protect the breed’s integrity and future.

• Breeder Education Chair: Yolanda Cendejas-Gutierrez
• Yolanda discovered the Biewer Terrier in 2009 and has spent the past 14 years actively researching, developing, and responsibly breeding the Biewer Terrier. Recognized by the American Kennel Club as a Breeder of Merit, she is deeply committed to extensive health testing and thoughtful breeding decisions that prioritize the long-term health and integrity of the Biewer Terrier. Through her work, Yolanda offers members valuable insight and guidance in understanding pedigrees, evaluating breed type, and implementing responsible breeding practices, supporting the BTCA’s mission to educate and empower breeders at every stage of their journey.

Constitution and Bylaws Committee

The Constitution and Bylaws Committee ensures the BTCA’s governing documents remain current and effective. It reviews the constitution and bylaws, prepares proposed changes, and presents them to the Board and membership for consideration. The committee chair works with the Secretary and President to ensure all proposed changes comply with state laws and AKC guidelines.

• Bylaws Chair: Sally Schoder
• Sally’s dedication to the Biewer Terrier spans more than six years and is supported by more than three decades of national and international experience in the dog world. A longtime breeder, trainer, and exhibitor of German Shepherd Dogs, Sally brings extensive governance and leadership experience to this role, including 20 years as an active member of a successful local dog club and prior service as Secretary of the GSDCA-WDA parent club, where she developed a strong ability to navigate differing viewpoints and build consensus. In addition, her professional experience working for a prosecutor’s office provides valuable insight into regulatory language, procedural structure, and careful document review—skills that directly support constitution and bylaws work. Having also led numerous successful events, assisted in the startup of six dog clubs, and operated a small business for 23 years, Sally is committed to ensuring every member’s voice is heard while supporting the continued growth, transparency, and strength of the BTCA.

Ethics Committee

The Ethics Committee helps BTCA members understand and follow the Club’s Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct. Serving in an educational and advisory role, the committee provides guidance, resources, and clarification to promote ethical practices, sportsmanship, and responsible participation. It does not handle discipline, focusing instead on fostering a respectful and transparent Club culture in line with AKC best practices.

• Ethics Chair: Irene Kanfer
• Irene has been a proud member of the Biewer Terrier Club of America since early 2019 and has been actively involved in advancing the breed through both service and participation. She has chaired and served on several committees and is a familiar presence at Meet the Breeds events, where she works to educate the public and promote appreciation of the Biewer Terrier. In 2022, Irene finished her first AKC Biewer Terrier, and that same dog made history as the first Biewer Terrier in the United States to earn the AKC Trick Dog Performer (TKP) title. An AKC Temperament Test Judge and CGC Evaluator, Irene is deeply committed to ethical breeding practices, sound temperament, and the responsible stewardship of the Biewer Terrier breed.

Events Committee

The Events Committee oversees the planning and organization of all conformation events, with a primary focus on the National Specialty. Responsibilities may include judge selection, venue coordination for the National Specialty, annual meeting, and club social events. Members interested in suggesting a venue for a regional, concurrent, designated, or supported specialty event are encouraged to reach out to the Events Coordinator.

• Events Coordinator: Lisa Palanca
• Lisa joined the BTCA in 2021 and is the proud owner of two Biewer Terriers. She is a passionate owner-handler who brings her professional experience as an event planner to the Club. Since early 2024, she has worked to expand the number of local events sponsored nationwide and has devoted considerable energy to organizing and enhancing the National Specialty in Orlando, FL, creating engaging and memorable experiences for members and their dogs.

Fundraising Committee

The Fundraising Committee develops and coordinates efforts to raise funds in support of the BTCA’s programs and initiatives. The committee identifies opportunities, organizes events or campaigns, and works with members to ensure fundraising activities are effective, engaging, and aligned with the Club’s mission.

• Fundraising Chair: Sarah McKendry
• A passionate advocate for the breed and Club member since 2023, Sarah is the proud owner of three Biewer Terriers who actively compete in conformation, rally and obedience and are currently working toward scent work titles. She brings more than 20 years of professional experience as a realtor, offering strong marketing and fundraising expertise to the role. Her background includes organizing and chairing her company’s annual fundraiser benefiting the local SPCA through the Coldwell Banker Homes for Dogs Project. In addition, her long-standing involvement with Arabian Horses has included service on multiple boards and committees at both the local and national levels. She looks forward to collaborating with BTCA members to strengthen fundraising efforts in support of the club and the breed.

Health & Research Committee

The Health & Research Committee works to ensure Biewer Terriers live long, healthy lives. It provides education on health and responsible breeding practices, encourages health testing and self-reporting of illnesses, and helps identify priority health issues within the breed. The committee also supports research and makes the latest findings accessible to breeders and pet owners.

• Health & Research Chair: Mapi Vigil
• Mapi Vigil has been a proud BTCA member since 2023; she has owned and lived with Biewer Terriers for the past 8 years and actively shows her dogs both in the United States and in Europe while traveling to her home country of Spain. Professionally, Mapi is an engineer with extensive experience in project management and in collaborating with diverse teams to successfully complete complex initiatives. She is excited to leverage her technical background and organizational skills to support the Club’s focus on health education and research, helping to advance the long-term well-being of the Biewer Terrier breed.

Judges Education Committee

The Judges Education Committee provides guidance and resources to help judges understand the Biewer Terrier breed standard and its unique characteristics. It develops educational materials, hosts seminars or presentations, and sets guidelines for becoming a breed mentor and presenter. The committee chair approves mentors and provides training before they work with prospective judges, ensuring high-quality education and consistent evaluations.

• Judges Education Chair: Shelley Donati
• Shelley has been an active BTCA member since 2019, bringing more than 25 years of experience in adult education, training, and professional development. She leads the Breed Mentors team in developing educational resources for judges and members, supporting accurate evaluation and understanding of correct breed type. Since joining the Club, Shelley has played key roles across multiple committees, including developing the Awards Program, supporting Events, and chairing the recent revision of the Breed Standard.

Junior Showmanship Committee

The Junior Showmanship Committee encourages participation of juniors in Biewer Terrier activities. It provides opportunities for children ages 9–18 to develop handling skills, learn good sportsmanship, and gain education about dogs and dog shows. The committee also encourages junior members to participate in the National Specialty, Royal Canin events, Westminster Kennel Club, and other high-profile dog events.

• Junior Showmanship Chairs: Jessica Caldwell
• Jessica leads by example. As the mom of a junior, training, exhibiting, and breeding dogs is a family affair in the Caldwell household. She and her family have been actively showing and raising Biewer Terriers for five years, and she is now focused on mentoring the next generation of exhibitors. A passionate advocate for the sport of junior showmanship, Jessica provides guidance and support to juniors learning about the Biewer Terrier, helping to inspire young members and cultivate a lifelong love of the breed.

Performance Committee

The Performance Committee oversees and supports the organization of performance and companion events for the BTCA. The Club is licensed by the AKC to hold Coursing Ability Tests (CAT), Fast CAT, Rally®, Agility, and Obedience events. Members interested in organizing events in their area are encouraged to contact the Chair.

• Performance Chair: Lorie Abbott
• Lorie has been a BTCA member since 2022 and is the proud owner of a feisty Biewer Terrier, named Fendi. She brings more than 30 years of experience as a show chair and show secretary, generously sharing her extensive knowledge with the Club. Her expertise played a key role in helping the BTCA obtain its Fast CAT license, expanding performance opportunities for members and their dogs. With a deep understanding of performance and companion sports, Lorie serves as a valuable resource for members exploring new ways to engage with their Biewer Terriers and is well equipped to assist members interested in hosting performance events in their local areas.

Rescue Committee

The Rescue Committee supports the well-being of Biewer Terriers in need by coordinating rescue efforts and providing guidance to owners, shelters, and potential adopters. It evaluates requests for assistance, helps place dogs in safe and loving homes, and educates the public about responsible ownership and breed-specific needs.

• Rescue Chair: Amy Cox
• Amy and her family joined the BTCA in 2021, bringing a deep passion for promoting and protecting the Biewer Terrier breed. She has extensive experience in animal rescue, serving as Founder and President of The Paws Cause, The Penelope Project, a 501(c)(3) organization that works with local and national rescues to provide vital veterinary care. Amy is also a Board Member and volunteer with Happy FurEver Rescue, a North Texas organization focused on temporary housing and support for animals transitioning from rescue to adoption. In addition, she has spent over 15 years participating in and promoting pet fashion events nationwide to raise funds for animals in need. Amy’s energy, expertise, and dedication make her an invaluable resource for BTCA members, and she looks forward to guiding and supporting rescue efforts to ensure the well-being of Biewer Terriers everywhere.

Standards Committee

The Standard Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the membership on any proposed changes to the Biewer Terrier Breed Standard and works with the AKC to publish and adopt approved changes. The committee ensures that recommendations reflect the breed’s qualities, health, and integrity. Per current AKC guidelines, changes may only be submitted for consideration every five years.

• Standards Chair: Pam Laperruque
• Pam joined the BTCA in 2022 bringing a tremendous depth of experience to the Club. With more than 40 years of experience breeding and exhibiting toy dogs, she has bred nearly 100 American-born champions across her career. She contributed her expertise to the BTCA’s Breed Standard Revision Committee in 2025 and serves as a knowledgeable breed mentor for Silky Terriers, Chinese Cresteds, and Yorkshire Terriers. Pam’s long-standing commitment to correct breed type, structure, and sound breeding practices makes her an invaluable resource to members and mentors alike.

Website/Cybersecurity Committee

Oversees and communicates with the President or Designee to create and maintain a website that provides in-depth, accurate information about Biewer Terriers and the Biewer Terrier Club of America activities. Provides suggestions, information and updates on issues pertinent to the Biewer Terrier Community. Protects the Club’s intellectual property through Cybersecurity monitoring.

• Website/Cybersecurity Chair: Teresa Cuchiaro
• Teresa has been an active BTCA member since 2020, bringing many years of experience in the dog fancy along with her expertise as show secretary for local speciality clubs. She previously served two years as a Director on the Board and has supported the Club as newsletter editor. Well versed in WordPress, Teresa is a valuable resource for the Board and will once again share her time helping keep the Club’s website pages accurate, current, and accessible for members.
   

Special Appointments

Meet the Breeds

Membership

• Membership Chair: Chellie Schwantes
• Chellie brings a lifelong passion for education, mentorship, and community engagement to her role as Membership Chair. With a professional background in teaching and educational leadership, she has spent many years building positive relationships, guiding others, and creating welcoming environments. Since becoming involved with Biewer Terriers, she has developed a deep appreciation for the breed and the friendships formed within the fancy. Chellie looks forward to welcoming new members, supporting member engagement, and helping foster a connected and supportive BTCA community dedicated to preserving and protecting the Biewer Terrier for future generations.

Public Relations

The Public Relations Chair works to enhance the visibility and reputation of the Biewer Terrier breed. This individual creates press releases, works with committee chairs to develop advertising campaigns for events, produces video content, supports social media, and may organize PR events or collaborate with media outlets. The Board President serves as the committee liaison.

• Public Relations Chair: Chris Caldwell
• Chris brings his expertise in photography and videography to the Club. Prior to joining BTCA in 2021, he was recording the show ring to review and refine his own handling. His work has since become a ringside staple for exhibitors at local shows. Known for tirelessly broadcasting specialties, he now applies his talents to strengthen the Club’s visibility and engagement, using his creative abilities to enhance the BTCA’s social media presence and showcase the breed to a broader audience.

Registration

For questions about registering foreign-born Biewer Terriers not eligible through AKC Specialty Registration Services, owners should contact the Biewer Terrier Registry of America (BTRA). Members should note that the AKC stud books are scheduled to close on July 1, 2026. For more information, visit Biewer Terrier Registry of America

• BTRA Contact: Tamara Beebe

Sunshine Liaison

The Sunshine Liaison provides support and encouragement to BTCA members during times of illness, loss, or other significant life events. If you know someone that could use a thoughtful message, card, or other supportive gestures to foster a caring and supportive Club community, please reach out.

• Sunshine Chair: LaJune Mills
• LaJune, a BTCA member since 2018, serves as Sunshine Chair. A retired university administrator, LaJune brings a strong sense of care, organization, and community to the role, along with a deep passion for Biewer Terriers. She enjoys spreading a little sunshine by reaching out to members with cards and messages of encouragement during times of illness, loss, or significant life events, helping ensure that all members feel supported and connected within the BTCA community.