Sandy Gill, a lifelong volunteer and mentor, was honored with the Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions Heritage Award in recognition of more than 50 years of dedicated service supporting youth exhibitors, livestock education, and U.P. State Fair traditions.

ESCANABA — For more than five decades, Sandy Gill has been a constant, caring presence at the Upper Peninsula State Fair, quietly shaping the experiences of thousands of youth exhibitors while strengthening the traditions that define one of the region’s most cherished events. In recognition of her extraordinary service, Gill has been named a recipient of the Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions Heritage Award at its 141st annual convention in Grand Rapids.

Gill’s involvement with the fair began in 1972 when she served as Assistant Dorm Superintendent alongside her mother, Lillian Koldas. In 1997, she stepped into the role of Dorm Superintendent, a position she held for 17 years. During that time, she provided round-the-clock supervision, guidance, and encouragement to generations of livestock exhibitors, ensuring the youth dorms were safe, welcoming, and supportive environments. Even after the dorms transitioned into the Growing U.P. Exhibition Area in 2014, Gill’s commitment never wavered. She has continued to stay on the fairgrounds each year, offering her services wherever needed.

Beyond dorm supervision, Gill has been instrumental in the success of the Livestock Skillathon for more than 35 years. The popular eight-station competition challenges exhibitors on livestock breeds, feeds, equipment, meat cuts, animal evaluation, and quality assurance. Since assuming full leadership of the event in 2012, Gill has overseen every aspect of the Skillathon, from developing educational stations and securing donations to coordinating as many as 40 volunteers annually.

Gill has also devoted the past decade to the Market Livestock Record Book Competition, serving as both a judge and interviewer, further supporting youth education in animal science and recordkeeping.

Her service extends well beyond the fairgrounds. A 57-year 4-H volunteer, Gill has led countless clubs and programs, served as president of the Menominee County 4-H Leader Council for more than 30 years, and continues to mentor youth through riding programs and leadership roles. Her dedication has earned numerous honors, including state-level recognition for 50 years of 4-H service and the 2025 Great Lakes Great Leader Award.

Those who know Sandy Gill describe her as someone who never says no to a need, willingly taking on the behind-the-scenes roles that keep programs running smoothly. Her lifelong commitment, leadership, and generosity exemplify the very spirit of the Heritage Award.

Through her tireless efforts, Sandy Gill has not only helped preserve the traditions of the Upper Peninsula State Fair, but she has also ensured its legacy continues through the young people she has inspired for more than 50 years.