The Tuff Legacy Award honors an individual whose lifelong dedication to mentorship has shaped and strengthened the Collie Junior community. Named in recognition of Marjorie Tuff’s extraordinary commitment, this award celebrates those who lead with generosity, inclusivity, and an unwavering belief in young handlers.
Recipients of the Tuff Legacy Award exemplify the values that define true mentorship—encouragement, guidance, sportsmanship, and a deep passion for helping Juniors grow both in and out of the ring. Their influence extends far beyond ribbons and results, leaving a lasting impact on confidence, character, and community.
This award recognizes not only what a mentor has given, but the legacy they continue to build—one Junior, one Collie, and one moment of support at a time.
2025
Marjorie Tuff
This award is symbolized by a tree, with deep roots and wide-reaching branches. It’s more than just an image, it’s a reflection of what this award stands for: a strong foundation, a generous spirit, and growth that extends far beyond oneself.
There is no one more fitting to receive the very first Tuff Legacy Award than the woman it is named for: Marjorie Tuff. Marjorie continues to be a force in our sport; guiding with integrity, mentoring with heart, and supporting young handlers with quiet strength and steadfast encouragement.
Her presence rings with wisdom, and her influence is felt in countless rings, across countless lives. She is the root of the tree: grounded, steady, dependable. And she is the branches: reaching out, lifting up, helping others grow. Through every kind word, every thoughtful critique, every moment spent guiding the next generation, Marjorie lives her legacy every day.
The Tuff Legacy Award honors exactly that kind of impact. It celebrates those who build up others, who pass on knowledge freely, and who leave this sport better than they found it. Marjorie, your legacy is alive and thriving, and we are so proud to recognize you as the inaugural recipient of this award that bears her name.
Congratulations, Marjorie, and thank you: for all you do, and all you continue to give.
(L to R) Katie Rendina (CJF President), Marjorie Tuff (Recipient & Juniors Mentor), Mike Esch (CCA President)
2026
Shelley Bergstaser
There are some people whose influence reaches far beyond the show ring. They teach, they encourage, they guide, and they inspire. Through their passion and generosity, they helped young people grow not only as exhibitors, but as leaders and lifelong stewards of the breed. Tonight, we remember and celebrate one of those extraordinary individuals.
For decades, Shelley Bergstaser was a champion for Collie Juniors. Her commitment to supporting young people in our sport touched countless lives. She gave her time, her knowledge, and her heart to ensuring that Juniors felt welcomed, supported, and inspired to pursue their dreams with Collies.
Shelley was more than a mentor. She was a role model, a teacher, and a constant source of encouragement. Many juniors who once stood ringside with hope and determination grew into successful exhibitors, breeders, and leaders within our community, thanks in no small part to her guidance and belief in them.
The legacy of a great mentor is measured not only in titles or accomplishments, but in the people they uplift along the way. Shelley’s influence lives on in the confidence she helped build, the friendships she fostered, and the passion for Collies that she inspired in generation after generation of young handlers.
While Shelley is no longer with us, the impact she made on Collie Juniors will continue for many years to come. Her dedication helped build the very foundation that supports and encourages young people in our breed today.
Her daughter, Laura, accepted the award in her mother’s memory for her lifetime of dedication, mentorship, and unwavering support of Collie Juniors.
(L to R) Lindsey Dowling (CJF Board Member), Katie Rendina (CJF President), Laura Kling (Daughter of Recipient), Michelle Esch-Brooks (CJF Vice President), Frances Flaim (CJF Secretary), Anela Bergstraser (Granddaughter of Recipient), Brenna Godlevsky (Friend of Recipient), and Kimber Godlevsky (Friend of Recipient)