In 1979, Sheperd was the first woman to hold the title of #1 Women's Black Belt Forms Champion for the ″Karate Illustrated″ ratings,"Black Belt" magazine's Rainbow Publications a title she retained again in 1980. Sheperd was also the first woman to be rated #1 Women's Black Belt Forms competitor in the "STAR System″ "KICK Illustrated, CFW Enterprises publisherratings in 1980. She is considered a martial arts legend and pioneer for advancing recognition for female martial artists worldwide.
