patron saint
Pronunciation:
/ˈpeɪtɹən ˈseɪnt/noun
Definitions
A saint conceived as the patron (protector or supporter) of a particular place, group, or activity.
Example: St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland; St. Isidore is the patron saint of software engineers; and St. Anthony is the patron saint of travelers and finding lost things.
An exemplar: an individual who exemplifies some trait or group.
Example: Janet is the patron saint of procrastination. I'm thinking of erecting her a shrine of doughnut boxes in the breakroom.