Escambia County Recognizes Lydia Purvis as November 2026 Employee of the Month

Escambia County is proud to recognize Lydia Purvis, a Horticulture Specialist with Escambia Extension Services, as the November 2026 Employee of the Month. Purvis' selection was recognized with a proclamation at the Nov. 5 Board of County Commissioners meeting.

In her role as a Horticulture Specialist, Purvis is responsible for providing educational information to the community to support UF/IFAS Extension's horticulture program, including answering residents' questions about plants and creating informational marketing materials and videos for the public. She plays a vital role in the Master Gardener Volunteer Program, assisting with volunteer budgetary needs, communication efforts, and training. Since joining Escambia Extension Services in April 2022, Purvis has been recognized for her strong customer service skills, positive demeanor, and ability to work across a variety of program areas within Extension Services.

"Lydia is a key member of our Extension team, and I am honored to recognize her as the November Employee of the Month," Extension Services Director Nick Simmons said. "She has worked hard to build positive relationships with our clients and staff and brings a can-do attitude to every task she manages. Lydia has helped make Escambia Extension a collaborative and enjoyable place to work, and I can't thank her enough for everything she does for Escambia County residents and our team."

Over the past year, Purvis planned and organized "Traveling Through Extension," a new outreach program involving a special field trip for students to experience Escambia Extension Services' different educational programs. Purvis coordinated with a local school and Extension program leads, secured funding for program materials, and managed volunteer groups for event activities. The event was a success, with 135 third grade students and their teachers experiencing six unique educational sessions involving animal interactions, food safety, healthy snacks, and plant growth.

Outside of Escambia Extension Services, Purvis is active in the community, donating her time and passions to several organizations including Future Farmers of America and Escambia 4-H. She is active with her church, participating in local and international supply drives and offering member support through meals and connections.

"I am honored to be selected as the November Employee of the Month for Escambia County," Purvis said. "Being a native of Escambia County, it is a joy to serve the county that helped build me. Every day in Extension is a new adventure, you're never quite sure what your schedule may bring, but my favorite part is helping educate the public about the importance of horticulture and all the aspects that go along with it. I am thankful for my Extension family; they are always there to lend a helping hand and are encouraging. I am proud of my roots and my story along the way to get here. Thank you, Escambia County, for this honor, life is a garden…dig it!"

Lydia Purvis, a Horticulture Specialist with Escambia Extension Services, was recognized as the November Employee of the Month with a proclamation at the Nov. 5 Board of County Commissioners meeting.