Escambia Extension's Lydia Purvis Named November Employee of the Month

Lydia Purvis, a Horticulture Specialist with Escambia Extension Services, has been recognized as the county's November 2026 Employee of the Month. The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners honored Purvis with a proclamation at its November 5 meeting, citing her strong customer service, positive attitude, and collaborative approach to her work.

Since joining the Extension office in April 2022, Purvis has managed the Master Gardener Volunteer Program, handled community education about plants and horticulture, and created educational materials and videos for residents. Her role focuses on supporting UF/IFAS Extension's horticulture program while answering public questions about gardening and plant care. Extension Services Director Nick Simmons praised her ability to build relationships across the department and with the public. "She has worked hard to build positive relationships with our clients and staff and brings a can-do attitude to every task she manages," Simmons said in a statement.

Over the past year, Purvis coordinated "Traveling Through Extension," a new community outreach program that brought 135 third-grade students and teachers to the Extension office for educational field trips. The event featured six sessions on topics including animal interactions, food safety, healthy snacks, and plant growth. Purvis secured funding, worked with local schools, and coordinated volunteer efforts to make the program successful.

Purvis, a native of Escambia County, volunteers with several community organizations including Future Farmers of America, 4-H, and her church. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and her Extension team. "Every day in Extension is a new adventure," she said. "My favorite part is helping educate the public about the importance of horticulture."