Doris (“Pinky”) Derieux, a resident of Greenbrier, has been a leader and facilitator of many Chesapeake Master Gardener projects since 2002.  Pinky has a total of 4,786 hours of volunteer service, which includes 2,148 hours conducting educational programs.  Pinky’s volunteer work has enhanced the scenic landscape of our municipal grounds and residential property in Chesapeake.  Pinky has been very active in landscaping the Agricultural Extension trailer grounds and working with the annual Master Gardener Plant Sale.  In addition to her love of landscaping, Pinky has been a leader in teaching others about horticulture.  Pinky has been active in conducting local rain barrel workshops, setting up Master Gardener displays at the Jubilee, and teaching youth about horticulture at Chesapeake Farm Days.

Pinky’s Master Gardener peers describe her as a “facilitator”, one who helps others serving in the Master Gardener program.   Pinky makes a concerted effort to help those Master Gardeners who do not have home computers stay informed about Master Gardener events and service projects.  Pinky is very involved in mentoring new Master Gardener Volunteers and accomplishing Virginia Cooperative Extension’s mission, which is “lifelong learning”.  Pinky also represents Chesapeake Master Gardeners on a statewide level by attending Master Gardener College at Virginia Tech and by serving on the Master Gardener Advanced Training Planning Committee.  Pinky has completed a level of advanced training entitled “Water Steward Certification”.   Pinky has served as the Chesapeake representative for State Master Gardener Association for over 7 years.

The Agriculture Department salutes Pinky for her accomplishments and dedicated volunteer work.