Hearts For Service: Patricia Scott

For Patricia Scott, protecting Chesapeake isn't just her job - it feels personal.

A Chesapeake native who grew up in Great Bridge, Patricia has spent the past 21 years working for Chesapeake Mosquito Control Commission (CMCC). As the Greenbrier District Supervisor, the City she works to protect is the same one that raised her, the place where her family lives, her friendships are plenty, and her sense of responsibility runs deep.

"This is home," Patricia said. "My family is here. My friends are here. I help coach my granddaughter's softball team and I've gotten to know her friends. I also help care for older adults in the community who need extra support. So, when I think about the work I do at CMCC, it's not just about a paycheck, it's about protecting the people I love."

That sense of purpose shapes everything Patricia brings to her role. CMCC monitors mosquito populations, reduces breeding grounds, and prevents the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. All of these efforts have a direct and lasting impact on public health. For Patricia, that mission carries even deeper meaning.

A two-time breast cancer survivor, she understands firsthand how fragile health can be, and how devastating illness can be for individuals and families alike. Her experience has strengthened her empathy and sharpened her commitment to prevention in her community.

"Many people don't realize how many of our neighbors are living with immunocompromising conditions," she explained. "Yes, reducing the nuisance of mosquitoes is important, but what really matters is preventing illnesses that could take someone's life. That hits home for me. That's why we do this work."

Patricia's approach to her job is guided not only by experience, but by compassion. One quote she keeps close to her heart sums it up simply. In a world where you can be anything, be kind.

"I write down a lot of quotes that inspire me," she said, "but that one really stays with me. It reminds me of the people I work with at CMCC. They live it every day through their words and their actions."

She knows this to be true because she's lived it. During the difficult months following her cancer diagnoses, Patricia found unwavering support in her coworkers. Their support went far beyond the workplace.

"I honestly don't know what I would have done without them," she shared. "People say their coworkers are like family, but for me, that's not just a saying. They showed up for me in every way. We truly take care of one another."

One of Patricia's favorite parts of her job is connecting directly with residents through community outreach and education. Whether she's setting up at the Farmers Market or attending local events, she values the opportunity to talk one-on-one with citizens about how simple prevention steps can make a big difference.

"A lot of people don't see the full picture of what we do," she said. "They don't always realize how much power they have in their own backyards simply by tipping and tossing standing water, taking pride in their yards, and doing what they can to prevent mosquito breeding. I love being able to share that knowledge and help people become more informed."

It's that same dedication to education, prevention, and community that earned Patricia the Chesapeake Mosquito Control Commission's 2025 Employee Recognition Award.

"I'm truly honored," she said. "I always want to set a good example for my team. But the real reward is getting to work alongside such an awesome group of people every single day."