Demetrius "Pete" Allen (Parks and Recreation), nominated by Wayne Green (Development)
Pete is a 12-year Parks and Recreation Division Manager, who is the “do everything guy”. Pete has worked to promote opportunities, develop innovative programs and services, and ensure equal access to Youth Athletics and Senior Programs. I was fortunate to have worked directly with Pete Allen from 2014 to 2018, when I served as the assistant director of Parks and Recreation.
Pete is a native of Norfolk, who grew up in Titustown. Pete graduated from Granby High School as a highly recruited athlete in football and baseball. Pete would play four years of football at the University of Virginia and graduate with a degree in History.
What I like most about Pete Allen is his compassion and commitment to give back to Norfolk residents. Pete exudes empathy and it is the reason why I believe he connects so well with our residents. Pete is active in our community and is a man who has returned home to ensure that Norfolk residents, especially our youth have opportunities to achieve their dreams. Pete is also a published author. His life’s mission is on display in his book "Petey ‘s Big Chance”. Peter Joseph Allen, aka Petey, not only receives such a chance, but also accepts an even greater challenge. Petey must make several tough decisions, which will not only allow him to showcase his athletic ability but will ultimately define his moral character.
I can think of no other current Norfolk employee more deserving of this recognition based on Pete’s work with our seniors and youth. Pete’s impact reaches deep in our community and we are blessed to have an employee with such a big heart and integrity working as part of Team Norfolk.
Aubrey Buck (NPL), nominated by Tiana Skinner (NPL)
I would like to recognize, Aubrey Buck, Richard A Tucker's Supervising Librarian I, who is dedicated and an amazing member of the team.
She is new to the city of Norfolk, but she did not let that stop her learning the community and delivering excellent service to our patrons.
Ha Chau (DHCD), nominated by Krystle Aponte (DHCD)
Our department first met Ha through the City’s Hire Vets Now Fellowship & Skillbridge program. She transitioned out of the Navy and began serving the families of Norfolk fulltime.
Ha currently serves as the Project Manager of the St. Paul’s Transformation where she works diligently on the City’s economic inclusion opportunities. As you know, in December 2020, the City Council passed an inclusive procurement ordinance establishing a framework to set and achieve citywide aspirational goals of 12% minority-owned and 13.3% women-owned business participation on city contracts as a result of a collaborative effort led by our department. The program promotes the involvement of minority and women-owned businesses in City spending by breaking larger contract opportunities into smaller bid packages.
Ha champions these efforts by hosting monthly cohorts, training sessions, certification classes in partnership with SBSD, Economic Development, and DEI, and connecting with businesses one on one to provide support ensuring everyone who wants to do business with City of Norfolk, specifically MWBEs.
Although the work is challenging, she does it all with grace and a smile.
She’s truly making waves to ensure Norfolk’s Minority and Women business enterprises are set up for success and are engaged in building their communities.