Each year, the Lifesaver Award honors someone who has made a real difference for animal well-being through outstanding dedication, support, and generosity to the Virginia Beach SPCA and the many animals and people it helps.
In 2026, the award goes to retiring CEO Derby Brackett, a leader whose dedication to the mission has helped strengthen and shape the VBSPCA over the past eight years.
A Passion That Came Full Circle
Derby has always loved animals. As a child, she wanted to be a veterinarian and later earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology. Although her career led her into leadership roles in different fields, she built her work on entrepreneurial drive and a commitment to serving others.
After moving from Richmond to Virginia Beach, Derby joined the VBSPCA Board of Directors. This experience eventually led her to become CEO.
“It has been the perfect summation of my leadership focus,” she shares. “To work in a field where mission guides your actions and drives your business forward for the betterment of our community.”
Leadership Through Defining Moments
During her time as CEO, Derby led the organization through some of its most important moments.
The VBSPCA remained fully operational during the COVID-19 pandemic. A major veterinary clinic renovation was completed while the clinic continued to serve the public. And during her temporary absence following a serious automobile accident in 2021, the culture of empowerment she had cultivated ensured the organization never missed a beat.
“The simpler moments are the most meaningful,” Derby reflects. “The adoptions, the successful surgeries, the ability to help an animal and owner in need. But the true magic is in the people who do the work.”
Her leadership focused on building a team that can adapt, serve, and lead with compassion, always putting animals and families at the center of every decision.
A Shared Purpose
When asked what has kept her committed over the years, Derby says it’s the people.
“Staff, volunteers, donors, adopters, partners—they all walk through our doors with a shared vision. It is a far greater purpose to serve.”
In her words, receiving the Lifesaver Award is truly humbling.
“There have been such great recipients before me. I am honored that my dedication and leadership are recognized this way.”
As she prepares to retire later this year, Derby leaves behind an organization strengthened by her steady leadership and unwavering commitment to mission. The opportunity to serve as a “lifesaver,” she says, has been a privilege.
Posted: February 18, 2026 by vbspcaadmin
2026 Lifesaver Award – Derby Brackett
Each year, the Lifesaver Award honors someone who has made a real difference for animal well-being through outstanding dedication, support, and generosity to the Virginia Beach SPCA and the many animals and people it helps.
In 2026, the award goes to retiring CEO Derby Brackett, a leader whose dedication to the mission has helped strengthen and shape the VBSPCA over the past eight years.
A Passion That Came Full Circle
Derby has always loved animals. As a child, she wanted to be a veterinarian and later earned a bachelor’s degree in zoology. Although her career led her into leadership roles in different fields, she built her work on entrepreneurial drive and a commitment to serving others.
After moving from Richmond to Virginia Beach, Derby joined the VBSPCA Board of Directors. This experience eventually led her to become CEO.
“It has been the perfect summation of my leadership focus,” she shares. “To work in a field where mission guides your actions and drives your business forward for the betterment of our community.”
Leadership Through Defining Moments
During her time as CEO, Derby led the organization through some of its most important moments.
The VBSPCA remained fully operational during the COVID-19 pandemic. A major veterinary clinic renovation was completed while the clinic continued to serve the public. And during her temporary absence following a serious automobile accident in 2021, the culture of empowerment she had cultivated ensured the organization never missed a beat.
“The simpler moments are the most meaningful,” Derby reflects. “The adoptions, the successful surgeries, the ability to help an animal and owner in need. But the true magic is in the people who do the work.”
Her leadership focused on building a team that can adapt, serve, and lead with compassion, always putting animals and families at the center of every decision.
A Shared Purpose
When asked what has kept her committed over the years, Derby says it’s the people.
“Staff, volunteers, donors, adopters, partners—they all walk through our doors with a shared vision. It is a far greater purpose to serve.”
In her words, receiving the Lifesaver Award is truly humbling.
“There have been such great recipients before me. I am honored that my dedication and leadership are recognized this way.”
As she prepares to retire later this year, Derby leaves behind an organization strengthened by her steady leadership and unwavering commitment to mission. The opportunity to serve as a “lifesaver,” she says, has been a privilege.
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