Hawaii transplant and Prescott resident considers Prescott a gem … and loves sharing the warm spirit of the heart with her community
Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Darla DeVille, Public Affairs Manager for the Northwest Division of APS, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.
PWM: How long have you lived in Prescott?
Darla: I am very happy to say I’ve lived in Prescott for a little over 10 years.
PWM: Why did you choose Prescott as your home?
Darla: My brother and sister-in-law moved to Prescott about 15 years ago. They fell in love with the small-town atmosphere and outdoor life. I’d visit from Hawaii a couple of times each year. I enjoyed the charm of historic Prescott, along with great food and unique shopping experiences in a friendly, downtown community. Top it off with a rich Western heritage, the Native American culture, three colleges, Courthouse Plaza events, and outdoor opportunities. Prescott is a gem! When I wanted to move closer to family, there was little question of where I wanted to be!
PWM: What’s your occupation?
Darla: I serve all of Yavapai County’s communities as Senior Public Affairs Manager for the Northwest Division of APS. APS is an Arizona-born and -raised company. For more than 135 years, APS has served communities in a wide variety of ways. We value our customers, invest in communities, and believe in their success … all of which is part of who I am and what I believe in.
PWM: Do you have any kids?
Darla: A little over 1,000! I loved them all! In my past life I was a middle school teacher, advisor, and coach. My graduate work was in the field of education, and I served many years as a school principal and educational leader.
PWM: What is your favorite thing about living in the Prescott area?
Darla: Oh, so much! I enjoy the four seasons and the ways we celebrate each holiday around the Courthouse Plaza. The charm of the downtown business district with unique, owner-operated shops and dining is very special. Add to that the pine trees and wildlife, the museums, schools, and nonprofit groups supporting heartfelt missions… the spirit of aloha is alive and living in many areas of our Prescott community.
PWM: How do you think Prescott enhances your occupation and hobbies?
Darla: There are so many opportunities in which to participate … opportunities that promote life learning and life-giving. Learning new hobbies and skills, volunteering with organizations that do great work in our community, and building meaningful friendships and partnerships all make life so enjoyable!
PWM: Are you working on anything new or exciting for the upcoming year?
Darla: Every day offers new and exciting opportunities. It is an honor and privilege to be serving on several nonprofit boards; it’s always exciting, challenging, and rewarding. Working for a company that promotes planning for the future, empowering each other, and succeeding together is at the heart of what I naturally do. Today, I’m looking forward to all the parades and events that surround Prescott, also known as Arizona’s Christmas City.
PWM: If you could contribute to anything in the Prescott area, what would it be and why?
Darla: Living aloha…and sharing the spirit of aloha with others. It is positive and optimistic. Essentially, sharing and bringing the warm spirit of the heart to all situations; a spirit rooted in compassion, respect, and responsibility. Why? Together, living aloha we can accomplish anything.