Josepha DeSorcy DeLay was recently named the 2011 Laboratorian of the Year by the Canadian Animal Health Laboratorians Network.

“Josepha DeLayis an exceptional veterinary pathologist, and the cornerstone of the immunohistochemistry laboratory at the Animal Health Laboratory, University of Guelph,” according to a statement from the network announcing the award. In addition to her work in developing diagnostic panels, her knowledge and expertise are routinely sought by research faculty, graduate students and laboratory staff at the Ontario Veterinary College and beyond, it added.

“Dr. DeLay balances her career commitments, including a full pathology caseload and scientific publications, with raising a young family and helping to run the family farm. Yet she always finds time for others, welcoming a Russian child from Chernobyl into her home over the summer for several years. This selfless, giving nature is one of her most endearing qualities ... Many of her colleagues have been on the receiving end of her generosity, always accompanied by an offer of help at a time of need or gift of home baking.”

Josepha is the daughter of Donald DeSorcy of West Tisbury and the late Rosemarie DeSorcy. She was the valedictorian of the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School’s class of 1978.