WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Foundation for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award today announced its inaugural class of recipients of the Baldrige Foundation Awards for Leadership Excellence.

"These awards were authorized by the Foundation Board of Directors," said Foundation President and CEO Al Faber, "with the intent to recognize outstanding leaders in all of the Baldrige Award sectors: Business (Manufacturing, Service, Small Business), Non-profit, Government, Health Care, Education, and Cybersecurity, who provide exceptional support to Baldrige and the mission of the Foundation."

"There are so many people doing such important work promoting the quality field and the Baldrige Framework," continued Faber. "Through their efforts to grow the Baldrige community and lead their organizations through Baldrige principles, they help organizations across the country that are making a difference in thousands, if not millions, of lives."

Ms. Julia Gabaldon, Director Emeritus of Quality New Mexico, is being honored in the Non-profit sector for her lifetime of work promoting the Baldrige principles."For 24 years," continued Faber, "Julia built and led one of the premier state-level Baldrige programs in the country. She shepherded three organizations to receive the National Quality Award, and was a true innovator in the development and promotion of the Baldrige Enterprise."

"We can only hope that although she has retired from the directorship of Quality New Mexico, Julia will continue to use her considerable talents for the benefit of Baldrige."
"My work with the Baldrige Community and Quality New Mexico over 24 years allowed me to connect with passionate and brilliant people across the United States who make a positive difference in people's lives every single day," Ms. Gabaldon said. "My Baldrige journey continues; it is my patriotic duty!"

Upon retiring from Quality New Mexico, Ms. Gabaldon was honored by Tom Udall, U.S. Senator from New Mexico, with a stirring "Senate Tribute" in the Congressional Record on July 11, 2017.

The Foundation will present the award during the 30th Annual Quest for Excellence® Conference in Baltimore, MD, April 10, 2018.