Don Graves Deputy Secretary of Commerce | Official Website
Last month, Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves congratulated five organizations for receiving the 2024 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. This award is the only presidential recognition for performance excellence in the United States.
The focus now shifts to sharing best practices, allowing other U.S. organizations to learn and improve. According to Public Law 100-107, established on August 20, 1987, Baldrige Award winners are expected to share detailed information on how they achieved their success. This includes making their award application summaries public and presenting at the Baldrige Quest for Excellence® Conference from March 30 to April 2, 2025, in Baltimore. The conference will also feature a formal ceremony recognizing the recipients by the U.S. government.
Deputy Secretary Don Graves stated that each recipient is "enhancing the lives of American workers, improving our infrastructure, and enriching the quality of life in communities across the nation."
The recipients of this year's Baldrige Award include:
Alamo Colleges District (Texas), which offers affordable or tuition-free education aimed at ending poverty and enhancing economic mobility. District Chancellor Mike Flores said that this recognition reflects "the dedication and vision" of their board and staff.
Chickasaw Nation Department of Health (Oklahoma) provides health services across a large area in southern Oklahoma. Governor Bill Anoatubby emphasized their commitment to "excellent and convenient care" for patients.
The City of Henderson (Nevada) has implemented continuous improvement programs over more than 14 years. Mayor Michelle Romero noted that this achievement reflects a commitment to citizens and businesses.
Freese and Nichols Inc. (Texas), an engineering firm with projects ranging from water supply reservoirs to state highways, celebrates its second Baldrige Award as it marks its 130th anniversary. CEO Brian Coltharp highlighted the invaluable feedback received through the application process.
Northeast Delta Dental (New Hampshire) offers prepaid dental insurance coverage. President and CEO Tom Raffio described their commitment to quality as unwavering.
The Baldrige Performance Excellence Program operates within the National Institute of Standards and Technology, promoting innovation by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in partnership with key organizations like the Alliance for Performance Excellence and the Baldrige Foundation.
