Inspired by Excellence Olympic Style

Ever since childhood, I’ve been captivated by the Olympics. Whether it’s the winter or summer games, I eagerly tune in to watch as many events as I can. The athletes’ unwavering pursuit of their goals—marked by discipline, hard work, resilience, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence—never fails to inspire me. After watching the opening ceremony for the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, I’m already feeling motivated. Witnessing speed skater Erin Jackson proudly carrying the U.S. flag with her family watching with pride, seeing 41-year-old Lindsey Vonn bravely prepare for downhill skiing with a torn ACL, and anticipating local Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski playing for the U.S. hockey team have each added to my excitement. Although the Olympics have only just begun, I’m certain these athletes will continue to inspire me throughout the competition.

 

Much like the inspiration gained from Olympians, I am motivated by the accomplishments of the Baldrige recipients recognized each year. These organizations exemplify excellence through a systematic approach, a focus on success, and visionary leadership. At last year’s Quest for Excellence conference, the contributions of these awardees made a significant impression on me. Here are some key best practices from these organizations.

 

• The Alamo Colleges District’s Alamo ADVISE program has reduced the average time-to-degree from 4.8 years to 3.6 years and increased the three-year graduation rate from 8% to 33%, providing substantial support for economically or academically challenged students. And, its AlamoPROMISE initiative bridges the gap between financial aid and the cost of tuition and books, ensuring all students have access to an affordable college education.
• Chickasaw Nation Department of Health has earned the highest five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and also ranks within the top 10% nationally in both patient willingness to recommend and overall workforce turnover performance.
• The City of Henderson, Nevada is among the top 10% of cities nationwide for police and fire services, emergency preparedness, parks, and general city services. The city also achieved a Net Promoter Score above 95, with almost 97% of residents intending to stay in Henderson.
• Freese and Nichols Inc. has tripled its workforce to more than 1,200 employees and increased its total revenue from $83 million to $325 million in the past fifteen years. This growth is attributed to data-driven strategic planning, which facilitated the company's expansion from operating in one state to twelve states.
• Northeast Delta Dental covers 1,055,081 people out of a population of over 3 million, achieving a 99% retention rate with its "March to a Million" initiative. The company's Net Promoter Score for employer groups considering renewal has remained between 93 and 95 since 2016, while its consumer Net Promoter Score stayed at 90 from 2019 to 2023.

 

The 2026 Quest for Excellence conference is fast approaching, and the announcement of the Baldrige recipients is highly anticipated. This event offers an opportunity to learn from role model leaders, observe best practices, and engage with individuals dedicated to excellence. We invite you to attend the Quest for Excellence, held March 29th through April 1st at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, to participate in educational sessions, network with industry professionals, and gain valuable insights.

 

Margot L. Hoffman, Ph.D.

President & CEO

The Partnership for Excellence