FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: November 11, 2021

Contact: Danielle Casey, AED, dcasey@abq.org,  602-332-8511

Lonnie Talbert Named To Receive Distinguished Service Award
Awards Program Recognizes Leadership in Economic Development

Albuquerque, NM – Albuquerque Economic Development, Inc. announced Lonnie Talbert—President and COO of Southwest Capital Bank—as the AED Chairman’s Distinguished Service Award recipient for the third annual 505 Awards, which recognize organizations and individuals that are making exceptional contributions to economic growth and prosperity in the Albuquerque metro area, resulting in improvements to the region’s overall economic strength.

The AED Chairman’s Distinguished Service Award recognizes individuals or organizations that have exemplified support for economic development efforts in alignment with AED’s Strategic Plan in a wide variety of areas, truly setting the bar for the future of the region

“We’re pleased to honor Lonnie Talbert—a proven leader of both community and business,” said Danielle Casey, AED President & CEO. “He continually engages and fosters opportunities through local government to produce continuous, positive results for economic growth and prosperity in the Greater Albuquerque area and the State.”

Among his significant contributions to the economic growth of the area, Talbert has served as a Bernalillo County Commissioner (District 4) for eight years and served as Commission Chair in 2020, working well with Commissioners regardless of party affiliation. In his time on the Commission, Talbert has participated in bringing in 67 projects, valued at $1.3 billion that will generate more than 6,000 jobs in Bernalillo County. Additionally, he was a supporter of the gender-pay equity amendment in 2020 and approved additional grants for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and commitment Lonnie Talbert has shown to serving his community and to increasing economic opportunity for our area,” added Casey. “His 30-year career in the banking industry, in combination with his eight-year tenure as a Bernalillo County Commissioner, contribute to his inherent understanding of what people need and want in terms of quality of life and what businesses must have to operate successfully and profitably. He’s proven time and again that his driving goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of those in the Albuquerque area and beyond.”

“Thank you for this amazing award. It collectively recognizes the vision, commitment and hard work of New Mexico businesses and the numerous Bernalillo County employees that continue to enhance our community and economic development efforts,” said former Bernalillo County Commissioner Lonnie Talbert. “I am grateful for this honor and for being able to work with people who truly understand what we can accomplish together.”

Talbert, along with the remaining 505 Awards honorees, will be recognized at the inaugural celebration from 6–9pm on December 9 at Hotel Albuquerque. The event, sponsored by True Health New Mexico, will combine AED’s annual business meeting, a year in review presentation, a look ahead to the future, and the 505 Awards celebration.

To attend the 2021 Inaugural Annual Dinner, where honorees will be recognized, or for more information on awards categories, eligibility requirements or judging criteria, visit https://www.abq.org/2021dinner/.

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About AED

AED is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to recruit business and industry, help local companies grow and generate quality job opportunities throughout the Albuquerque metro area. AED provides confidential assistance to businesses considering the area for expansion and new investment. Since its creation in 1960, AED has recruited more than 250 companies and more than 35,000 jobs to the Albuquerque metro area. AED also provides retention and expansion assistance to existing industry. For more information about AED, visit www.abq.org.

About The 505 Awards

The Leadership in Economic Development Awards recognizes individuals and organizations that are making exceptional contributions to economic growth and prosperity.

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