Earnest W. Deavenport Jr., a 1960 Mississippi State chemical engineering graduate, is president of Eastman Chemical Co. He called the Baldrige Award the most prestigious award in American industry.
"The Baldrige Award recognizes the excellence of a company's quality systems," Deavenport said. "Systems don't exist without people. Receipt of the award certifies the progress Eastman men and women have made in their collective long-term commitment to total quality.
"Eastman's success depends on serving customers and exceeding their expectations. This award recognizes that we do that very well."
Deavenport, a native of Macon, was featured in the fall 1993 issue of Mississippi State Alumnus.
Since 1988, 19 companies have won the award. A maximum of two awards may be given annually in each of three categories: large manufacturers, large service companies, and small businesses. Eastman was entered in the large manufacturer category. Ames Rubber Corp. of Hamburg, N.J., received the award in the small business category.
The award is named for the late Secretary of Commerce Malcolm Baldrige. It was established by legislation in August 1987 to raise awareness about quality management and to recognize U.S. companies that have a world-class management system.
U.S. companies applying for the award undergo a rigorous evaluation by an independent board of examiners composed of private and public sector quality experts. The exam includes on-site visits for companies that pass initial screening.
Founded in 1920, Eastman Chemical Co. is a $4 billion company that manufactures and markets more than 400 chemicals, fibers, and plastics for 7,000 customers around the world.
Updated and adapted by Chris Brown <brownc@ur.msstate.edu>.
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