DGS Secretary Bassette Honored with Award for Professional Accomplishments

BALTIMORE, MD – General Services Secretary C. Gail Bassette last evening was recognized for her professional accomplishments by the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (NBC-LEO). NBC-LEO is a part of the National League of Cities. The award was presented at the organization’s general membership meeting in Washington, D.C.

“In recognition of Women’s History Month, we wanted to present this award to Secretary Bassette for her numerous achievements,” said Dr. James Walls, Mayor of District Heights, Maryland, and NBC-LEO President. “She is an inspiration to women of all ages, and her success proves that perseverance and hard work are rewarded.”

Secretary Bassette credits her mother, who died several years ago, with being a tremendous influence in her life. “She used to remind me that life is a ‘process’ and no matter how difficult the journey, if I continue, I will accomplish my dreams and goals.”

Appointed by Governor Hogan, Ms. Bassette is the first African American woman to serve as Secretary of General Services.

“One of my passions as a business owner was to help small, minority and women entrepreneurs grow their businesses smarter, faster and better,” Secretary Bassette said. “Now as Secretary, I have the opportunity to develop programs and implement policies that can help women and minorities successfully compete and win contracts with the State.”