At the IODA Conference 2024 in Mexico which took place from 3rd to 5th October, two extraordinary leaders were honored with prestigious awards for their profound contributions to the field of Organizational Development (OD). Guadalupe del Carmen Carrasco Álvarez received the Saul A. Silverman Award in Conflict Resolution, Healing, and Human Dignity, while Enrique J. Zaldivar was presented with the Richard Beckhard Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Field of OD. Their transformative work in fostering healing, cultural competence, and global collaboration continues to impact lives and organizations worldwide.
The Saul A. Silverman Award in Conflict Resolution, Healing, and Human Dignity went to Guadalupe del Carmen Carrasco Álvarez:
Guadalupe del Carmen Carrasco Álvarez was awarded the prestigious Saul A. Silverman Award for her tireless work in conflict resolution, healing, and human dignity. Guadalupe is a survivor of human trafficking, and her personal experience has fueled her mission to combat this horrific crime. As a leader in the fight against human trafficking, Guadalupe has devoted herself to creating programs that provide social rehabilitation for victims, many of whom are women who have suffered unimaginable trauma, including PTSD, depression, and a range of emotional and physical challenges.
As the Chair of the “United Against Human Traffic Commission,” Guadalupe has spearheaded efforts to support victims and raise awareness about the realities of human trafficking. Her leadership is grounded in a deep sense of purpose, reflected in the guiding principles she advocates, such as taking action over mere intention, reporting suffering when witnessed, and staying vigilant against both external and internal forms of slavery.
Guadalupe’s story is one of resilience and transformation. From her own harrowing experience, she has emerged as a beacon of hope for others, becoming a professional in sports, dance, and earning a degree in journalism. Her message to others—”I am not a victim, I am a survivor”—embodies her strength and determination to help others break free from their own struggles and to inspire a movement toward a world where human dignity is fully recognized and upheld.
Enrique J. Zaldivar wins the Richard Beckhard Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Field of OD
Enrique J. Zaldivar, an eminent figure in the world of Organizational Development, received the Richard Beckhard Award for his significant contributions to the field. Enrique’s career, as both an academic and a practitioner, has been marked by his commitment to fostering cultural competence, facilitating change, and driving growth in organizations around the world. His book, Your Unique Cultural Lens: A Guide to Cultural Competence, has become an essential resource for professionals seeking to bridge cultural divides in today’s global workplace.
Enrique’s work emphasizes the importance of understanding the diverse cultures that make up modern organizations and encourages collaboration based on respect, responsibility, and harmony. His global presence and impact are widely recognized, as he continues to inspire change and development through his thoughtful leadership and generosity of spirit.
In receiving the Richard Beckhard Award, Enrique has been acknowledged not only for his intellectual contributions but also for the wisdom, kindness, and care that he brings to every interaction. His approach to OD aligns perfectly with the values of Richard Beckhard himself, making him a fitting recipient of this prestigious honor.
A Bright Future for Organizational Development
The recognition of Guadalupe del Carmen Carrasco Álvarez and Enrique J. Zaldivar at the IODA Conference 2024 Mexico is a testament to the transformative power of leadership in Organizational Development. Their work reminds us that OD is not just about improving organizations, but about fostering human dignity, understanding, and global collaboration. These two leaders exemplify the highest ideals of the field, and their contributions will continue to inspire and guide future generations of OD professionals.
