Two Albuquerque Community Safety Leaders Earn Spots on New Mexico’s “250 Flags” List
Director Jodie Esquibel & Deputy Director Walter Adams recognized for their leadership and service to communities across New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE – At an event Tuesday night, two Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) leaders, Deputy Director of Field Operations Walter Adams and Director Jodie Esquibel, were honored in the statewide 250 Flags initiative, recognizing 250 New Mexicans whose service, leadership, and character are making a lasting impact in their communities.
Adams, one of ACS's first five responders, has helped shape the department from its earliest days. Rising from Behavioral Health Responder to Deputy Director of Field Operations, he has played a pivotal role in expanding ACS's innovative response model while leading teams dedicated to supporting Albuquerque's most vulnerable residents.
Esquibel was also recognized for her decades of leadership in emergency response, community medicine, tactical medicine, and search and rescue. Her experience and commitment to compassionate service continue to strengthen ACS's mission of delivering people-centered public safety.
"Walter and Jodie represent the very best of Albuquerque Community Safety," said City of Albuquerque Executive Director of Public Safety Raul Bujanda. "Walter's leadership has helped build ACS from the ground up, while Jodie's decades of emergency response experience have elevated our ability to serve the community with professionalism and compassion. Their recognition reflects the dedication our teams bring to Albuquerque every day."
"Albuquerque Community Safety was created to reimagine how we respond to people in crisis, and leaders like Walter and Jodie have helped turn that vision into reality," said Mayor Tim Keller. "Their commitment, innovation, and heart have made a real difference in the lives of countless residents, and we're proud to see them recognized among New Mexico's 250 Flags honorees."
The 250 Flags initiative, led by News Radio KKOB in partnership with KOAT and the Albuquerque Journal, celebrates New Mexicans who exemplify service and strengthen their communities.
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About Albuquerque Community Safety
Albuquerque Community Safety is the City of Albuquerque’s third branch of public safety. Responders take calls for service involving behavioral health, substance use, and other non-criminal and non-medical issues. Request an ACS Responder by calling 911 for emergencies and 311 for non-emergencies.