Budget Transmission COO Named by Sen. as a “Woman of Distinction”

Kimberly Foglio-Walden was one among 75 honorees from the California State Senate District 23 and one of 12 women from San Bernardino to be recognized as a “Woman of Distinction” by state Sen. Mike Morrell for her strong commitment to her community. Over 350 guests gathered at the National Orange Show to mark the June 20 occasion during the 10th annual celebration ceremony and dinner. “What an honor to be recognized,” the Budget Transmissions & Complete Auto Repair’s Chief Operating Officer told the City News. She was nominated by Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce CEO Phil Carlisle. Foglio-Walden joined the family business—her father Frank Foglio has dedicated 45 years to the business—in 2002, transitioning from a position as a bank manager to the family organization, “helping bring some changes” to the woman-owned business, she said. Her position with the company allows her to participate in several community-based service organizations and endeavors, including membership in several local Chambers of Commerce; helping raise funds for The Unforgettables Foundation, a Redlands-based non-profit which provides dignified burials for families enduring the unexpected loss of a child; collecting and donating toys for ChildHelp; donating funds to the local YMCA; and donating to sports programs in San Bernardino City School District schools, among several other community organizations. Born and raised in San Bernardino, Foglio-Walden also gives back to the place she was born—literally. She regularly donates her time to St. Bernardine’s hospital, and is one of the founding members of The Women of St. Bernardine, a hospital organization composed entirely of female members who raise funds and then allocate them throughout various places within the hospital. “It’s so nice to know you’re helping and you’re doing something good,” Foglio-Walden said. “It’s neat to be recognized, because we (Budget Transmissions) are out there doing so many things… and giving back to all these businesses. We don’t do it to be recognized, but we’re making a difference and that’s exciting.” She said, “Having my own business has made me a better and stronger person. It requires hard work, dedication, persistence, patience and a passion for what you do. I want to help my fellow business owners, friends and the Inland Empire be successful. We need to encourage and support each other…It does not matter what you sell or what you do. It is about service, integrity and having a heart for people.” Foglio-Walden also regularly speaks to women’s groups about what they can do if they encounter an automobile difficulty, teaching them about preventative auto maintenance, repairs and saving money. “We’re showing (people) that there’s a place they can go take their car and we will take care of them,” Foglio-Walden said. Among her recent Woman of Distinction accolade, the certified Woman-Owned Business owner is a Spirit of the Entrepreneur semi-finalist; and has been recognized by The Unforgettables Foundation as one of the “Biggest Hearts” in San Bernardino. Budget Transmission will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its location at 1620 North E St. in San Bernardino this year.