Stephanie W. Telles, MBA, CFE
Stephanie W. Telles, MBA, CFE, is a dedicated and dynamic leader, educator, consultant, and public speaker with over two decades of experience driving inclusive and responsible leadership. Known for her optimism and unwavering commitment to community, Stephanie has built a career around empowering organizations, caregivers, and individuals to achieve meaningful impact. Her expertise spans fraud prevention, financial exploitation awareness, DEIB, organizational ethics, and the complexities of caregiving across the lifespan, from early childhood to aging populations.
As the founder of Otoño Consulting, Stephanie provides tailored solutions that strengthen organizations and protect vulnerable individuals. She also serves as a part-time faculty member at the University of New Mexico and Central New Mexico Community College, where she teaches courses in forensic accounting and fraud examinations, shaping the next generation of ethical leaders. A sought-after speaker and voiceover artist, she brings energy and clarity to every engagement, inspiring audiences to take action and embrace ethical responsibility.
In 2026, Stephanie was elected to represent District 1 on the Albuquerque City Council, becoming the first Latina elected by the district’s voters. Her leadership is grounded in listening, collaboration, and service, with a focus on building safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Stephanie is a devoted mother and advocate, balancing family life with her mission to create positive change locally and statewide.
• 2024-2025 Accelerator Graduate
• Certified Fraud Examiner
• UNM Anderson School of Management - M.B.A.
• Aging and Long-Term Services Policy Advisory Committee
• Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
• Associates certified fraud examiner
• New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department
• Library Advisory Board: Albuquerque and Bernalillo County
• Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible people I work with and the supportive community around me.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to protect my peace.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the industry to pay themselves first and to seek out a mentor who is younger than them. As we grow older, it’s easy to forget certain lessons or perspectives, so allowing the younger generation to teach and inspire you can be incredibly valuable.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value to me in both my work and personal life is cultivating virtue.