FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 10, 2025

Contact: Bushra Elfarissi

(505) 819-8887 Bushra.elfarissi@sto.nm.gov

New Mexico State Treasurer Laura M. Montoya Honored with Prestigious ‘Courageous Leadership Award’

Santa Fe – The Council of Urban Professionals (CUP) has named The Honorable Laura M. Montoya, New Mexico State Treasurer, as the recipient of its 2025 Courageous Leadership Award in recognition of her principled decision-making and bold leadership in the face of adversity. CUP’s mission is “to inspire, elevate, and empower the next generation of diverse business and civic leaders and women.” The Courageous Leadership Award “celebrates those who lead not with convenience or popularity, but with conviction, boldness, and moral clarity—especially when it matters most.”

As the first female State Treasurer in New Mexico and the first elected Latina State Treasurer in United States history, Treasurer Montoya uses her role to advocate for underserved communities and fight for meaningful systemic reforms in areas of financial equity, ethical governance, and responsible investing. Treasurer Montoya not only manages nearly $18 billion and oversees over $160 billion in state funds, she remains a staunch champion for economic empowerment initiatives, such as financial literacy, Baby Bonds and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in fund management. Treasurer Montoya’s leadership during recent economic uncertainty and profound fiscal volatility further underscores her qualifications for this honor.

Treasurer Montoya was recognized alongside three other esteemed national leaders:

• • Edith Cooper, Co-Founder, Medley – Change Agent Award

• • Kim Koopersmith, Chairperson Emeritus, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP – Industry Innovator Award

• • Jacob Walthour, Jr., CEO, Blueprint Capital Advisors LLC – Breakthrough Leadership Award

“I am deeply honored to receive this distinguished award, especially during the economic downturn we are currently experiencing,” stated Treasurer Montoya. “I share this recognition with every advocate, public servant, and community member who chooses to

2055 South Pacheco Street, Suite 100 & 200  Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505  Phone: (505) 955-1120  FAX (505) 955-1180

do the right thing, even when standing alone. I will continue to lead with purpose and conviction.”

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Laura M. Montoya became New Mexico’s first female State Treasurer on January 1, 2023, and the nation’s first elected Latina State Treasurer, bringing the office over two decades of experience in banking, investments, and public policy. Under Treasurer Montoya’s direction, the office manages the state’s $17.9 billion investment portfolio. The Treasurer serves on 13 boards, councils, and commissions with fiduciary responsibility for state funds exceeding $160 billion.