SANTA FE, NM - This morning, State Auditor Brian Colón launched a new initiative, Diversity Spotlight, aimed at highlighting his commitment to diversity and inclusion (D&I) at the Office of the State Auditor.

"Diversity and inclusion are core to the mission of this office, and my administration is focused on representing and embracing the unique cultures and geographic regions or our minority-majority state," said Auditor Colón. "Diversity fosters greater collaboration, creativity, innovation, and skills, such as those essential to the work of the Office of the State Auditor. Our staff and work is enriched when we embrace the diversity of experience, cultures, and backgrounds in our efforts to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, allowing us to meet the highest standard of excellence in government all New Mexicans deserve."

The Diversity Spotlight will be updated on a regular basis and featured under News and Announcements on the Office of the State Auditor's website here. This month's Diversity Spotlight celebrates Black History and the contributions of African Americans to the field of accountancy. The Honorees include: Marcus J. Mimms CPA of Albuquerque; John Cromwell, the first African American CPA; Mary T. Washington, the first female African American CPA; Professor Jesse Blayton, known as the "Dean of Negro Accountants"; and Bernadette Cloes Gines, the first African American CPA of New York.