Treasurer Laura M. Montoya on new programs and outreach director to promote financial equity in New Mexico
From the Office of the State Treasurer
SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Treasurer’s Office welcomes Christina Perea as its new Programs and Outreach Director.
Perea’s proven experience in curriculum design, public relations, marketing, and innovative program strategies at the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) and the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is critical to advancing the office’s outreach initiatives and developing beneficial programs.
“In addition to our constitutional and statutory duties and managing the state’s over $17 billion portfolio, I believe we have the opportunity to directly impact the lives of New Mexicans by bridging the wealth gap and helping our most financially vulnerable citizens,” said Treasurer Montoya. “The State Treasurer’s office has expanded or developed programs such as the New Mexico State Treasurer’s Achieving a Better Life Experience (NM STABLE) program, Baby Bonds, and Financial Fitness. Christina’s passion for social justice and professional experience will take these important programs to new levels and have a lasting impact on communities across New Mexico.”
The IRS has already achieved significant milestones in implementing these programs, including renaming NM STABLE and passing legislation to exempt clawbacks on NM STABLE accounts, growing NM STABLE into the second most successful of its kind in the country, and implementing our personalized online financial fitness tool for state employees, NM Enrich.
Under Perea’s leadership, the New Mexico State Department of Revenue is ready to build on this momentum, advance these programs, and ensure they produce positive outcomes for all New Mexicans.
“I am fortunate to be part of Treasurer Montoya’s team and continue his great work,” said Perea. “I look forward to helping the office expand the NM STABLE program, support efforts to make financial literacy a graduation requirement in our high schools and establish a NM Baby Bonds program, all while maintaining a high level of public service for the people of New Mexico.”
Perea has deep roots in New Mexico, was crowned the 310th and 311th La Reina de la Fiesta de Santa Fe, and continues to travel throughout New Mexico and Colorado playing Spanish-New Mexican music. Perea is married to Adrian, a firefighter for the city of Santa Fe, and they have three daughters.
About State Treasurer Laura M. Montoya:
Laura M. Montoya became New Mexico’s first female State Treasurer and the first elected State Treasurer of Latino descent on January 1, 2023. She brings over two decades of banking, investment and public policy experience to the office. Under Treasurer Montoya’s leadership, the office manages the state’s $17 billion investment portfolio. The Treasurer serves on 13 boards, councils and commissions and has fiduciary responsibility for over $90 billion in state funds.