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First-Gen Latina Entrepreneur Earns SBA Woman-Owned Small Business Certification, Emerges as Leading Voice in Sports, Strategy, and Social Impact
Globenewswire· 2025-07-21 14:00
Company Overview - Santos McLeese, LLC has been certified as a Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) by the U.S. Small Business Administration, founded and owned by Stefanie Santos McLeese, a bilingual and multicultural brand strategist [1] - The consultancy has established itself as a strategic partner for global brands, athlete-entrepreneurs, and mission-driven institutions [1] Founder Background - Stefanie Santos McLeese is a Texas native and a graduate of Tarleton State University, Class of 2003, with over 20 years of experience in enterprise-level brand strategy and stakeholder communications [2][6] - McLeese has built her consultancy over the past decade in Illinois, serving a diverse clientele from Fortune 500 companies to regional nonprofits, supported by one W2 employee and a network of 1099 partners [2] Business Focus and Frameworks - The consultancy emphasizes partnering with purpose-driven organizations to promote ESG-aligned growth, strategic communications, and long-term sustainability [3] - McLeese utilizes proprietary frameworks, TMD™ (True, Meaningful, Different) and 4BD™ (Four Brand Dimensions), to help clients articulate their value propositions and ensure brand consistency [3][12] Notable Achievements and Projects - McLeese has worked with various high-profile clients, including GDM, a South American soybean genetics company, and Safran, the oldest aircraft engine manufacturer [4] - In 2025, McLeese is scheduled to speak at multiple significant events, including the NFL Legends Business Owners Summits and the Latin@ Economic Summit [4] Community Engagement and Recognition - McLeese has been actively involved in community initiatives, including securing a $30 million school referendum and serving as a preferred vendor for the University of Illinois system [4] - She has received nominations for the National TRIO Achiever Award and has participated in various leadership programs [4][5]