From search and rescue missions in the mountains to uncovering solutions in city government, I’ve built my life around finding answers and helping people. That’s the same dedication I’ll bring to serving as Denver’s Auditor.
Kharis Eppstein — Auditor Experience that Counts
An auditor, not a politician
This campaign is not a stepping stone for my political career, nor a soapbox to push policy. I’m running for office because of my passion for Denver and the Auditor’s Office. My main priority is keeping a qualified, independent, ethical and honest Auditor for Denver.
Experience to lead
I’ve led multiple audits with our nationally recognized award-winning team, and served both the Denver Auditor and Colorado Department of Education as an auditor for over a decade. I want to leverage opportunities to improve performance of the Auditor’s Office.
Credentials for the job
I’m certified in Internal Auditing, Government Auditing, and Fraud Examination through the Institute of Internal Auditors and Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. More importantly, I’m deeply familiar with how the Auditor’s Office functions and delivers results for Denver.
A track record that goes places
My audit portfolio includes complex, multi-agency, socially impactful audits such as the citywide homeless encampment response, safety and security in city facilities, organizational culture, affordable housing & Denver’s sidewalks.
Focus on results and impact
Audits I have led have directly resulted in constructive change, uncovered misused city funds, identified non-compliance and inequity, and have received national awards from peer organizations. I have fostered productive relationships with many city leaders through these audits and have a thorough understanding of the city and its departments, agencies and programs.
Recognition by peers
I’m a respected leader in the local and national audit community. I present at conferences, have been published on audit methodologies and lessons learned, serve on a committee dedicated to professional issues in government auditing, and speak to students about their future careers in internal audit.
Certified to Protect Your Tax Dollars
When qualifications matter, the choice Is clear. Professional auditing credentials like the Institute of Internal Auditors’ Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential are more than letters after a name — they represent proven expertise. These certifications require rigorous exams covering auditing standards, financial and internal controls, information technology and data, fraud detection, risk assessment, and government accountability. They show that I have both technical knowledge and real-world qualifications to evaluate complex financial systems and program effectiveness, uncover waste, and safeguard your tax dollars.
Just as important, these credentials require a strong commitment to ethics and continuing education. CIAs and CFEs must follow strict professional codes of conduct and stay current on evolving best practices. In a role as critical as Denver Auditor, voters deserve someone who meets nationally recognized standards of competence and integrity — not someone learning on the job. Credentials signal preparation, professionalism, and a clear commitment to accountability.
I am proud to hold three such credentials in internal auditing, government auditing, and fraud examination. This sets me apart as the most qualified candidate for Denver Auditor. Proven. Certified. Ready.
The Auditor serves a critical role as the catalyst to improve Denver’s future. I’m ready to lead our award-winning team from Day One. And I’ll keep working to make Denver a stronger, more accountable city for everyone.
About Kharis Eppstein
I have always loved puzzles and searching for clues. As a child, I was a fan of scavenger hunts and logic problems. Since graduating college, I have dedicated my life to working in government and nonprofits.
In 2019, I started volunteering with Alpine Search and Rescue Team and respond to backcountry SAR missions to help people having a bad day in the mountains. Unsurprisingly, the missions involving searches for lost or missing people are the ones that bring me a sense of accomplishment. It is incredibly rewarding to bring someone home. I don’t see myself as an adrenaline junky who loves hanging out of a helicopter - rather I enjoy looking for clues and helping locate someone’s loved one.
And at work, I’m always looking for ways government agencies can be better, use your tax dollars more efficiently, and prevent waste, fraud, or abuse.
In all parts of my life, I strive to work with others to make Denver as well as Colorado a better place to live, work, and play.
I served as President of Alpine Rescue Team from 2022 through 2024 before shifting focus to help teach new rescuers skills and acclimate to the team. During my time as president, I focused on reviewing the team’s policies and procedures, helped identify risks, and worked to strengthen relationships with other emergency response agencies.
After my term ended, I became a board member for Colorado Search and Rescue Association. I hope to bring my skills and experience in politics and governance to teams across the state and to level the playing field with regard to resources, funding, and knowledge.
I live in Denver in the beautiful Berkeley neighborhood with my partner. I enjoy cooking and baking, all things outdoors, live music, spending time with my family and friends, and reading.
