Stephen Scelfo ’15, MBA ’16, is a senior manager at KPMG, specializing in audits for higher education and not-for-profits. A dedicated mentor and national trainer, he actively supports Adelphi students and promotes financial literacy in local schools. Stephen credits Adelphi’s community and mentorship with laying the foundation for his success.
Member of Adelphi University’s 10 Under 10
Senior manager at KPMG’s commercial audit practice
Stephen Scelfo ’15, MBA ’16, is a senior manager at KPMG’s commercial audit practice, where he specializes in serving colleges and universities, research institutions, not-for-profits and government agencies. Based in the firm’s Long Island office, Stephen brings nearly a decade of experience in public accounting, having launched his career directly through Adelphi’s recruiting pipeline.
Stephen was drawn to Adelphi by its welcoming campus, strong business program and close-knit academic community. The balance of a “college away” experience with small class sizes and faculty mentorship made it the right fit for both his BBA and MBA. He credits Arthur Leibowitz, clinical associate professor—whose real-world insights and personal investment in his students were invaluable—as a mentor who helped him navigate critical career decisions, including choosing among multiple Big Four offers.
At KPMG, Stephen has extended his impact beyond client work. He serves as a National Facilitator, teaching courses to audit professionals nationwide, and leads local office training sessions focused on higher education and not-for-profit audits. He also champions recruitment initiatives at Long Island universities, including Adelphi, helping students discover meaningful career paths in accounting.
Stephen is also committed to community service. Through KPMG’s partnerships with Junior Achievement and KPMG Family for Literacy (KFFL), he teaches financial literacy in local schools and has organized fundraisers—like office-wide Lip Sync Battles—to support children from underserved communities.
A mentor to current Adelphi students, Stephen takes pride in guiding future professionals. Whether meeting one-on-one or presenting to student groups, he shares what he wishes he’d known—offering real-world advice and encouragement to those just beginning their journey.
He believes Adelphi shaped not only his knowledge, but also his values: “Being part of the Adelphi community means striving for excellence, giving back and lifting others along the way.”