Rising stars 2025

"I love solving complicated problems faced by our local governmental clients," Leslie Bacon. "We come up with strategic solutions that have a real impact on our communities." 

"The intersection between the public impact and the financial markets is unique and it brings a lot of good people to the same place. I really enjoy being a part of this community," Connor Benoit said.

"I'm really proud that my team genuinely looks to me for coaching and leadership," said Joe Buckshon. "It means a lot to me to be able to help someone."

"I made a promise to myself that in addition to supporting my clients, I wanted to try to be a strong role model for other women in the sector," said Alexandra Byrnes.

Since joining Orrick in Los Angeles more than a decade ago, Steffi Chan has brought her technical expertise and leadership skills to her local government and state agency clients.

Since joining Ramirez's Texas public finance banking team six years ago, Sara Cheek has participated in more than $50 billion of bond issuances for various clients across Texas.

Conza has led multiple financings for the airport's multibillion dollar capital program as he strategically plans for future aviation needs that serve both the local community and air travelers.

Jered Davidson has been at the forefront of creative and innovative approaches to public financing. 

"Jenna's ability to proactively identify and assess weaknesses and events that have impacted her covered credits has been instrumental in the company's risk managing efforts," said Victor Chu, a managing director with Assured Guaranty. 

Since 2018, Kat Estes has been actively bidding and helping price new issue deals for Fidelity Capital Markets. 

"It's very important to me to give back because I have been very fortunate and have had a lot people guide and mentor me," said Isela Hernandez.

Now a partner at Chapman and Cutler, Kristin Hilson has played a leading role in some of the most significant health care financing in the Midwest.

"Public finance isn't about just numbers or documents," said Charity Karanja. "It's about enabling access, driving development and creating opportunities."

Kitto prioritized education finance work with an emphasis on charter school financing projects across the county, turning a small practice at Ice Miller into a national powerhouse.

Lynch and the IMTC team developed tools that reduce fixed income portfolio construction time from hours to seconds.

"It is easy to see how much economic potential is held back by lack of infrastructure," said Cintia Nazima.

"Municipal finance — especially bond insurance — is pretty niche, so BAM's managment realizes we need to be proactive in introducing the industry to young professionals," said Ben O'Malley.

"I love that we are supporting the public and you can't help but feel good about making a difference in the world we live in," said Richard Park.

"My wife laughs when people ask me what I do and their eyes glaze over," said Michael Persichitte.

Tom Ricchiuto credits his multiple mentors for building his confidence and skills and encouraging him to be himself, be human, and remember that clients and colleagues are people first.