Rising Stars

"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.