Rising Stars 2022

The 2022 Rising Stars discuss their work, hobbies, interests, and their thoughts about the future of the public finance sector. We also link to all the profiles, in case you missed them.

Akshai Patel, 39, an accidental banker, moved to RBC after founding a Phoenix, Arizona, charter school.

When Douglas Goldmacher, a Long Island native, graduated from the University of Rochester in 2011, a career in municipal finances wasn't on his mind.

A mentorship that started during a college internship helped steer Melissa Bennett to a partnership in public finance law.

"I was excited to take part in an industry that plays an integral role in developing public infrastructure," Nicole Pey said.

"I'm proud of how well we adapted as an organization and set ourselves up to hit the ground running on large projects," said David Amdor.

"Be ready to do anything that is asked of you," Mary Hinojosa Kelly said. "You need to have all of those skill sets in your toolbox to add value."

"Every credit has its quirks," Peter Scherer said. "I enjoy the challenge of putting them in context while delivering thoughtful and punchy credit opinions that inform investors and inspire confidence in the municipal market."

"Almost everything around you serves as a reminder of our work and the benefits it has brought to the public," said Adam Gordon.

"There's always a new issue you might not be aware of; with 50 states you are constantly learning something new," Cooper Howard said. "It's not a homogenized market."