• Member Spotlight

Christa Freeman

A NABL member since 2016, Christa is Vice Chair of the NABL Issuer’s and In-House Counsel Committee.

If you would like to be featured, please contact us! Now, let’s meet Christa Freeman and learn more about her public finance journey:

1. What aspects of serving as in-house counsel most interested you early on, and what drew you to NABL? 

I became a student member of NABL before I accepted an in-house counsel role. In 2016, I was a Frederic L. Ballard, Jr. scholarship recipient. Prior to law school, I had fellowships /internships in both a large municipal government and the federal government. Those experiences piqued my interest in public service, which later led me to seek out an in-house counsel role.  

2. What project or deal has had a lasting impact on you professionally?

Although I came in during the last few months of the deal, Centennial Yards. Centennial Yards is a 50-acre mixed-use urban revitalization project that sits in downtown Atlanta. This project is a P3 that has received economic development incentives from both the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta.

3. How has serving as a panelist at NABL conferences helped you engage with the NABL community and the broader public finance industry? 

Serving as a panelist at NABL conferences has grown my network and increased my presence in the public finance industry. As former in-house counsel to a large issuer, most times you are only exposed to your local bond/disclosure counsel. NABL has afforded me the professional development and library of resources that have significantly increased my public finance knowledge.  

4. As Vice Chair of the Issuer’s and In-House Counsel Committee, what advice would you give to Issuer’s and In-House Counsel working for state or local governments?

I would recommend to Issuer’s and In-House Counsel to step outside of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in NABL and utilize the resources so that they can grow in their practice area and receive more exposure. 

5. What is a fun fact that people might not know about you? 

I am a formally trained vocalist and voice over artist. Prior to starting law school, I was signed to a talent agency for voice over work and was also in the process of becoming a member of SAG-AFTRA.  

The NABL Member Spotlight initiative is a volunteer-based program. All featured members participate voluntarily and are selected to highlight their contributions and achievements within our community. Participation in the spotlight does not imply endorsement by NABL. If you would like to be featured, please contact us!

The 50th Workshop: Building Bonds for Our Future

For five decades, this conference has been the premier gathering for public finance professionals at every level, bringing together the nation’s leading municipal bond, tax, and securities attorneys to strengthen professional relationships, exchange ideas, and advance the practice of public finance law. We are excited to be back in Chicago, where it all began, for The Workshop 2026 on October 14 to 16.

The Bean in Chicago Illinois Source Vincent Desjardins