Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

Like most people reading this, I am fortunate to have a career doing what I love to do, working with clients to improve local communities. When not at the office, my favorite pastime is spending time with my wife and two daughters. Whether traveling to new places, attending different entertainment events in the community, or cheering on the LSU Tigers, there is nothing more enjoyable than time with family.    

Why did you decide to join NABL 12 years ago?

As I was starting my career, a colleague recommended that I consider a practice in public finance. After discovering what public finance law entailed, I immediately started asking – some may say pestering — the head of our firm’s public finance practice group (and eventual mentor) if I could assist with any of the group’s transactions. After agreeing to give me the opportunity to work in public finance, he told me that joining NABL and attending The Essentials were basic requirements for anyone desiring to become a bond lawyer. 

He was right. After attending The Essentials, I was instantly hooked on the practice of municipal bond law and the belief that membership in NABL is essential for any bond lawyer. 

As a regular volunteer and current co-chair for the Government Affairs Committee, how has volunteering and working with the committee impacted your career? 

Volunteering and serving as co-chair of the Governmental Affairs Committee has allowed me the phenomenal opportunity to play a small role in NABL’s efforts to promote sound public policy. In addition to advancing policies that aid our clients in their efforts to build strong communities, serving has made me a better bond lawyer. Volunteering with NABL has introduced me to new perspectives, provided additional insight into the origins of existing public policy, and has allowed me to provide critical updates about the current state of municipal bond finance to my clients.   

Who has influenced you the most in your life and what advice/guidance did they provide? 

I have been fortunate to have several amazing mentors that have had a critical impact on my life. Of course, at the top of the list are my parents. The best advice they have given me is to work extremely hard, love your family even harder and remember that your faith is the foundation for everything.  

Which book and/or podcasts have you enjoyed and would recommend for others? 

I would recommend a book I am reading now, “The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill Volume 3.” This volume of the 3-part biography begins with Winston Churchill becoming prime minister at the onset of World War II. The book is a reminder that history is full of terrible times; however, courageous leaders and engaged citizens working together always win the day.