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Now, let’s meet Peter Manda and Everett Johnson, a mentor and mentee pair from NABL’s 2024-2025 Mentorship Program, and learn more about their public finance journeys:

1. What motivated you to join the NABL mentorship program, and what were your expectations going in? 

Peter: In the MBA program at Chicago they teach that having a mentor is essential to professional growth – whether you are starting off or a seasoned professional. I saw the NABL mentorship program as an opportunity to get to know my mentor, to build a better understanding of the practice of public finance, and to gain an alternative perspective. 

Everett: When NABL reached out to me about mentoring Peter, I was genuinely excited to support an attorney new to public finance. Early in my own career, I had many questions and, while I was fortunate to learn from generous partners, I would have benefited from a mentor to help me navigate both public finance and law firm life. My main hope for this mentoring relationship is mutual learning and growth. Since this is my first year as a NABL mentor, I approached it with an open mind and no fixed expectation.  

2. Can you describe a moment or experience during the program that was particularly meaningful or transformative for you? 

Peter: Everett advised early on to ask questions, especially where I didn’t understand a nuance in the regulations or where I had not experienced a situation before. That proved invaluable advice because it opened the possibility to engage with my colleagues, to gain from their experience, and to provide the firm’s clients with higher quality work.  

Everett: A moment that stands out was meeting with Peter about four months into the program. He shared that my advice had changed his perspective on public finance and how he works with clients. Earlier in the program, I sensed he felt overwhelmed and uncertain about his career path, but this time he was genuinely excited and enthusiastic about practicing in public finance. Hearing that my guidance helped shift his outlook was incredibly meaningful to me. 

3. How has your relationship evolved over the course of the year, and what have you learned from each other? 

Peter: I came to trust my mentor’s input and guidance. That trust allowed me to obtain real input and professional guidance which I otherwise would not have been able to access. 

Everett: Yes, as with any relationship, the more you communicate with each other the more your comfort level rises. We also met in person a couple of times, which helped to further develop our relationship. Peter switched law practices later in his law career than most.   

4. In what ways did your mentor/mentee challenge your thinking or push you outside your comfort zone? 

Peter: As lawyers we often avoid asking questions where we are not sure of the answer. And in certain cases, to prepare for client representation better, you do come across situations where you don’t know the answer. Calling up your supervisors and peers to get feedback or obtain insights into their experience is a very important part of professional practice. My mentor pushed me to embrace this approach, allowing me to inquire more deeply into the issues that come across my desk – and thereby expediting my professional growth in this area of practice.  

Everett: Peter wasn’t the typical mentee—he’s practiced law for many years and only recently transitioned to public finance. Peter is also a little older than me. I have been a public finance attorney for my whole legal career. Advising a seasoned attorney at a similar life stage, but new to public finance, was a unique challenge. I couldn’t rely on advice meant for younger attorneys; instead, I focused on guidance relevant to his experience level. It was a challenge, but I truly enjoyed the experience.    

5. What would you tell someone who’s considering joining the NABL Mentorship Program? 

Peter: Especially if you are just starting in public finance and tax-exempt bond law, having a mentor outside your firm will provide you with insight into the broader practice of public finance.  

Everett: I think it’s a great program.  As a mentor, I learned so much from Peter. I have been practicing almost 25 years and I have forgotten some of the issues that lawyers new to my practice area have to digest. My conversations with Peter have made me a better supervisor for the associates I manage in my office. It is also a rewarding feeling to give back to others. Especially, lawyers who are seeking advice and mentorship.