Isela Hernandez

Title: Global Capital Markets Relationship Manager
Firm: Wilmington Trust
Age: 38

Isela Hernandez covers the daily administration of complex trust accounts for Wilmington Trust's public finance team and has emerged as a standout leader.

"Her impact has been immediate and impressive. She has quickly become one of our most trusted and capable professionals," said Daire McCormack, head of conventional debt and specialized agency services at Wilmington Trust.

"Following a number of team changes, Isela assumed responsibility for one of our most critical municipal bond programs," McCormack said. "She has not only provided continuity for clients, but she has worked diligently and intentionally to strengthen and build new relationships through her professionalism, responsiveness and deep commitment to delivering excellent service."

Additionally, Hernandez works hard as a mentor and motivator. "Isela understands the value of collaboration and has an innate ability to contribute to the growth of the team," said McCormack.

Hernandez always wanted to be part of the public finance world. "I was born and raised in Los Angeles. My brother took me to the financial district, and I saw all these people in suits, and I said, 'that's where I want to be.' The only question was how do I get there?" said Hernandez. "But my mother always said, 'if it exists, you can do it.' That stuck with me."

Hernandez studied at California State University of Los Angeles, majored in economics and learned about public finance. For almost two decades she has worked at an after-school program in Long Beach, California, mentoring students and she volunteers regularly at a food bank in Los Angeles.

"I am very in tune with my community. It's very important to me to give back because I have been very fortunate and have had a lot of people guide and mentor me. I feel like it's my duty as an L.A. native to extend my hand and help people," said Hernandez.