Leslie Mondesir | LGT Class of 2026

What’s a risk you took in your career that paid off?
I quit a very demanding, high stress job in the finance industry in Chicago due to a change in priorities where my family needed to come first. I moved back to Kansas without a job and found a new home at FHLBank Topeka, where their values aligned more closely with mine.

What is a common misconception about Topeka you wish more people understood?
Many think that Topeka is small and stagnant, but it offers all the amenities of a larger metro area without the congestion. After seven years in Chicago, I assumed Topeka would be frozen in time when I returned. However, it’s great to see the investment and revitalization and its continued commitment to growth.

What initiative are you currently involved with?
I coach a youth boys volleyball team. I believe the court is also a classroom that helps players work through adversity and challenges, while working as a team. It’s crucial for building character, finding confidence and learning to lead. It’s powerful to help players learn they can do hard things, learn new skills and work through the uncomfortable.

Who is a leader you admire?
The managing director who hired me out of college. She was a pioneer for women in a male-dominated industry and was a great support system as I grew into my role.

What is a fun fact about you that might surprise people?
I played Division I volleyball at Kansas State University. I was one of the shortest players in the Big 12 at 5 feet 2 inches.

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