Public Finance Reimagined

West Point precision, deep Texas school finance experience, and a team that treats your district like a long term partner, not a transaction.

Led by experience. Rooted in service.

What makes Nickel Hayden different

Rudy Mejia founded Nickel Hayden after more than a decade in Texas public finance, bringing together his West Point training, MBA from McCombs, and over $10 billion in bonds guided to market. He built this firm on a simple idea: districts deserve strategic advice, clear communication, and a partner who understands their world. Today, our team combines that discipline and heart to help Texas communities fund the projects that shape their future.

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Integrity. Creativity. Innovation.
West Point Precision.

Our Approach

A financial advisory firm that brings big-bank expertise with boutique-level attention. Clear strategy, disciplined execution, and a deep understanding of Texas public finance.

Deep Texas + National Experience

More than a decade advising school districts, cities, and public agencies across the state.

Personal Attention, Always

High-touch partnership, direct access to your advisor, and support tailored to your community.

Proven Track Record

Successful, well-structured bond programs that prioritize clarity, stability, and long-term results.

Regulatory Expertise

Precise guidance through reporting, compliance, disclosure, and state/federal requirements.

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The people behind the passion

Discover the dedicated professionals driving the success of Nickel Hayden, LP.

CEO

Rudy Mejía

Rudy Mejia is a West Point graduate, MBA, and leading financial advisor in Texas school finance. He has guided over $10 billion in bonds to market, helping districts fund major projects with clarity, confidence, and long-term stability. With a blend of military discipline, financial expertise, and practical experience, Rudy is known for crafting strategic, student-focused funding solutions. He partners closely with administrators to navigate complex decisions and strengthen educational communities through thoughtful, results-driven planning.

Advisor

Leah Hanany

Leah Hanany brings more than a decade of experience in PK–12 education, public administration, and financial strategy. A former teacher, district administrator, and elected school board member, she has supported major efforts in budgeting, bond planning, and facilities strategy. With an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, a BA in Journalism, and her Series 50 license, Leah blends technical knowledge with deep governance insight. She guides clients through capital planning and long-range priorities with clear communication, community awareness, and strategic, data-driven focus.

Analyst

Madison Pearson

Madison Pearson is an Analyst supporting municipal advisory work for school districts, cities, and public-sector clients across Texas. She joined the firm after earning her BBA in Finance from Texas A&M and holds the Series 50 Municipal Advisor Representative designation. Madison contributes to projects involving debt capacity analysis, refunding evaluations, and capital planning, bringing strong financial modeling skills and an analytical, detail-driven approach. She works closely with the team to deliver timely insights that help communities plan responsibly for future growth.