40 Under 40 Class of 2020

Katie Manzi McDonough

Partner, Egan, Flanagan & Cohen, P.C.; Age 34; Education: College of the Holy Cross (BA), Seton Hall University School of Law (JD)

Recently named a partner at her firm, McDonough’s practice includes estate planning and administration, business planning, and corporate law. A military spouse, her volunteer efforts have included service to veterans, including pro bono assistance to military families in the Army Legal Assistance Office. She recently helped create a committee of the Hampden County Bar Assoc. that will be a local hub of information and resources for both lawyers and non-lawyers who have questions about issues faced by military and veteran clients and their families.

Katie Manzi McDonough

Katie Manzi McDonough    Photo by Leah Martin Photography

What did you want to be when you grew up? Ever since I can remember, I wanted to be a lawyer. I truly have my dream job.

What goal do you set for yourself at the start of each day? My goal every workday is to leave my clients in a better position than before we met.

What are you passionate about? Faith, family, well-made pizza, civic engagement, and live music.

Who inspires you, and why? My husband, Michael. His confidence in our family, himself, and me is unwavering, and his positivity has always helped me to overcome many obstacles.

What do you do for fun? I enjoy playing with my two sons, and I like hosting gatherings for friends and family. I started golfing a few years ago, and I try to play as much as I can.

How do you relieve stress? In vino veritas. Also, I love to watch The Office, which I think is one of the greatest television shows ever made.

What’s your favorite hangout or activity in Western Mass., and why? Any authentic Western Mass. Italian pizza shop. NYC has nothing on our pizza! I am biased because I grew up in a family pizza shop in Springfield.

What person, past or present, would you like to have lunch with, and why? I would be honored to have lunch with Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito. She is a lawyer with a fantastic career as a public servant. I think she is a great role model for women like me.

What three words best describe you? Never limit an Italian woman to just three words.