On March 17, First State Bank of Uvalde announced the promotion of five team members.
Brandi Cabralez has been elevated from vice president to senior vice president. She has worked at First State Bank for 15 years. Cabralez’s notable accomplishments include receiving the 2024 “Emerging Leader Award” from the Texas Bankers Association and leading significant upgrades to systems and technology within the trust department.
Sonja Ruiz advances from vice president to senior vice president after seven years with the bank. She has been recognized for her leadership in the industry, including her appointment to District 2 of the Government Relations Council with the Texas Bankers Association and her role as president of the Hill Country chapter of Financial Women in Texas.
Maria Vasquez has been promoted from assistant vice president to vice president after five years of service. In her new position, she will focus on managing strategic retail projects, assisting with security protocols and streamlining operations to support the bank’s mission and growth.
Frank Aguilar, a 15-year veteran of First State Bank, has also been promoted from assistant vice president to vice president. His experience and commitment continue to strengthen the bank’s leadership team.
Randy Gargotta rises from IT systems administrator to assistant vice president and assistant IT manager after two years with the bank. His expertise in technology will further enhance the bank’s operational capabilities in this newly expanded role.
“[These] promotions reflect their invaluable contributions to First State Bank of Uvalde and our ongoing commitment to keeping our customers safe, sound and secure,” says Chad D. Stary, president and CEO.
Established in 1907, First State Bank of Uvalde operates eight branches in Central and South Texas.




