TEXAS BANKING NEWS, PEOPLE and IDEAS
In September, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) honored the 2026 top winners of its Best of Community Banking (BOCB) Awards. This year, 24 community banks participated in the program, with 42 entries receiving awards. Now in its 35th year, the Best of Community Banking Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of IBAT member banks … Read more
In late September, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) announced that Gabe Guerra, president and CEO of Corpus Christi-based Kleberg Bank, has been elected chair of the IBAT board of directors for 2026–27. He officially accepted the position during the association’s 52nd Annual Convention held September 19–22 in San Antonio. In addition to Guerra, … Read more
Pittsburg-based Pilgrim Bank announced that it has added Garrett Bockman to its lending team. He will serve customers in Wise County and surrounding North Texas communities. Bockman brings experience in commercial and community banking, including leadership roles with The Community Bank in Bridgeport, American National Bank & Trust in Decatur and First State Bank in … Read more
The SW Graduate School of Banking (SWGSB) at Southern Methodist University 2026 summer session wrapped up June 5 with a commencement ceremony for SWGSB Class LXVII at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. William T. Chittenden, Ph.D., president and CEO of SWGSB, delivered the commencement address to more than 350 guests celebrating 82 graduates from … Read more
Wichita Falls-based American National Bank & Trust has promoted three executives and hired a fourth. “As we continue to grow, it is essential to recognize and elevate the leaders who have helped build our success,” says Craig Berry, president and chief lending officer. Damon Whatley has been promoted to executive vice president. His banking career began … Read more
On March 5, Wichita Falls-based American National Bank & Trust announced key hires and promotions across multiple locations. This news comes in addition to the bank’s recent announcement that Craig Berry is succeeding Dwight Berry in the role of president; Dwight Berry will continue serving as chief executive officer and Craig Berry will continue as … Read more
As Wichita Falls-based American National Bank & Trust celebrates 50 years of service, it has announced a strategic leadership transition. Dwight Berry is continuing his tenure as chief executive officer, while Craig Berry has assumed the role of president, maintaining his responsibilities as chief lending officer. Dwight Berry, who joined the bank in 1981, has … Read more
Wichita Falls-based American National Bank & Trust has hired Marley Elliott as a vice president and trust administrator for the Wichita Falls market. With a background in real estate law and estate planning/administration, she brings valuable expertise and a client-focused approach that make her a strong addition to the bank’s trust and wealth department. “As … Read more
On May 13, Wichita Falls-based American National Bank & Trust announced the hiring of Quinton Crenshaw III as mortgage community outreach officer. With a background in real estate, he has built a career partnering with leading brokerages and representing clients in their real estate-related transactions and investment opportunities. “With his trusted and passionate career in … Read more
Wichita Falls-based American National Bank & Trust announced that it has hired Philip Strange to serve as senior vice president/mortgage lending. With nearly 30 years in the mortgage industry, he brings a wealth of experience in community bank mortgage division start-ups, process improvements and customer-focused lending. In his new role, he will specialize in employee … Read more