Community Bankers Honor Legend Bank’s Bearden with Excellence in Leadership Award

During the IBAT Connecting Leaders Conference held this summer in Galveston, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) presented its annual Excellence in Leadership Award. This year’s recipient was Jay Bearden, president and CEO of Legend Bank in Decatur. To be considered for the Excellence in Leadership Award, one must selflessly promote, support and serve … Read more

Texas Bankers Included in Independent Banker Magazine’s 2025 ‘40 Under 40’ List of Community Bank Leaders

On June 3, Independent Banker magazine, the monthly publication of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), announced its seventh annual “40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders” list, recognizing the rising stars transforming community banking through innovation, leadership and service. Several Texas-based bankers were included on the list, which represents a diverse mix of emerging … Read more

Texas Bankers Foundation Announces 2025 Cornerstone and LiFE Award Winners

On April 2, the Texas Bankers Foundation, the charitable arm of the Texas Bankers Association, announced the 19 recipients of its 2025 Cornerstone and Leader in Financial Education (LiFE) Awards. These honors recognize work that goes above and beyond in its commitment to community engagement and financial education across Texas. “These awards celebrate the banks … Read more

VeraBank Names Byrdsong 2024 Employee of the Year

Henderson-based VeraBank has named Tamara Byrdsong its 2024 “Nelwyn Richardson Employee of the Year” recipient. Byrdsong joined the bank in 2013 and serves as retail branch administrator. Earlier in her tenure at VeraBank, she served as branch manager for the Longview 4th St. and Lakeport locations. The Nelwyn Richardson Employee of the Year award highlights … Read more