Governor Abbott Appoints The First State Bank’s Jenkins to Finance Commission of Texas

On June 9, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced appointments and reappointments of four individuals to the Finance Commission of Texas, among them a Texas community banker. The commission is the governing body of the state’s banking, savings and loan, and consumer credit agencies. William “Chip” Jenkins, one of those newly appointed to the commission, is … Read more

82 Bankers Complete SW Graduate School of Banking Three-Year Executive Education Program

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

Texas National Bank To Acquire Zapata National Bank

On April 13, TNB Bancshares Inc., the holding company for Mercedes-based Texas National Bank, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Zapata Bancshares Inc. and its bank subsidiary, Zapata-based Zapata National Bank. This acquisition aligns with Texas National Bank’s 2025 expansion into Starr County through the acquisition Roma-based Citizens State Bank. The … Read more

Texas Bankers Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

In early January, the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame announced its 2026 inductees: Mark K. Johnson, Michael G. O’Rourke, Rogers Pope Jr., A. Ford Sasser III and Marelyn B. Shedd. These five iconic bankers will be recognized for their achievements and many contributions to their communities and the banking industry at the 13th Annual Texas … Read more

Newsweek’s ‘America’s Best Regional Banks 2026’ List Includes 48 Texas-based Institutions

To recognize banks (and credit unions) making a meaningful difference, Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group have published “America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions 2026.” The methodology utilized the Texas Ratio (a measure of a bank’s credit quality), as well as reviewed profitability and net loans and leases, press coverage over the past two years, … Read more

Lone Star National Bank Named 2025 Best of Show in Best of Community Banking Awards

In September, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) honored the 2025 top winners of its Best of Community Banking (BOCB) Awards. McAllen-based Lone Star National Bank won Best of Show for its community service entry “Starr County Volunteerism.” The 2025 BOCB Best of Show, Community Spirit and Gold Eagle Award recipients were recognized at … Read more

Rio Bank Opens Branch in Dripping Springs

On June 22, McAllen-based Rio Bank celebrated its official opening in Dripping Springs with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking its successful acquisition and transition from Lone Star Capital Bank. The event, hosted in partnership with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce, brought together community members, business leaders and longtime customers to celebrate Rio Bank’s new chapter … Read more

The Texas Bankers Foundation Announces 2025 Emerging Leader Honorees

On April 2, the Texas Bankers Foundation, the charitable arm of the Texas Bankers Association, announced the 12 recipients of the 2025 Emerging Leader Awards. Nominated by their bank’s president, CEO or board chair, these rising stars were selected for their exceptional leadership, commitment to service and impact on the banking industry. “These outstanding professionals … 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

Attorney Aparicio Joins Rio Bank’s Trust Division

Alex Aparicio has joined McAllen-based Rio Bank as vice president/trust officer. He is a licensed attorney in Texas with experience in wills, trusts, estates and business law. He has extensive experience helping navigate complex situations and finding the right solutions for his clients. Aparicio earned his JD degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law … Read more