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
The Texas Bankers Foundation, the charitable arm of the Texas Bankers Association, has reopened its Flood Relief Fund to support Texas communities affected by the severe storms and flooding unfolding across the state this summer. The foundation is coordinating its efforts with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, local bank leaders and community organizations throughout … Read more
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
The Texas Bankers Foundation, the charitable arm of the Texas Bankers Association, has announced the 22 recipients of the 2026 50-Year Banker Awards. Each of the bankers selected is recognized for their exemplary and long-standing service to the banking industry. Launched in 1989 by the Texas Bankers Association, the 50-Year Banker Awards honor those who … 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
The SW Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University (SWGSB) will hold its 162nd Assembly for Bank Directors September 3–6 at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa in Beaver Creek/Vail, Colorado. SWGSB Assemblies for Bank Directors attract banking leaders from across the country to address the latest issues affecting the industry. From … Read more
Newspaper advertisements celebrate the opening of Montrose National Bank in May 1956.In 1956, Montrose National Bank in Houston opened its doors in response to the needs of an evolving metroplex. Today, both the city and the bank continue to thrive. Central Bank, as it is now known, is celebrating its 70th anniversary, making it “Houston’s … Read more
During the IBAT Connecting Leaders Conference held last month in Round Rock, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) presented its annual Excellence in Leadership Award. This year’s recipient was Brett Murphy, audit partner, partner-in-charge of the financial institutions industry and Austin market president at Whitley Penn LLP. To be considered for the Excellence in … Read more
Liberty-based First Liberty Bank has announced the promotion and appointment of officers and supervisory staff for 2026, as approved by its board of directors. Charles Bolds has been promoted to senior vice president and continues to serve as senior mortgage officer. He has nine years of experience at First Liberty Bank. Bolds is actively involved … Read more