TEXAS BANKING NEWS, PEOPLE AND IDEAS
TEXAS BANKING NEWS, PEOPLE AND IDEAS
On May 6, Henderson-based VeraBank announced the recipients of its 2026 Scholarship Program, awarding five $2,500 scholarships to exceptional students whose parents are part of the VeraBank family. This year’s scholarship recipients are: Coy Becka, senior at Caldwell High School, Caldwell (son of Melanie Becka); Zachary Leonard, senior at Westlake High School, Austin (son of … Read more
Henderson-based VeraBank has hired Jon Turgel as senior vice president/commercial banker. He brings more than 30 years of industry experience, with a strong background in relationship‑driven commercial banking and community engagement. In his new role, he will serve businesses across the Kyle-to-Bastrop region and surrounding communities. “Jon brings a strong relationship‑driven mindset, a passion for community … Read more
In April, Henderson-based VeraBank announced a new commercial banker in Conroe, as well as a new wealth management team member. Billy Brannon has joined the bank as senior vice president/commercial banker at its Conroe location. He was born and raised in Conroe and is excited to return home to support the area where his roots … Read more
In March, Henderson-based VeraBank announced promotions and a new hire for its commercial banking teams in Henderson, Austin and Corsicana. Zach Kuehner, who has been with VeraBank since 2023, has transitioned into the role of commercial banker at the Austin downtown office. He brings a strong foundation in commercial credit, portfolio management and relationship‑focused service … Read more
East Texas Financial Corp., the parent company of Kilgore-based Citizens Bank, and Texas National Bancorporation, the parent company of Jacksonville-based Texas National Bank, have announced the successful completion of East Texas Financial Corp.’s previously announced acquisition of Texas National Bancorporation after receiving all required regulatory approvals. East Texas Financial Corp. will operate as a two-bank … Read more
Henderson-based VeraBank has a new home in Round Rock. The bank has moved a branch from 902 Palm Valley Blvd. to 2300 S. Interstate 35 and opened its new doors on December 15. To celebrate the new location, VeraBank will host an open house and ribbon-cutting this spring. “This move is about making banking easier … Read more
Henderson-based VeraBank has been named the 2025 “Hispanic Business Alliance (HBA) Community Organization of the Year” for its commitment to fostering opportunity through meaningful initiatives. The award recognizes the bank’s impactful partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in Dallas to facilitate the “Consulado sobre ruedas” (Consulate on Wheels) program. Consulado sobre ruedas brings essential … Read more
On October 16, the board of directors of Southside Bancshares Inc. and its subsidiary, Tyler-based Southside Bank, announced the appointment of Mitchell Craddock to chief operating officer of the company and bank, effective immediately following the retirement of Brian K. McCabe, current COO, on November 14. In addition, the company announced the appointments of Keith … Read more
Nacogdoches-based Commercial Bank of Texas has named Austin Williams vice president of commercial lending and business development for Jefferson County. Williams has more than 25 years of leadership experience in business development, commercial lending and community engagement across Southeast Texas. He is a graduate of the Commercial Lending Program at Southern Methodist University, holds a … Read more
Henderson-based VeraBank has hired Rich Berman as executive vice president and regional president for Williamson County. “[Berman] has spent nearly two decades building strong, trusted relationships throughout the region—and it shows,” says Brad Tidwell, CEO. “Rich brings genuine care for customers, proven leadership and a deep understanding of the region, making him a perfect fit … Read more