TEXAS BANKING NEWS, PEOPLE and IDEAS

VeraBank

Community Bankers Bestow IBAT Chairman’s Award to VeraBank’s Tidwell and Renzetti

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The Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) recently honored Brad Tidwell and Claire Renzetti with the IBAT Chairman’s Award. The IBAT Chairman’s Award is the association’s highest honor, recognizing individuals whose contributions extend beyond service to IBAT and demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to the community banking industry as a whole. IBAT’s 2025–26 Chair Greg Wilson, … Read more

McDonald Named Chief Operating Officer at R Bank in Round Rock

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Round Rock-based R Bank has promoted Cole McDonald to executive vice president and chief operating officer. Since joining the bank in 2024, he has quickly established himself as a respected leader and trusted resource across the organization. Prior to joining R Bank, McDonald served on the commercial lending team at VeraBank for almost four years. … Read more

Community Banking Association Elects Guerra Chair, Names New Executive Committee and Board

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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

Nine Texas-based Banks Included in Forbes’ 2026 Best In-State Banks Survey

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Forbes has produced its 2026 ranking of America’s Best-In-State Banks. The ninth annual rankings—created in partnership with market research firm Statista—are based on survey responses from 26,000 U.S. residents. The rankings include nine Texas-based banks. Participants were asked how satisfied they were and how likely they were to recommend the U.S.-based banks at which they … Read more

VeraBank Expands Central Texas Presence with New Branch in Avery Ranch

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On June 22, Henderson-based VeraBank opened its second full-service branch in Austin. The new location, at 14951 Avery Ranch Blvd., serves the rapidly growing Avery Ranch community and surrounding Northwest Austin, Cedar Park and Round Rock areas. To commemorate the opening, the bank will hold an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony later this year. This … Read more

VeraBank Awards $12,500 in Scholarships to Outstanding Students

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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

VeraBank Welcomes Turgel as Senior Vice President and Commercial Banker

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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

VeraBank Adds to its Commercial Banking and Wealth Management Teams

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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

VeraBank Adds Commercial Bankers in Henderson, Austin and Corsicana

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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

VeraBank Relocates Round Rock Branch to New Interstate 35 Location

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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