TEXAS BANKING NEWS, PEOPLE and IDEAS
The Texas Tech School of Banking recently completed its 2026 session. Banking professionals from across Texas and New Mexico convened at Rawls College of Business on the campus of Texas Tech University in Lubbock for the program. Established in 1973, the school offers a blend of traditional academic coursework and interactive lecture sessions hosted by … Read more
El Paso-based WestStar has named Marcela Candia vice president/director of accounting. In her role, she oversees accounting operations, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and internal controls and works with senior leadership to support the bank’s financial objectives. Candia joined WestStar in 2022 and has more than 20 years of accounting experience across multiple industries. During her … Read more
On August 13, El Paso-based WestStar announced the appointment of Christopher Mims as vice president/information security officer. He will lead the development and management of the bank’s information security program, oversee regulatory compliance and align security initiatives with the bank’s strategic objectives. Mims brings 15 years of information technology and cybersecurity experience, with expertise in … Read more
El Paso-based WestStar has promoted Beny Medrano to branch manager of its Zaraloop location. He joined the bank in 2023, bringing more than nine years of experience in the financial industry. Known for his strong analytical skills and ability to build meaningful relationships, he delivers personalized financial solutions to both personal and business clients. Medrano … Read more
On August 4, El Paso-based WestStar announced the appointment of Lorena Garay as senior vice president/commercial banker. She will manage the bank’s existing investment real estate client relationships while continuing to grow its commercial lending portfolio. Garay brings more than 20 years of experience in commercial lending and deposit relationship management, with a focus on … Read more
On August 5, El Paso-based WestStar announced the promotion of Erica M. Saunders to senior vice president/commercial banking manager for its New Mexico market. She joined WestStar in 2022 and has since built strong, trusted relationships across New Mexico while delivering consistent, high-level performance. With 18 years of experience in commercial lending and banking, Saunders … Read more
El Paso-based WestStar announced the appointment of Myrna A. Ortiz as senior vice president of corporate accounting. She will oversee capital and liquidity planning activities, manage interest rate risk and reporting, handle investment accounting and monitoring and lead special projects. In addition, the bank has hired Nancy C. McElroy as vice president of corporate accounting. … Read more
On April 7, El Paso-based WestStar announced the appointment of Enrique Escalante as an advisory director on its board of directors. With an extensive background in executive leadership, corporate strategy and international business, he brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. Escalante currently serves as chief executive officer of GCC, a leading supplier … Read more
El Paso-based WestStar, a leading financial institution in the Borderplex region, recently announced numerous promotions, appointments and new hires. WestStar has appointed Bill Brady chief investment officer in its wealth management division. He has more than 25 years of experience in the finance industry, including 12 years at WestStar. Brady earned a BBA degree in finance … Read more
El Paso-based WestStar has appointed Nathan T. Hirschi to executive vice president and chief financial officer. He brings more than 30 years of experience in finance and accounting to his new post. Hirschi previously served as senior vice president and chief financial officer at El Paso Electric Co. and served as a partner with KPMG … Read more