Best of Show
Lone Star National Bank (McAllen) | Community Service
Starr County Volunteerism
At Lone Star National Bank, volunteerism is central to its identity—reflected in its slogan, “We Are LSNB.” LSNB aims to make a lasting impact by delivering exceptional service, building trust and strengthening community pride for future generations. In 2024, LSNB's focused and effective volunteer program logged over 8,000 employee hours through school partnerships, civic events, food drives, highway cleanups, athletics and education initiatives. It also donated over $1 million in sponsorships this year—more than $3 million over the past five years—along with 11,000 pounds of food for local families. With 33 banking centers across South Texas, LSNB is committed to empowering families, mentoring students and supporting local organizations. For many of its employees, especially those raised here, giving back is personal. At LSNB, it’s more than a campaign—it’s the culture.
Community Spirit
First National Bank Texas (Killeen) | Community Service
Better Banking Pilot-BankOn Houston
Through a partnership between BankOn Houston and First National Bank Texas (FNBT), Coordinator Sabrina Lewis invited FNBT to play a key role in the Better Banking Pilot at Wheatley High School during fall 2023 and spring 2024. Launched in 2021, the program helps graduating seniors overcome barriers to obtaining state IDs and accessing safe, affordable banking services. As part of the pilot, FNBT provided 25 mentors per session, supporting a total of 65 students over two eight-week sessions. Mentors helped students gather documents for Texas IDs and offered financial guidance. Each session ended with field trips to the DPS office and a local bank, where students could open their first accounts. FNBT bankers contributed over 250 hours mentoring and teaching financial literacy, covering topics like budgeting, borrowing, and banking basics. This support empowers students to manage their finances effectively and avoid costly alternatives—potentially saving them up to $40,000 over a lifetime. The program had a lasting impact not only on students but also on the mentors and participants who shared in its success.
Community Spirit
TexasBank (Brownwood) | Marketing
TexasBank Touchdown
TexasBank Touchdown is a community-driven campaign launched in 2017 that turns Friday night football into real support for local student programs. Each week during football season, TexasBank partners with area schools to spotlight non-athletic groups—like Band, FFA, Cheer, Theater and more. For every touchdown, the bank donates $25 to the featured organization, announced live on-air and at the stadium with: “And that was another TexasBank Touchdown!” The goal is simple: boost school spirit and fund the often-overlooked programs that make game nights special. With minimal costs—mainly regular radio spots—and in-house advertising, the bank backs the campaign with digital engagement and in-branch promotions. Since launch, TexasBank has donated over $51,000. As the bank grows, so will this program—strengthening its role as a trusted, local partner. TexasBank Touchdown: Proven. Local. Strong.
Gold Eagle Award Winners
First Bank Texas (Willow Park) | Marketing
Mobile Branch
As Texas’ oldest national bank charter, First Bank Texas has long prioritized convenience through innovative technology. In 2025, it launched a mobile branch to expand access and support communities across North and West Texas. The mobile branch offers full-service banking at events, schools, festivals and in underbanked or rural areas. It's also equipped to serve during emergencies and natural disasters, ensuring vital account access when it's needed most. Beyond banking, the mobile branch promotes financial education by attending school and youth events to introduce younger generations to financial literacy and the bank’s role in supporting long-term goals like saving and entrepreneurship.
First National Bank (Anson) | Architectural Design
Back in Business: Breathing New Life into 1959 Bank Landmark
Originally built in 1959, the First National Bank of Anson was recently remodeled to honor its 1902 founding while creating a modern, functional space for the future. Serving the Anson community for over 120 years, the bank remains committed to leadership and quality financial services. The renovation transformed the entire facility—from parking and signage to teller lines and lobbies—introducing natural light, improving energy efficiency and enhancing accessibility and customer experience. Original vaults were preserved as a tribute to the bank’s legacy. This blend of tradition and innovation supports new technologies and reaffirms the bank’s mission to remain a trusted, forward-thinking partner in the community.
First National Bank Texas (Killeen) | Financial Literacy
15 Years of Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs - Lemonade Day Fort Cavazos Area
In 2009, First National Bank Texas and First Heroes National Bank launched Lemonade Day in the Fort Cavazos Area, including Killeen, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights, Kempner, Belton, Temple and Salado. The program teaches youth how to start, own and operate a business through the simple model of a lemonade stand. Lemonade Day is more than a weekend event—it features a series of educational activities such as Lemonade University, Design-a-Stand, Logo Contest and Lemonpalooza, all aimed at building entrepreneurial skills. Since its start, over 32,000 young participants have joined, generating more than $181,000 in revenue and donating over $50,000 to local charities. The program emphasizes smart money habits: spend some, save some and share some. On June 5, 2024, the program celebrated its 15th anniversary with a Gala at Central Texas College, honoring youth entrepreneurs, mentors and community partners. Each year, Lemonade Day continues to spark creativity, leadership and ambition in its young participants. From launching small ventures to giving back to their communities, these youth are gaining the tools to shape their futures with confidence. As the program looks ahead, it remains focused on expanding opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurs—helping them dream bigger, reach higher and make a lasting impact.
Legend Bank (Bowie) | Bank Culture
Don't Gamble with Your Health, Lucky 7 Wellness Challenge
Don't Gamble with Your Health was a game-inspired wellness challenge created by the LEAD group to promote healthy habits among employees. Despite a tight timeline, the team quickly developed the “Lucky 7” theme, using daily dice rolls to assign fun wellness tasks like staying active, drinking water and practicing gratitude. To drive engagement, LEAD launched the program at the All-Employee Meeting, fully embracing the challenge’s theme. They supported participation by creating an internal webpage for tracking progress and encouraging involvement. Swag bags with seven themed wellness items were distributed to reinforce the initiative and keep motivation high. The team maintained momentum through weekly meetings that coordinated tasks and ensured consistent communication. They also managed the data to fairly select the Lucky 7 Grand Prize winners. The challenge exceeded expectations with 153 employees participating, surpassing the initial goal of 125. A total of 2,935 challenge entries were logged, and 128 photos were submitted, highlighting strong employee engagement.
Legend Bank (Bowie) | Marketing
It's a Wonderful Bank Christmas Video
Legend Bank’s holiday production, It’s a Wonderful Bank, paid tribute to community banking, inspired by It’s a Wonderful Life. Filmed entirely in-house, employees starred and worked behind the scenes to recreate the classic, showcasing the bank’s spirit of connection and generosity. A highlight was the announcement of a $50,000 donation from the 2025 Legendary Legacy Fund to the Delta County Public Library, underscoring the bank’s commitment to giving back. A strategic marketing campaign promoted the video across digital, social, print and internal channels, driving strong engagement and positive feedback. The project culminated in a community event celebrating the donation, further proving that Legend Bank’s impact goes beyond banking—it's about enriching lives and building lasting relationships.
Lone Star National Bank (McAllen) | Innovation
Cowboy Cash
At Lone Star National Bank, innovation goes beyond technology—it’s how it connects, inspires and leads. Meet Cowboy Cash! LSNB's beloved mascot turned 17 last year and remains one of South Texas’ most recognized figures. More than a mascot, Cowboy Cash is an experience—bridging generations, industries and communities through creative outreach and storytelling. From schools and nonprofits to financial education and city festivals, Cowboy Cash plays a key role in every service area. He brings joy, builds trust and sparks meaningful conversations about financial wellness. He also stars in LSNB's Secret Teller video series, celebrating community heroes and organizations. Just this past December, he surprised customers with over $8,000 in giveaways. Cowboy Cash embodies LSNB’s mission: building strong relationships and supporting financial success through innovation, imagination and impact.
PointBank (Pilot Point) | Marketing
It's not just banking. It's PointBanking!
The “It’s Not Just Banking. It’s PointBanking!” campaign set PointBank apart by emphasizing its local roots, personalized service and community trust. Aimed at boosting brand awareness, engagement and referrals, the campaign featured a custom logo, catchy jingle and in-house videos with real testimonials and staff. Community outreach—including local events, school sponsorships and branded merchandise—amplified the message. It all led to the launch of the PointBanking Family Program, a referral initiative driving measurable growth. The results: a 25% increase in new customers and top brand awareness among community banks in the county, according to an independent survey. The campaign successfully redefined community banking and cemented PointBanking as a trusted local brand.
Texas First Bank (Texas City) | Bank Culture
Uniting Our Team for the Future
Attracting, retaining and developing talent has long been a top priority for Texas First Bank, along with fostering a collaborative, culture-driven workplace. To support this vision, the bank set out to create an Operations Center that would bring teams together like never before. After years of searching, the 44,000-square-foot building at 600 Gulf Freeway—just off I-45—proved to be the ideal location. The new center houses IT, Consumer Loans, Loan and Deposit Operations, Card Services, Training, Marketing, Facilities and Security—all under one roof, with room to grow. TFB partnered with a design firm to prioritize collaboration, incorporating input from each team. Features include multiple huddle rooms, low cubicle walls with adjustable desks, overhead white noise, a 40-person training room, wellness and mother’s rooms and an oversized break room. Glass office walls and matte black finishes provide openness and transparency, while wood accents add warmth.
Since its opening in summer 2024, the center has sparked a genuine cultural shift. Employees take pride in their workplace, now a hub for collaboration, creativity and innovation. The result: stronger connections, fewer delays and smarter, more efficient service for customers.
Vista Bank (Dallas) | Financial Literacy
Vista Bank's Path to Yes Program and Financial Literacy Center
Vista Bank’s “Path to Yes” program, offered through the South Dallas Financial Literacy Center, empowers underserved entrepreneurs with the skills and tools to grow their businesses and access capital. The six-week course features four tailored tracks, from startups to established businesses, and combines financial education with hands-on mentorship from Vista Bank staff and Darlisa Diltz of the South Dallas Fair Park Innovation Center. Graduates gain practical skills in budgeting, credit and capital readiness, along with a supportive peer network. Of the first cohort, 70% were minority- or women-owned businesses, with several securing funding or increasing revenue. Beyond the core program, Vista Bank hosts monthly financial literacy classes, reaching over 200 individuals. With new cohorts starting August 2025, “Path to Yes” continues to open doors through personalized support, community partnerships and a commitment to inclusive banking.
Citizens State Bank (Woodville, Valley Ranch Branch) | Architectural Design
CSB Valley Ranch
The CSB flagship office in vibrant Valley Ranch was strategically built for high visibility from Hwy 59 and 99, establishing a strong local presence. The building combines modern design and functionality with a sleek steel frame, elegant masonry cladding and energy-efficient features like Low E glass and LED lighting. Inside, eco-friendly flooring and custom signage reflect its commitment to sustainability and brand identity. Flexible layouts with demountable partitions support evolving business needs. Designed for comfort and collaboration, the space transforms after hours with illuminated graphics that enhance its distinctive, modern appeal.
First Bank Texas (Willow Park) | Community Service
Education Foundation Support
First Bank Texas is deeply committed to strengthening communities by supporting education foundations across its footprint. These partnerships help ensure that every child has the resources to succeed and grow into a productive adult who contributes to the community. Recognizing the significant needs in public schools—from basic supplies to security upgrades—First Bank Texas steps in where funding falls short. Teachers often cover these gaps personally, but through education foundations, the bank helps provide not only essentials but also grants for innovative classroom projects. In addition to financial support, bank employees volunteer, serve on boards and actively participate in foundation events. For First Bank Texas, this is about more than funding—it's about building lasting relationships and fostering the full development of the community.
FirstBank Southwest (Amarillo) | Bank Culture
Connections Crew
The Connections Crew is a culture committee that cultivates a positive, inclusive and engaging workplace by fostering strong employee connections and promoting the bank’s core values. The committee’s objectives include organizing cultural events, enhancing employee engagement and supporting initiatives that improve overall work experience.
Comprised of employees from various departments, the Connections Crew plans events, collects feedback and aligns efforts with the bank’s strategic goals. Members serve as culture ambassadors, actively promoting recognition, inclusion and a sense of belonging. The committee also plays a key role in maintaining open communication channels between staff and leadership.
FirstBank Southwest (Amarillo) | Community Service
Pie it Forward
Pie It Forward is a fun and engaging fundraising campaign launched by FirstBank Southwest in partnership with the United Way of Amarillo and Canyon. Held each fall, the program encourages employee donations through rallies, goal tracking and a lighthearted incentive—select leaders agree to be “pied” if fundraising targets are met. The campaign builds excitement around giving, promotes community impact and culminates at the employee-attended Falloween Festival.
Keystone Bank (Austin) | Community Service
Keystone Cares: Service That Starts from the Top
Keystone Cares was founded on the belief that people want to help—they just need the opportunity. Designed to make community service central to Keystone Bank’s identity, the initiative gives employees the support to give back, multiplying impact for both the community and team. Focused on critical needs in Central Texas—like food insecurity, childhood education, and underserved families—Keystone Cares empowers employees to lead, build relationships, and drive change from the ground up. Beyond volunteering and philanthropy, the bank amplifies community voices through Banking on Community, a podcast hosted by CEO Jeff Wilkinson that features local leaders, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits working to uplift the region.
Keystone Bank (Austin) | Financial Literacy
Keystones Bank's Grassroots Financial Education Initiative
Financial education is central to Keystone Bank’s mission to bring humanity back to banking. Recognizing that many in Central Texas feel underserved or overwhelmed by financial matters, the locally led bank has made it a priority to close the financial knowledge gap. In 2024, Keystone expanded grassroots financial education by partnering with community organizations and dedicating employee time and expertise. These efforts reached a wide range of audiences—from elementary students to adults—equipping them with practical skills and confidence to make informed financial decisions. Keystone’s approach emphasizes personalization, accessibility and empowerment. Throughout the year, bank employees volunteered to lead in-person sessions at schools, nonprofits and civic events, fostering financial confidence across the community.
Lone Star National Bank (McAllen) | Marketing
Client Testimonials
At Lone Star National Bank, marketing plays a key role in supporting its lenders, banking center managers, business development officers and their small business partners. LSNB goes beyond traditional marketing by promoting its clients—revamping our YouTube channel to spotlight local businesses and encourage shopping locally. The “Lunch & Learn” Small Business Seminars have attracted over 300 attendees, offering insights on insurance savings, tax strategies and business structure—underscoring LSBB's commitment to small business success. Through social media, LSNB features client stories and share testimonials to build trust, credibility and community. Marketing is a strategic partner in advancing LSNB’s mission: building lasting relationships, empowering entrepreneurs and fueling regional growth—with innovation, integrity and purpose.
Texas Regional Bank (Harlingen) | Bank Culture
Fifteen Years of The People You Know: Texas Regional Bank’s Diversified Approach to Building a Winning Team
As Texas Regional Bank (TRB) celebrates 15 years, we reflect on our remarkable growth—from under 20 employees to nearly 600 across 35 locations and four regions. While we've expanded beyond core banking into a full-service financial institution, one thing remains unchanged: our commitment to developing our greatest asset—our people. Our mission to “Be The People You Know in The Communities We Serve” continues to guide us, and we've deliberately invested in our team to sustain our culture as we grow.
Brenham National Bank (Caprock Branch) | Architectural Design
Rooted in Texas, Built for Tomorrow: Brenham National Bank Expands in College Station
Brenham National Bank, a locally owned community bank serving Central Texas since 1933, opened a new 3,414-square-foot branch at 4466 State Highway 6 South in College Station. Designed to reflect both Texas heritage and modern progress, the Caprock branch expands the bank’s presence in the Brazos Valley, complementing its existing location at 2470 Earl Rudder Freeway South. This new branch enhances accessibility and convenience for customers in the growing region, offering a full suite of personal, commercial and digital banking services—including mobile check deposit (Snap Deposit) and online account opening (OpenAnywhere). Brenham National Bank continues to earn a 5-Star “Superior” rating from Bauer Financial, a testament to its financial strength and commitment to exceptional service.
First National Bank of Central Texas (Waco, Gatesville Branch) | Architectural Design
Building More Than a Branch: FNBCT's Gatesville Expansion Delivers Impact
The First National Bank of Central Texas (FNBCT) expanded into Gatesville to support its mission of community-focused banking and meet Coryell County’s growing financial needs. The new 4,600-square-foot branch at 2908 E. Main Street reflects local culture and includes features like a community boardroom and outdoor pavilion to encourage local engagement. FNBCT has exceeded its goals for the Gatesville branch, highlighted by initiatives such as donating $50,000 to local nonprofits during its ribbon-cutting. The branch’s growth and warm reception confirm the success of its personalized service model and commitment to community ties. More than a bank, the branch aims to be a local hub, using its outdoor space for meetings and community events. FNBCT remains dedicated to building strong communities through trust and service—prioritizing relationships over transactions.
Guaranty Bank & Trust (Mount Pleasant) | Bank Culture
Guaranty Culture: Our Employees Are Our Greatest Asset
Launched in 2006, the Raving Fans initiative reflects Guaranty Bank & Trust's corporate culture by focusing on customer experiences that exceed expectations and build loyalty. All employees receive Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard and participate in regular huddles led by Champions to discuss service, team-building and growth. GB&T celebrates employees through quarterly awards, peer-nominated recognitions and Mail Drawings. The Eagle Award honors those with a positive attitude and team spirit, while the +1 Service Award recognizes those who go above and beyond for customers. Winners receive a personalized crystal award, and Eagle Award recipients also earn an additional day off. Since 2007, GB&T presented 189 +1 Awards and 287 Eagle Awards, with over $180,000 in cash prizes awarded from 2013 to Q1 2025. These programs underscore the belief that the success of Guaranty Bank & Trust is driven by the success of our employees and customers.
Lone Star National Bank (McAllen) | Financial Literacy
Financial Literacy
In South Texas, financial literacy is a pressing need, especially in underserved communities. Lone Star National Bank is committed to closing this gap by making financial education a priority—empowering individuals, strengthening families and building resilient communities. In 2024, its outreach teams took part in over 100 financial literacy and community events, reaching nearly 30,000 people of all ages. From classrooms to college campuses, the bilingual team members returned to their roots to deliver practical, age-appropriate lessons. Employees like Lizeth Guajardo, a former teacher and Alton Banking Center Manager, brought financial education back to the schools that shaped them. Beyond education, LSNB also supports small business owners with personalized tools and guidance. LSNB believes financial knowledge is a right—and a pathway to opportunity.
Veritex Community Bank (Dallas) | Marketing
Fueling Growth, Backing Dreams
Small Business Corner was created to spotlight the success stories of Veritex Community Bank clients, highlight their experiences and promote their businesses to a wider audience. Through authentic video storytelling and strategic media partnerships, it became a powerful tool for community engagement, brand building and small business advocacy. The campaign’s goal was to amplify client voices, showcase how Veritex supports their growth and enhance credibility through professional marketing and regional TV exposure. Veritex Community Bank took a grassroots approach, with bankers in DFW and Houston identifying clients with compelling stories. Filming took place on-site to capture genuine, unscripted conversations, which were then transformed into high-quality videos—provided to clients at no cost. These segments aired on Good Morning Texas (WFAA) and Great Day Houston (KHOU), ensuring broad reach and emotional impact. The campaign delivered measurable success: clients gained valuable exposure on TV and digital platforms, received professional video content for their own marketing and benefited from increased visibility and trust. Veritex Bank reinforced its identity as a transparent, relationship-first institution, deepening community ties and affirming its role as a true partner to small businesses. Small Business Corner demonstrated how authentic stories, when purposefully shared, can build trust, grow businesses and create lasting impact.
Woodforest National Bank (The Woodlands) | Innovation
Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis Nationally & Chronic Homelessness in Houston
The AIC CEI-Boulos Opportunity Fund, an impact investment fund in partnership with CEI Boulos Capital Management and Allivate Impact Capital® (AIC) (seeded with $26 million by Woodforest National Bank®), invested over $1.5 million to rehabilitate the Knowles-Rowland House in Houston. Construction is underway on this 21,000 sq. ft. building on Crawford Street in Midtown Houston. An adaptive reuse of the Knowles-Rowland Center for Youth, the investment will transform the aging and worn facility into 31 new units of permanent support housing for people who have experienced chronic homelessness. Sixteen units will be designed to accommodate those with mobility or sensory impairments. The project sponsor and service provider is Bread of Life, a well-respected local nonprofit affiliated with St. John’s Downtown Church. The nonprofit focuses on the issues of homelessness, health and hunger relief.