Independent Bankers Association of Texas

05/06/2026

Day 2 of EDGE 2026 is underway!

This morning’s “What’s Keeping You Up at Night?” panel sparked honest conversation around the challenges community banks are facing right now, from fraud and compliance pressures to staffing, operations and keeping up with constant change.

With plenty of audience participation and discussion throughout the session, one of the best parts was hearing how peers across Texas are navigating the same issues and sharing ideas, perspectives and experiences with one another.

Thanks to moderator Apryl Salazar and panelists Brant Tate, Brandy Patterson and Jennifer Mancha for leading such a great discussion.

05/05/2026

That’s a wrap on Day 1 of EDGE 2026!

Full rooms, honest conversations and a lot of “we’re all dealing with the same stuff” moments. Between breakout sessions and time with exhibitors, there was no shortage of ideas and solutions shared along the way.

Now we’re headed to The Backyard Bar for dinner, a cold drink and a little fun. Good day. Even better people.

See y’all tomorrow for Day 2.

05/05/2026

05/05/2026

IBAT’s EDGE is officially underway! We kicked things off with a packed opening general session and leadership panel featuring William Chittenden, Brian Bowers, Zach Gilbert and Sarah Long.

From navigating economic uncertainty and regulatory complexity to driving innovation and strengthening culture, the conversation focused on the mindset and skills needed to succeed in times of change.

04/30/2026

IBAT is on the ground in Washington, D.C., for the ICBA Capital Summit, advocating for Texas community banks and the community banking industry as a whole.

The IBAT Government Relations team and member bankers are meeting with lawmakers, including Congressman Pete Sessions, to ensure the voice of community banking is heard where it matters most.

04/23/2026

April is Community Banking Month, a time to recognize the real impact community banks have across Texas and the people who make it happen.

At IBAT, we see that impact every day through the banks we serve and the relationships we build. Throughout the month, we’ve been sharing perspectives from our team on what it means to support community banking in action.

This week, Curt Nelson, Director of Membership, shares his perspective on what drives community banking forward.

04/21/2026

The numbers are in.

IBAT now has the data to back what Texas community bankers have always known: your work drives real impact.

In 2024, Texas community banks supported $112.4B in economic activity, 1.6M jobs and $76.4B in wages. With $260B in loans circulating locally, community banks keep “local money” working in Texas and strengthening communities statewide.

Read the full Economic Impact Study here:https://ibat.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Steward-Redqueen-Final-Economic-Impact-Report.pdf

04/16/2026

April is Community Banking Month, a time to recognize the people and purpose behind community banking across Texas.

At IBAT, that work comes to life through the relationships we build and the community bankers we support every day. Throughout the month, we’re sharing perspectives from our team on what it means to stand alongside community banks and the impact they have across our state.

This week, Julie Courtney, CAE, President of IBAT Services, Inc., reflects on 27 years with IBAT and why she believes community banking remains the heartbeat of Texas. Follow along as we continue sharing voices from across the IBAT team.

04/16/2026

Get a sneak peek at what’s coming to IBAT’s 41st Annual Connecting Leaders Conference 👀

Keynote speaker Courtney Clark is bringing energy, real-world perspective and powerful strategies on resilience and adaptability.

Trust us… this is a session you won’t want to miss! Learn more and register here: www.ibat.org/clc

https://youtu.be/AFl66ieDiqo?si=jYzei6QRO7RqJQKb

1 like. "IBAT Welcome Video"

04/09/2026

April is Community Banking Month, a time to celebrate the impact, service and dedication community banks bring to their customers and the communities they call home.

At IBAT, we believe deeply in the power of community banking to do good, strengthen lives, support local businesses and build stronger communities across Texas. It’s work we’re proud of, and people we’re proud to stand alongside.

This month, we’re highlighting members of the IBAT team and what it means to support and serve community banks every day. We’re kicking things off with IBAT President and CEO Christopher Williston VI. Follow along throughout the month as we share more voices from the IBAT team.

01/25/2026

Due to inclement weather across Texas, our office will be closed Monday, January 26. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, January 27 at 8:00 a.m. CT.