Our first Quarterly Business Review of the year brought leaders from across all our markets together around a simple but powerful theme: Execution. Because as Carl Cravens, President and Chief Banking Officer, put it, the mountain doesn’t reward climbers with great potential…it rewards execution.

Day one grounded us in the fundamentals. As we reflected on 2025, we also looked ahead, discussing how disciplined growth, thoughtful strategy and deep client relationships will continue to define our path forward. We were grateful to learn from Dan Hajdu, Director, Derivatives Products Group, PNC, and Chelsea Rheam, Senior Associate, Derivatives Products Group, PNC, who led a productive discussion on interest rates and swaps in an evolving market environment.

Day two pushed us into what’s next. Alex Treece, Co-Founder & CEO of Stablecore, and Jessi Goostree, Executive Director of the Texas Blockchain Council, sparked a dynamic conversation on digital assets, stablecoin and the implications for financial institutions committed to learning and navigating a new world of payments, currency and business models that will impact all businesses.

We also took time to recognize excellence within our own team. Congratulations to Tim Caperton, MBA, Senior Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager for our Austin market, who was recognized for his outstanding performance to date. His leadership and commitment to our clients exemplify the standard we strive for across the bank.

And because strong teams are built both in and out of the boardroom, we capped it off with an evening at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, a little friendly competition, a lot of laughs and a great reminder that connection fuels performance.

Grateful for the thoughtful dialogue, the energy and the shared commitment to building a bank that continues to innovate, adapt and deliver for our clients, setting the tone for 2026 and beyond.

Susser Bank announced the appointment of Dr. Jay C. Hartzell, President of SMU, to its Board of Directors. A visionary and nationally renowned leader with an extraordinary record of accomplishment inside and outside academia, Dr. Hartzell brings a distinguished record of leadership across higher education, finance, real estate, corporate governance, and community engagement.

Dr. Hartzell currently serves as the 11th president of SMU, where he is leading the University during a period of significant opportunity and momentum. Prior to joining SMU, Dr. Hartzell was President of The University of Texas at Austin, where he oversaw record highs in applications, enrollment, research expenditures and philanthropic support. Earlier, he served as Dean of the McCombs School of Business, one of the nation’s largest and most prestigious business schools. He began his academic career as an assistant professor of finance at New York University’s Stern School of Business.

Throughout his career, Dr. Hartzell has worked closely with Texas businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, advising on growth, governance, and financial strategy. His ability to translate rigorous academic research into practical, high-impact solutions positions him to benefit Susser Bank’s clients, strengthen its team, and help shape the bank’s long-term strategy.

“Jay Hartzell has demonstrated a remarkable ability to strengthen institutions through disciplined leadership, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Sam L. Susser, Chairman and CEO of Susser Bank. “At a moment when the banking industry is being reshaped by consolidation, our guiding principle, ‘Built to Last. Not to Sell.,’ remains at the core of who we are. Jay’s perspective and experience serving two of Texas’ premier institutions will be a strong addition to our board as we continue to build enduring relationships and support the long-term success of our clients, our team members and the communities we operate in.”

Beyond academia, Dr. Hartzell serves on the board of MGIC Investment Corporation (NYSE: MTG) and is actively engaged with the Dallas Citizens Council and the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas CEO Advisory Council. His deep commitment to civic leadership and community development aligns with Susser Bank’s mission to foster economic opportunity across Texas.

“I am deeply honored to join the board of a respected Texas financial institution like Susser Bank during a time of significant opportunity,” said Dr. Hartzell. “Susser Bank’s clear purpose, long-term vision, and focus on client success make this an exciting opportunity. Plus, I am inspired by the exceptional talent that the bank has already assembled and is continuing to attract. I look forward to helping the bank continue to innovate, anticipate client needs, and deliver solutions that set a new standard for Texas financial institutions.”

Dr. Hartzell earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration and economics from Trinity University and a Ph.D. in finance from The University of Texas at Austin.

We’re honored to be named a SMU Cox Dallas 100™ Entrepreneur Award Winner. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and the long-term relationships we build with clients across North Texas. Dallas–Fort Worth continues to stand out as a leading business region, driven by innovation, growth and opportunity. Thank you to the Caruth Institute for Entrepreneurship at the SMU Cox School of Business for this recognition.

View the full list of 2025 SMU Cox Dallas 100™ winners >

Team Susser was honored to celebrate one of our most cherished traditions, the Annual Susser Bank Turkey Fry. While this marks our fifth year hosting the event as Susser Bank, the tradition itself began more than 25 years ago with Chairman and CEO Sam L. Susser’s uncle, Jerry Susser. What started as a small family gathering has grown into an event our team, clients, community partners and friends look forward to each holiday season.

This year, Uncle Jerry returned to the fryers alongside our team, preparing his classic Cajun turkey and signature fried shrimp with the same care he’s shown for decades.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. We are grateful for your partnership and wish you a safe, healthy and prosperous holiday season.