Monthly Archives: May 2023

Congratulations to Andrew Denny, who was recently awarded the EMBA scholarship at the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame Gala. Starting in the Fall, Andrew will be enrolled in the Executive MBA Program in Banking and Financial Institutions at Sam Houston State University. The program is a unique two-year program designed to develop and enhance a candidate’s skills necessary for a position of leadership in a financial institution or regulatory agency. The program emphasizes the integration and synthesis of various disciplines to develop a student’s ability to function and make sound administrative decisions in a dynamic financial institution environment. Apart from being a valued SouthStar Bank team member, Andrew is also a husband, father, and avid paddleboarder. Every year he volunteers to raise funds and awareness for the Flatwater Foundation, paddling 21 miles in the annual TYLER’S Dam That Cancer event. Congratulations and Good Luck, Andrew!

Kacy Kirk and Kristy Hollis have been promoted to the role of Vice President/Retail Area Manager for the Rural and Urban regions, respectively. Both Kacy and Kristy have thrived in their Branch Manager positions, using their knowledge and experience to support their teams and provide an outstanding banking experience for their customers. Their hard work was recognized in 2022 when both ladies were awarded the Ride for the Brand Award for Operations, which is one of the bank’s highest internal honors. In their new roles, both ladies will assist with the advancement of new employees, develop strategic plans with the retail team, and continue to grow customer relationships. Kristy is coming up on her fourth year with SouthStar Bank and has over two decades of banking experience overall. As the Retail Area Manager of the urban market, she is excited to share SouthStar Bank’s overarching vision and motivate her team to be the best they can possibly be. Kristy is a natural leader who thrives on sharing knowledge and seeing team members excel in their respective roles. When Kristy is away from work, she can be found spending time with her daughter. She points to being a mother as her biggest personal achievement and cherishes every moment she can spend with her family. Kristy also enjoys traveling, with cruises being her preferred method. She has a great appreciation for anywhere with beautiful blue water. Kacy has been in the banking industry for over a decade boasting 11 years of experience, including eight years at SouthStar Bank. In her new role as Retail Area Manager of the rural market, she is excited to be able to work on new projects aimed at elevating the customer and team member experience across all the branches in her area. Kacy is also involved in the Hearne community and finds great enjoyment in contributing her skills beyond the bank. Most recently, she has served three years on the Hearne Community Development Board as secretary and treasurer. When Kacy is out of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family. They enjoy traveling, camping, visiting family, and reading books. SouthStar Bank is excited to watch Kacy and Kristy continue to grow in their new positions and make our star shine! Congratulations, Kacy and Kristy!