Texas Border Businesses
Roberto Hugo Gonzalez
Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed S. David DeAnda, Jr. as Vice Chairman of the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors. The organization forms the private side of a public-private partnership with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism and is responsible for promoting Texas as a great state for business both domestically and internationally. The appointment highlights DeAnda’s longstanding commitment to economic growth and community development throughout Texas.
S. David DeAnda Jr., a native of Mission, Texas, currently serves as president of Lone Star National Bank and also serves on the Board of Directors. Under his leadership, Lone Star National Bank has grown significantly and strengthened its position as a leading financial institution in Texas. His responsibilities include overseeing the bank’s operations, ensuring economic stability and fostering relationships with the local community and business sector.
Mr. Deanda has decades of extensive experience in the banking industry during which he has played a key role in extending banking services to underserved communities. Mr. Deanda’s work in the banking sector is particularly known for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and promoting financial literacy, which is essential to promoting economic stability in the region.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Deanda is deeply involved in community service. He serves on several committees, including the Board of Directors of Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, the Board of Directors of Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) and the Board of Trustees of the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Foundation. His involvement with these organizations highlights his dedication to improving healthcare, education and economic opportunities in the community.
Deanda’s role at VAMOS, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to Hispanic students in the Rio Grande Valley, symbolizes his dedication to education and mentoring. Under his leadership, VAMOS has expanded its reach to provide more scholarships and mentoring programs to outstanding students, helping them achieve their academic and career goals. VAMOS has awarded more than $25 million in higher education scholarships to students in the Rio Grande Valley.
Deanda’s influence extends beyond community service to a key role in economic planning and development: he serves on the Hidalgo County Metropolitan Planning Organization and the Texas A&M University Kingsville Foundation Board of Directors, helping to shape regional transportation and infrastructure projects vital to economic development in Hidalgo County and beyond.
In addition to his local contributions, DeAnda’s involvement with the Texas Economic Development Corp. allows him to influence statewide economic strategy. His appointment as Vice Chairman demonstrates his ability to promote Texas as a business-friendly state, attract investment and foster economic growth.
As past president of the Hidalgo County Regional Transportation Authority (HCRMA), Deanda’s leadership has played a pivotal role in advancing transportation infrastructure in South Texas. Under his presidency, HCRMA launched several projects aimed at improving transportation in the region, easing traffic congestion, and strengthening community connections. These efforts have helped support economic development and improve the quality of life for area residents.
A strong advocate for minority and community banking, Deanda actively participates on the Minority Depository Institution Advisory Committee and the Dallas Fed Community Depository Institution Advisory Committee. These roles are essential in supporting minority-owned banks, which are critical in promoting financial inclusion and serving underserved communities. Deanda’s advocacy work focuses on ensuring these institutions have the resources and support they need to thrive in a competitive banking environment.
Deanda’s educational background demonstrates his passion for professional development and expertise in finance. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University and is a graduate of the Southern Methodist University Southwestern Graduate School of Banking. These academic achievements have equipped him with the knowledge and skills to excel in the banking industry and provide visionary leadership in economic development.
Mr. Deanda was recently appointed Vice Chairman of the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors in recognition of his dedication to economic growth, community service and his ability to bring diverse groups together for the advancement of Texas. His extensive experience in banking, infrastructure development and community service makes him well suited to steer Texas toward continued prosperity.
As he assumes this new role, Deanda is poised to leverage his extensive network, leadership skills and passion for community development to make a significant contribution to Texas’ economic landscape. His vision for a more inclusive and prosperous Texas reflects his commitment to fostering an environment in which businesses and communities can thrive.
