AUSTIN, Texas — The Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) has honored Steve Scurlock, the association’s former government affairs director and longtime community banking advocate, with a place on its Wall of Heroes and Legends of Texas Community Banking. Scurlock was recognized during IBAT’s 52nd Annual Convention, held September 19–22 in San Antonio. The Wall of Heroes and Legends recognizes individuals whose leadership, service and contributions have made a lasting impact on community banking in Texas.
For nearly three decades, Scurlock led IBAT’s government relations efforts, representing the interests of Texas community banks before state and federal lawmakers and regulators. His work helped shape banking policy, advance regulatory reforms and protect the community banking model.
Raised in Austin in a community banking family, Scurlock began his banking career as a college student working as a teller. He later worked for one of the nation’s first minority-owned de novo banks before joining the Texas Department of Banking, where he served as a bank examiner and eventually deputy banking commissioner. His experience in legislative and regulatory affairs laid the foundation for his career advocating for community banks.
In 1995, Scurlock joined IBAT, where he became one of the industry’s most respected voices on banking policy. Throughout his tenure, he worked closely with lawmakers, regulators and community bankers to advance legislation, oppose proposals that threatened community banks and ensure their interests were represented in Austin and Washington, D.C.
“Steve Scurlock has been one of the most influential voices for community banking in Texas for decades,” said Christopher Williston, IBAT president and CEO. “His knowledge of banking policy, relationships with lawmakers and regulators and unwavering commitment to our industry have made a difference for community banks across the state. This recognition is a fitting tribute to his career and the lasting impact of his work on Texas community banking.”
Beyond his advocacy work, Scurlock has played an important role in banking education and leadership development. A graduate of the SW Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University and the Texas Tech School of Banking, he served on the boards and faculty of both institutions. In 2024, he received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the SW Graduate School of Banking.
About the Independent Bankers Association of Texas
Formed in 1974, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) represents Texas community banks. The Austin-based group is the largest state community banking organization in the nation with membership comprised of over 2,500 banks and branches in more than 700 Texas communities. Providing safe and responsible financial services to all Texans, IBAT member bank assets range in size from $28 million to $51 billion with combined assets statewide of $296 billion. IBAT member banks are committed to supporting and investing in their local communities.
