2025 Letter from the CEO
12/16/2025
By: CNB
Reflecting on 2025 and Looking Toward 2026
As we reflect on this past year, all of us at Citizens National Bank are reminded of the purpose that has guided our institution since 1900. For 125 years, our commitment to serving clients and communities has been rooted in the values that define who we are and how we operate:
- Integrity
- Responsibility
- Commitment
- Family
- Client Service
- Community
This year, we were honored to celebrate our 125th anniversary. Throughout 2025, every CNB location hosted celebrations to recognize our history and thank our clients. We received acknowledgments from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Independent Bankers Association of Texas, and many local chambers. From July 4th festivities to a video series capturing our legacy, this milestone underscored the trust and relationships that have carried us through more than a century of service.
CNB’s strength and capabilities continued to grow in 2025. Deposit growth reflected both client confidence and the collective efforts of our team. Our lending group remained instrumental in supporting business expansion and personal financial goals, and the addition of a new Treasury Management Officer further enhanced our support for business clients. Daily cutoff times were extended, and the point-of-sale purchase limit on business debit cards was doubled, offering greater speed and flexibility for those who rely on CNB for day-to-day operations.
Service enhancements continued across the organization. Few banks today still offer a fully local, in-house contact center, but CNB remains committed to real conversations with real people. By pairing this personal service with Emma, our after-hours AI operator, clients receive consistent, efficient support around the clock. Our fraud team also played a critical role in safeguarding client accounts, preventing significant potential losses through vigilant monitoring supported by upgraded fraud detection technology.
Preparations are underway for a major enhancement to the client experience with the launch of an upgraded online banking platform in early 2026. This platform will offer a more intuitive interface, expanded functionality, and greater convenience.
Client feedback continued to guide our performance. CNB earned high ratings on new client surveys, and five-star reviews surpassed 280—reflecting a team committed to dependable, relationship-focused service.
Community support remained central to our mission. CNB contributed thousands of dollars to nonprofits throughout Central Texas and promoted financial literacy by visiting schools to teach students the fundamentals of saving, budgeting, and responsible banking.
We also continued to expand our footprint. We are excited to initiate a presence in the Brenham market with the intent of applying to open a branch. We look forward to introducing the Brenham community to CNB and sharing the relationship-focused approach that defines our organization.
Looking ahead, national indicators point to continued economic momentum, and Central Texas remains one of the strongest-performing regions in the country. With robust population growth, expanding businesses, and resilient consumer activity, our region continues to present meaningful opportunities for individuals and businesses alike.
As we enter a new year, we do so with deep gratitude for the trust you have placed in us. If you value the service you receive at CNB, we invite you to introduce us to others who may benefit from a local, relationship-driven banking experience. And if you are not yet banking with us—or have additional financial needs—we welcome the opportunity to serve you.
For 125 years, it has been our privilege to safeguard your assets, support your goals, and walk alongside you as your financial partner. On behalf of our directors, officers, and the entire CNB team, we appreciate your continued confidence and look forward to serving you in 2026.
Steven M. Wise
Chairman, CEO & President
