LUFKIN, TX/PALESTINE, TX (January 15, 2025) – VeraBank is pleased to announce that Joel Jackson has been promoted to Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Lending Officer & Regional Chairman-Southeast Region and Ashlyn Cole has been promoted to Executive Vice President & Regional President-Angelina & Anderson County.
Jackson has more than 23 years in banking and focuses his expertise on commercial banking. Joel started his banking career in East Texas where he worked his way through various leadership positions in community banking before moving to College Station in late 2012. He most recently served in the position of Senior Vice President – Regional President at VeraBank.
Joel holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Systems Management from Texas A&M University in College Station as well as a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M in Texarkana. He also attended numerous commercial bank courses throughout his career and remains active within various trade associations.
“Joel brings a wealth of expertise and an unparalleled dedication to our customers,” states VeraBank CEO Brad Tidwell. “His leadership and forward-thinking approach make him an ideal fit for this position.”
Adds Jackson, “the most rewarding part of my job is building a customer relationship that results in customer success.”
Outside of banking, Jackson is passionate about the people in his life … coworkers, friends, and most importantly, his family. He has been married to his wife Maegan for 22 years, and they are proud parents to their son Hudson, and daughter Harper.
Cole’s qualifications include commercial banking and more than 15 years in banking.
“Ashlyn brings a strong balance of exceptional skills and customer focus to her relationships,” states VeraBank CEO Brad Tidwell. “Her dedication and leadership are key to our growth and success in the Lufkin area.”
Adds Cole, “my goal is to help my customers grow while making lasting friendships in the process.”
When she’s not at the bank, Cole enjoys baking, fishing and supporting her two children at their various activities with her husband.
VeraBank is a privately owned community bank that serves 19 counties in East, Central and Southeast Texas with 550+ employees, a network of 39 conveniently located branches, $4.3 billion in assets, and trust assets under management of approximately $1.2 billion. Since 1930, VeraBank has remained committed to genuine banking, providing excellent personal service with the latest in banking technology. Visit us online at verabank.com. Member FDIC.
January Chamber Celebrations
January Chamber Celebrations Every month, our Chamber has the privilege of celebrating the people and businesses who are investing in Angelina County. From ribbon cuttings to red carpet salutes, these moments reflect growth, leadership, and the relationships that move our community forward. Here is a look back at the celebrations we shared together this past…
Read MoreChambers to Host Primary Elections Candidate Forum on February 2, 2026
Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber and the Angelina County Citizens Chamber to Host Primary Elections Candidate Forum Lufkin, Texas | January 13, 2026 The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Angelina County Citizens Chamber of Commerce, will host a Primary Elections Candidate Forum on February 2 at Angelina College, located in the Community Services…
Read MoreChamber Announces 106th Annual Chamber Banquet and Meeting
Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Announces 106th Annual Chamber Banquet and Meeting The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce invites the community to gather for its 106th Annual Chamber Banquet and Meeting, presented by Overseas Hardwoods Company, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center. For more than a century, the Chamber has…
Read MoreCelebrating Momentum and Milestones at Angelina College
Celebrating Momentum and Milestones at Angelina College Photo Courtesy of Gary Stallard Progress in a community often starts with education, and right now, Angelina College is creating meaningful momentum for Angelina County through leadership, innovation, and long-term investment. Today’s Red Carpet Salute was an opportunity to pause and celebrate milestones that reflect both vision and…
Read MoreCaregiver Named Outstanding Attendant for the REACH Award
A Pineywoods Home Services Caregiver Named Outstanding Attendant for the REACH Award by United Healthcare LUFKIN, TX – November 19, 2025 – United Healthcare Community Plan of Texas Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) network celebrates an exceptional attendant through the REACH (Recognizing Excellence in Attendant Care in the Home) Award in each service delivery area. An…
Read More