Bertha Suarez helps guide Weslaco's growth

Being a business banker and a vice president of Frost Bank in Weslaco has given Bertha Suarez many opportunities to help her community to grow and prosper.   Her efforts were recognized by the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce which named her 2006 Weslaco Woman of the Year and saluted her spirit, leadership and contributions to Weslaco.

Born in Mercedes, Suarez grew up in Weslaco, graduated from high school and went straight to work at what was then First National Bank “I never expected to be in banking, but a friend told me of an opening. I interviewed with Robert McAllen and started work the next day.” Over 35 years, she worked herself up the ladder at various financial institutions in Weslaco.  As vice president at Frost Bank’s  Airport Drive location, Suarez concentrates on the commercial customers who are instrumental in making Weslaco go and grow.

Looking at the professional woman behind the large desk, most people would be surprised to learn Suarez was the first female firefighter with the Weslaco Volunteer Fire Department.   She went through fire fighter training and stayed active for six years.  “It found it very interesting.  It’s like a brotherhood, really.   The fire fighters respected me and helped me. Being in the fire department has helped me in my life personally.  I’m much more aware of fire hazards, too.”

Throughout her life, Suarez has participated in community building, from helping with Little League when her son was young to serving as president of the Weslaco Rotary Club and on the Chamber of Commerce Board for six years.  She  currently serves on the South Texas ISD Foundation and on the Knapp Medical Center Hospice Advisory Board.  As a Weslaco resident, she of course has been involved in Onion Fest and the livestock show.

Suarez has brought a banker’s perspective to the Weslaco Economic Development Corp, the first woman appointed to that group.   “Being on the EDC, you know that you’re doing something for your city.  You are helping more businesses to come to town, creating more jobs here, and stimulating the economy. That’s very rewarding, to be incubating businesses and helping shape the community’s future.”

“The EDC is a very good group,” she continued.  “We all have a positive outlook on the future of Weslaco. That helps us accomplish many things, but it makes it fun, too.”

Suarez has witnessed the evolution of the banking industry in the Valley and emphasizes the positive side of those changes. "There are more services available for customers, from SBA loans and equipment loans and other opportunities" from a diversified portfolios of loans.

In a world where larger banks are rapidly acquiring smaller institutions, Suarez said she is in the right place at the right time. "I'm very thankful that I work for Frost Bank because they are strong, chartered in 1868." She is positioned to continue helping Weslaco grow.