First Woman Inducted into the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame

JILL VAUGHAN

Jill Vaughan’s career in the banking industry is a testament to the power of authenticity and mentorship. With a journey spanning from her early days at First National Bank in Madisonville, Texas to her induction into the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame, Vaughan’s story is a blend of individuality, teamwork and giving back.

Her story begins in Madisonville, where she grew up in a strong banking family. Vaughan earned a degree in finance at SHSU to pursue a career in the industry she knew best. Upon graduation in 1982, Vaughan started looking for work during a tough economic time in the Texas banking industry. Encouraged by her father, a well-respected banker, to make her own mark she pursued an opportunity in Conroe to enter a customized operational training program at Interfirst Bank (now Bank of America).

Intrigued by the world of banking, Vaughan started working at the First National Bank in Madisonville. There, she gained invaluable experience, including handling paper checks, fling transaction records and managing various banking operations.

Most of her career was on the production side, including managing, coaching and training other bankers. This, combined with the desire to help customers and contribute to the community, were the reasons she loved her career of 40 years. In 2016, after being on the lending side of Amegy Bank for most of her career, she was asked to consider a completely new role when her mentor retired.

After honing her skills and building a strong foundation, Vaughan continued her education at SHSU. She pursued a major in banking — the first of its kind in the country.

After college, Vaughan’s career took her to Zions Bank, where she rose through the ranks and played a pivotal role in the credit division. Her climb was remarkable, given that her position as a female in such a role was unheard of at the time.

As Vaughan continued to make strides in her career, she received the honor of becoming the first woman inducted into the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame in 2018, an accomplishment that she attributed to her family’s strong influence and the support of the tight-knit banking community.

I never wanted to be given a role because I was a female, but never wanted to not be given a role as a female. I deliberately worked for people and organizations that recognized me for my individual contributions,

she said.

Vaughan’s outstanding journey through the banking industry is marked by a particular motto — “You do you.”

Emphasizing that individuality should be celebrated, she believes empowering individuals to chart their unique path is the essence of her success and a key lesson she imparts to her students.