Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
For Ryan Newman, the story of TRB Insurance is one of vision, persistence, and growth. “When we launched this insurance division in 2022, we were a staff of one, and you’re looking at it,” Newman said at the grand opening of TRB Insurance’s new Harlingen office on Thursday, August 21, 2025. “We had no staff, no offices, and no book of business, but we had the vision.”
That vision, Newman explained, has since transformed into a thriving division of 36 employees across Mission, San Benito, and now Harlingen. The expansion, he said, is more than just a new office—it’s a demonstration to TRB’s bigger strategy of diversifying beyond banking. “We’ve come a long way since 2022 as an insurance division. We’re very proud of that, but we’re even more excited for the future. We truly feel like we are just getting started,” Newman emphasized.
Key to that growth were acquisitions that built a foundation for the business: Mission Duncan Insurance in Mission, Texas, in late 2022, and Smith Reagan Insurance Associates in San Benito in late 2023. Newman credited former owners Keith Padilla and Joe Reagan for their trust. “We certainly would not be here today without them,” he said.
The company has also invested in leadership, bringing on Chief Operating Officer Terri Lobianco and Senior Vice President Jorge Garcia to head the personal lines practice. “Folks, we have some of the best people in the business, and I’m very proud of what they do and how hard they work for us on a daily basis,” Newman told the crowd. He also made a direct appeal to the community: “I promise you that our fantastic staff will take great care of you.”
The ribbon-cutting in Harlingen marked another milestone in Texas Regional Bank’s long-term vision of becoming more than a bank. “We’re here today to celebrate progress, to celebrate growth, and a continued commitment to serve our communities,” said Jamie Brown-Rosas, speaking on behalf of TRB’s leadership team. Brown-Rosas reminded attendees that TRB first established roots in Harlingen 15 years ago and has since grown into a multi-regional institution spanning North, Central, and South Texas, as well as Houston.
The event drew notable attendees, including TRB President Brent M. Baldree, board members Bill Elliff, Bobby Ferris, and Tudor Uhlhorn, as well as executive team members Jason Leal, Cesar Suarez, Eduardo Caso, and Bryan Duffy. South Texas Regional Market President Fred Garza was also recognized.
Community leaders praised TRB’s commitment to Harlingen. “You’ve been with us since 2010, when you opened your doors, and immediately became a member of the Chamber of Commerce,” said Harlingen Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Javier de Leon. “Fifteen years later, we believe in each and every single one of you. Know that we’re here for you. We support you. We’re your eyes, your ears, and your voice.”
The evening carried a strong sense of partnership. Vendors and supporters, including Vos catering, Samuel Frogs bartending, and photographer Gabe, were acknowledged. Special recognition was given to TRB intern and Texas A&M student Mia Zamora, who baked cookies to fund her study abroad, and to TRB Insurance team member Art Delgado for his creative contributions.
As the celebration wrapped up with networking and refreshments, Rosas captured the spirit of the day: “It’s an exciting time to be a part of Texas Regional Bank, to be a part of that ecosystem, and especially TRB Insurance.”
