Posted On: July 13, 2026 by Austin Bank in: Star of the Month
At Austin Bank, our greatest strength has always been our people. Their commitment to our core values and the people we serve is what sets us apart. This month, we are proud to recognize a long-time member of that team as our July Star of the Month. Please join us in congratulating Shamel Shipman, Assistant Vice President and Relationship Manager in our Big Sandy office, on this honor.
As Shamel approaches her 38th anniversary with the bank, her knowledge and experience, combined with her positive attitude and quiet grace, continue to make her a favorite among customers and coworkers. A graduate of Big Sandy High School, Shamel joined the bank after graduation as a part-time loan secretary and processor. While working, she attended Kilgore College and the University of Texas at Tyler, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration.
Throughout her career, Shamel has served in several roles, including teller, customer service representative, loan assistant, and, since 2022, Assistant Vice President and Relationship Manager. Although most of her experience has been in lending, she is always ready to assist with any customer need. Whether supporting retail bankers behind the teller line, greeting customers, or stepping in wherever help is needed, Shamel embodies the true spirit of teamwork.
Shamel and her husband, Daniel, live in Winona and have three children and two grandchildren with whom they love spending time. She was actively involved in the Big Sandy Booster Club while the children were in school and now enjoys gardening, watching the Hallmark Channel, and traveling.
“Shamel has worn many hats at Austin Bank over the past 38 years and has excelled in every one of them. Although she was promoted to Assistant Vice President/Relationship Manager in June 2022, she continuously helps out in all areas of our Big Sandy office. She is a team player and I’m very proud of her professional growth as a relationship manager.”
Kent Bryson, Executive Vice President/Regional President, Kilgore
“Shamel has many qualities that make her an invaluable part of our team. She approaches every customer and coworker with kindness and a steady presence, and her willingness to help wherever needed leaves a lasting impression on everyone around her. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from and work alongside her.”
Jasiee Harris, Assistant Vice President/Retail Office Manager, Big Sandy
“Shamel is amazing to work with. She is full of knowledge and is always willing to teach others so they can confidently handle things on their own next time. She goes out of her way to ensure every customer leaves our office happy, valued, and confident they are in good hands with both Austin Bank and Shamel as their banker.”
April James, Teller, Big Sandy
Lora Hammond | Jul 15th 2026 @ 7:41 AM
Congratulations! Well deserved!!
Scott Hammer | Jul 15th 2026 @ 3:14 PM
Shamel is definitely a five star employee. Were she ever to decide to change jobs I would hire her in an instant. She is so valuable as our banker, as she takes care of all our banking needs. She is such a pleasure to work with and always handles our accounts with such professionalism. She is certainly a credit to her profession and to Austin Bank.