The Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board opens each meeting with a “mission moment,” where Board members reflect on their Board service. At the February meeting, Paola Escalante-Castillo shared her motivation for joining the Board and her passion for the work.

I first learned about the opportunity of joining the Texas Appraiser and Licensing Certification Board from a colleague back in the fall of 2020. I must admit that at the time I was a little skeptical and not sure I’d be the right person for the position.

I’m not an appraiser, but my current role as a commercial banker requires me to work with appraisals on an ongoing basis. I have worked in the banking industry for over 17 years and have served on several nonprofit boards. After doing some research on the agency and visiting with the Governor’s Office, I quickly developed an interest in serving on this board.

As a commercial banker I strive to provide the best service to my customers, always demonstrating ethical standards. I’m a firm believer in giving back and investing time in my community. I decided to join this Board because my values are in line with its mission. My guiding principle is, “Do what’s right, even when no one is watching.” It is our duty to help protect the public’s interest and do so with transparency.

I was appointed to the Board during February 2021. I’m still in the learning process, but I am very excited to be here, and honored to be representing the Rio Grande Valley. I want to thank all the Board members along with the staff for helping make this a smooth transition for me.

Paola Escalante-Castillo of Weslaco is a Vice President for Frost Bank. She is treasurer of the Weslaco Lions Club and a board member of the United Way of South Texas. Additionally, she is a Red Coat Ambassador of the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Escalante-Castillo received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from The University of Texas Pan-American, and completed the Texas Tech University School of Banking Program.