ArchivesDalhart Federal Savings & Loan appoints new President, CEO
Dalhart Federal Savings & Loan appoints new President, CEO By Molly Ritchey When deciding where to put your money, there is a lot to consider. In a recent interview with Dalhart Federal Savings & Loan’s newly appointed President and CEO, the advantages and values of using Dalhart’s only locally owned bank were explained along with what brought him to Dalhart. Originally from Jackson, Mississippi, Sam McLeod, III, known publicly as Trey, attributes his traditional conservative values to his upbringing in the Bible Belt. “My values are God, family, and work. In that order,” McLeod said with a laugh. He began his banking career in 2004 at Independent Bankers Bank. He later advanced to First State Bank in Gainesville, Texas, before joining Dalhart Federal in June of 2025. His faith-centered approach has shaped both his professional and personal life and continues to guide his commitment to community, family, and service. So, one obvious question was “What made you decide to come to Dalhart?” McLeod explained that growing up, his family moved from larger areas into smaller communities, eventually settling in Gainesville, where he spent much of his banking career. Over the years, he developed a deep appreciation for small-town life and the close relationships that come with it. “When the opportunity opened here, I really saw Dalhart as a diamond in the rough,” McLeod said. “I felt like this was a place where I could make a difference.” One of the first things McLeod noticed about Dalhart was the friendliness of the people. He recalled going to dinner shortly after visiting town and being struck by how welcoming everyone was, from the restaurant staff to community members he met along the way. “That says a lot about a town,” McLeod shared. “People here genuinely care about one another.” Although moving to a smaller community was initially a big adjustment for his family, McLeod said they quickly fell in love with Dalhart’s slower pace and strong sense of community. His wife, Ashley, a kindergarten teacher, found the community very welcoming. As president and CEO, Trey says his goal is simple: to ensure Dalhart Federal remains a trusted hometown bank that puts people first. “We’re the only truly local bank in Dalhart,” he said. “We want to be the first place people think of because we treat our customers, employees, and community like family.” McLeod also spoke about the importance of trust in today’s rapidly changing world, especially as technology and artificial intelligence continue to evolve. He believes customers want more than just banking services — they want guidance, security, and a relationship with someone they know. “In an ever-changing environment, people need someone they can trust,” McLeod said. “They need to know their money is safe and that their banker understands them.” Outside of the bank, Trey has already begun investing in the community. He joined the Dalhart Rotary Club, participated in the XIT Rodeo watermelon feed, and became involved with the Dalhart Chamber of Commerce earlier this year. “I don’t want to just work here and go home,” he said. “I want to be part of the community.” As he begins this new chapter, Trey hopes the people of Dalhart see him as approachable and invested in the town’s future. “My door is always open,” McLeod said. “I’m excited to meet people and become part of this community for years to come.” For the full story SUBSCRIBE to the online edition of The Dalhart Texan, call (806) 244-4511 to setup a subscription to our physical paper or pick a copy up at one of our many convenient news rack locations. You can also stop by and purchase a paper or subscription in person at our news office located at 410 Denrock Ave. |
