Celebrating Community Leadership: The 2025 Futuro RGV Awards Ceremony
A Historic Venue for a Meaningful Event
The 2025 Futuro RGV Community and Emerging Leaders Annual Awards Ceremony took place at the iconic Casa de Palmas Hotel, a fitting backdrop for recognizing outstanding contributions to the Rio Grande Valley community.
The Mission Behind Futuro RGV
Futuro RGV is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life within the community by addressing critical issues such as government transparency, economic development, educational advancement, public safety, healthcare, and recreational opportunities. Each year, the organization honors individuals who embody its mission and demonstrate exemplary leadership.
Honoring a Community Champion: Ford Sasser
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 Futuro RGV Community Leader Award to Mr. Ford Sasser. A graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics, Sasser is the Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of Rio Bank, a role he has held since 1999.
Sasser’s extensive background includes stints as a bank examiner and leadership positions within various banking institutions in McAllen. He has been actively involved with the Texas Bankers Association, serving several years on its state board and chairing the board from 2022 to 2023.
In 2026, Sasser further distinguished himself by founding C.A.M.P. University, which provides adults with special needs opportunities to develop essential life skills. His efforts have garnered him numerous accolades, including being honored with a Hearts of Gold Wall of Fame award on May 8, 2025, for his contributions to inclusivity.
On May 22, 2025, he received the Liberty Bell Award from the Hidalgo County Bar Association in recognition of his commitment to civic engagement.
His passion for sports also shines through in Ford’s dedication to officiating football for over 35 years, along with authoring a book titled “Why Would Anyone Officiate Football?” On June 28, 2025, he will be inducted into the Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy in both banking and athletics.
As a sponsor of various organizations including Futuro RGV, Ford’s commitment to community betterment is undeniable. The evening concluded with an enthusiastic round of applause as he accepted his award.
Photo credit: Futuro RGV
Remembering Dr. Nedra S. Kinerk
The ceremony also paid tribute to the late Dr. Nedra S. Kinerk, a visionary leader and educator renowned for her advocacy of civic engagement and community development. As a co-founder of Futuro McAllen—now known as Futuro RGV—Kinerk had a hand in shaping the future of the Rio Grande Valley.
Her legacy includes the establishment of the McAllen Heritage Center and the Fiesta de Palmas (formerly McAllen Palm Fest). Dr. Kinerk was recognized as McAllen Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 2014 and received the inaugural Nedra Kinerk Citizenship Award from the city in 2020.
Kinerk’s contributions to the community have not gone unnoticed, with the Texas Senate formally honoring her in 2023 and the Texas House following suit in 2025. In recognition of her enduring impact, Futuro RGV has established the Dr. Nedra S. Kinerk Emerging Leaders Scholarship aimed at empowering future community leaders.
Her spirit of service and dedication to the betterment of the Rio Grande Valley will continue to inspire generations. In her memory, Steve and Karen Kinerk accepted a certificate honoring her legacy.
Photo credit: Futuro RGV
Gratitude to Sponsors
The success of the Futuro RGV event is supported by generous sponsors. Diamond sponsors included Clark Chevrolet, DHR Health, Rhodes Enterprises, Rio Bank, and Sam Garcia Architect. Gold sponsors were L&F Distributors and Valley Land Title, while Silver sponsors included Frost Bank and Texas Regional Bank. Additionally, IBC supports their endeavors as a Friend of Futuro RGV.
The organization also acknowledges in-kind contributions from local businesses such as AT&T, Casa De Palmas Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham, Copy Zone, CSL Productions, Radisson Airport Hotel, and Upper Valley Mail Service.
Without the unwavering support of these sponsors, Futuro RGV’s mission of community improvement would not be possible.
Conclusion
The 2025 Futuro RGV Community and Emerging Leaders Awards Ceremony not only celebrated noteworthy individuals but also reinforced the importance of community leadership and involvement. As participants left the historic venue, they carried forward the spirit of empowerment and positive change for the Rio Grande Valley.
For a more detailed look at the ceremony and all the honorees, view the Futuro RGV Awards Program video.
Good night and drive safely!
