Valley residents know the local bank is more than a place to deposit checks--it’s a community touchstone, a source of financial guidance, and often a family tradition. As Nevada State Bank marks more than six decades of service, Executive Vice President and Director of Retail Banking Craig Kirkland reflects on what it means to be a truly local institution and how the bank adapts to Nevadans’ needs.
“Nevada State Bank opened its doors in 1959 at Fourth and Carson in Downtown Las Vegas,” Craig recalls. “Back then, Las Vegas was just beginning to grow. As the city expanded, so did we, adding branches and growing alongside our neighborhoods. Most of those branches still serve their neighborhoods today, showing our long-standing commitment.”
That continuity is more than pride--it’s a business philosophy. Craig notes the bank’s growth has mirrored the city’s own development, always focused on meeting the evolving needs of individuals, families, and businesses. “What really sets us apart, though, is how local we still feel. Our clients often tell us they’re surprised by how quickly their banker learns their name, story, and goals. That kind of personal attention doesn’t happen by accident-it’s the result of decades of being part of the community,” he says.
For many families, banking with Nevada State Bank is a tradition passed down through generations. “It’s exciting when I meet third- and fourth-generation clients whose parents and grandparents introduced them to us. Their longevity and patronage are a source of strength and pride, and we, in turn, return that loyalty through our volunteerism and commitment to improving the financial lives of Nevadans,” Craig adds.
Banking Tools for a Modern Nevada
While heritage is important, so is innovation. Craig highlights the bank’s commitment to convenience and accessibility through technology. “One of the newest things we’re excited about is our Gold Account. It’s designed to deliver what we like to call the gold standard of banking-offering clients a suite of elevated benefits,” he explains. These include unlimited fee-free ATM withdrawals, discounts on select consumer loans, interest rate boosters, and credit card reward bonuses.
Digital banking is a major focus. “We’ve continued to invest in tools that make banking simple and accessible from virtually anywhere-whether you’re hiking at Red Rock Canyon or traveling across the country,” Craig says. Features like mobile deposit, bill pay, and real-time account monitoring help clients manage their finances on their terms.
A unique feature at Nevada State Bank is the authority granted to branch managers. “After completing rigorous training, our branch managers are granted credit authority, allowing them to approve certain credit requests on their own. You can walk into any branch and speak with a well-equipped team that has the knowledge and resources to meet and exceed your banking needs,” Craig notes.
Supporting Local Community and Business
Nevada State Bank actively engages in community events and supports budding businesses. “Small business truly is the lifeblood of our economy, and there’s no shortage of Nevadans with the entrepreneurial spirit,” Craig says. The bank’s Small Business team recently earned two Small Business Administration awards, reflecting its commitment to helping local businesses grow and create jobs.
Finding Your Fit
With 43 branches across more than two dozen communities, exploring Nevada State Bank means more than just visiting a branch. “The easiest way to explore our locations is through the branch locator tool on our website-it’s quick, easy to use, and helps you find the branch that’s most convenient for you,” Craig suggests.
As Craig puts it, “Whether you meet us online, in a branch, or at a community event, we’re here to help-and ready to connect.”
In a city that’s always changing, Nevada State Bank’s blend of tradition, innovation, and community involvement is a reminder that local banking can still feel personal-and that exploring your local bank might just mean discovering a new partner in your financial journey.
Our clients often tell us they’re surprised by how quickly their banker learns their name, story, and goals. That kind of personal attention doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of decades of being part of the community.