MEMBER NEWS

New Leadership GBA Officers Elected, Installed

We’re excited to announce the 2025-2026 volunteers heading up the Leadership GBA Board of Directors. The new officers and board members were installed and elected at this week’s Leadership Conference (see story below for conference highlights). “This year’s board brings an outstanding mix of talent, energy and experience to the table. I’m confident they’ll continue building on our strong foundation and help ensure our industry remains well positioned for the future,” said Philip G. Williams, GBA chairman and executive vice president and Georgia banking president at The Claxton Bank.

The 2025-2026 officers are:

• Chair: Robert Duvall, Bank of Madison
• Chair-Elect: Zach Giddens, SunMark Community Bank, Warner Robins
• Vice Chair: Luke Lanier, Durden Banking Company, Metter
• Past Chair: Brad Sheffield, Synovus Bank, Statesboro.

New board members are:

• North Group: Chelsea Colclough, First American Bank & Trust Company, Athens
• Central Group: Candy Crawford, First National Bank of Griffin
• South Group: Adam Smith, PrimeSouth Bank, Waycross
• At-Large: Chris McLaughlin, Colony Bank, Augusta
• Associate Member Rep.: Cody Shepherd, CSRA Business Lending, Augusta.

ADVOCACY

Georgia Banker Testifies to Congress on Farm Bill

Clint Hood, senior vice president at Synovus Bank in Dublin, testified to the U.S. House Agriculture General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit Subcommittee this week, calling for a long-term Farm Bill to support the ag economy. With agriculture being Georgia’s largest industry, it was nice to have a hometown banker representing the industry at the national level.

Hood said banks are a key source of credit for farmers, but economic headwinds are straining rural communities. He urged Congress to pass a new Farm Bill to strengthen credit access and risk management tools.

“The reconciliation bill helps, but more is needed,” Hood said. “Congress has several tools to support the farm economy, starting with a strong Farm Bill.”

He also advocated for increased loan limits through the Farm Service Agency, broader Farmer Mac eligibility and updates to operator definitions.

“To bankers, agricultural lending is a productive way to serve our communities the right way: we make credit available to all who can demonstrate they have a sound business plan and the ability to repay,” he said. “With our deep connection to farmers and ranchers, banks are often the first to see changes within balance sheets and cash flows on farm operations, often due to changing economic conditions—and to help them manage those changes.”

Hood is an active member of GBA’s ag banking peer community. He’s a regular attendee at our Rural Development and Lending Conference and has also participated in our yearly tour of ag-related businesses. We appreciate his leadership. Read more here.

2025 Georgia BankPAC In Full Swing

The 2025 BankPAC campaign has had a great week! Bank CEOs received the campaign materials last month outlining steps to make your bank’s contribution to the StatePAC and eligible individual’s participation in the FedPAC. These contribution forms along with all BankPAC information may be accessed on the advocacy page of gabankers.com with easy-to-follow options for making these contributions. As a reminder, state-chartered banks or national bank holding companies may contribute to the StatePAC, while eligible individuals may do so to the FedPAC. Members of the BankPAC Board of Directors are making calls now, so please talk with them about this year’s effort and plan to participate soon, if you have not already. If you have questions, contact Elizabeth Chandler at 404.372.7893 or Bo Brannen at 404.731.9886.

Contributing to the GBA StatePAC already are the following banks:

• Bank of Newington, Tripp Sheppard, president & CEO
• Citizens Trust Bank, Atlanta, Cynthia Day, CEO
• Farmers and Merchants Bank, Sylvania, Hoke Reeves, president & CEO

And, contributing recently to the GBA FedPAC from eligible employees, officers and directors of the following banks are:

• Ameris Bank, Atlanta, Palmer Proctor, CEO
• Bank of Hazlehurst, Butch Kirkley, CEO
• Central Bank, Tampa, FL, John Thompson, president & CEO
• Colony Bank, Fitzgerald, Heath Fountain, president & CEO
• Durden Banking Company, Twin City, Wade Johnson, president & CEO
• First National Bank of Griffin, Chuck Copeland, president & CEO
• North Georgia National Bank, Calhoun, Lesa Downey, president & CEO
• Planters and Citizens Bank, Camilla, Susan Moss, president & CEO
• Planters First Bank, Cordele, Eli Tinsley, president & CEO
• Queensborough National Bank, Louisville, Bill Easterlin, president & CEO
• South Georgia Banking Company, Tifton, Glenn Willis, CEO
• The Citizens Bank of Americus, Rick Whaley, president & CEO
• United Bancshares, Peachtree Corners, Monty Watson, Regional President

INDUSTRY NEWS

USDA Opens $16 Billion in Disaster Relief for Farmers

The USDA has opened enrollment for $16 billion in disaster assistance through the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP), covering 2023–2024 losses from hurricanes, drought, floods and other qualifying events.

Stage one, now open, applies to producers with crop insurance or NAP coverage who received indemnities. Pre-filled applications were mailed July 9, and sign-up began July 10 at local FSA offices. Stage two, coming this fall, will address uncovered and shallow losses.

Farmers must maintain 60% or higher coverage for the next two crop years or repay assistance. Bankers should encourage eligible ag clients to contact their local FSA office or visit farmers.gov for details.

FDIC Proposal Would Tie Regulatory Thresholds to Inflation

GBA is encouraged by the FDIC’s proposal to regularly adjust certain regulatory thresholds based on inflation, helping ensure banks aren’t unfairly affected by outdated standards. The current thresholds have not been updated in decades. The rule would update existing thresholds, establish automatic adjustments every two years based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and allow interim changes when inflation is high. One example noted by FDIC Acting Chairman Travis Hill and cited in a Wall Street Journal editorial applauding the proposal, is to increase the asset threshold prescribing audit committee composition to $5 billion from $3 billion. Among the provisions the agency is seeking public comment about is whether alternative inflation measures beyond CPI may be appropriate for future adjustments. The proposal is open for public feedback for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. Get all the details here.

Regulators Propose Rescinding 2023 CRA Rule

Federal regulators this week proposed rescinding the 2023 Community Reinvestment Act rule and reverting to the 1995 regulations with minor updates. The 2023 rule never took effect and remains tied up in legal challenges. GBA appreciates Federal Reserve Gov. Michelle Bowman’s comments backing the move. She said the rule exceeded the agencies’ authority, was overly complex and placed unnecessary burdens on banks. “The rule was premised on an assumption that banks were not doing enough to meet the credit needs of their communities. Yet, banks have a deep commitment to supporting their communities and continue to meet the letter and spirit of the CRA statute.” Comments are due 30 days after publication in the Federal Register.

Related: Small Bank Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Workshop - July 21

FHLBank Atlanta 2025 Election of Directors

Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta has begun the election to fill three directorships on the bank’s board of directors, including the member directorships in Alabama and the District of Columbia, and one public interest independent director. The term of the directorships to be filled in this election begins on Jan. 1, 2026, and ends on Dec. 31, 2029. Individuals interested in being considered for the public interest independent directorship who meet the requirements must complete and return to the bank, by 5 p.m. EDT on Aug. 18, the application and related forms that are available on the bank’s website. If you have questions, please contact Courtney Tobin, associate general counsel, at 404.888.5343 or ctobin@fhlbatl.com.

Farm Banks Show Strength and Resilience in 2024

U.S. farm banks delivered steady growth in 2024, holding $115 billion in ag loans and reinforcing their vital role in supporting rural America. Total farm lending by banks reached $205 billion, or nearly 38% of all farm credit nationwide.

Despite supply chain and market challenges, farm banks increased ag lending by 6.4% and kept delinquency rates low at 0.32%. Nearly all farm banks were profitable, with net income rising 7.2% to $5.9 billion.

Lending to small farmers remained a priority, with more than $72 billion in small farm loans, including $9.1 billion in microloans. Capital and employment levels also improved.

The sector remains well-capitalized heading into 2025 as producers face ongoing input and interest cost pressures. Read the full report here.

Fed Beige Book: Businesses Await Clarity on Trade and Tariffs

The latest Beige Book from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta shows that economic activity in the Southeast remained little changed from mid-May through June, with uncertainty around trade and tariffs continuing to influence business and financial decision-making.

Banking contacts reported flat loan growth as business investment slowed. Many lenders noted tightened standards for commercial and consumer lending as clients paused spending or hiring decisions due to softening demand and unclear policy signals. Some businesses opted to leave open roles unfilled or delay price increases, hoping for greater clarity on tariff outcomes.

Inflation remained moderate, though concerns about rising input costs and supply chain adjustments were common. Firms exposed to tariffs described a mix of strategies, including raising prices, absorbing costs or working through pre-tariff inventory to protect margins and limit price volatility.

Commercial real estate softened modestly overall, with particular slowing in industrial and retail segments. Office rents and vacancy rates held steady. In other sectors, consumer spending dipped slightly and renewable energy projects slowed due to questions about incentives. Transportation activity rose, though outlooks remained cautious.

GBA NEWS

Leadership GBA Conference Provided Boundless Growth, Connections and Fun

The 2025 GBA Leadership Conference brought together Georgia’s emerging bank leaders this week for an inspiring experience at the Omni Amelia Island. Set against a backdrop of ocean views, the conference delivered a blend of high-impact professional development with valuable personal connection time. Participants engaged in focused educational sessions, collaborative group meetings, and networking opportunities with their peers. Beyond the meeting rooms, the family-friendly atmosphere allowed everyone to unwind and recharge, making time for their families and fellow bankers.

"The energy at this conference is always remarkable, and this year was no exception. It’s a home run when it comes to sharpening our professional skills and building lasting friendships with bankers and their families," said 2024-25 Leadership GBA Chair Brad Sheffield, Synovus. Here’s a glance at the program highlights:

Day One:

• GBA’s Tripp Cofield and Blake Early from the ABA covered GBA’s key state and federal advocacy priorities, regulatory developments and things for bankers to consider as the midterm elections approach.
• CEO Panel: Moderated by Ron Mitchell of Mauldin & Jenkins, the panel featured insightful discussion from Andrew Ainslie, Bank of Madison; Luke Flatt, AB&T; and Rob O’Halloran, BDS Yarmouth & Choate; who shared their perspectives on guiding the next wave of talent in banking.
• Glen Jackson of Jackson Spalding closed the day with reflections from his book Preeminence. His message emphasized that true leadership isn’t about being the best in the world but being the best for the world—a fitting reminder for today’s rising banking leaders.

Day Two:

• Cal Evans of Synovus Bank shared insights from the bank’s Q2 client survey, highlighting how Southeastern businesses view the economy heading into 2026. Key topics included hiring, AI use, margin outlooks and the potential impact of tariffs and government policies.
• The Economic Development Panel brought together leaders from key sectors to cover Georgia’s growth outlook and industry priorities. Moderated by Oconee County Chamber president Courtney Bernardi, the panel included Georgia Ag Commissioner Tyler Harper, Stacy Watson from the Georgia Ports Authority and Nathan Goolsby with the Georgia Motor Trucking Association highlighting the collaborative efforts driving the state’s economic momentum.
• In the closing session, Logan Stout, head baseball coach at the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff and keynote speaker, inspired attendees with Grit Factor: 15 Attributes to Doing Life Better. Sponsored by Synovus Bank, Stout shared powerful lessons on resilience, leadership and perseverance—encouraging everyone to bring their best mindset both on and off the field.

Thanks to all our sponsors and exhibitors, who helped make the event a success. See photos from the conference here.

TRAINING & EVENTS

Last Call to Register! BSA Peer Group July 24 in Macon

There’s still time to join your peers for the BSA Peer Group Meeting on Wednesday, July 24, at Idle Hour Golf & Country Club in Macon. This full-day event is your opportunity to explore timely BSA/AML/CFT and OFAC issues in a collaborative setting.

Led by Kristen Stogniew of Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund, the morning roundtable discussion will tackle industry hot topics and best practices. And don’t miss the afternoon session featuring a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective from former mortgage fraudster Matthew Cox, once on the U.S. Secret Service’s Most Wanted list.

If you're responsible for your bank’s BSA program, this is a can’t-miss event.

Upcoming Lending Seminars – Sign Up Today!

Personal Cash Flow Analysis Seminar - Aug. 26
Join Shannon Fortson, EVP, Chief Credit Officer of Pinnacle Bank, for an in-depth, comprehensive understanding on how to analyze personal cash flow and personal tax returns. Learn how to calculate sources and uses of personal cash flow to support a borrower’s loan request to ensure a strong and healthy loan portfolio. Get all the details and register here.

Loan Structuring and Documentation for Loss Prevention Seminar - Aug. 27
Fortson also leads our popular Loan Documentation Seminar. Prevention of loan losses is crucial and begins with proper loan structuring and documentation techniques. Connect with peers and walk away with all the best tips and tools. Commercial loan officers, commercial loan personnel, loan assistants and closing specialists will benefit from this program. Get all the details and register here.

NEW HUMAN RESOURCES PROGRAM

HR 101: Welcome to Human Resources, Aug. 26 in Macon

Are you new to HR or looking to build a stronger foundation in human resources? Don’t miss HR 101: Welcome to Human Resources, a new workshop specifically for HR administrators and support staff.

Hosted and designed by the GBA Human Resources Committee, this interactive workshop will equip attendees with practical tools, expert guidance, and actionable best practices covering HR compliance essentials, payroll operations, benefits administration and more!  Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to reinforce your HR fundamentals, HR 101 is the perfect opportunity to grow your skills and connect with peers. Register today and invest in your HR success!

Reminder: Registration Now Open!

Financial Risk Management Conference
Nov. 6-7, 2025
The DeSoto, Savannah (New Location!)

Register Here

More Events and Training Opportunities Coming up

• Fraud Academy - Aug. 12-14, virtual and in-person in Lexington, VA

• Women in Banking Conference - Aug. 14-15, Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

• Pickleball: BankPAC Inaugural Tournament - Aug. 21 in Macon

• Operations and Technology Peer Group - Sept. 10, UGA Center for Continuing Education, Athens

• President/CEO, Bank Accountant & Bank Counsel Conferences - Sept. 28-30 in Savannah

• South Georgia Community Bank Symposium - Oct. 8, Valdosta State University

• New Account Documentation & Compliance Bootcamp - Oct. 8, Middle Georgia State University, Macon

• BankPAC Golf Classic - Oct. 15, River Forest Golf Club, Forsyth

• Compliance Conference - Oct. 20-22 on Jekyll Island

WEBINARS – GREAT FOR FUNDAMENTALS TRAINING

Small Bank Community Reinvestment Act Workshop, Opening Business Accounts, Do’s and Don’ts on Checks and More

Here’s a sampling of upcoming webinars.  

• Small Bank Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Workshop - July 21
• Encouraging the Next Generation of Women Leaders - July 24
• Opening Business Accounts - July 29
• Best-Ever Compliance Checklists for Consumer Loans - July 31
• Advanced Cash Flow Analysis - Aug. 4
• Excel Explained: Introduction to Spreadsheets Workshop - 2 Part Series - Aug. 12
• Coaching EQ: HR’s Role in Developing Emotionally Intelligent Leaders - Aug. 14
• Do's and Don'ts on Checks - Aug. 19
• Managing a Successful Call Center - Aug. 20

 Want to see the full webinar schedule?

PARTNERS, PRODUCTS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE SPONSOR ARTICLE

Navigating the Future: AI, Cybersecurity, and Community Banking in Q3 2025

Explore BankOnIT’s Q3 2025 CEO Update for a close look at how artificial intelligence is reshaping banking from digital employees to evolving cyber threats. Learn practical steps for banks to assess and manage AI risks, strengthen cybersecurity, and stay competitive in an increasingly tech-driven environment. This edition also highlights how trusted relationships remain a key differentiator for banks. Read the update here.

FREE WEBINAR JULY 24 AT 2 P.M.

Mid-Year Compliance Check-In: What 2025’s Regulatory Shifts Mean for Your Bank

The first half of 2025 brought about rapid changes to bank regulation, and these changes are reshaping compliance priorities for the remainder of the year. Join GBA Strategic Partner Ncontracts’ experts for a breakdown of what’s happened so far, what’s still in play and how it all impacts your bank’s exam readiness.

Introducing Abrigo’s Real-Time Wire Fraud Detection: Stop Fraud Before It Happens

Protect your bank and customers from costly wire fraud with GBA Partner Abrigo’s new real-time wire fraud detection solution, now part of the Abrigo Fraud Detection suite. Featuring advanced behavioral analytics, customizable rules and instant customer verification, this tool stops fraudulent transactions before funds are released, helping banks reduce losses and boost confidence. Don’t miss the live demo on Aug. 7 to see it in action.

GBA Partner Banc Card of America Offers the Best Local Support for Any Type of Merchant

GBA Partner Banc Card of America (www.banccard.com) offers valuable services to retailers, restaurants, hotels, B2B, in-home and online merchants, allowing them to accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and Diners Club), and on-line and off-line debit cards. Best of all, one of their seven in-state, local representatives is never more than a short drive away from your bank or your merchant customers. Contact Jim Staples with Banc Card to find out how they can help, 770.314.3505, jstaples@banccard.com.

COMPLIANCE CORNER

Raising the Bar: Understanding Regulation CC Threshold Updates and Customer Notification Requirements

By Stephanie Shenoda, compliance officer, Compliance Alliance

Regulation CC sets rules for check deposit availability and transparency. A key part involves threshold amounts, which adjust for inflation. The latest update, effective July 1, 2025, requires banks and credit unions to update operations and customer notices. This article outlines the new thresholds, their impact, and compliance steps. Continue reading here.

Compliance Hub Demo Schedule:

• Tuesdays at 11 a.m.
• Thursdays at 2 p.m.

NEWSMAKERS

Alpharetta - Touchmark National Bank

Bobby Krimmel has been named president, CEO and director of the bank. He succeeds Dr. J.J. Shah, who is retiring after seven years and will remain on the board as chairman. Read more.

Atlanta - Hyperion Bank

Kristjan Prima has joined the bank as senior vice president and director of SBA lending.

Atlanta - Southern First Bank

Michael Whaley has been promoted to regional retail experience manager and vice president.

Atlanta/Doraville - Metro City Bank / First IC Bank

MetroCity Bankshares Inc. and First IC Corp. have received all necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals for their merger. First IC Bank will merge into Metro City Bank, with completion expected in early Q4.

Bainbridge - First National Bank

Presley Henley has joined the bank as a relationship specialist.

Bainbridge - First Port City Bank

Dan Rogers has joined the bank as vice president and SBA business development officer. Read more.

Dublin - Bank of Dudley

Patrick Thames, assistant vice president and commercial lender, was recently pinned as the 2025-26 president of the Dublin Rotary Club.

Fitzgerald - Colony Bank

The bank marked its 50th anniversary by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on July 15.

Lexington, SC / Sandy Springs - First Community Bank / Signature Bank of Georgia

First Community Corp. has announced plans to acquire Signature Bank of Georgia in a $41.6 million all-stock deal. Signature CEO Freddie Deutsch will become regional market president and director of specialty business lending. The deal is expected to close in Q1 2026.

Macon - Morris Bank

Justin Bradley has joined the bank as market president for its expansion into Macon-Bibb County.

Thomson - Queensborough National Bank & Trust

Juddy Johnson has been promoted to senior vice president and regional banking manager, and Charles Jones has been promoted to vice president and branch manager of the Thomson location. The bank also unveiled a new QNBTNOW interactive teller machine at the branch. Read more.

Watkinsville - Oconee State Bank

Charlene Standridge has joined the bank as an essential banker.

Zebulon - United Bank

United Bank was ranked No. 1 on American Banker’s list of the top-performing banks with $2 billion to $10 billion in assets for 2024. The bank reported a net interest income to average assets ratio of 5.08%, the highest on the list. Read more.

Lincoln, NE - Haberfeld

Dr. Sean Payant has been named president of Haberfeld, a growth partner for community financial institutions. Former President Achim Griesel will serve as president emeritus and remain on the board of directors.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Bainbridge - First National Bank

The bank matched every school supply item donated by customers for the Bearcatz Blitz, doubling the impact for students in Decatur County as they prepare for the new school year.

Bainbridge - First Port City Bank

The bank donated backpacks, pencils, and school supplies to support 500 students through the Bearcat Blitz event. The effort helps local students and teachers start the year ready to succeed.

Greensboro - BankSouth

The bank sponsored the Goal Getters Soccer Camp at the Greene County Recreation Department, encouraging youth development through skill-building, teamwork and confidence.

Milledgeville - Exchange Bank

Bank team members participated in #SocialMediaGivingDay by supporting eight local organizations. Contributions included food, school supplies, care items and donations to groups like Milly Free Fridge, Crossroads Pregnancy Center, Communities in Schools, Lynn Haven Health & Rehabilitation, and the Lake Oconee Humane Society.

Watkinsville - BankSouth

The bank welcomed Athens Academy campers to the Watkinsville branch as part of the “Who Are the People in My Neighborhood” program, helping introduce students to banking and community roles.

Read All About It: Send Us Your News

We want to share your news with your colleagues across the state. Please forward your announcements and photos to GBA's David Oliver and Katina Weiss.

Recruit, Retain and Develop the Best Bankers with GBA's Job Bank

GBA will post open positions, free of charge, for GBA members. See the open positions in Georgia here. We will also post professional summaries for bank-job seekers on our Bankers Available page. Contact Katina Weiss, 404.420.2021, with questions or needs.