Palmetto Banker Issue Two 2022

SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

I s s u e Tw o 2 0 2 2

2022-23 SCBA CHAIRMAN

Fleetwood Hassell, President & CEO The Bank Of South Carolina

Credit models worth $1 BILLION to community banks

Community banks on BHG’s Bank Network have earned $1 billion in combined interest income since 2001. That success is largely due to our proprietary credit models and the team behind them, featuring:

More than 170+ data scientists, engineers and quantitative analysts

$12B in loan origination data collected over 20+ years

Make BHG loans part of your strategy.

To learn more about BHG, Please Contact: Rachel Thornton AVP, Institutional Relationships

843.251.4223 | rthornton@bhg-inc.com BHGLoanHub.com/Rachel

Monthly credit intelligence from major credit bureaus and vendors

2009 Park Street I PO Box 1483 Columbia, S.C., 29202-1483 803.779.0850 I Fax: 803.779.0890

www.scbankers.org 2022-23 SC BA EXEC U TIV E CO M M ITTE E Chairman....................................................... Fleetwood S. Hassell, The Bank of South Carolina Chairman-Elect......................................................................................... Boyd B. Jones, Synovus First Vice Chair........................................................... Jennifer T. Jones, CBL State Savings Bank Treasurer...................................................................................... H. Richard Sturm, Ameris Bank Immediate Past Chairman............................................... K. Wayne Wicker, South Atlantic Bank

2022-23 SC BA BOARD O F D IR E CTO R S Second Immediate Past Chairman..................................... James A. Bennett, First Citizens Bank President & CEO................................... Fred L. Green III, South Carolina Bankers Association Directors.......................................................................... Marc J. Bogan, Bank of the Lowcountry Stacy B. Brandon, Bank of America Renee R. Brooks, SouthState Bank Richard D. Burleson, Community First Bank Allan B. Carter, Kingstree Federal Savings & Loan J. Holt Chetwood, First Citizens Bank Robert F. Dozier, Jr., First Reliance Bank Rufus T. Dunlap V, Countybank Mary D. Garcia, Pinnacle Financial Partners C. Justin Hawkins, Wells Fargo M.J. Huggins III, United Bank J. Reeves Skeen, First Citizens Bank Samuel R. Small, Jr., First Palmetto Bank C. Kyle Thomas, Blue Ridge Bank Philip R. Wahl II, Security Federal Bank

2022-23 C OMMUNI TY B A N KE R S D IV IS IO N B OA R D Chairman...................................................................... Robert F. Dozier, Jr., First Reliance Bank Immediate Past Chairman.................................Curtis T. Evatt, Oconee Federal Savings & Loan Directors............................................................................ Michael E. Edens, First Reliance Bank Kenneth M. Harper, Countybank Jamin M. Hujik, The Southern Bank Joseph S. Kassim, First Capital Bank Coleman A. Kirven, The Peoples Bank Brooks Melton, Beacon Community Bank Dominik Mjartan, Optus Bank R. Scott Plyler, South Atlantic Bank James B. Smith, The Citizens Bank Eugene H. Walpole IV, The Bank of South Carolina

2022-23 BANK ERS SCH O O L B OA R D Chair..................................................................................... J. Reeves Skeen, First Citizens Bank Chair-Elect........................................................................... John M. Leighton, SouthState Bank Immediate Past Chair....................................................... Marvin E. Robinson, Jr., Ameris Bank Directors................................................................ Thomas C. Anderson, Jr., First Palmetto Bank Nathan T. Crowe, Security Federal Bank Robert F. Dozier, Jr., First Reliance Bank Mary D. Garcia, Pinnacle Financial Partners Kenneth M. Harper, Countybank Robert P. Hucks II, Coastal Carolina National Bank Joseph A. Painter, First Community Bank Michelle B. Seaver, United Community Bank Allison P. Stout, South Atlantic Bank Course Coordinators......................................................................................... James R. Clarkson John C. Griggs III, Synovus W. David Keller, The Citizens Bank Ford P. Menefee, The Bank of South Carolina

2022-23 YOUNG BAN KE R S D IV IS IO N B OA R D O F D I R EC T OR S Chair........................................................................................... Rufus T. Dunlap V, Countybank Chair-Elect................................................................................... B. Oneal Staples, Ameris Bank First Vice Chairman.........................................................Othniel W. Laffitte, GrandSouth Bank Directors.........................................................M. Charles Abbott, Jr., Carolina Bank & Trust Co. Reid J. Boehm, Synovus Margaret C. Harken, The Bank of South Carolina Vaughan R. Dozier, Jr., First Community Bank Margi M. Fleming, The Citizens Bank Austin J. Goforth, First Palmetto Bank Lauren D. Greene, First Citizens Bank Daniel H. Harshaw, Bank of York Mallory Holley, Security Federal Bank Joseph H. Hyman, The Conway National Bank Everette J. Livingston, First Citizens Bank S. Alexis Matthews, The Peoples Bank Charles H. Redmond, SouthState Bank Lincoln R. Stewart, Countybank M. Brice Sprayberry III, United Community Bank

Contents 4 5 8 11 12 22 26 32 35 38 40 45 46

SCBA Board of Directors Past Chairman’s Message Cover Story: Fleetwood Hassell ABA Update SCBA 122nd Annual Convention 2022 SC Bankers School Young Bankers Division Palmetto Scholarship Reception Welcome New Members Personal Transactions Banking News Calendar of Events Preferred Vendors

SC B A St a f f President & CEO................................ Fred L. Green III Chief Operating Officer....................... Richards H. Green Senior Vice President........................... Carolyn L. Bradley Senior Vice President........................... E. Anne Gillespie Senior Vice President & Counsel........ A. O’Neil Rashley, Jr., Esq. Accounting Officer............................... Israel D. Reeves Communications & Engagement........ Diane Krell Administrative Assistant...................... Bonnie E. Nelson The Palmetto Banker is a publication of the South Carolina Bankers Association. The magazine exists to serve its members by communicating news of interest, education and SCBA activities.

Items from members are welcome, however the editor reserves the right to refuse copy. With the exception of official announcements, the SCBA disclaims responsibility for opinions expressed and statements made in articles published in the Palmetto Banker.

2022-2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS SCBA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman Fleetwood S. Hassell The Bank of South Carolina Charleston, SC

Chairman-Elect Boyd B. Jones Synovus Columbia, SC

First Vice-Chair Jennifer T. Jones CBL State Savings Bank Greer, SC

Treasurer H. Richard Sturm Ameris Bank Mt. Pleasant, SC

Immediate Past Chairman K. Wayne Wicker South Atlantic Bank Myrtle Beach, SC

SCBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

4

2nd Immediate Past Chairman James A. Bennett First Citizens Bank Columbia, SC

President & CEO Fred L. Green III South Carolina Bankers Association Columbia, SC

Group I Director Marc J. Bogan Bank of the Lowcountry Mt. Pleasant, SC

Group II Director Philip R. Wahl II Security Federal Bank Aiken, SC

Group III Director Richard D. Burleson Community First Bank Seneca, SC

Group IV Director C. Justin Hawkins Wells Fargo Greenville, SC

Group V Director Samuel R. Small, Jr. First Palmetto Bank Columbia, SC

Group VI Director Allan B. Carter Kingstree Federal Savings & Loan Kingstree, SC

Community Bankers Division, Chairman Robert F. Dozier, Jr. First Reliance Bank Columbia, SC

Bankers School, Chairman J. Reeves Skeen First Citizens Bank Charleston, SC

Young Bankers Division, Chairman Rufus T. Dunlap V Countybank Greenville, SC

Member-at-Large Stacy B. Brandon Bank of America Greenville, SC

Member-at-Large Renee R. Brooks SouthState Bank Columbia, SC

Member-at-Large J. Holt Chetwood First Citizens Bank Columbia, SC

Member-at-Large Mary D. Garcia Pinnacle Financial Partners Mt. Pleasant, SC

Member-at-Large M.J. Huggins III United Bank Charleston, SC

Member-at-Large C. Kyle Thomas Blue Ridge Bank Walhalla, SC

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Past Chairman’s Message

WICKER REFLECTS ON

Productive Year at SCBA After 18 months of pandemic-related turbulence, Wayne Wicker appreciated the relative calm that surrounded his 2021-22 term as chairman of the South Carolina Bankers Association.

With travel opening up and mask mandates being relaxed, bankers were able to get back to meeting regularly in person to discuss industry matters. This included SCBA members returning to Washington, D.C., to meet with the state’s congressional delegation, and an out-of-state annual convention for the first time since 2019.

“I believe we had a successful year,” said Wicker, president and CEO of South Atlantic Bank. “We were able to get together as a group a whole lot more, which was nice. And we had several regional meetings, where (SCBA President and CEO) Fred Green and I got on the road to meet with bankers in Greenville, Columbia and Charleston.”

One of the meetings featured Tom Barkin, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, while Gov. Henry McMaster virtually attended another with us.

“It was nice to get bankers together and talk with them about what they’re seeing and how they’re handling the issues facing the financial services industry,” Wicker said.

Wicker has been in banking more than 35 years, and his depth of knowledge continues to be recognized by those inside and outside the state.

In addition to serving on the S.C. State Board of Financial Institutions, he was recently elected to the board of the American Bankers Association. Wicker, who already serves on the ABA’s membership council, was one of six new directors to be elected in 2022.

K. Wayne Wicker, President & CEO South Atlantic Bank, Myrtle Beach, SC

Wicker’s ascension to the ABA board means he will join Green, who was appointed earlier this year. It’s been more than three decades since a South Carolina banker joined the board of the industry’s largest trade organization, and for the next year there will be two South Carolinians serving.

Wicker said he had not been heavily involved with political matters prior to being named the Bankers Association chairman, but Green and SCBA Senior Vice President and Counsel Neil Rashley helped bring him up to speed.

“Being involved with the political side of things was eye opening at times,” he said.

Once again, SCBA leadership battled efforts by large federally chartered credit unions seeking to encroach on markets far beyond their original fields of membership, despite receiving significant tax exemptions unavailable to banks.

“We don’t have a problem with the small state-based credit unions, but it’s a different story with the big multi-state credit unions which continue to try and open their membership up to more and more people,” he said. “I’m not opposed to credit unions which are simply serving their members: it’s the national credit unions that are out of control.”

COMP ET I TORS AND FRI ENDS Wicker’s position as SCBA chairman gave him significant insight into the Bankers Association as an organization. Not too long ago he asked Green what it was like having a new association chairman each year. Green replied that bankers are all different, but that he enjoys working closely with and getting to know each one personally.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

5

Past Chairman’s Message

“I knew Wayne long before I moved into this role and have always enjoyed being around him,” Green said. “Our wives, both named ‘Mary,’ have become close friends as well. Working with him in a more formal setting, though, has strengthened my respect and admiration for him.”

Wicker said the opportunity to serve as chairman also enabled him to reinforce longstanding friendships. South Carolina’s banking community has earned a reputation for being close-knit despite many bankers being competitors.

“One of my vendors came up to me at our annual convention and told me that we have the best comradery of any state banking association that he’s seen,” he said. “It was really nice to hear that from someone on the outside, someone who wasn’t a banker.”

Wicker added that he not only enjoyed the opportunity to serve as chairman, but that he learned a lot from his fellow bankers.

“I was able to visit a lot of banks that I typically wouldn’t see, especially those away from the coast,” he said. “There were a lot of things I saw that other people do better than I do, so it was very educational.”

6

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

That knowledge, plus Wicker’s own banking acumen, will likely prove useful in the coming year. Many are forecasting increased economic weakness in the U.S. in the coming months due to rising inflation and a predicted slowdown in GDP. “Banking remains a cyclical industry, but one thing I’ve noticed is that the cycles seem to come much more closely together today than in the past,” he said.

Wicker, who was one of the organizers of South Atlantic Bank back in 2007, has seen a great deal during his career. South Atlantic now has more than $1.4 billion in assets and 11 offices along the South Carolina coast, from North Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head. It will open its 12th branch, in Beaufort, in early 2023.

As Wicker continues to take on more responsibilities inside South Carolina and beyond, he said it’s often the small things that leave the biggest impression.

“Being a banker all these years has been very rewarding,” he said. “If you don’t feel good when you help someone, if you don’t feel some pride, you’re in the wrong business.”

SSBCI Program We Participate in Your Loan and are Subordinate in the Event of Default APPROVE MORE LOANS

CREDIT ENHANCEMENT

FAST TURNAROUND

The SSBCI Loan Participation Program benefits are numerous, as it offers flexible terms on owner occupied real estate and equipment loan requests of $100,000 to $20 million.

By partnering with commercial banks, this participation program provides business loans with reduced equity requirements while mitigating risk for the lender, allowing you to close more loans with fast turnaround times.

For more information on the SSBCI Program and how it can benefit you and your customers, contact one of our lenders today.

Peter Shand President PShand@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0305

Rob Evans Senior Vice President SBA Lending Officer REvans@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0308

Nat Green Senior Vice President SSBCI Lending Officer NGreen@BDCofSC.org 803.744.0309

Michael Reis Vice President MReis@BDCofSC.org 803-744-0312

A Leader in Small Business Lending

BDCofSC.org

Cover Story

Path to Success Started Decades Ago for Hassell Fleetwood Hassell clearly remembers the day his career course was set in motion, even if he didn’t realize it at the time.

A high school senior in Charleston, Hassell and his father spent a day going around town and meeting his dad’s business contemporaries. Among the individuals the younger Hassell was introduced to was Hugh Lane, then a high-ranking executive with C&S Bank of South Carolina.

Hassell said Lane gave him some words of advice.

“He told me to get a bachelor’s degree and an MBA, then to come see him,” Hassell recalled. “That’s exactly what I did. After I earned my MBA, I contacted him, and he hired me. I guess the day I met Hugh was really the only job interview, if you want to call it that, that I’ve ever had.”

Hassell, the 2022-23 chairman of the South Carolina Bankers Association, has been in banking for nearly 40 years. Today, he is President and Chief Executive Officer of Bank of South Carolina Corp., parent of The Bank of South Carolina.

Lane’s decision to hire Hassell wasn’t a difficult one. Lane knew Hassell’s father, including his track record and the role he played in the community.

“The qualities I’ve always looked for when I was hiring was to seek out individuals who were well educated with great communications skills,” said Lane, who has been board chairman since the bank’s inception. “If someone is well educated, you can train them, and Fleetwood was just the type of person we were looking for.”

8

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Hassell hadn’t been in banking long before he had to make a significant career decision. In 1986, it was announced that C&S Bank of South Carolina would be acquired by C&S Bank of Georgia. Lane, whose family had been involved with C&S Bank for generations, resigned to start a community bank in Charleston.

Hassell, then just 27 years old, opted to strike out with Lane and several other bankers to organize The Bank of South Carolina, which opened its doors in 1987.

“I remember when I was going around town talking to people about the new bank—one of the questions we were asked repeatedly was how long are you going to be around, and when are you going to sell?” Hassell recalled.

“I thought those were the oddest questions.” he added. “We were in it for the long haul when we started, and we’re still in it for the long haul.”

Hassell’s first position with the new bank was Assistant Vice President for commercial lending and business development.

Over the years, he’s held many titles: Vice President, Senior Vice President, Senior Lender and Executive Vice President.

He was elected to the board of The Bank of South Carolina and its parent company in 2006, and he was named President and CEO in 2012.

IMPORTANCE OF T RAI NI NG SCBA President and CEO Fred Green, who had also worked for C&S early in his career, recalls when Lane and his small team struck out on their own.

“As part of the old C&S team, I remember the day Hugh, Fleetwood and several others left to start a new bank, and I have followed them and the bank ever since,” said Green.

“Shortly after moving into my role at SCBA, Fleetwood became president and CEO of his bank, and I was thrilled for him and his team,” he added.

“Now, every time we talk, we get caught up on each other’s family before we get into business. That’s important to me and I’m sure to him.”

Hassell said he was the recipient of several good turns of fortune during his career.

The first he cites is being able to take part in the management training program at C&S Bank of South Carolina. That program turned out many talented bankers, including several who are active in the SCBA, such as Green, Immediate Past-Chairman Wayne Wicker, Chairmanelect Boyd Jones, and Treasurer Richard Sturm.

The program had such an influence on Hassell that two decades ago he approached Lane, then the Chief Executive of The Bank of South Carolina, to start a training program based on the program he’d taken part in at C&S. “C&S had a significant focus on outstanding service, responsiveness, attention to detail and long-standing relationships, and those are the values that we founded The Bank of South Carolina on,” Hassell said.

Today, The Bank of South Carolina has approximately $630 million in assets, 80 employees and five branches, with a sixth office set to open early next year.

“The adage of ‘growth for growth’s sake’ doesn’t apply here,” Hassell said.

“We’ve never focused on just getting bigger.”

“What we’re about is trying to consistently earn a return on assets of more than 1 percent and double-digit growth on our return on equity,” he added.

Wicker, the outgoing SCBA Chairman, said Hassell’s many strengths as a banker will help him chair the Bankers Association.

“Fleetwood has a lot of experience and he’s in charge of a very well run, very efficient bank,” Wicker said. “Those qualities will help him as the SCBA Chairman.”

Over the years, Hassell has continued the culture that Lane and others instilled when the bank was begun – namely, the importance of playing an active role in the community.

“When you work for The Bank of South Carolina, you’re expected to be a part of the community,” he said.

Hassell’s success goes beyond being the Chief Executive of one of South Carolina’s strongest community banks. “It’s more than just the bottom line,” he said.

“To see people succeed who have banked with us and to think that maybe we had a small role in their success is a wonderful feeling,” he said.

“The opportunity to be a collaborator, a catalyst, a connector and a contributor has been immensely rewarding.”

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

9

ABA U p d at e

NO DEAL:

States Slam on Brakes for CU Acquisitions

of Community Banks It would have been the largest acquisition of a community bank by a credit union— but word came in mid-June that the deal was off between VyStar Credit Union and Heritage Southeast Bancorporation, after a failure to receive regulatory approvals.

If completed, the deal would have made Jacksonville, Florida-based VyStar the 13th largest credit union in the nation.

The deal was just one of a growing list of mergers that have been announced between tax-exempt credit unions and taxpaying banks in recent months—but states are starting to sour on the idea.

E a r l i e r t h i s y e a r, t h e M i n n e s o t a Department of Commerce blocked the acquisition of state-chartered Lake Area Bank by Royal Credit Union, officially clarifying that state law does not permit the acquisitions of state-chartered banks by credit unions. Similar actions have taken place in Colorado, Iowa, South Carolina, Tennessee and Nebraska.

Meanwhile, the Mississippi state legislature succeeded in passing a law stipulating that only FDIC-insured banks can acquire or merge with Mississippichartered state banks. The law, that went into effect in July, puts a halt to any deals in progress that don’t comply with the new requirement.

These are encouraging developments.

The decision to merge is, of course, a business decision that must be made at the individual level. But states are increasingly acknowledging that allowing tax-exempt credit unions to gobble up taxpaying banks—taking them off the tax rolls for good—is poor public policy that imposes costs on consumers and taxpayers, and they’re taking sensible steps to prevent it from happening in the future.

The fact that states are beginning to take action is due in no small part to banker advocacy—and it’s a good reminder of the importance of speaking up whenever we see the credit union industry pushing the boundaries of the statutory limits imposed on it by Congress.

Unfortunately, those attempts are only becoming more brazen.

Recently, the industry lobbied to create a new loophole designed to enable credit unions to greatly expand their fields of membership and business lending capacity. The House bill, which we don’t expect to advance in the Senate, was included as part of a broader package of financial inclusion measures, despite the fact that the bill contained no language to ensure that these expanded powers would

Rob Nichols, President and CEO American Bankers Association nichols@aba.com

be used by credit unions to ser ve underserved communities.

If credit unions were serious about promoting financial inclusion, they should welcome the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to serving low- to moderate-income communities by m e e t i n g t h e s a m e C o m mu n i t y Reinvestment Act requirements banks must meet. But it’s become clear that credit unions aren’t interested in that m i s s i o n — i n f a c t , re c e n t d a t a h a s shown a general pattern of credit unions opening more branches on net in upperand middle-income census tracts and closing more branches on net in low- to moderate-income census tracts.

It’s wrong for credit unions to try and shoehorn self-serving pieces of legislation through Congress under the guise of promoting financial inclusion—just as it’s wrong for them to exploit their tax advantaged status to subsidize acquisitions of taxpaying banks, pay for stadium naming rights or private jets, or open multi-million dollar headquarters.

It’s encouraging that states are starting to scrutinize the credit union industry more closely. Now Congress must do the same.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

11

SCBA Annual Convention

122 Annual Convention ND

Nestled on the southern edge of the Rocky Mountains in the Cheyenne Mountain foothills of Colorado Springs, Colorado, The Broadmoor was the perfect backdrop for the 122nd South Carolina Bankers Association Annual Convention. More than 350 bankers, associate members, family and friends enjoyed each other’s company at the 2022 SCBA Annual Convention and Trade Show held June 16-19.

We had outstanding speakers for the 122nd Annual Meeting including Joan K. Woodward, Executive Vice President of Public Policy for Travelers and President of The Travelers Institute; Colonel Joseph A. Musacchia, Jr., Director of Staff for the United States Air Force War College (AWC); and Terry Tucker, an international podcast guest on the topics of motivation, self-development, and mental health who lead our Prayer Breakfast. The Trade Show was well attended by bankers and other guests—thank you to all of our exhibitors for an enlightening display of products and services.

New officers sworn in included 2022-23 Chairman, Fleetwood S. Hassell; Chairman-Elect, Boyd B. Jones; First Vice Chair, Jennifer T. Jones; and Treasurer, H. Richard Sturm.

Please mark your calendars now for next year’s meeting on June 11–14, 2023 at Charleston Place in Charleston, South Carolina.

12

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

13

Thank You Sponsors

SCBA Annual Convention

2022 Outstanding Young Banker: Joe Kassim, President First Capital Bank Charleston, SC

Joe with his wife, Liz and his young daughter Callie, and Harvey Glick, CEO First Capital Bank.

14

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Photo Recap

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

15

SCBA Annual Convention

16

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Photo Recap

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

17

SCBA Annual Convention

In Memoriam

REMEMBERING THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER WITH US John L. Breeden, III First Palmetto Bank

Russell Austin Kelly Truist

Mary E. Randolph First Citizens Bank

Maureen O. Bruening Farmers & Merchants Bank of SC

Thierry P. Longueville Farmers & Merchants Bank of SC

Christopher S. Roberts Countybank

Bernard L. (Buddy) Duke First Citizens Bank

Furman Wayne Lovelace First Palmetto Bank

Betty Jo (BJ) Rushing First Citizens Bank

Howard Elkins The Bank of Clarendon SCBA Past Chairman

Peden Brown McLeod Bank of the Lowcountry

Linda S. Sanderson First Citizens Bank

Alice McDaniel Anderson Brothers Bank

Yvonne Simmons TD Bank, N. A.

Ernest Hite Miller, Jr. First Citizens Bank

Courtney Spurgeon TD Bank, N. A.

Sam Peden GrandSouth Bank

Carole Wilson Sandhills Bank

David Elliott Anderson Brothers Bank Ruth “Irene” Bass Hinson Bank of America Roger M. Holcombe Farmers & Merchants Bank of SC

Debra Perez TD Bank, N. A.

Save the Date

THE 2023 SCBA ANNUAL CONVENTION JUNE 11-14, 2023 | CHARLESTON PLACE

18

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

|

CHARLESTON, SC

Half -Century Club

T H E S C B A C O N G R AT U L AT E S T H O S E W H O H AV E S E R V E D 5 0 Y E A R S Lucy E. Ashley The Bank of South Carolina

G. Alex Gettys, Jr. PIckens Savings & Loan

Susan Ketchum Bank of America–Merrill

Gerald M. Bane First Citizens Bank

Connie Gibson Bank of America

Hugh C. Lane, Jr. The Bank of South Carolina

Sarah A. Decker First Palmetto Bank

Carey L. Harris GrandSouth Bank

Helene H. Mixon The Bank of South Carolina

Thirty Five-Year Club

T H E S C B A C O N G R AT U L AT E S T H O S E W H O H AV E S E R V E D 3 5 Y E A R S Karen Alessi Bank of America - Merrill

Rhonda L. Garrett Countybank

Jane Moody Anderson Brothers Bank

Debra H. Bass Park National Bank

Annette Green Bank of America

Donna Perry Bank of America

Janet Bjork Bank of America

Christine Grillo Bank of America - Merrill

Pamela L. Pless Park National Bank

Hilda W. Brooks Park National Bank

Donna L. Harakas Park National Bank

Jennie L. Powell First Community Bank

Sharon W. Bryant First Citizens Bank

Kenneth M. Harper Countybank

Cheryl Quick Bank of America - Private Bank

Crystal S. Campbell First Community Bank

Gwendolyn Harrell Bank of America

Linda Reed Bank of America

Lisa Carmichael First Citizens Bank

Barbara Hogan First Citizens Bank

Michael Robinson First Citizens Bank

Stephen Clyburn Bank of America

Renee Howell Bank of America

Thomas C. Shealy First Citizens Bank

Anne Cote South Atlantic Bank

Beth Lee-Moeller First Citizens Bank

Rebecca Spelts Bank of America

Sharon Cribb Anderson Brothers Bank

Robert W. Leonard First Community Bank

L. Michelle Thomas South Atlantic Bank

Kelly R. Davis Park National Bank

Susannah M. Mathews First Community Bank

Norma Jean Venesky First Community Bank

Judy S. Edwards Park National Bank

Stacey R. McInnis Bank of Clarendon

Clark Vereen Bank of American - Merrill

Loressa Flower Bank of America

Karla McRae Bank of America

K. Wayne Wicker South Atlantic Bank

Johnny Floyd Anderson Brothers Bank

Ann Miller Anderson Brothers Bank

Allen Williams Anderson Brothers Bank

Scott M. Frierson Southern Bank

Penny Mims Farmers & Merchants Bank of SC I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

19

Outstanding Young Banker AWA R D

1970 *James R. Fowler, Capital Bank & Trust, Belton 1971 Robert V. Royall The C&S National Bank of SC, Columbia 1972 *Hugh M. Chapman The C&S National Bank of SC, Columbia 1973 *Arthur M. Bjontegard, Jr. South Carolina National Bank, Columbia 1974 John G.P. Boatwright Bankers Trust of South Carolina, Columbia 1975 L. Leon Patterson The Palmetto Bank, Laurens 1976 Paul F. Holcomb, Jr. South Carolina National Bank, Columbia 1977 W. Douglas King First National Bank of SC, Columbia 1978 *Henry S. Laffitte Carolina Commercial Bank, Allendale 1979 Claude E. Surface, Jr. The Bank of Beaufort, Beaufort 1980 Lloyd I. Hendricks Southern Bank & Trust Company, Columbia 1981 Mason Y. Garrett Carolina National Bank, Easley 1982 J. Harold Chandler The C&S National Bank of SC, Columbia 1983 Joel A. Smith III Bankers Trust of South Carolina, Columbia 1984 Douglas T. Yeates Republic National Bank, Columbia 1985 Stephen L. Chryst The Anchor Bank, Myrtle Beach 1986 R. Charles Eldridge, Jr. South Carolina National Bank, Columbia 1987 G. Anderson Douglas, Jr. Rock Hill National Bank, Rock Hill 1988 Mack I. Whittle, Jr. Carolina First Bank, Greenville 1989 Nancy L. Grden The C&S National Bank of SC, Columbia 1990 William C. Barker South Carolina National Bank, Columbia 1991 John S. Poole NCNB National Bank of SC, Spartanburg 1992 W. Jennings Duncan The Conway National Bank, Conway 1993 Richard A. Shirley Southern National Bank of SC, Anderson 1994 Fred L. Green III The National Bank of SC, Columbia 1995 *Sterling J.U. Laffitte The Exchange Bank, Estill 1996 R. Thornwell Dunlap III The County Bank, Greenwood 20

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

R E C I P I E N T S

1997 Michael C. Crapps First Community Bank, Lexington 1998 James A. Bennett First Citizens Bank, Columbia 1999 F. Justin Strickland Carolina First Bank, Columbia 2000 Robert R. Hill, Jr. First National Bank, Orangeburg 2001 L. Andrew Westbrook III BB&T of South Carolina, Spartanburg 2002 Peter M. Bristow First Citizens Bank, Columbia 2003 J. Barry Ham The Bank of Clarendon, Manning 2004 W. Gerald Stevens CapitalBank, Greenwood 2005 Samuel L. Erwin Community Bancshares, Inc., Orangeburg 2006 Edward McKelvey, Jr. First Federal, Charleston 2007 Kitty B. Payne First National Bank of the South, Spartanburg 2008 Michael E. Edens The National Bank of S.C., Columbia 2009 R. Scott Plyler South Atlantic Bank, Myrtle Beach 2010 Gray L. Henderson Palmetto State Bank, Hampton 2011 Tyler B. Hudson NBSC, Columbia 2012 J. Holt Chetwood Wells Fargo, Columbia 2013 Glenn D. Buddin, Jr. Blue Ridge Bank, Walhalla 2014 Kevin W. Lindler First Citizens, Columbia 2015 R. Montague Laffitte III South State Bank, Columbia 2016 Jennifer T. Jones Citizens Building & Loan, Greer 2017 John C. Griggs III NBSC, a division of Synovus, Columbia 2018 Joseph A. Painter First Community Bank, Columbia 2019 Blake G. Taylor Southern First Bank, Columbia 2020 Vaughan R. Dozier, Jr. First Community Bank, Lexington 2021 Allison B. Cranford TD Bank, N.A., Columbia 2022 Joseph S. Kassim First Capital Bank, Charleston

South Carolina Bankers School

Growth You Can Bank On 2022 SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS SCHOOL

The South Carolina Bankers School was held July 10 -15 on the campus of Lander University in Greenwood, SC. We welcomed 72 first year students to the program and in total, 159 students participated in the week-long whirlwind of study and professional development. The School resembled that of a pre COVID environment and the students were excited to have more planned activities and social outings! As usual, students found comradery, dynamic professors and comprehensive course offerings. In today’s competitive environment, it is critical for bankers to remain knowledgeable about the banking sector. Even though the schedule and work are demanding, the School provides time for building relationships through socialization outside of the classroom. The networking possibilities and knowledge gained by attending the SCBS lay the foundation for bankers to continue on to highly successful careers while also cultivating relationships that will last a lifetime.

22

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

One of the School’s greatest assets is its faculty, which is composed of the “best of the best” from the banking, professional and academic worlds. Among the classes taught by these instructors were Economics/Money and Banking, Understanding CAMELS Ratings/Working with Regulators, Leadership, Effective Negotiations, Bank Investments, and the crown jewel of the School, BankExec. BankExec allows participants to virtually run a mid-sized commercial bank. Third year students were divided into teams to compete against one another. Exercises in asset/liability management, capital planning, gap analysis, accounting and taxes, marketing and resource allocation, forecasting and planning, economics, and the pricing of bank services, are reinforced by “what-if” scenarios that demonstrate the impact to the balance sheet and income statement of management’s decisions. BankExec provides a bigger picture of the bank by having teams work together to: run a virtual bank in a changing economic and regulatory environment; test pricing and funding decisions to see their impact on key indicators like net interest margin and stock price; learn how balance sheet structure influences profitability, including net interest margin and stock price and see how decisions made in one area of the bank affect others.

Thursday evening’s graduation was celebrated by many CEOs and bank management teams who were present to support and celebrate 44 graduates receiving their diplomas.

Another special part of the evening is recognizing the Lillie Magalis recipient. The Lillie H. Magalis Memorial Award is given each year to the graduate with the highest cumulative average for three years at the South Carolina Bankers School.

With a GPA of 97.5, Mollie Sandman with South Atlantic Bank, was the 2022 winner, pictured below.

Congratulations to the winning teams: COMMUNITY A: Bank A5 Reid Boehm, Synovus Ryker Royston, Anderson Brothers Bank Adrienne Wilder, Pinnacle Financial Partners Brandon Rich, United Community Bank Tanya Slavin, 1st Federal Savings Bank of SC

COMMUNITY B: Bank B4 Jamie Parfrey, Southern First Bank Benji Anderson, First Citizens Bank Usher Laffitte, Palmetto State Bank Heather Gilliam, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta Nathan Ruth, First Reliance Bank

Next year’s school session will take place Sunday, July 9 – Friday, July 14, under the leadership of J. Reeves Skeen of First Citizens Bank, Charleston.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

23

South Carolina Bankers School

“

It was a real honor and privilege to serve as the Chair of the South Carolina Bankers School Board of Directors this past year. Our goal is to position the South Carolina Bankers School as a leading banking school that provides professionals with a well-rounded education preparing them to serve as future leaders in the banking industry.

We had an outstanding week and welcomed a record number of first year students in quite some time. We continue to evaluate the curriculum and faculty members to assure our course offerings evolve as does our industry.

The SCBS should be top of mind for banks looking to develop their teams.

“

­— Marvin E. Robinson, Jr. SVP, Richland County Market Executive Ameris Bank

24

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Photo Recap

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

25

Young Bankers Division

2 0 2 2

Scholarship Golf Tournament The 2022 Young Bankers Division Scholarship Golf Tournament raised approximately $30,000 for the Palmetto Scholarship Fund. The scholarship awards deserving students of member-bank employees each year. The scholarship application will open in December 2022, so please be sure to spread the word to all bank employees!

A sold out tournament of 136 golfers participated this year, which was full of fun, food and excitement. The tournament wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous support of sponsors and volunteers each year.

The 2023 Tournament will be held Monday, October 2, so mark your calendars now!

26

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Thank You Sponsors

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S T O T H E 2 0 2 2 W I N N I N G T E A M (L to R) Connor

Holden, Crawford Reeves, Lee Hoggard & Heath Bradley

...AND THE TEAM WHO HAD THE MOST FUN! (L to R) Staci

Lovelace, First Palmetto Bank; Kathleen Muthig, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, P.A.; Kate Pollard, UofSC Foundation

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

27

Young Bankers Division

Photo Recap

2022 SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT

28

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

3 WAYS TO SUPPORT SCBA’s BankPAC:

1

2

Corporate Contributions

Employee Campaign

Sporting Clays Tournament

Supporting Those that Support Banking scbankers.org/bankpac

3

Young Bankers Division

Emerging leaders–this one’s for you!

2023 YOUNG BANKERS DIVISION ANNUAL CONFERENCE March 3-5, 2023 | The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee | Greensboro, GA Established over 60 years ago, the Young Bankers Division has continued to grow and prosper. The goal remains to prepare and groom the next generation of leaders in the banking industry in South Carolina.

The Division is involved in a multitude of activities and events that help promote a positive image of the banking industry and community awareness.

Wells Dunlap

Rob Engstrom

Melissa Furman

James Olson

Lake Oconee’s beauty and authenticity are self-evident, yet unknown to the masses. While it may seem rustic and remote to some, those are the very qualities cherished by those who experience it. Set along the waterfront just outside of Atlanta, Georgia, the resort offers five-star amenities, natural beauty and a quiet escape from everyday life.

This year’s Chair of the Division is Rufus T. “Wells” Dunlap V, Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager at Countybank in Greenville, SC.

Walter Todd

QUESTIONS? 30

The Annual Conference is the premier educational and networking event for emerging leaders in the banking industry and the purpose of the conference is multi-fold: to promote leadership development, enhance career knowledge and development, and create business networking opportunities.

Featured speakers include Walter B. Todd III, President and Chief Investment Officer at Greenwood Capital, speaking on “Recession or no recession? That is the question!”

Melissa J. Furman, owner, speaker, and consultant from Career Potential, LLC, will be presenting “Thriving in a Multigenerational Organization.” Also, the former Chief of Soviet Operations at the CIA, James M. Olson, will be sharing current information on “Putin, Russia and Ukraine.” In addition, we are fortunte to have Rob Engstrom, Chief Political Strategist from the American Bankers Association, join us from Washington, DC. You will NOT want to miss this line up!

Tangible evidence of the importance of the Division can be seen as many bankers who were active in the Young Bankers Division years ago have advanced to become C-suite executives and key decision makers within South Carolina’s financial institutions. Every banker in South Carolina competes fiercely by day but enjoys coming together and interacting socially with each other to share ideas, challenges and opportunities. Being involved in the Young Bankers Division creates experiences for emerging leaders in which they might not have been exposed to otherwise.

Please contact Carolyn L. Bradley, carolynbradley@scbankers.org.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

There's lending, and there's intelligent lending.

Identify profitable opportunities with our essential solutions for your commercial lending lifecycle.

Our suite of data-driven solutions help you capitalize on business and revenue opportunities at every stage of the lending lifecycle.

Credit Analysis and Assessment

Credit Surveillance and Portfolio Tracking

Portfolio and Lender Performance Analysis

Market Insight and Lead Generation

Powerful Sales Call Preparation

Solution in Focus: Market Insight and Lead Generation

Solution in Focus: Powerful Sales Call Preparation

Inform your lending strategy with our market analysis solutions centered around commercial lending activity and local market characteristics.

Market Intelligence's collaboration with Vertical IQ helps lenders prepare for successful sales calls with clients or prospects with in-depth industry profiles.

To learn more please visit spglobal.com/commercial-lending.

Copyright © 2022 by S&P Global Market Intelligence Inc. All rights reserved. No content, including by framing or similar means, may be reproduced or distributed without the prior written permission of S&P Global Market Intelligence or its affiliates. The content is provided on an “as is” basis.

Palmetto Scholarship Recipients The 2022 Palmetto Scholarship Reception was held at The Palmetto Club in Columbia, South Carolina on Tuesday, May 17. The following students were awarded: AMERIS BANK Hampden Thomas, Clemson University daughter of Andy Thomas

ENTERPRISE BANK OF SOUTH CAROLINA Kierstyn Holt, University of South CarolinaBeaufort, daughter of Emilee Conner

BANK OF AMERICA Logan Brodfuehrer, University of South Carolina son of Nancy Brodfuehrer Zach Hubbarth, Clemson University son of Joseph Hubbarth Drew Meetze, College of Charleston son of Tammie Meetze Kristina Peay, Lander University daughter of Michelle Peay Laurel Raxter, College of Charleston daughter of Jeremy Raxter Ansley Robinson, North Greenville University daughter of Ann Robinson

FARMERS AND MERCHANTS BANK OF SC Sarah West, University of South Carolina daughter of Brian West

BANK OF CLARENDON Hannah Corbett, Charleston Southern University daughter of Carla Corbett Macy Lucas, University of South Carolina daughter of Desi Lucas BANK OF THE LOWCOUNTRY Katie Bogan, Clemson University daughter of Marc Bogan Jim Bunton, Clemson University son of Jamie Bunton CAROLINA BANK AND TRUST Isobel Morphis, Wofford College daughter of Jamie Morphis Jessie Morphis, Presbyterian College daughter of Jamie Morphis COMMUNITY FIRST BANK Lakyn Tippett, Clemson University daughter of Rhonda Tippett COUNTYBANK Joseph Calhoun, University of South Carolina son of Brandon Calhoun Jameson Hartsoe, Lander University part-time employee Nick Mumford, Lander University son of Dayle Mumford Sophie Beth Nickles, Clemson University son of Philip Nickles Jackson Wright, Presbyterian College son of John Wright DEDICATED COMMUNITY BANK Davis Ivey, University of South Carolina son of Jim Ivey

32

FIRST CITIZENS BANK Roger Hemingway, Claflin University son of Cetra Hemingway Caleb Lanford, Clemson University son of Terry Lanford Cameron Lanford, Clemson University son of Terry Lanford Heather Sammons, Clemson University daughter of Kristen Sammons FIRST COMMUNITY BANK Rachel Hair, University of South Carolina part-time employee Jared Nelson, Clemson University son of Audrey Shuman FIRST PALMETTO BANK DuPre Eaddy, Clemson University daughter of Paul Eaddy Joe Thomas, Clemson University part-time employee FIRST RELIANCE BANK Josh Mackie, Wofford College son of Brent Mackie Reagan Saunders, College of Charleston daughter of Tiffany and Rick Saunders SECURITY FEDERAL BANK Kaylee Youngblood, University of South CarolinaAiken, daughter of Sondra Robertson SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION Virginia Rashley, Clemson University daughter of Neil Rashley SOUTHSTATE BANK Ashley Anderson, Clemson University Honors daughter of Lisa Anderson Amelia Fulp, Clemson University daughter of Jeff Fulp Whit Jasinski, Clemson University son of Brian Jasinski Montanna Owen, College of Charleston daughter of Melissa Owen Howard Adam Smith, University of South Carolina son of Candace Smith

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

SOUTHERN FIRST BANK Riley Dowling, Clemson University daughter of Michael Dowling McCuen Thompson, Wofford College daughter of Robert Thompson SYNOVUS Kristen Wixey, University of South Carolina daughter of Angela Wixey TD BANK, N.A. Jackson Ashley, University of South Carolina son of Stephanie Ashley Alyssa Avallone, Coastal Carolina University daughter of Kathleen Avallone Lili Norvell, University of South Carolina, daughter of Ildiko Zankai Kayla Thomas, Winthrop University daughter of Susane Bloomfield THE BANK OF SOUTH CAROLINA Maya Andrade, Clemson University daughter of Rovina Andrade THE CITIZENS BANK Jack Keller, University of South Carolina son of David Keller THE CONWAY NATIONAL BANK Gracelyn Brown, Coastal Carolina University daughter of Russell Brown Leigh Ropp, Clemson University daughter of Christina Ropp THE PEOPLES BANK Andrew Carpenter, Clemson University son of Melissa Carpenter Porter Kirven, Clemson University daughter of Coleman Kirven UNITED BANK Mabry Godbold, Clemson University son of Joel Foster, Donna Major Scholarship Ryan Jones, University of South Carolina- Beaufort son of Renae Morrow, Katie Skeen Scholarship UNITED COMMUNITY BANK Katie Durrell, Clemson University daughter of Bill Durrell Caitlin Sheppard, University of South Carolina daughter of Jennifer and Joey Tyler

“

To those at the South Carolina Bankers Association, Thank you for choosing me to be one of your many scholarship recipients. It is an incredible honor and something I am proud to have received. For me, this scholarship will continue to propel me in my academic pursuits and leadership endeavors and I cannot thank you enough.

— From A 2022 Scholarship Recipient

PALMETTO SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION SUBMISSION OPENS IN DECEMBER 2022: scbankers.org/scholarships I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

33

S A V E T H E D AT E

|

JANUARY 9-10

2023 SCBA COMMUNITY BANKERS CONFERENCE January 9-10 2023 | Hilton Columbia Center | Columbia, SC Featuring Keynote Speaker Tom Barkin, President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond Tom serves on the Fed’s chief monetary policy body, the Federal Open Market Committee, and is also responsible for bank supervision and the Federal Reserve’s technology organization. He is “on the ground” continually in the Fed’s Fifth District, which covers South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, D.C., West Virginia and Maryland. His engagement in the region has brought real attention to areas facing economic challenges.

Prior to joining the Richmond Fed, Tom was a senior partner and CFO at McKinsey & Company, a worldwide management consulting firm, where he also oversaw McKinsey’s offices in the southern United States.

Tom earned his bachelor’s, MBA and law degrees from Harvard University.

The South Carolina Small Business Development Centers has a network of over 50 highly-trained professionals across the state to help businesses adapt and recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19.

We help clients to: Understand lender’s needs Identify financing options and facilitate lender referrals Prepare a business plan, financial projections and other aspects of loan applications Understand financial reports and implement solid fiscal practices like budgeting, bookkeeping and cash flow We offer no-fee, confidential business consulting and affordable educational workshops. You can trust us to refer clients who are knowledgeable and equipped to do business with you.

Contact us. We can help. Visit SCSBDC.com 34

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

New Members

Welcome

We are fortunate to have an active and engaged roster of Associate members and proudly welcome these new members:

5iron 501 Corporate Center, STE 120 Franklin, TN 37067 (615) 567-8722

5iron.com

Mr. Jason Bradley Executive Vice President 501 Corporate Centre, STE 120 Franklin, TN 37067 (615) 579-6538 jbradley@5iron.com

EverFi, Inc. 2300 N Street NW, Suite 415 Washington, DC 20037 (202) 625-0011 www.everfi.com Ms. Stacy A. Bruder Senior Director Financial Services 200 Fairchild Street Charleston, SC 29492 (843) 200-9585

i3 Veritcals POS 11101 S. Crown Way, Suite #1 Wellington, FL 33414 1 (877) 456-7722 www.i3pos.com Mr. Bob Mattie Account Executive 1505 Thin Pine Drive Johns Island, SC 29455 (843) 801-3907 bmattie@i3verticals.com

5iron security operations are focused on defending financial institutions. Working from our 24x7x365 Security Operations Center, we leverage information gathered from institutions of all sizes to provide real-time protection for each of our clients. While many security vendors focus solely on monitoring and alerting, we take a different approach. Our security analysts engage identified threats and take the action needed to actively protect your organization.

EverFi is an international technology company driving social impact through its innovative financial education solutions. Everfi helps banks scale and measure financial education programs for their colleagues, customers and community and school partners alike.

Founded in 2008, EverFi’s Impact-as-a ServiceTM solution and digital educational content have reached more than 45 million learners globally. In 2020, the company was recognized as one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies by Fast Company and was featured on Fortune Magazine’s Impact 20 List. Blackbaud, the world’s leading cloud software company powering social good, acquired EverFi in December of 2021. To learn more about EverFi, please visit everfi.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter.

i3 Verticals brings a competitive edge to our bank partners by helping them meet the continued demands for new customers, deposits, and sources of non-interest, fee-based income. Our extensive suite of products and industry-leading customer service will lead to new business opportunities and our payments and business solutions encompass a variety of industries from retail and hospitality to education, healthcare, and property management. We can help you address critical customer needs, gain new deposits and loans, and improve client retention while leveraging a dedicated sales and account management team. Instantly expand solutions available to your client base with i3, a trusted partner to commercial institutions.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

35

New Members

Oakline Studio 11701 Borman Drive, Suite 200 Maryland Heights, MO 63146 (314) 550-7554 www.oaklinestudio.com

Mr. Thomas Auer (Tom) President 11701 Borman Drive, Suite 200 Maryland Heights, MO 63146 (314) 550-7554 tauer@intcre.com

Scott and Company LLC 1441 Main Street, Suite 800 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 256-6021 www.scottandco.com

Mr. Donald J. Mobley (Don) CPA, Managing Member 1441 Main Street, Suite 800 Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 256-6021 (231) dmobley@scottandco.com

South Carolina Community Loan Fund 1051-A Gardner Road Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 973-7285 www.sccommunityloanfund.org Mr. Nathaniel Barber (Nate) Chief Executive Officer 1051-A Gardner Road Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 973-7285 (404) nate@sccommunityloanfund.org

Oakline Studio is a well-established Architectural firm with offices in St. Louis, Missouri and Charlotte, North Carolina. The two offices have nearly 40 years of experience in banking, retail, corporate office space and multi-family projects. Oakline Studio is licensed in all 50 states and is currently engaged in projects throughout the US. Oakline Studio offers planning and discovery, architecture & engineering, interior design and project management services.

Scott and Company LLC is a progressive and forward thinking certified public accounting firm located in Columbia. The late Randy Scott founded the firm in 1995. Randy’s idea was to start a firm that offers the quality of service of the “Big 4” firms at much lower rates.

Accordingly, our management group has over 40 years of “Big 4” auditing and tax experience. Don Mobley manages the firm, expanding on this idea. We provide tax, assurance, small business, and consulting services. We serve closely held businesses and owners, governments, and nonprofits and specialize in serving industries including banking, healthcare, hospitality, real estate, manufacturing, and professional services.

South Carolina Community Loan Fund (SCCLF) is a statewide, nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with offices in Charleston, Columbia, and Spartanburg. SCCLF’s mission is to advance equitable access to capital to build assets and benefit communities and people most in need of economic opportunity.

Acknowledging that the need for our work is rooted in generations of injustice and disinvestment, we focus on serving people of color, women, low-income individuals, and those in rural communities.

With all of the evolving financial industry changes, we are thankful for business alliances that meet our members’ needs.

The SCBA is dedicated to supporting and promoting cutting-edge industry providers to our member banks.

For more information about Associate Membership, please contact SCBA Senior Vice President Carolyn Laffitte Bradley by email at carolynbradley@scbankers.org

T O V I E W O U R A S S O C I AT E M E M B E R S H I P D I R E C T O R Y , S C A N Q R C O D E .

36

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Your success is our end goal.

With rates as low as 4.50%*, we offer some of the best student and parent loan plans for local families.

Apply today at scstudentloan.org. *APR rates range from 4.50% - 11.63%. Low rate shown includes a .25% reduction for automatic bank draft.

Some restrictions apply. See website for details.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

37

Personal Transactions

Marcos Anaya

Samantha Barnett

George Bell

Cory Boyte

Mark Cutler

Laura DiSabato

Cindy Gleason

Emily Green

Fred Green

Cal Hurst

AMERICAN BANKERS ASSOCIATION Fred L. Green III, President and CEO, South Carolina Bankers Association, will serve as Chair of the ABA State Banker Association Alliance and was appointed as a Director for the ABA Board.

K. Wayne Wicker, Chairman and CEO, South Atlantic Bank, Myrtle Beach, SC, was elected to serve on the American Bankers Association 2022-23 Board of Directors.

AMERIS BANK Mark Cutler has joined the bank as a Business Banker serving Beaufort, SC.

ANDERSON BROTHERS BANK Marcos Anaya has been promoted to Branch Manager of the Market Common office in Myrtle Beach.

Cindy Gleason has been promoted to Branch Operations Coordinator of the bank’s Dillon office.

Emily Green has joined the bank’s Myrtle Beach office as its newest lender. She will be based in the bank’s office located at 1136 44th Ave N., Myrtle Beach.

Jennifer Kimbrell has joined as a CRA Officer with loan compliance in the Hemingway office.

Eric Moore has joined as a Mortgage Loan Officer in Myrtle Beach.

McKayla Smith has been promoted to Consumer Lender in the Murrells Inlet office.

James “Jimmy” Trussell, Jr. has joined as Vice President – Marion City Executive.

Micky Watts has been elected Presidentelect of the National Automotive Finance Association.

BANK OF AMERICA Charlie Griffin, Senior Vice President, has been named National Client Acquisition Executive for Business Banking.

Samantha Wallace has been named Market Executive for the Upstate.

38

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

BANK OF THE LOWCOUNTRY Peden Brown Mcleod, Jr. has been elected Chairman of the Board.

Pamela J. Robertson has been elected Vice Chairwoman of the Board.

Chase Talbert has joined Bank of the Lowcountry as City Executive – Charleston.

COASTAL CAROLINA NATIONAL BANK Laura DiSabato has joined CCNB as Senior Vice President, Director of Human Resources.

COUNTYBANK Jamie Hedgepath has joined Countybank as General Counsel, Chief Human Resource Officer.

James Owens has been appointed BSA Officer by the Countybank Board of Directors.

Jennifer Kimbrell

Diane Krell

Chris Laughridge

Jack McElveen, Jr.

Eric Moore

McKayla Smith

Chase Talbert

Jimmy Trussell, Jr.

Wayne Wicker

Carson Williams

Lori Bell, Brandon Calhoun, Sherri Scearce, and Rich Vaughan have been appointed Vice Presidents; Joe Keaton, and Heather McGee have been appointed Assistant Vice Presidents; and Shelley Shealy and Julia Simmons have been appointed Banking Officers by the Countybank Board of Directors.

SERVISFIRST BANK Carson Williams has joined ServisFirst Bank Charleston as Senior Vice President, Mortgage Loan Officer.

SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

Samantha Barnett joined the Countybank team as SBA Business Development Associate and to introduce the SBA 7(a) Express Loan to its line of products.

Diane Krell has joined SCBA as the Communications and Engagement Officer.

FIRST RELIANCE BANK

Cal Hurst has been named President of Southern First Bancshares, Inc., holding company for Southern First Bank, effective August 18.

Chris Laughridge has been promoted to Market President, Greenville.

William Jack McElveen, Jr. has been named to the First Reliance Bank Board of Directors.

HOMETRUST BANK Megan Pelletier has been appointed Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer.

SOUTHERN FIRST BANK

THE SOUTHERN BANK Clayton Davenport has been named Vice President and Branch manager of the Greenville location.

David Ward has been hired as a new Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending for the Spartanburg branch which is scheduled to open at the end of this year.

Megan Pelletier

Russ Williams has joined the bank as Senior Vice President of Upstate Commercial Lending in the Greenville market.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANK George Bell has been appointed to the Board of Directors of United Community Banks, Inc. Cory Boyte has joined the bank to lead the development of a corporate banking division.

Chris Hayward has been promoted to Commercial Relationship Manager.

Cashida Okeke has joined the bank as Employment Counsel.

Mike Orlov has joined the bank’s Middle Market and Asset Based Lending team as Senior Vice President, Franchise Division Manager.

Jamie Pimentel has joined the bank’s mortgage leadership team in the Upstate as Regional Sales Manager.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

39

Banking News

AMERIS BANK Ameris Bank announced a $250,000 contribution to the South Carolina Research Authority’s (SCRA) Industry Partnership Fund (IPF) to help promote innovation throughout the state. The contribution is tied for the largest by a bank in the history of the SCRA, surpassing the previous summit of $150,000 made by Ameris in 2021.

BANK OF AMERICA Junior Achievement of Greater South Carolina has announced Mrs. Kim A. Wilkerson, Bank of America, of Columbia will be inducted to the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame on Thursday, March 9, 2023 at the Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina. Being inducted into the Business Hall of Fame is a distinction which honors lifetime achievements for those who have made a positive impact on South Carolina.

COUNTYBANK

Bob Quinn, Executive Director, SCRA with Richard Sturm, Executive Vice President, Ameris Bank, Mt. Pleasant.

Countybank’s SBA department has passed more than $100 million in loan closings. The program is currently ranked #1 in SBA 7 (a) loan volume in South Carolina for the fiscal year and is also in the top 150 (#142) in SBA 7(a) loan volume nationally.

Countybank’s mortgage department reached a significant milestone earlier this year as it surpassed the $3 billion mark in overall loan volume closed since its formation, comprised of more than 15,000 residential mortgage loan transactions.

Countybank and Greenwood Capital recently donated $1,500 to the Humane Society of Greenwood. The donation will go toward the HSOG’s Pet Foster Program.

FIRST BANK First Bancorp, the parent company of First Bank, and GrandSouth Bancorporation, the parent company of GrandSouth Bank, announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement under which First Bancorp will acquire GrandSouth in an all-stock transaction. The merger is expected to close in the late fourth quarter of 2022 or early first quarter of 2023.

FIRST CITIZENS BANK Midlands Technical College’s QuickJobs workforce development program has received a $50,000 grant from First Citizens Bank. This donation will help close the job skills gap and quickly fill open positions in the region.

40

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

FIRST RELIANCE BANK Edwin Lesly, Chairman of the Business Development Corporation of South Carolina, recognized First Reliance Bank’s excellent performance during their Annual Meeting on May 5, 2022. Rick Saunders, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of First Reliance accepted the Participating Partner Award for 2021 for the Greatest Number of Loans Approved in 2021.

First Reliance Bank has also been recognized in the Top 100 Workplaces by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, a national, nonprofit public charity dedicated to finding forever families for children waiting to be adopted from foster care in the United States and Canada.

The Foundation works closely with child welfare advocates and policymakers, provides free resources about foster care adoption, and raises awareness through social media campaigns, public service announcements, and events.

Rick Saunders, President and CEO, First Reliance Bank with Edwin Lesly, Chairman, Business Development Corporation of SC.

Rick Saunders, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Reliance, said, “Adoption is personal to me as my wife and daughters were adopted. We are most grateful for the love that has been brought to our family. As a company, supporting our associates who seek to adopt children will remain highly important to our institution.”

Talent Gathers Here HR resource Access to qualified, skilled applicants Exclusive to the financial services industry Career and management coaching Micro-internship opportunities ABA training resources

Engage

Explore

Employ

Visit BankTalentHQ.com to learn more.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

41

Banking News

Congratulations to the following individuals who earned their diplomas from the Graduate School of Banking at LSU on June 3, 2022: (left to right)

Daniel H. Harshaw Bank of York Robert M. “Robbie” Hollings III The Bank of South Carolina Rufus T. “Wells” Dunlap, V Countybank Charles K. “Chase” Talbert Bank of the Lowcountry Othniel W. Laffitte GrandSouth Bank

SECURITY FEDERAL BANK The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.’s most recent list of state nonmember banks examined for CRA compliance was issued Oct. 3 and covers evaluation ratings assigned to institutions in July. Of the 56 institutions on the list, three banks received “outstanding” CRA ratings, including Aiken, S.C. based Security Federal Bank.

REACH Carolinas. As our retail banking presence grows in the Carolinas, we are eager to support community initiatives such as PGA HOPE and give back to those who have valiantly served our country,” says Allen. TD Bank’s support will help underwrite PGA HOPE programming in Charleston, Greenville (SC), Charlotte, Asheville, Columbia, Piedmont-Triad and the Raleigh-Durham.

THE CITIZENS BANK SOUTHERN FIRST BANK Southern First has been recognized as the No. 5 Best Overall Bank in Bank Director’s annual “Ranking Banking” Report.

Citizens Bancshares Corporation, the holding company of The Citizens Bank, announced the completion of its acquisition of Sandhills Holding Company, Inc., the holding company of Sandhills Bank.

SYNOVUS THE SOUTHERN BANK Synovus Bank and Benedict College are partnering to provide a free financial literacy camp this summer. The program is the first of its kind and offers two-hour sessions daily for one week. All students interested in business + economics are invited to participate.

The Southern Bank announced the acquisition of property at 468 E. Main Street, Spartanburg. This will be the company’s new holding company headquarters and the second location in the state. The Bank also announced the opening of its first South Carolina branch in Greenville.

The new branch is located at 101 Cleveland Street.

TD BANK, N.A. TD Bank, N.A. has partnered with the PGA REACH Carolinas Foundation to enhance opportunities for disabled Veterans. Hugh Allen is the Regional President for TD Bank’s Mid South Metro, and is based out of Charlotte, NC. “We are delighted to partner with PGA 42

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

Executives from The Southern Financial Corporation announced the new board of directors: F. Andrew Mitchell, Scott Brandon, Frank J. Cole, Jr., J. Preston Conner, Scott M. Frierson, Dean J. Garritson, Jamin M. Hujik, Steve H. Owings, and Jesse A. Smith.

UNITED BANK United Bank has donated $2,500 to the Greenville Tech Foundation to be used for the Emergency Student Needs Fund. This gift will assist students who have unmet critical needs, providing help with medical bills, utilities, rent, bus passes, and other financial burdens that could otherwise cause a student to drop out.

UNITED COMMUNITY BANK In celebration of American Housing Month, the United Community Bank Foundation announced a new partnership with Habitat for Humanity affiliates across its footprint that will both support the cost of local builds and provide local United Community Bank team members with the opportunity to volunteer on a build in their area. The Foundation kicked off this partnership with a build in Wake County, North Carolina on July 1 and in Atlanta, Georgia on July 23. Other United builds are planned for South Carolina, Tennessee and Florida this fall, for seven homes in 2022.

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

43

UNPARALLELED, CREDIBLE SERVICE

IN A

TIMELY MANNER

FOR A

COMPETITIVE FEE

BY A

TRUSTED TEAM

specializing in commercial and agricultural properties

TYPICAL EXAMPLES

Offices Retail Spaces Medical Facilities Industrial Buildings Agricultural & Timberland Orchards Recreational Property

Agriculture and timberland appraisals provided in all counties shown.

Commercial appraisals provided in counties highlighted in blue.

CONTACT US (843) 538-6814

appraisals@compasssouth.com

www.compasssouthappraisals.com

2022-23

Calendar of Events NOVEMBER 2022 Young Bankers Division BankPac Sporting Clays Tournament November 16 Palmetto Shooting Complex, Edgefield, SC

JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3 Community Bankers Conference January 9–10 Hilton Columbia Center Columbia, SC

Bank Secrecy Act (BSA/AML) Conference January 25-26 Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown at USC Columbia, SC

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3 Bank Operations and Technology Conference and Trade Show Date TBD Columbia, SC

Women in Banking Leadership Symposium Date TBD Columbia, SC

MARCH 2023 2023 Young Bankers Division Conference March 3–5 The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee Greensboro, GA

2023 Spring Compliance Conference Date TBD Columbia, SC

Don’t forget the SCBA Webinars... another source for your training needs.

Please visit scbankers.org/all-online-training-opportunities to see the myriad of courses and webinars offered and to register!

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

45

Each of our preferred vendors provide top quality services, offer generous benefits, and can add value to your institution.

We are proud to partner with the companies listed below and are so very grateful for their support of the South Carolina Bankers Association and our members.

EMPLOYMENT ADVERTISING

PAYROLL & HR SOLUTIONS

COMPLIANCE

MERCHANT SERVICES PROVIDER

TITLING & REGISTRATION SERVICES

INSURANCE & FINANCIAL SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES

OFFICE SUPPLIES

BANK OWNED LIFE INSURANCE

NON-PROFIT EDUCATION LENDER

SECURITY & CONSULTING

FINANCIAL SERVICES

DATA & ANALYTICAL TOOLS

VENDOR CONTRACT & STRATEGIC ADVISORY SERVICES

RETAIL CHECKING SERVICES PROVIDER

INSURANCE SERVICES

PAYMENT SOLUTIONS

For more information, please contact: Carolyn Laffitte Bradley South Carolina Bankers Association 803.779.0850 carolynbradley@scbankers.org

46

I S S U E T W O 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER

2009 Park Street • PO Box 1483 Columbia, SC 29202-1483

2023 YOUNG BANKERS DIVISION ANNUAL CONFERENCE

MARCH 3-5, 2023

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee Greensboro, GA