Palmetto Banker Issue One 2023

SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION

Issue One 2023

Annual Convention and Tradeshow 2023

JUNE 11-14, 2023 | THE CHARLESTON PLACE | CHARLESTON, SC

FEATURED SPEAKERS

REGISTER NOW!

DEADLINE TO REGISTER: APRIL 27, 2023

CARL BORICK DIRECTOR CHARLESTON MUSEUM

ROB NICHOLS PRESIDENT AND CEO THE AMERICAN BANKERS ASSOCIATION

TIM SCOTT UNITED STATES SENATOR

JOHN TECKLENBURG MAYOR CHARLESTON, SC

JOAN K. WOODWARD EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PUBLIC POLICY, PRESIDENT OF THE TRAVELERS INSTITUTE

RICK REDDEN THE MCNAIR GROUP PRAYER BREAKFAST SPEAKER

2022-23 SCBA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman

Chairman-Elect

First Vice Chair

Treasurer

Immediate Past Chairman

Contents

Fleetwood S. Hassell, The Bank of South Carolina

Boyd B. Jones, Synovus

Jennifer T. Jones, CBL State Savings Bank

H. Richard Sturm, Ameris Bank

K. Wayne Wicker, South Atlantic Bank

2022-23 SCBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Second Immediate Past Chairman

President & CEO

Directors

James A. Bennett, First Citizens Bank

Fred L. Green III, South Carolina Bankers Association

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

Rufus T. Dunlap V, Countybank

Michael E. Edens, First Reliance Bank

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 COMMUNITY BANKERS DIVISION BOARD

Chairman

Immediate Past Chairman ................................

Directors

Michael E. Edens, First Reliance Bank

Curtis T. Evatt, Oconee Federal Savings & Loan

Kenneth M. Harper, Countybank

Will Holmes, First Carolina Bank

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 BANKERS SCHOOL BOARD

Chair

Chair-Elect

J. Reeves Skeen, First Citizens Bank

John M. Leighton, SouthState Bank

President’s Message

ABA Update

Cover: Legislative Reception

SC Banking at a Glance

Community Bankers Conference

Optimizing Vendor Contracts

SSBCI 2.0 Loan Participation

Program

2022 BankPAC Campaign

Representative Weston Newton

Young Bankers Division

Women in Banking Leadership

Symposium

Immediate Past Chair

Thomas C. Anderson, Jr., First Palmetto Bank

Marvin E. Robinson, Jr., Ameris Bank Directors...............................................................

Nathan T. Crowe, Security Federal 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 BANKERS DIVISION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Rufus T. Dunlap V, Countybank

Chair-Elect B. Oneal Staples, Ameris Bank

First Vice Chairman

Directors

5 7 8 12 14 17 20 22 24 26 32 33 35 38 40

Othniel W. Laffitte, First Bank

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

M. Brice Sprayberry III, United Community Bank

Welcome New Bank Members

Welcome New Associate Members

Personal Transactions

Banking News

SCBA Staff

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.

REFLECTING ON THE IMPORTANCE Alliance of State Bankers Associations

Fred L. Green III, President & CEO

The Alliance of State Bankers Associations and the American Bankers Association is probably the most impactful industry political advocacy group in the country. Many South Carolina bankers are not aware of this impactful group and I had planned to describe it in this edition of The Palmetto Banker. After reading my good friend Duncan Campbell’s article in his Pennsylvania Bankers Association Magazine, I realized he did a fabulous job in describing our alliance, so I’ve gained his permission to reprint his letter.

I’m writing this column, having just passed the leadership baton of the Alliance of State Bankers Associations (Alliance) to my friend and colleague, Fred Green of South Carolina. The Alliance is a critically important tool for our industry’s advocacy efforts that many of you reading this article may not be familiar with, but now you will be. I have had the honor of serving as its Chair for the past twelve months, and also serving as a member of the American Bankers Association (ABA) board of directors, as a result of this leadership position with the Alliance.

The Alliance is, as what you might expect, a coalition of state bankers associations. What does the Alliance do? Well, for starters, 51 state bankers associations (Puerto Rico is the 51st member of this Alliance) come together with the ABA to develop unified policy positions on legislative and regulatory issues ranging from representment to ESG and everything in between. If you have ever joined us for a Washington regulatory visit or legislative trip, you are familiar with the array of topics we cover with policymakers.

The unity of message that this Alliance can deliver to 100 US Senators and our federal regulatory agencies is a differentiator amongst other industries in Washington. In the past congressional session, the Alliance and its 51 state association members and the ABA have communicated support or opposition to Congress and the federal regulatory agencies on the following issues:

Just consider if PA Bankers were to voice a position on one of these issues to Senator Toomey, while the South Carolina Bankers voiced a counter position to Senator Tim Scott on the same issue. Senator Toomey and Senator Scott have both proven themselves to be major allies to the industry, and so having a divided position would likely cause them to tell us to go back and figure it out before seeking their support. This fracture would not inure to our industry’s benefit in this example. Consistency of messaging means all the difference as we work to present a unified policy front, and that’s exactly what our industry gets from the Alliance.

Another strength of the Alliance is our ability to work together, politically. The federal political action committees of most of the state associations are formally affiliated, which means that, as an industry and in coordination with the ABA, we are able to collectively provide political support to those members of Congress who support the banking industry—pro-banking, probusiness, bipartisan candidates. Leveraging the political strength that comes from the members of the state bankers association and the ABA, has a tremendously positive impact for the industry. The PAC efforts, combined with the Voter Education Fund engagement by the state association memberships, translates to millions of dollars of industry support, differentiating our industry from others, vis a’vis relevance with policymakers.

Beyond the policy and political benefits of the Alliance, I learn daily from my colleagues that lead these other state associations. We talk regularly. We give each other support. We steal ideas from each other (stealing is a permitted principle of the Alliance). Most of all, we respect each other. With the issues that we are constantly confronting as an industry, being able to look to your left and to your right and seeing people that you trust by your side, gives all of us the confidence we need to represent our members and our industry to the fullest.

South Carolina Bankers Association

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REGULATOR Gone Rogue REINING IN A

In an American Banker op-ed earlier this year, I called out the CFPB under the leadership of Rohit Chopra as a “regulator gone rogue.” I’m not alone in my criticism: in September, 12 Republican lawmakers took the bureau to task over what they called a “radical and highly-politicized agenda unbounded by statutory limits.”

Unfortunately, the bureau has continued to push legal boundaries on several different fronts in recent months.

First, the bureau has waged an aggressive PR campaign against so-called “junk fees”—using a term it coined to demonize the legitimate fees, including overdraft fees, that banks charge consumers for the products and services they offer. Throwing these fees in with things like concert ticket processing fees, resort fees and other surprise fees charged by retailers and hospitality businesses was a deliberate move to confuse the public about the well-disclosed fees they currently pay. (For the record, banks don’t charge resort or ticket fees, nor does the CFPB have authority to regulate those types of fees.)

Another alarming step by the Chopra bureau was its decision to update the UDAAP section of its exam manual in a way that fundamentally upends the regulatory approach to fair lending supervision and enforcement, without providing industry stakeholders or the public the opportunity to provide

feedback through the notice and comment process under the Administrative Procedure Act. Instead, the CFPB chose to take a backdoor route to expand its authority—giving itself the ability to examine for alleged disparate treatment or impact across all areas of bank operations using the authorities granted by the Dodd-Frank Act under its authority to prevent “unfair, deceptive or abusive acts or practices.”

In reality, the CFPB’s authority to enforce anti-discrimination laws is limited to credit products. It’s clear that this move is an attempt by the bureau to set itself up as a “super-regulator” of financial practices using authority Congress did not give it.

To be clear: ABA fully supports the fair enforcement of the nation’s antidiscrimination laws. We simply believe these laws should be enforced by regulators within the boundaries set by Congress. This updated manual does not qualify.

Given that the bureau has not seen fit to rescind the manual—despite previous calls from ABA and other trade groups— we were left with no choice but to pursue legal action. ABA’s lawsuit, which was filed in late September jointly with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Longview Chamber of Commerce, the Texas Bankers Association, the Independent Bankers Association of

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

Texas, the Texas Association of Business and the Consumer Bankers Association, alleges violations of the APA in three ways.

First, the bureau is exceeding its statutory authority outlined in Dodd-Frank, which is clear that “unfairness” under UDAAP and discrimination are distinct concepts that should not be conflated. Second, the updated manual is “arbitrary and capricious,” in violation of the APA. Finally, it violates the APA’s procedural requirements because it constitutes a legislative rule that failed to go through notice and comment.

It’s never our preference to take legal action against a regulator. And this lawsuit doesn’t mean we’ve given up on finding common ground with the bureau. In fact, on issues like the need to protect consumer data, or the need to make sure non banks face the same regulatory requirements as banks for similar activities, or the importance of relationship banking, our goals are very much aligned.

But when a regulator—any regulator— takes a step like this to dramatically expand its regulatory reach without authorization from Congress or any opportunity for the public to weigh in, ABA will respond on behalf of our members and the industry we represent.

01.10.23

On January 10th the South Carolina Bankers Association hosted its annual Legislative Reception at the Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina, located in the heart of The Vista in downtown Columbia. In line with tradition, the reception was held on the evening of the first day of the legislative session. This reception allowed our members to discuss issues of importance to our industry and to thank our elected officials for their continued support. With over 425 guests in attendance, this is always one of our best attended events.

Photo Recap

2023 SCBA LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION

South Carolina Banking at a glanCe

JANUARY 9-10 | COLUMBIA, SC

Community Bankers Conference

The Community Bankers Division, chaired by Michael Edens of First Reliance Bank, hosted the revamped, re-energized Community Bankers Conference in Columbia. For the first time in SCBA history, the two day conference was held in January and concluded just before our Legislative Reception began, making it more convenient for bankers across South Carolina to attend while they were already in the capital city.

Our dynamic agenda resulted in a fantastic turnout. The Keynote speaker was Tom Barkin, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. Other speakers and topics included “Leading for Today and Tomorrow” by Dr. Melissa J. Furman, MS, DBA and Owner, Career Potential; “How The Federal Home Loan Bank Can Help Your Bank” by Sharon Cook, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, and Scott Brennan, Senior Vice President and Director of Sales, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta; “Alternative Funding For Community Banks” by Omar Hinojosa, CFA, Managing Partner, HUB | Taylor Advisors; “U.S. Community Bank Outlook

As The Fed Fights Inflation” by Nathan Stovall, Principal Analyst and Director, FIG Research, S&P Global Market Intelligence; “SCBA Legislative Agenda” by Neil Rashley, Jr., Senior Vice President and Counsel Legislative and Regulatory, South Carolina Bankers Association; and, “Go Beyond The Branch With Embedded Banking Partnerships” by Danielle Eriksson, Director of Product Management, Apiture. The conference also included a “Community Bank CEO Panel” with Moderator: Fred L. Green III, President and CEO, South Carolina Bankers Association; Michael C. Crapps, President and CEO, First Community Bank and Past Chairman, South Carolina Bankers Association; Fleetwood S. Hassell, President and CEO, The Bank of South Carolina and Chairman, South Carolina Bankers Association; Jennifer T. Jones, President and CEO, CBL State Savings Bank and First Vice-Chair, South Carolina Bankers Association. Prior to adjournment, Jennifer Jones facilitated the “Community Bankers Round Table Discussions” and “Table Reports And Recaps.” Feedback from the event has been extremely positive and everyone seems to have left with a wealth of knowledge.

Seven Rules for Optimizing Vendor Contracts

By Patrick Goodwin, President, SRM (Strategic Resource Management)

Banks rely more on vendors and third-party technology providers to improve the customer experience and keep pace with the continuously evolving digital landscape. Fintech providers are well-equipped to design and deliver solutions rapidly, often at a lower cost than in-house development. For these relationships to be successful, banks must navigate contract negotiation and optimization efficiently.

Whether a financial institution is dealing with an existing vendor or coming to terms with a new provider, an inevitable power imbalance looms over the negotiation process for many reasons, including imperfect information and knowledge, limited negotiating skills, or an unobjective view of the underlying economics or alternatives.

To help contract negotiations be more successful, there are seven rules for optimizing vendor contracts:

1. START THE PROCESS EARLY

A comprehensive vendor/contract review is a lengthy exercise. If a financial institution doesn’t begin the process with enough lead time (as early as 24 months), it’s a clear sign to their current vendor that the account is secure, and there’s no need to offer material concessions. The request for proposal (RFP) process can also be lengthy with numerous sequential steps, including document development, distribution to potential suitors, completion, interviews, presentations, and evaluations, not to mention detailed negotiations.

2. DEVELOP A DISCIPLINED APPROACH

There must be a programmatic approach to financial technology contracts, which also means that it is helpful for the bank to assign a Project Lead — most likely the CFO, controller, or, in larger financial institutions, a delegate from the finance department — to be responsible for each agreement. These types of agreements require specialized knowledge, and taking the lead role out of the hands of the individual serving as the vendor’s ongoing main contact point can be financially beneficial. The Project Lead should also set clear priorities for the ongoing relationship and the negotiation process.

3. KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN

Financial institutions should never routinely renew or extend an agreement solely because they’re satisfied with the relationship. If a vendor approaches with an offer to extend at current contract terms, it’s an almost sure sign that money is being left on the table. Based on the typical technology curve, prices usually decline over time — particularly in a competitive market with high fixed costs and a steady stream of new entrants

driving competition. The RFP process serves as a valuable opportunity to understand the market better. The evaluation process enables institutions to affirm they have made the best decision and to generate cost savings or other significant improvements in terms and service levels.

4. PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO RENEWAL TERMS

Most financial services technology contracts include a clause requiring the customer to formally notify the vendor of its intent to revisit the agreement’s parameters at the end of the term. Vendors might argue that such clauses are necessary to ensure continuity of service for mission-critical software and services; however, it’s easy to overlook a required notification date — when a bank does so, the agreement immediately locks in for multiple years at existing rates. Given the general downward trend in technology prices, inaction hands the vendor a clear win. Some common safeguards against this are for a client to deliver written notice of intent to terminate immediately upon signing an agreement, limiting the duration of renewal periods, allowing clients to terminate at will during auto-renew periods, or requiring vendors to alert clients to an upcoming notification date.

5. LEVERAGE OUTSIDE DATA & THIRD-PARTY PARTNERS

Much of the power imbalance in a contract negotiation stems from the vendor’s deep knowledge of the space — precisely the type of expertise the bank aims to leverage through their relationship. Industry benchmarking data, conversations with colleagues at other financial institutions, and other forms of due diligence are all helpful and recommended steps. However, an even more-valuable step is to enlist a partner with similar domain expertise and market insight to assist with vendor selection and contract negotiation. Having someone in your corner who has built a cache of benchmarking data and negotiation proficiency can level the playing field.

6. BE AWARE OF RENEGOTIATION OPPORTUNITIES

Expiration and notification dates aren’t the only contract-altering events that must be tracked. The acquisition of a vendor firm often triggers a renegotiation opportunity. Other operational thresholds — often volume related — may also trigger pricing changes. Renegotiation and pricing clauses can help incentivize vendor and client behaviors, accounting for financial institution-specific needs and providing for the unexpected.

7. REMEMBER THAT RELATIONSHIPS LAST BEYOND THE NEGOTIATION

Although contract negotiation is an important and valuable activity, it should constitute a relatively small portion of a constructive long-term vendor/client relationship. Solid relationships and open communication lines are highly desirable for ongoing operational success and customer service. To optimize negotiation leverage, a united front has to be maintained in the negotiation process. Consider retaining an independent, third-party negotiator to act in your best interest while maintaining respect and diplomacy with your vendors.

Millions of dollars are at stake when negotiating a bank’s portfolio of vendor agreements. Financial institutions need to bring the proper skills to the table to solve the power imbalance in these discussions. These skills can be challenging to obtain, which makes enlisting the assistance of an objective and experienced third-party expert an important part of contract negotiations. Doing so can ultimately result in tremendous cost savings for institutions in the long run.

Patrick Goodwin is president of Strategic Resource Management (SRM), an independent advisory firm serving financial institutions and other industries across North America and Europe. Goodwin has nearly 20 years of contract negotiation experience spanning two dozen distinct specialties. His acquired knowledge of credit and debit card services, M&A contracts, and beyond remains vital to SRM’s continued diversification and success. For more information and details on optimizing vendor contracts, download SRM’s report.

State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 Loan Participation Program

Since 2012, Business Development Corporation of SC (BDC) has operated a State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Loan Participation Program (LPP) with the South Carolina Jobs-Economic Development Authority (JEDA). Although the official U.S. Treasury program ended in 2017, BDC has continued to operate the LPP in substantially the same manner as the Treasury program.

On July 18, 2022, the U.S. Treasury announced South Carolina’s new State Small Business Credit Initiative program (SSBCI 2.0). South Carolina, approved for up to $101.3 million, will operate a loan participation program to which it has allocated $50 million and a venture capital program to which it has allocated $51 million.

The LPP will expand access to capital for underserved communities by utilizing a significant percentage of the funds for underserved small businesses and by earmarking $10 million of the funds to assist the state’s CDFIs with loan participations.

The venture capital program will expand access to capital for underserved communities by leveraging relationships with partner organizations to identify small businesses in underserved communities and investing in venture capital funds that target underserved businesses and rural areas of South Carolina.

We recently interviewed State Treasurer Curtis Loftis, JEDA Executive Director Harry Huntley, and BDC President Peter Shand to find out more about the state’s recent $100 Million award for SSBCI funding.

CURTIS LOFTIS TREASURER OF SOUTH CAROLINA

We know how important our state’s banks are to the economic recovery from the effects of the pandemic. What impact will the new SSBCI 2.0 program have in regard to job creation and helping businesses in South Carolina grow and expand?

We estimate that 3,286 jobs will be created and 9,289 jobs will be retained in the state of South Carolina through the SSBCI 2.0 Loan Participation Program. The benefits to the state will be numerous, and will likely include:

• Assist small businesses in the recovery from the economic effects from the COVID pandemic, with a special focus on underserved small businesses;

• Increased income tax revenue for the state, from an increase in the number of employed persons;

• Increased sales tax revenue, as employed persons increase their spending on goods and services and create new households;

• Lower cost of unemployment insurance payments, as more people are employed;

• Better overall economy, as more people working leads to higher spending, much of which improves the health of the business community.

How will this program help the underserved businesses in the state?

The LPP is specifically designed to expand economic opportunities, including for historically underserved borrowers. The program will allow bank lenders to approve more loans for borrowers who would not normally qualify for the loan they are requesting. In addition, the low equity requirement will allow borrowers to preserve capital for other uses. Low equity requirements are very important for historically underserved borrowers, who frequently have not had an opportunity to accumulate the capital needed for equity requirements in standard bank loan transactions.

BDC’s current LPP has had great success in lending to historically underserved borrowers, as evidenced by its 69% CDFI tracking rate since the program began ten years ago. BDC anticipates having at least a 69% level of CDFI eligible loans using SSBCI 2.0 funds, although BDC will endeavor to increase the impact by partnering with other CDFIs in the state. To strengthen our state CDFIs’ ability to make SSBCI loans, BDC will earmark $10 million of the $50.3 million in SSBCI 2.0 funding specifically for SC CDFI lenders. BDC itself is a CDFI, and already has relationships with several CDFI lenders in the state that are able to make LPP loans, including Security Federal Bank and Optus Bank.

Explain how this new SSBCI 2.0 program is different than the original SSBCI program in regard to how it impacts businesses and the state in general.

The primary distinction between the two programs is that there is an increased emphasis on reaching underserved small businesses. Since the minimum participation size has been lowered, smaller loans can be considered and the increase in funding means we can assist a much larger number of small businesses.

BANKER

HARRY A. HUNTLEY, CPA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOBS-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (JEDA)

Why was BDC selected to manage this new lending program?

BDC’s management team has extensive operational capacity, skills, and experience in making commercial loans in general and SSBCI LPP loans specifically. BDC is a statewide lending institution with an extensive network of member banks throughout South Carolina who already do business with their team.

Also, BDC designed the SSBCI 1.0 loan program and all related systems and processes needed to ensure its success. The U.S. Treasury has regarded it as being an exemplary program and it has been frequently cited as a positive example of an LPP to other states. In addition, the program has had outstanding results in deploying capital, creating leverage, and reaching underserved borrowers.

What is the expected performance of this program?

Taking into account the existing knowledge and utilization of our LPP, we believe the program will have performance as follows:

Anticipated results based on funding of approximately $50.3 Million for a 10-year period:

• Number of Loans: expectations are for 892 loans totaling $804 Million;

• Average Size of Loan: $902 thousand;

• Losses: estimated losses at 1%, based on BDC’s actual loss experience of nearly 0%.

PETER SHAND PRESIDENT & CEO

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (BDC)

For bankers, what are the key points they need to know about this program?

SSBCI 2.0 is a loan participation program in which BDC can purchase an interest in a bank’s owner-occupied real estate loan and subordinate our interests to the bank in the event of default. This has the effect of giving the bank a lower loan-to-value on the collateral and can lead to approving loans that would not qualify otherwise. The program is designed to target for-profit businesses with 500 or fewer employees and whose loan request is $5 million or less on average. Some other criteria include:

• Borrower Equity Requirement: Minimum of 5%.

• Must have acceptable historic debt service coverage.

• Minimum BDC Participation Amount: $50,000.

• Maximum BDC Participation Amount: $1,000,000.

• Maximum Participation Percentage: The size of each participation will be determined by the amount needed for the bank lender to approve the loan. BDC expects that the majority of loans will fall in the 10%-25% range, although an amount of up to 49% is allowable.

How is this program different than BDC’s other lending programs?

Most of our other loan programs at BDC involve the Small Business Administration (SBA), which includes obtaining their approval for the loan. The SSBCI 2.0 loan program is not an SBA loan. Additionally, whereas startups would not qualify for SSBCI, our SBA loan programs can also consider loans for new business formation.

If my customers have questions about the program, do you have resources explaining the program to help answer their questions?

Yes, we have an online brochure specifically for borrowers, which explains the program and how it works. This brochure is featured on our website at: https://www.businessdevelopment.org/ssbci.html

In addition, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can provide borrowers with technical assistance with the application and help borrowers understand the program. The SBDC has several locations in South Carolina, and can be contacted at: https://www.scsbdc.com/

If I have questions or would like to use this program, who should I contact at BDC?

Our lending team of Nat Green, Mike Reis and Rob Evans can assist bankers with all SSBCI questions. Plus, if a borrower needs help finding a bank with which to apply, they can assist there too.

Pictured left to right: Peter Shand and Harry Huntley

Kevin T. Adams

Jeff Benjamin

Ryan Benton

Nancy Bergin

Marc Bogan

Todd M. Bogdan

Laurence Bolchoz

Thomas Bouchette

James Boyd

Renee Brooks

PRESIDENT’S CLUB

Anyone personally contributing $500 or more to SCBA BankPAC is recognized as a member of the President’s Club.

Ronnie Burbank

Richard D. Burleson

Marshall Cooper

Michael Edens

Michael C. Crapps

Charles Fehlig

Mary Garcia

Fred Green

Rick Green

Gary Hadwin

Fleetwood S. Hassell

Robert Hucks

M.J. Huggins

Jennifer T. Jones

John D. Kimberly

Timothy Koch

David L. Morrow

Kenneth M. Pickens

Julian (Jay) Ratterree

Jerry Rexroad

John Riddick

Paul J. Rogers

Daniel F. Siau

Samuel R. Small

Justin Strickland

H. Richard Sturm

Dennis Wade

Philip Wahl

Wayne Wicker

Ilya Zaretsky

With a month left in the 2022 campaign to accept donations, we are thrilled to report that we have surpassed last year’s President’s Club total — thank you for your support!

2021-2022: 23 M e M bers > $13,000

2022-2023: 40 M e M bers > $23,000

SCBA BankPAC Committee

PUBLIC SERVICE IS AN Honor

By Neil Rashley, Jr., Senior Vice President & Counsel, Legislative & Regulatory, South Carolina Bankers Association

Leadership and public service have been the hallmarks of Representative Weston Newton’s career, and his ten years in the House of Representatives have been no exception. Elected in 2013 to represent parts of Beaufort and Jasper counties, Newton rose quickly through House leadership and was recently elected chairman of the House Judiciary committee in December 2022. Before that he served from 2014–2022 as the inaugural chair of the House Legislative Oversight committee and was the architect of its rules and standard practices. Nine of his ten years have been as a committee chair – an impressive achievement for any elected official.

Newton is an attorney in Bluffton and he and his wife, Rose, reside there with their three children, Reedy, William and Eliza Rose. He is on the board of directors for the Bank of Clarendon, where Rose is also the chair of the board.

With his deep experience in law and banking, Representative Newton is a critical House leader when it comes to legislative issues affecting banking.

The House Judiciary committee is one of the most important committees as it oversees a broad range of significant legislative issues relating to constitutional law, elections and redistricting, criminal law, gun rights, and social issues such as abortion and hate crimes. As for banking, the committee handles bills concerning mortgages, probate law, and many uniform laws. Newton got the committee working quickly this year, focusing first on public safety issues such as bond reform and fentanyl abuse. He is proud that the committee’s work on these issues resulted in the House passing bills that created, in bond reform, a five-year enhancement to protect the public and placed a wedge in the revolving door for repeat, violent offenders making it harder for them to obtain bond; and concerning fentanyl, making it a Schedule 1 drug, increasing the penalties on dealers who purvey this dangerous drug.

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rthornton@bhg-inc.com

BHGLoanHub.com/SCBA

Moving a hate crimes bill was also a priority of his and the House recently passed this legislation that allows enhancement of criminal penalties if a hate crime is involved. Newton strongly supported this legislation and understood its importance to South Carolina, especially the business community. “Retailers, utilities, municipalities, coalitions of various chambers of commerce, and individuals across the state testified in support of enactment of hate crime penalty enhancement to send a message that South Carolina does not tolerate violence for any reason,” Newton said.

As a House leader, he offers strong support for bills that affect South Carolina. “Economic development is another issue of interest to me. Speaker Murrell Smith’s ‘Statewide Education and Workforce Development’ legislation was recently passed by our chamber. This important legislation coordinates and consolidates the state’s workforce development efforts, shaping South Carolina for the future. Having a trained workforce ready and available to work is a key component for recruitment of industry to South Carolina.”

Rep. Newton understands, and sees through his law practice and bank involvement, the relationship of law and regulation with banking, and also the balance that needs to be struck. “I agree with the many that believe in limited regulation of any industry, including banking. With that said, core regulations to ensure solvency and consumer protection are necessary.”

Yet, he stresses that in order to maintain that healthy relationship between banking and law, bankers need to stay involved with their elected officials. “I encourage everyone to get to know who represents you and to not hesitate to let your elected representatives know the issues that are important to you. Be polite in your correspondence but get to the point. While I may not agree with every constituent that reaches out to me on an issue, I always respect those that make the time and effort to participate in the legislative process.”

Prior to his service in the House, Newton was a member of the Beaufort County Council from 1999 – 2002 and served as chair from 2003 – 2012. Public service runs in the family as his daughter Reedy is the student body president for the University of South Carolina, and Rose serves on the boards of the University of South Carolina and the ETV Endowment.

Newton said, “Public service is an honor. A common characteristic among my fellow representatives that serve in leadership positions is how they continue to engage with their constituents, those back home and those who serve with them in Columbia. They take the time to understand issues and ask questions. We must work together in our efforts to make South Carolina an ever-greater place to live and work.”

The BHG Loan Hub is a secure, state-of-theart platform that allows you to diversify your bank’s portfolio with top-performing loans.

2022Young Bankers Division

4th Annual Sporting Clays Tournament for BankPAC fundraising

Thank you to everyone who supported the Young Bankers Division Fourth Annual BankPAC Sporting Clays Tournament Fundraiser held on Wednesday, November 16, at Palmetto Shooting Complex in Edgefield, SC.

Chair of the Event, Brice Sprayberry, Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager, United Community Bank, said “The Sporting Clays fundraiser was a first-class tournament at a premier shooting

complex. I’m confident and proud that the $27,000 raised today will make a meaningful impact to the BankPAC campaign.”

This year’s event was the most successful to date, with 111 shooters, friendly competition and a lot of camaraderie, despite the cloudy, cold weather! We were honored to have Senator Shane Massey and Senator Thomas McElveen III address our participants. Both were grateful for SCBA and PAC support and

spoke to reinforce the work they do for pro-banking and pro-business laws. Each stressed the importance of bankers developing good relationships with legislators.

Anyone who shares an interest in the future of the banking industry and wishes to preserve the important role of banks in our economy and our communities should contribute annually to one of the SCBA PACs. Please visit our website to learn more, www.scbankers.org.

The 2023 BankPAC Sporting Clays Tournament will be held on Wednesday, November 15.

If you are interested in securing a sponsorship for this year’s event, please contact Carolyn L. Bradley, carolynbradley@scbankers.org or (803) 779-0850.

Our 2022 Winning Team (L-R): Duffie Powers, Gallivan, White & Boyd, P.A., Charles Vernon, ArborOne Farm Credit, Michael Boozer, Integrated Financial Solutions, Ben Barnhill, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP, with event chair Brice Sprayberry.

Thank You Sponsors

Congratulations to our 2022 highest female shooter, Mallory Holley of Security Federal Bank and highest male shooter, J.P. Watson of Marlboro/Pee Dee Electric, pictured with event chair Brice Sprayberry.

Congratulations to our 2022 flurry contest winners, Zach Bennett (left) and Toby Calcutt (middle), who tied and tied again! (pictured with event chair Brice Sprayberry)

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LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM

“Navigate, Elevate, Accelerate” — Ladies, are you looking for ways to maximize your success? As the workplace becomes more gender diverse, you may be faced with many challenges as it relates to your career and professional success. This session will provide practical strategies and recommendations to help you overcome these challenges and achieve your professional goals. You will learn how to develop a strong brand, build impactful relationships, communicate with power and influence, negotiate for what you want, and much more!

The Women in Banking Leadership Symposium will bring you information to broaden your awareness and knowledge of key industry issues, inspire and empower you from stories of success and experience, and provide plenty of time to network with your peers from across South Carolina.

Deadline to register with the SCBA is Monday, April 3, 2023. Hotel rooms are limited, so book your room NOW! Hotel reservation deadline is March 24, 2023.

8.7 CPE CREDIT HOURS

JENNIFER T. JONES First Vice-Chair, SCBA Board of Directors, President & CEO CBL State Savings Bank Greer, SC

DITA M. BROWN Vice President, Commercial Banker Beacon Community Bank Charleston, SC

JULIEANN M. THURLOW Chair-Elect, American Bankers Association Board of Directors, President & CEO Reading Cooperative Bank Reading, MA

MELISSA J. FURMAN Owner, Speaker, Consultant Career Potential, LLC Augusta, GA

ALANA R. GRANT President Grant & Grant Consulting Founder, Hate Won’t Win Movement Columbia, SC

STACY R. BRANDON SCBA Board of Directors, President, Upstate South Carolina Senior Relationship Manager, Global Banking & Markets Bank of America Greenville, SC

RENEE R. BROOKS SCBA Board of Directors, Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer SouthState Bank Columbia, SC

MARY D. GARCIA SCBA Board of Directors, Regional Market President Pinnacle Financial Partners Mt. Pleasant, SC

NICOLE SCOTT Market Executive Bank of America Columbia, SC

KIM WILKERSON Board of Trustees Chair, Clemson University South Carolina President, Bank of America (retired) Columbia, SC

Proudly serving South Carolina’s banking industry since 1900, the SCBA is the key advocate in helping our member banks by providing leadership in legislative, regulatory, educational and value-added services.

Welcome New Bank Members

Welcome

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

Advisor HR, Inc.

8712 Lindholm Dr., Ste. 210 Huntersville, NC 28078 (248) 802-6189

www.advisorhr.net

Mr. Steve Groulx

8712 Lindholm Dr., Ste. 210 Huntersville, NC 28078 (248) 802-6189

sgroulx@advisorhr.net

Advisor HR business services provides human capital management solutions including HR, HR legal, payroll, time & attendance, insurances, tax and benefits administration, and performance management software solutions. The combination of easy-to-use technology and dedicated client service teams, helps your business focus on what matters most to them. Leave the employee administration to Advisor HR while you focus on your business!

Apiture

1805 Tiburon Dr. Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 442-4804

www.apiture.com

Catherine Quinn 1805 Tiburon Dr. Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 442-4804

Catherine.Quinn@apiture.com

Apiture delivers award-winning digital banking solutions to banks throughout the United States. Our flexible, highly configurable solutions meet a wide range of financial institutions’ needs, from leveling the playing field with larger banks to enabling unique, digital-only brands.

Eclipse Brand Builders

5050 Research Court, Suite 600 Suwanee, GA 30024 (678) 890-4065

www.eclipsebrandbuilders.com

Mr. Joel C. Thompson Regional Vice President 5050 Research Court Suwanee, GA 30024 (678) 890-8784

jthompson@eclipsebrandbuilders.com

Our full-service, design-build team has completed 700+ financial facilities. Eclipse specializes in innovative branch designs and transformations, main offices, and small to large operations and administrative centers. Our unique, transparent construction process maximizes the Bank’s control over quality, cost and schedule. Our in-house architects, interior designers, and construction professionals also provide branding assessments, strategic space analysis/ projections, and market analysis/site selection services, as well as furniture procurement and custom mill work.

ECS Southeast, LLP

14030 Thunderbolt Place, Suite 500 Chantilly, VA 20151 (803) 250-3377

www.ecslimited.com

Mr. Chuck Whipple 2031 Industrial Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072 (803) 605-7492

cwhipple@ecslimited.com

Founded in 1988, Engineering Consulting Services (ECS) has recognized responsiveness, quality and accountability as the baseline expectations of our profession. Because of this deep belief in developing the people, systems and expertise to focus on our client’s needs, our company growth spans multiple industry sectors and disciplines. Today, we are national leaders in the geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities engineering fields - with the ability to assist our clients across the entire project lifecycle. Our staff of over 2,400 team members is spread across 80 offices including Charleston, Columbia and Greenville.

Equity Valuation Partners

82 Plantation Pointe, Ste 213 Fairhope, AL 36532 (251) 968-9997

www.yourevp.com

Mrs. Margaret Morgan Senior Client Representative

82 Plantation Pointe, Ste 213 Fairhope, AL 36532 (251) 943-6904

margaretm@yourevp.com

Equity Valuation Partners (EVP) is a southeast regional appraisal management company founded in 2009 by appraiser, Drew Watson. Introducing a more transparent and efficient process to deliver valuations of every type for transactions of every size.

Behind every property valuation is a person or a family, and our mission is to make it easy for them to own real estate. That means the little things - like answering the phone when you call, having an underwriter ready QC process, integration capacity, personalized service, and county level pricing (to name a few) – are important to us. And because nobody likes surprises, we use predictive analytics to anticipate problems, act proactively to mitigate them before they become crises, and communicate with clients and vendors throughout the process. EVP has developed a proprietary software system to quickly filter for appraisal bias. Because no one has room for that type of surprise. So let us help—at EVP, every valuation is personal.

Ernst and Young LLC

One Manhattan West, 395 9th Ave. New York, NY 10001 (212) 773-3000

www.ey.com

Mr. Shawn Saulsberry

100 North Tryon Street Charlotte, NC 28202 (980) 224 - 0895

Shawn.Saulsberry@ey.com

EY exists to build a better working world, helping create long-term value for clients, people and society and build trust in the capital markets. Enabled by data and technology, diverse EY teams in over 150 countries provide trust through assurance and help clients grow, transform and operate. Working across assurance, consulting, law, strategy, tax and transactions, EY teams ask better questions to find new answers for the complex issues facing our world today. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com

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

Gulf Coast Small Business Lending, a division of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust

5949 Sherry Lane, Suite 785 Dallas, TX 75225 (833) 219-4018

www.gulfcoastsba.com

Mr. Griffin Laughridge

131 Marykirk Place, Suite 100 Garner, NC 27529 (919) 887-6890

griffinlaughridge@gulfbank.com

Gulf Coast Small Business Lending is a nationwide SBA Preferred Lender offering loans up to $5 Million. We work closely with bankers to help eliminate the risk of a “no” and protect your customer relationships. Although we are a bank (and a direct lender) we do not offer retail banking services in the Carolinas. We focus on one thing (SBA lending) and we’re good at it. Because we pose no competitive threat, we can help with the SBA loan while your bank retains the primary banking relationship. Contact us if you are facing lending limits, industry concentrations, geographic limitations, collateral shortfalls, a business acquisition with a substantial goodwill component or simply need SBA expertise to accommodate your customer.

QSI

107 Schuler Drive Bardstown ,KY 40004 (502) 350-1000

www.qsibanking.com

Mrs. Kendall Tungate

107 Schuler Drive Bardstown ,KY 40004 (502) 331-5272

kendall.tungate@qsibanking.com

QSI is the largest U.S. financial reseller of NCR solutions, helping community banks get the most from an ATM or ITM investment. Custom outsourcing of equipment and services for ATM, ITM, and TCR deployments is available, including transaction processing and our award-winning Remote Management Console (RMC) compliance services. We are a full-service equipment provider of security and traditional equipment with broad service capabilities. Brands include March Networks, Verint, Verkada, ATEC, Arca, DMP, Bosch, G&D, Fortis, Dormakaba, and more.

Check out our customer-friendly, no-risk service and maintenance agreements and find out why customers love QSI! Please contact sales@qsibanking.com for details and pricing.

Sawyers & Jacobs LLC

1085 Halle Park Circle Collierville, TN 38017 (901) 487-2575

dwilkes@sawyersjacobs.com

Mrs. Dana Wilkes

1085 Halle Park Circle

Collierville, TN 28017 (512) 963-5199

dwilkes@sawyersjacobs.com

Sawyers & Jacobs LLC is a leader in bank consulting, focused on innovation, risk management, cybersecurity, and technology through our four brands: RedTorch Consulting—Strategic consulting designed to align people, processes, and technology for world-class innovation, management, and operations. RedTail Risk Management—A suite of risk management services designed to help bankers identify threats and mitigate risk through practical applications, comply with laws and regulations, and maintain a high level of customer service, security, and profitability. RedWolf Cybersecurity—A full range of cybersecurity services for those serious about securing the enterprise and repelling the attackers who threaten banks and their customers. RedCape Tech Support—Concierge-level tech support delivered in a strong, intelligent, and friendly manner with premium quality, superior service, and special attention.

Spectrum Enterprise

9300 Arrowpoint Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28273

(704) 650-1245

melissa.root@charter.com

Ms. Melissa Root

Sales Enablement Manager

9300 Arrowpoint Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28273

(704) 650-1245

melissa.root@charter.com

Spectrum Enterprise, a division of Charter Communications, is a national provider of scalable, fiber-based technology solutions serving many of America’s largest businesses and communications service providers. The broad Spectrum Enterprise portfolio includes internet access, Ethernet access and networks, voice, and extends to managed IT solutions. Our industry-leading team of experts works closely with clients to achieve greater business success by providing these right-fit solutions designed to meet their evolving needs.

ANDERSON BROTHERS BANK

Weston Bailey joined Anderson Brothers Bank as commercial loan officer of the bank’s Dillon office located at 1006 Highway 301.

Allison Boulware joined Anderson Brothers Bank as human resources director in the bank’s corporate office in Mullins.

Terry Lee was promoted to branch operations coordinator of the bank’s Marion office located at 2500 East Hwy 76. She also serves as branch operations coordinator of the Marion main office, a position she has held since 2018.

BANK OF AMERICA

Vaughn Reynolds, Merrill market executive, has been named president of Bank of America Columbia. Vaughn succeeds Kim Wilkerson, who has shared that she will retire in March after 42 years of service and nearly two decades as president of Columbia and South Carolina.

BANK OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

Graham Holcombe joined as the company’s new senior vice president and city executive responsible for leading Bank of the Lowcountry’s growth in Beaufort, SC.

COUNTYBANK

Kevin Duncan, Tremayne Lee, and Dayle Mumford have been appointed senior vice president by the Countybank Board of Directors.

Ron Acker joined Countybank as vice president, professional and executive banking relationship manager in Greenville.

Rufus Thornwell “Wells” Dunlap, V, has been appointed senior vice president by the Countybank Board of Directors. Additionally, Wells has been promoted to senior operations officer of Countybank.

FEDERAL HOME LOAN BANK OF ATLANTA

R. Thornwell Dunlap III, president and chief executive officer of Countybank in

Greenwood, South Carolina, was elected by FHLBank Atlanta board members to a two-year term as chair of FHLBank Atlanta’s board of directors.

FIRST RELIANCE BANK

David Parler has joined First Reliance Bank as residential lending specialist and will be in the Columbia, SC, Main Street Branch.

HOME FEDERAL SAVINGS & LOAN ASSOCIATION

Terry Lynn Carter was named president and chief executive officer of Home Federal Savings & Loan Association in Bamberg as L. E. Griffin (Bo) retired as president and chief executive officer.

Lynn Jeffcoat was named new chief financial officer of Home Federal Savings & Loan Association in Bamberg.

HOME TRUST BANK

Mickey Renner joins HomeTrust Bank as a senior vice president and market president.

Graham Holcombe

Vaughn Reynolds

Terry Lee

Kim Wilkerson

Allison Boulware

L. E. Griffin (Bo)

Weston Bailey

Dayle Mumford

Kevin Duncan Tremayne Lee

Wells Dunlap

Ron Acker

Thornwell Dunlap

PINNACLE FINANCIAL PARTNERS

John S. Dickson, CFP, Senior Vice President, joined Pinnacle Financial Partners as a wealth financial advisor. His office will be located at Pinnacle’s new regional headquarters at Morrison Yard beginning in April.

Mike Glennon has joined as a senior vice president for Pinnacle Asset Management and a wealth advisor for Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/ SIPC. His office will be located at Pinnacle’s new regional headquarters at Morrison Yard beginning in April.

Sherry Katzenberger has joined the bank’s Myrtle Beach office as office leader at our Grissom office.

Kirk McMillan, Senior Vice President, joined the bank as an insurance advisor for HPB Insurance Group, a subsidiary of Pinnacle Financial Partners. His office will be located at Pinnacle’s new regional headquarters at Morrison Yard beginning in April.

Charles Smits has been promoted to client services group area manager at our Main Street office in Summerville.

Michael Tecosky has been promoted to client advisory group area manager for the Charleston market. His office will be located at Pinnacle’s new regional headquarters at Morrison Yard in April.

SOUTHSTATE BANK

Jon Chilton, commercial banker, has joined SouthState’s upstate market.

Chris Parish, commercial banker, has joined SouthState’s upstate market.

Sean Dreybus, commercial banker, has joined SouthState’s upstate market.

Nikki Blanco, premier private banker, has joined SouthState’s upstate market.

Brennan King, commercial portfolio manager, has join SouthState in its Charleston market.

SOUTH ATLANTIC BANK

Travis A. Minter has been named chief operating officer for the company.

SOUTHERN FIRST BANK

Steve Hunter joins Southern First Bank as team leader and senior vice president in Columbia.

TD BANK

Jacob Yost has been named senior relationship manager, serving the south coast market of South Carolina.

Jay Johnson has been promoted to retail market manager of the midlands, South Carolina market.

THE CITIZENS BANK

Margi Fleming, has been promoted to senior vice president in our corporate office.

Darrell Cassidy, has been promoted to senior vice president at our Hartsville Branch.

Jacob Yost

Travis Minter

Margi Fleming

Steve Hunter

John S. Dickson

Mike Glennon Sherry Katzenberger

Kirk McMillan

Charles Smits Michael Tecosky

Jay Johnson

David Parler Mickey Renner

COUNTYBANK

The South Carolina District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration recently ranked Countybank Number 1 in total loan dollar volume for 2022 among all South Carolina-based SBA 7(a) lenders. Countybank also ranked Number 2 in South Carolina for loan dollar volume among 90 participating lenders during the fiscal year.

Countybank and Greenwood Capital pledged almost $79,000 to United Way as part of their annual Pacesetter Campaign.

David Tompkins, Greenwood Market Executive for Countybank, recently presented a check for $5,000 to Next Level Lifestyles to support their operation. The donation was given on behalf of the Countybank Foundation, which was established in 1971 and represents Countybank and Greenwood Capital. Next Level Lifestyles is a program that Jamar Crawford founded to serve youth in Greenwood.

FIRST BANK

First Bancorp, the parent company of First Bank, completed its acquisition of Greenville, S.C. based GrandSouth Bancorp. , the parent company of GrandSouth Bank , on January 1, 2023. Under the companies’ merger agreement, GrandSouth Bank merged with and into First Bank, which will keep operating the eight branches of GrandSouth Bank under the GrandSouth Bank name until the completion of a systems conversion scheduled for mid-March. The combined company is expected to have over $12 billion in assets, $7 billion in loans and $10 billion in deposits.

FIRST CITIZENS BANK

First Citizens Bank and First Citizens Wealth Management are donating $20,000 in support of the SC Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities over the next two years. This multi-year gift showcases the strong partnership between the two organizations and the importance First Citizens places on arts education in South Carolina.

FIRST COMMUNITY BANK

The South Carolina Foundation for Educational Leadership has selected Mike Crapps, CEO First Community Bank , as a 2023 Distinguished South Carolina Public School Graduate. Mike joins two other honorees in this year’s class which recognizes graduates who have excelled in their respective fields and celebrates the impact of public education as it recognizes the achievements of the honorees.

FIRST RELIANCE BANK

First Reliance Bank celebrated the grand opening of its regional headquarters with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at its retail and corporate offices in downtown Columbia on Thursday, January 12, 2023. Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann, community leaders, and the First Reliance Bank executive and banking team from Columbia were in attendance.

“We are very appreciative of the investment First Reliance Bank has made in downtown Columbia. The bank’s investment is important as it supports the continued growth of business and retail along the Main Street corridor,” stated Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann.

HOMETRUST BANK

HomeTrust Bancshares Inc. , the holding company of HomeTrust Bank, completed its merger with Quantum Capital Corp., the parent company of Quantum National Bank, on February 12, 2023. The stock-and-cash transaction was valued at roughly $70.8 million, according to a news release. On a pro forma basis, the combined entity will hold assets of about $4.3 billion, loans of $3.6 billion and deposits of $3.6 billion.

As part of the merger, Quantum National Bank merged with and into HomeTrust Bank. HomeTrust Bancshares will continue operating Quantum National Bank’s branch offices under the Quantum National Bank name until the systems conversion scheduled for mid-March.

TD BANK

With support of the TD Charitable Foundation, Prisma Health is developing a program to improve maternal and birth outcomes for Black mothers by pairing them with doulas for support through the birthing process.

The innovative pilot program is funded by a $125,000 grant from the TD Charitable Foundation, the charitable giving arm of TD Bank. Modeled after similar interventions in North Carolina, Virginia and Washington, D.C., the program is expected to launch by early summer. Women receiving prenatal care through any Prisma Health provider will be able to submit applications at that time.

“TD Bank is proud to support Prisma Health in its work to alleviate maternal health disparities in South Carolina,” said David Lominack, South Carolina market president, TD Bank.

THE BANK OF SOUTH CAROLINA

The Bank of South Carolina Corporation announced on January 26, 2023, that Fleetwood S. Hassell plans to retire as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and its subsidiary, The Bank of South Carolina, on September 30, 2023. Mr. Hassell will continue to serve on the Board of Directors of both the Company and the Bank after his retirement. The Board of Directors of the Company and the Bank have elected Eugene H. Walpole, IV, the current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, to succeed Mr. Hassell as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank effective October 1, 2023.

Mr. Hassell started with the Bank in 1986 as a founding officer and has held a number of leadership positions, most recently as President and Chief Executive Officer since 2012. He has provided vision and steady leadership throughout his tenure, having served his community and the banking industry for over 40 years.

Mr. Walpole has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company and the Bank since 2016. Previously, Mr. Walpole served in various positions with the Bank since 2012. Before joining the Bank, he worked at Elliott Davis, LLC in their financial services audit practice from 2008 to 2012.

Fleetwood S. Hassell, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “It has been a privilege to serve the Company and the Bank over the last 36 years. I strongly believe in the role our bank plays in the community as a connector, collaborator, catalyst, and contributor. Gene and I have worked together for over ten years, and he has played a significant role in the execution of our strategic plan. I am confident he will provide sound leadership for both the Company and the Bank that will allow for our continued growth and success.”

UNITED COMMUNITY BANK

United Community Bank has once again been named one of the Best Banks to Work For in 2022 by American Banker and Best Companies Group. This recognition is based on employee satisfaction and signifies the bank’s commitment to employee development and the fostering of a strong culture. This is the sixth consecutive year the bank has been selected for this list.

In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy, the United Community Bank Foundation donated $25,000 to Urban League affiliates across its footprint. The Urban League’s dedication to economic empowerment aligns with the bank’s commitment to improving the financial health of the communities we serve and Dr. King’s dream of economic justice.

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RISE to theTOP

2023 SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS SCHOOL

July 9-14, 2023 | Lander University | Greenwood, SC

• One of the premier state banking programs in the country

• Integrated and complete set of usable courses covering all aspects of banking, as well as overall bank management

• Academic and social interactions with fellow bankers conducive to joint bank problem solving later in the workplace

• Acquire a better knowledge of the total scope and role of the financial services industry in today’s economy

• Provides benefits for the duration of one’s banking career

For more information, please call Carolyn L. Bradley at 803.779.0850 or email carolynbradley@scbankers.org.