The Mississippi Banker - July August 2015 by The Mississippi Banker Magazine

127th Chairman Mississippi Bankers Association

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The official publication of the Mississippi Bankers Association Rachel Chew • Editor

OFFICERS

Chairman George Marx, Hazlehurst Vice Chairman Frank Sibley, Marks Treasurer Jerry Host, Jackson President McKinley W. Deaver, Jackson

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Terms Expiring 2016 Johnny Barrett, Oxford Robert Gage, Port Gibson Buddy Mortimer, Kilmichael Art Stevens, Jackson Terms Expiring 2017 Dennis Ammann, Mendenhall Greg Cronin, Biloxi Bobby Steinriede, Hollandale Mitch Waycaster, Tupelo James Wicker, McComb Terms Expiring 2018 Hoppy Cole, Hattiesburg Arthur DuCote, Jackson Michael Dudley, DeKalb Moak Griffin, Columbus John Neville, Ridgeland Frank West, Batesville Ex-Officio Members George Marx, Chairman, Hazlehurst Frank Sibley, Vice Chairman, Marks Jerry Host, Treasurer, Jackson Freddie Bagley, Retiring Chairman, Brandon Odean Busby, Preceding Chairman, Magee

STAFF President................................ McKinley W. Deaver Senior V.P., Operations..........................Amy Davis V.P., Government Relations........... Gordon Fellows Programs Manager............................Lori Richardson Marketing Manager........................ Brooke McCoy Business Manager.................................... Gail Sykes Manager of Insurance Services..........Sherell Taylor Manager of Communications............. Rachel Chew Administrative Assistant....................... Amber Parker

Volume 100 • Number 1 • July/August 2015

Features

Graduate School of Banking at LSU.......................................... 14 23 Mississippi bankers complete a three-year GSB program

Mississippi School of Banking..............................................15-19 47 graduate from MBA-sponsored school

If two tiers work for regulation, why not deposit insurance?...... 20 Commentary by Joseph H. Neely

2015 MBA Annual Convention...........................................21-25 Mississippi bankers ‘Expected to Win’ and did at convention

George Marx: 127th MBA Chairman.................................26-28 Knowing those you serve leads to greater success

Association Membership Elects Leaders................................29-30 New officers, board members chosen for 2015-16

MBA 40-, 50- and 60-Year Clubs.........................................32-33 Bankers recognized for years of service

Departments From the President...............................................................................................................2 Around the State.............................................................................................................. 3-8 Good Neighbors........................................................................................................... 10-11 Government Relations Update..................................................................................... 12-13 Calendar............................................................................................................................31 Bankers on the Move.................................................................................................... 34-37 Classified Ads............................................................................................................... 38-39 American Bankers Association............................................................................................40 The Mississippi Banker (ISSN 0026-6159) is published bi-monthly for $25.00 per year or $5.00 per issue by the Mississippi Bankers Association, 640 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39202. Phone (601) 948-6366. Periodicals Postage paid in Jackson, Mississippi.

YOUNG BANKERS SECTION President....................Parker England, Greenville Vice President...........Kent Mortimer, Kilmichael Treasurer........................Wes Rouse, Hattiesburg

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Mississippi Banker, P. O. Box 37, Jackson, MS 39205-0037. The corporation is not responsible for opinions expressed and statements made by the contributors of articles published in The Mississippi Banker excepting official announcements. Printed By Hederman Brothers, Ridgeland, MS

JULY/AUGUST 2015

From the President

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As Dodd-Frank turns five, is reform coming? By Mac Deaver, MBA President July 21, 2015, was the fifth anniversary of the passage of the Dodd-Frank Act. Devised by Congress in response to the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression, the massive new law promised to make our nation’s financial system safer and more stable – and benefit consumers. Dodd-Frank was passed hastily in a politically-charged at- Deaver mosphere, and it wound up including many provisions that had little or nothing to do with addressing the financial crisis or safeguarding consumers. After passage amid much fanfare, the Dodd-Frank Act immediately gained “holy grail” status on Capitol Hill. Any discussion of making changes to the new law (or, heaven forbid, repealing it) was denounced as anti-consumer and politically unthinkable. Because of this prevailing mindset, no member of Congress was able to make any headway to reform Dodd-Frank. On Dodd-Frank’s five-year anniversary, news media carried numerous reports about the law’s impact. Many commentaries on its effectiveness (or lack thereof ) were, not surprisingly, guided by politics. President Obama praised Dodd-Frank, saying it “rewards responsibility instead of recklessness” and boasting that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has helped millions of consumers “who’ve been cheated.” Former Senator Chris Dodd, one of the bill’s lead sponsors, dismissed much criticism of the law, saying that “a lot of people who complain about this couldn’t organize a two-car funeral.” In response to talk of amending Dodd-Frank, President Obama promised to veto any “unraveling of the new rules on Wall Street.” (Isn’t it interesting that such high profile comments ignore the law’s serious effects on “Main Street”?) As we know, Dodd-Frank has generated thousands of pages of new bank regulations, with more to come. Over 2

five years, our industry has had success in making some of the regulations more workable – such as creating a safe harbor on Qualified Mortgages and improving the Volcker Rule. But the sheer volume of regulations has been a major burden for community banks – and limited their ability to serve their customers. Until recently, any talk of amending the law itself continued to fall on deaf ears in Washington. In recent months, however, we have seen an increased willingness in Congress, on both sides of the aisle, to discuss ways to improve Dodd-Frank. Thanks to the efforts of the American Bankers Association and other industry groups, the collective work of state bankers associations, and – most importantly – hometown

After passing amid much fanfare, Dodd-Frank gained ‘holy grail’ status on Capitol Hill. bankers telling their stories to members of Congress, serious consideration is being given to addressing the “unintended consequences” of Dodd-Frank. Congress has taken note that there are almost 2,000 fewer banks than there were in September 2008. Many of these were traditional hometown banks in rural America, where they were the primary source of financial services in their communities. (While Dodd-Frank did not cause all of these bank closures, it clearly has contributed to this disturbing trend.) Senator Richard Shelby of Alabama, chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, has put forth a proposal designed to right many of the things that Dodd-Frank got wrong. First and foremost, the Shelby bill would lighten the regulatory burden on community banks. Last month, Mis-

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sissippi’s Senator Thad Cochran, chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, moved Shelby’s bill forward as part of appropriations legislation. While this procedural move initially created rancor between supporters and opponents of change, it is seen as increasing the likelihood for passage of some Dodd-Frank reform. Congressman Jeb Hensarling of Texas, chairman of the Banking and Financial Services Committee, is charging ahead in moving a number of bills through the House, addressing many of the same concerns. On the five-year anniversary of DoddFrank, ABA President Frank Keating posed a compelling question: “Has DoddFrank, however well intended, done more to harm banks than to make the industry safer?” Keating went on to point out that “no bill that large and complex gets every provision right.” While it is clear that banks are in better shape than they were five years ago, traditional banks – including all banks operating in Mississippi – today face increased risk and regulatory cost as a result of Dodd-Frank. These institutions are restricted in serving their customers. The mission of community banks is, literally, being undermined by regulations written to address sins of others. There is genuine promise that changes to Dodd-Frank are possible in Congress this year. But it will take strong bipartisanship support. Without this, it is certain that our efforts will fail. The critical factor will be making Congressmen and Senators fully aware of the impact that Dodd-Frank and its mandated regulations are having on our customers and local communities. Thanks to bankers in Mississippi and across the nation who are engaged in telling our important story. You are having an impact; keep up the fight. If you are not involved, I encourage you to get involved. Together, we can make reform happen – and we will have something really worth celebrating!

Around the State

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First American National Bank Elects new Board member Chairman Mark Segars of First American National Bank and First American Bancshares, Inc. is pleased to announce the election of Richard D. Bowen to serve on the Board Bowen of Directors. Bowen is a graduate of Mississippi State University, earning his Juris Doctorate Degree from the University Of Mississippi School Of Law. He brings a wealth of proven leadership and business experience to the Board having served as a staff member of the University of Mississippi Law Center, Research Director of Mississippi’s Prosecutor’s College and Director of the Prosecutor Training Intern Program. Bowen served as the First Circuit Court District’s Assistant DA and Tishomingo County’s Prosecuting Attorney thru 1988; going into private practice before serving as the Circuit Court Judge for the counties of Alcorn, Itawamba, Lee, Monroe, Pontotoc, Prentiss and Tishomingo Counties until 2003. After serving as Circuit Court Judge, Bowen reopened his private law practice serving in the capacities of the City Attorney for the City of Iuka, Attorney for the Prentiss County School District, Board Attorney for the Farmington and Tishomingo County Water Districts, litigation counsel for the Towns of Burnsville and Tishomingo as well as the Tishomingo County Development Foundation, and Attorney for the Town of Golden. Bowen currently serves as the Assistant District Attorney as Chief of the Major Crimes Unit.

Barrett, Mortimer elected to MBA Executive Committee Johnny Barrett of FNB Oxford Bank, Oxford, and Buddy Mortimer of Bank of Kilmichael, Kilmichael, have been elected by the MBA board of Directors to serve on the MBA Executive Committee for 2015-16. Barrett currently serves as president and chief executive officer Barrett of FNB Oxford Bank. Mortimer currently serves as president and chief executive officer of the Bank of Kilmichael. Barrett and Mortimer are each beginning their third year of service on the MBA Board of Directors. They join MBA Chairman George Marx, Copiah Bank, N.A., Hazlehurst;

Vice Chairman Frank Sibley, Citizens Bank & Trust Company, Marks; Treasurer Jerry Host, Trustmark National Bank, Jackson; Immediate Past Chairman Freddie Bagley, Community Bancshares, Inc., Brandon; and MBA President Mac Deaver to complete the Mortimer seven-member Executive Committee. The Executive Committee functions between board meetings, and its actions are reported to the board. Barrett and Mortimer will serve one year on the Executive Committee, with their terms concluding at the 2016 MBA Convention.

First Commercial Bank, Jackson, completes Merger with Desoto County Bank Officials of First Commercial Bank announced it has successfully completed the transaction involving the merger of Southaven-based DeSoto County Bank with and into First Commercial. The merger is effective immediately, but DeSoto County Bank will continue to operate under its current name until some time in the third quarter of this year. It is expected DeSoto County Bank’s customer accounts will be converted to First Commercial’s computer systems in October. Until then, it’s business as usual for customers of both banks. DeSoto County Bank customers should continue to use their same checks, debit cards, and online banking services. “Customers will receive notifications regarding the progress of the consolidation well in advance of any changes. Our goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible for our new customers,” said Alan Walters, President & CEO of First Commercial Bank. “If customers have questions, I invite them to contact their local office,” he added. “Further, we are pleased to announce that Bill Renovich, President & CEO of DeSoto County Bank, will remain as the DeSoto County Market President for First Commercial Bank,” continued Walters. “One of the key things we recognized--in addition to the fact this is a great opportunity for expanded service and convenience for our customers in Mississippi--is the exceptional level of talent of the management and staff at DeSoto County Bank. JULY/AUGUST 2015

Around the State

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BankFirst expands presence in central Mississippi Through combination with Newton County Bank BankFirst Capital Corporation (“BankFirst”) and Newton County Bancorporation, Inc. (“NCB”) have entered into a Definitive Agreement and Plan of Merger whereby NCB will be merged with and into BankFirst, with BankFirst as the surviving entity. With the merger, BankFirst will have total assets in excess of $875 million and 18 total branches across 10 Mississippi Counties. In so doing, BankFirst will become the 11th largest Mississippi-based banking institution and will capture a top 10 share of the Mississippi state-wide deposit market. “This transaction attractively expands our footprint in central Mississippi and provides additional operating scale across our bank. We are excited about

continuing to offer high-touch, community banking service to Newton County Bank’s customers while introducing a broader product offering to better meet their banking needs,” said Moak Griffin, BankFirst’s President & CEO. “Newton County Bank has consistently ranked as one of the best performing banks in Mississippi, so we look forward to keeping their culture and performance intact.” Bill Freeman, Newton County Bank President & CEO, will serve as the Newton Community Bank President following the transaction and will also join the BankFirst Board of Directors. “With this partnership, Newton County Bank will become part of a larger, high-performing bank with a culture and customer focus very similar to ours,” noted Mr. Freeman.

“This partnership will benefit our customers, our community, and our employees, immediately and over the long term.” The transaction, which is expected to close in the 3rd quarter of 2015, was unanimously approved by the boards of both companies but remains subject to approval by NCB’s shareholders and approval by federal and state regulatory authorities as well as the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions provided in the merger agreement. BankFirst was advised by Olsen Palmer LLC and the law firm of Brunini, Grantham, Grower, and Hewes, PLLC. NCB was advised by Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC and the law firm of Jones Walker LLP.

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Around the State

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Howard named new board member at BankPlus BankPlus announced Randall E. Howard has joined the Board of Directors of BankPlus Corporation and the bank. Howard was elected at the board of directors meeting in April. “Randy’s vast experience in banking and finance across the deep south will be a valuable asset to BankPlus as we continue to grow. Given his broad banking background, Randy has a great deal to offer BankPlus and we are honored to have him join our Board of Directors,” said Bill Ray, President and CEO of BankPlus. Howard currently serves on the board of directors for First Bank and Trust in New Orleans as an independent director. Previously, he was a member of the board of directors for Hibernia Corporation and Hibernia National Bank while serving as a Senior Executive Vice President and

President of Commercial Banking with that organization. He served as the CEO for both Argent Bank and Citizens Bank and Trust in Louisiana. Originally from Jackson, Howard graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics. He also completed the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. “I have been impressed with BankPlus’ steady growth as well as the bank’s continued commitment to its employees and the community,” said Howard. “I am honored to join a board that has guided such incredible success while maintaining these commitments.” This addition increases the number of BankPlus directors to 12. In addition to Howard, the members of the BankPlus

Lane joins Cadence Bank local advisory board Cadence Bank announced that Pat Lane has joined the bank’s local advisory board for Starkville. “I am extremely honored to have the opportunity to serve an organization that has been a Lane part of this community for over 100 years,” said Lane. “They have a seasoned team of bankers and who have deep roots in this community and are experts in their fields. I look forward to being a part of their outstanding advisory board.” Lane joins current advisory board members: Jeff Adkerson, Nelle Cohen, Alveria Crump, Dr. Wesley Ferguson, Jack Forbus, Dr. John Forde, William Hilbun, Dr. Andrew Martin, Markeeta Outlaw, Dr. Allison Pearson, Jeff Read, Dr. Roy Ruby, Dr. David Shaw, Jack Wallace, and Sallie Whiteside. 6

The bank’s advisory board is led by Jimmy Abraham, Vice Chairman of Client & Business Relations and Jerry Toney, Mississippi bank president and Senior Financial Consultant. According to Toney, Lane’s regular community involvement and professional experience will be an asset to the board. “Pat has been a respected business leader in this community for many years. Her unique perspective will be invaluable as we develop fresh ideas that can benefit our clients and help Cadence continue to support the health and growth of the Golden Triangle.” Lane has been a real estate broker in the Starkville area 39 years. She was recognized as Coldwell Banker’s top producer in Mississippi from 1998-2001 and was honored with the International President’s Elite designation eight consecutive times. Lane attended Mississippi State University where she earned her master’s degree.

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board are Chairman of the Board Thomas G. Peaster, Billy M. Davis, William F. Hawkins, Kennith W. Helton, B. Bryan Jones III, C. R. Montgomery, Roy Hal Parker, Jr., John F. Phillips III, William A. Ray, Jack B. Yates and Max S. Yates.

Charter Bank Welcomes five New board Members Charter Bank is pleased to announce the addition of five new directors to the Charter Bank Board of Directors. The new board members include James D. Sutton, M.D. from Ocean Springs, Eric D. Washington, M.D. from Pascagoula, Carole Lynn Meadows from Gulfport, Kirk Ladner from Gulfport and Tom Sawyer from Gulfport. “We are very excited to welcome our new board members to the Charter Bank team and look forward to the opportunity to have them on our board, said Greg Cronin, President and CEO. Our new board members are community leaders and have made significant contributions to the Mississippi Gulf Coast over the years. Their experience and knowledge of Charter Bank will be an integral part of our success as our bank continues to grow”. The five new board members join Greg Cronin, William J. Hough, Sr., John D. Myers, Jeffery D. Noblin, M.D., Vincent J. Pisciotta, M.D., W. Edward Trehern and Roy C. Williams in service on the Charter Bank Board of Directors. Retiring from the board with five years of service is Mrs. Jane Dennis.

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Around the State

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Regions Bank receives Financial Education Innovation Award Regions Bank was honored in April with the Innovation in Financial Education Award presented by Nasdaq and EverFi. The award recognizes significant efforts to improve the financial capabilities of young Americans. In all, 25 financial institutions were honored with this distinction at a ceremony hosted at Nasdaq’s Marketsite headquarters in New York City. Honorees were selected based on a set of criteria that included the scale and reach of their financial education initiatives, the duration of their commitment, and unique employee volunteering activities that supplement their programs. “The institutions we’re recognizing here today have led exceptional efforts to rethink how financial education is taught in our nation’s schools,” said EverFi Founder and CEO Tom Davidson. As young adults are faced with increasingly complex financial decisions, Regions Bank is committed to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed in order to succeed. Regions Bank has partnered with EverFi

Ginny Franks and Katherine Mears receive the Innovation in Financial Education Award.

to bring financial education to local high school students, in addition to select universities, at no cost to schools or taxpayers through the Regions Bank Financial Scholars Program, which has reached nearly 35,000 total students since 2010. Including adult financial education, that number reaches 43,000. The web-based program uses the latest in new media technology – simulations, gaming and adaptive-pathing – to bring complex financial concepts to life for today’s digital generation.

Guaranty Bank opens new offices In Batesville, Senatobia Huey Townsend, President and Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Bank & Trust Company, said the bank will offer its customers new facilities at 1200 Highway 6 East in Batesville and at 5040 Highway 51 North in Senatobia. The new Batesville office will serve customers in addition to its existing office at 470 Highway 6 East while the new Senatobia office will replace its current branch at 250 Norfleet Plaza. “We hope that Batesville families and business owners will recognize our long-term commitment to Panola County,” Batesville branch President, Keith Buck said. “We are proud of the new, state-of-the-art branch and look forward to welcoming friends old 8

and new in that facility. I believe our customers will find it easily accessible with the latest in banking technology.” Bailey Meeks, President of Guaranty Bank, Senatobia, said “Our Senatobia Office is progressing very closely with our Batesville Office. Our customers in and around Senatobia will certainly enjoy the new branch,” Meeks said. “It is substantially bigger than our previous location and filled with high-tech banking technology. One area we are excited about is our multi-media kiosk for our customers to learn and explore Online Banking right in the bank. Guaranty Bank & Trust Company is committed to Senatobia and Tate County.”

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Barnes Participates in ICBA Policy Summit On April 28, nearly 1,000 community bankers and industry advocates gathered in Washington for the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) annual Washington Policy Summit, which ran through Thursday, April 30. Robert Barnes, President and CEO of PriorityOne Bank, Magee, met with regulators and their members of Congress to discuss issues that impact community banks, local economies and the customers they serve on Main Street. Key issues include regulatory relief for community banks, data and cyber security, and repealing taxpayer-funded subsidies for credit unions and Farm Credit System (FCS) lenders. In addition to meeting with their policymakers, Barnes heard remarks from speakers including Senate Banking Committee Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), House Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit Chairman Randy Neugebauer (R-Texas) and Federal Reserve Governor Daniel K. Tarullo. Barnes also met with the directors of key regulatory agencies, including Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Chairman Martin Gruenberg, Comptroller of the Currency Thomas Curry, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director Richard Cordray and Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mel Watt.

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Good Neighbors

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Trustmark brings 125 schools across Mississippi A web-based financial literacy program During the month of May, Trustmark celebrated student graduates of the Trustmark Financial Scholars Program, a financial education course designed to empower young people with the essential skills needed to make sound financial decisions, at Murrah High School, McComb High School and visited Corinth High School. Through the program, more than 150 Murrah High School students, 190 McComb students and 70 Corinth High School students participated in the course this academic year. Mississippi State Treasurer Lynn Fitch joined Trustmark in celebrating the student graduates at Murrah High School. “We’re thankful for Trustmark’s partnership in bringing this resource to our school and preparing our students for

the world after high school,” said Murrah High School Principal Kennieth Green. “It is important for young people to learn the fundamentals of money management early in life,” Trustmark Community Bank President – McComb Jason Douglas said. “This online program provides students with the knowledge and skills that will help them with financial decisions in the future. We commend the McComb High School students on the completion of this course.” During the recent visit to Corinth High School, Trustmark associates spoke with three classes of Economics students. “Speaking with Corinth High School students face to face about financial topics was a great way to complement their work on the online platform, and allowed

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us to answer their questions about money management,” said Trustmark Vice President and Senior Retail Banker Tina Bugg. “My students love the program and see the relevance of the information at this stage of their lives,” said Charles Carpenter, Corinth High School Economics teacher. In honor of its recent 125th anniversary, Trustmark has partnered with leading education technology company EverFi, Inc. to bring this interactive, web-based financial management program to 125 schools across Mississippi. Thus far this academic year, the Trustmark Financial Scholars Program is used in 94 schools across the state and has reached more than 6,800 students.

Good Neighbors

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BancorpSouth and The First, A National Banking Association, Receive ‘America Saves’ Designation of Savings Excellence In May, both BancorpSouth and The First, A National Banking Association received the America Saves Designation of Savings Excellence for Banks, a new designation from America Saves that recognizes banks and credit unions that went above and beyond to encourage people to save money during America Saves Week. This is the first year America Saves has offered the Designation. The America Saves Selection Committee, in selecting BancorpSouth for the Designation, was particularly impressed with the number of new savings accounts opened by BancorpSouth, the amount of the deposits made, and the number of automatic savings deposits. Dan

Rollins,BancorpSouth Chairman and CEO, in commenting on the Designation said, “BancorpSouth is honored to be one of only 19 banks and credit unions in the country to receive this prestigious recognition. BancorpSouth bankers across our footprint worked numerous hours in conducting savings related financial education programs and distributing materials. Savings is a vital part of a healthy financial life. BancorpSouth hopes our financial education programs conducted during America Saves Week in February encourage individuals to start savings accounts or add to the accounts they already have opened.” The First, A National Banking Associa-

tion, won this special recognition for its efforts during America Saves Week along with eight other banks across the U.S. During America Saves Week in February The First waived services charges for one year on all savings accounts that were opened during that week. Anyone could open a savings for as little as $15.00 during the week of February 23 through 27. The First opened 312 new savings accounts that week, totaling $110,245.33 America Saves Week is an annual opportunity for financial institutions to encourage individuals to save money – with an emphasis on reaching low- to moderate-income families.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Government Relations

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MissBankPAC 2015 fundraising campaign underway Mi s s Ba n k PAC, the political action committee which has been the “voice of Mississippi banking” in the political process for over 35 years, recently began its 2015 fundraising campaign. Sponsored by the Mississippi Bankers Association, MissBankPAC is actively working to meet annual fundraising goals for both its state and federal funds. This is an important year for MissBankPAC, as each member of the state legislature as well as all of Mississippi’s state-wide elected officials will stand for election this November. As part of the election process, MissBankPAC has been actively working to support legislative candidates who have demonstrated a willingness to support banking-related issues at the Mississippi State Capitol. The PAC directs its fundraising efforts to member bank CEO’s, who are encouraged to conduct in-bank fundraising cam-

paigns or, if eligible, to make corporate contributions. MissBankPAC does not directly solicit individual bank officers or employees for contributions. If requested, the PAC assists CEOs in internal fundraising by providing materials or by meeting with bank boards or officers. The PAC seeks local banker input before making contributions in legislative races. Leslie Usher of Great Southern bank in Meridian chairs the committee of Mississippi bankers that govern MissBankPAC. “In these challenging times, Mississippi bankers must pull together to make a difference in the political process,” he said in a letter to bank CEO’s. “We can do this through MissBankPAC.” The MissBankPAC board of directors oversees fundraising and make decisions on campaign contributions after receiving feedback from local bankers in each legislative district. The MissBankPAC committee has set its 2015 fundraising goals, and progress is well underway toward meeting those goals. The overall objective is to increase the industry’s participation in state and federal elections. Usher commends the

banks that have regularly supported MissBankPAC, but he stresses that increased participation is needed. “Today, it is more important than ever to make sure that our voice is heard,” he said. MissBankPAC maintains two separate funds. Its state fund supports candidates for state legislative and appellate judge positions. The PAC’s federal fund participates in races for seats in the U.S. House and Senate. Different rules govern fundraising by each fund. The state fund can accept corporate contributions, while the federal fund cannot. And, while state banks can make corporate contributions, national banks generally may not. Gordon Fellows, MissBankPAC Treasurer, works to assure compliance with all fundraising rules. Fellows is available to provide additional information and assist bankers in learning how they can provide support to MissBankPAC. Bankers are also encouraged to contact the MBA to share their opinions on their local legislative candidates. Fellows can be reached by telephone at (601) 948-6366 or email gfellows@msbankers.com.

October 4-7, 2015 Annual MBA Washington Visit The Mayflower Renaissance Hotel Washington, DC

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Government Relations

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MBA Chairman George Marx presents a $20,000 check from MissBankPAC to W. Wes Hoskins, chairman of ABA BankPac during the ABA’s Summer Leadership Meeting in Baltimore on July 13. On hand for the presentation (from left) were Rob Nichols, incoming ABA president; Mac Deaver, MBA president; Wes Hoskins, BankPAC chairman; Marx; John Ikard, ABA chairman; Jerry Host, MBA treasurer and member of the ABA Government Relations Council; and John Hairston, member of the ABA Board of Directors.

Voters in North Mississippi recently elected Trent Kelly to serve as Congressman, fulfilling the unexpired term of Alan Nunnelee after his untimely death. Prior to his election, MissBankPAC presented Kelly a campaign contribution at the MBA Office. L to R: Jeff Lacey, Renasant Bank; Chuck Nicholson, Community Bancshares, Inc.; Trent Kelly; MBA Chairman George Marx, Copiah Bank, N.A.; and Ben Aldridge, Trustmark National Bank.

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JULY/AUGUST 2015

Twenty-three Mississippi bankers graduate From Graduate School of Banking at LSU In June, 23 Mississippi bankers received diplomas from the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. Mississippi graduates include: • David B. Burt, Newton County Bank, Newton • Jamey Carter, Bank of Yazoo, Yazoo City • Dale DeLoach, Southern Bancorp Bank, Indianola • C J Dunaway, The Peoples Bank, Biloxi • Amanda M. Estrade, The Peoples Bank, Biloxi • Brian D. Fisher, Concordia Bank, Natchez • Chase Frazure, BankFirst Financial Services, Columbus • Marvin A. Freeman, Trustmark National Bank, Madison • Jason Furr, Pike National Bank, Brookhaven • John James Glorioso III, Cleveland State Bank, Cleveland • Susan Keith Grice, Hancock Bank, Gulfport • Bailey Howell Hartel, MS Department of Banking, Hattiesburg • William Harold Herrin, BancorpSouth, Flowood • Mark F. Hinton, Community Bank,

Tupelo requires attendance on campus for three • Brandon S. Hubbard, Trustmark years, with extensive bank study assignNational Bank, Magee ments between sessions. The faculty • Bradley Brooks Lunceford, First Na- consists of bankers, business and profestional Bank, Clarksdale sional leaders, and educators from across • Jason Conner Lunceford, CB&S the country. Bank, Clarksdale During their three years at the school, • Sam Anthony Mangialardi, Bancorp- students receive 180 hours of classroom South Bank, Flowood instruction, thirty hours of reviews, • Jana Manley, Hancock Bank, Gulf- planned evening study, and written final port examinations at the end of each session. • Grant Scott Montgomery, BancorpTo date, 1,654 Mississippi Bankers South Bank, Madison have graduated from the Graduate School • Jeremy L. Oliver, First Southern of Banking at LSU. Bank, Columbia • Ronald J. Stanley, Bank of Wiggins, Wiggins • John Clifton Thach Jr., Trustmark National Bank, Greenwood Sponsored by the Mississippi Bankers Association and 15 state bankers associations, in cooperation with the Division of Continuing Education at LSU, Mississippi students and faculty pose for a photo with George Marx, the banking school MBA Chairman, during June 14 reception at GSB.

Save the Date! MBA’s “A Banker in Every Classroom” Week will be held November 2-6, 2015! For more information, please visit www.msbankers.com

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MS School of Banking THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Mississippi School of Banking concludes 46th session 47 graduates are honored after completing two-year program

Forty-seven students graduated from the 46th annual session of the Mississippi School of Banking, conducted by the MBA on the University of Mississippi campus. A total of 123 students attended the school this year during the week of April 12-18. During the two-year program, graduates completed over 80 hours of classroom instruction, including lectures and workshops on a wide array of banking subjects, and successfully completed a series of home study problems. Graduates also passed written examinations at the end of each session and participated in the ABA’s BankExec Financial Simulation during their second year. The 2015 student body was comprised of 123 students from 47 different Mississippi banks. Dr. Ken Cyree, MBA/Frank R. Day Chair of Banking and Dean of Business at the University of Mississippi, serves as director of the school. MBA Senior Vice President, Amy Davis, is the MSB registrar. MBA Chairman, Freddie Bagley of Brandon, addressed graduation ceremonies and joined in presenting diplomas. Other remarks were made by Cyree, MYB President Parker England; Senior

Class President Ryan Reeves; and MBA President Mac Deaver. During the graduation ceremony, Matt Different of BankPlus, Ridgeland, received the Donald L. Moak Achievement Award for achieving the highest academic honors in the 2015 class. This award is given by the MBA Education Foundation. Jay Cook of Bank of Commerce, Starkville, was awarded a first-year scholarship to the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. Teams of graduating students were recognized for the top-performing “banks” in the BankExec Simulation competition. The two winning teams were “A Different Kind of Bank” and “TKO Financial Co.” Members of “A Different Kind of Bank” were Matt Different, BankPlus; Rod Duke, Covington County Bank; Gordon Fellow, MBA; Shana Robertson, Community Bank of MS; and Julie Schmidt, The Peoples Bank, Biloxi. Members of “TKO Financial Co.” were Jordon Creech, The Peoples Bank, Biloxi; Stefani Evans, Guaranty Bank & Trust Co.; Robert Hawkins, BankPlus; Austin Shafer, BankFirst Financial Services; and Jamie Windham, First American National Bank. The 47th session of the MSB will be conducted April 3-9, 2016, on the University of Mississippi campus. For more information, please contact Amy Davis at the MBA by telephone at (601) 948-6366 or by email at adavis@msbankers.com.

L to R: John Paul Rhea, Community Bank, was elected first-year class treasurer and Addison Lawrence, Guaranty Bank & Trust Co., was elected class president.

“A Different Kind of Bank” (L to R): Dr. Ken Cyree, Julie Schmidt, Rod Duke, Gordon Fellows, Shana Robertson, and Matt Different.

L to R: Dr. Ken Cyree, MBA/Frank R. Day Chair of Banking; Parker England, MYB President; Matt Different, Donald L. Moak Achievement Award Winner; Freddie Bagley, MBA Chairman; and Mac Deaver, MBA President.

L to R: MBA/Frank R. Day Chair of Banking Dr. Ken Cyrree; Jay Cook, Graduate School of Banking at LSU scholarship recipient; MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley and Mac Deaver, MBA President.

“TKO Financial Co.” (L to R): Dr. Ken Cyree, Robert Hawkins, Jordon Creech, Austin Shafer, Stefani Evans, and Jamie Windham.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

MS School of Banking THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

2015 Mississippi School of Banking Graduating Class BancorpSouth - Renae Harrell Bank of Brookhaven - Wayne McKenzie Bank of Commerce - Jay Cook Bank of Oxford - Marshall Fratesi Bank of Yazoo - Stephen Harris, Ryan McInnis BankFirst Financial Services - Clint Dalrymple, Austin Shafer BankPlus - Jay Bourne, Matt Different, Robert Hawkins, Trent Nelson, Brice Richardson, Keauna Toatley Citizens National Bank of Meridian - Carlos Brown Community Bancshares Inc. - Gus Brand, Andrew Fox Community Bank, North Mississippi - Andy Young Community Bank of Mississippi - Ryan Reeves, Shana Robertson Covington County Bank - Rod Duke Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas - Russ Guess First American National Bank - Jamie Windham, Melissa Wooten First State Bank, Waynesboro - BJ Cooley

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FNB Oxford Bank - Miriam Knight, Linda White Guaranty Bank & Trust Company - Stefani Evans, Lori Woodruff Hancock Bank - Chris Estrade, Edgar Ruiz, Steven Singleterry, Justin Wadsworth Home Banking Company - Hannah Conaway Merchants & Farmers Bank - Leslie Howell Merchants & Marine Bank - Morgan Holloway Mississippi Bankers Association - Gordon Fellows Peoples Bank, Magee - Jacob Blakeney Planters Bank & Trust Company - Chris West PriorityOne Bank - Brian Hughes Regions Bank - David Dixon, Chase Maxwell, Walt Stephens Renasant Bank - Tonya Leach The Peoples Bank, Biloxi - Jordan Creech, Julie Schmidt Trustmark National Bank - Chris Davidson, Debbie Walker

MS School of Banking THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

2015 Mississippi School of Banking First Year Class Amory Federal Savings & Loan - Wesley Bost BancorpSouth - Lisa Morrow, Todd Vanderbrook Bank of Forest - Beverly Tadlock Bank of Franklin - Michael Gates BankFirst Financial Services - Melanie Cox, Swayze McNiff, Marlene Wilson BankPlus - Jesse Allison, John Boatner, Sedric Brinson, Chris Craddock, Gina Hudson, Leigha McLendon, Andy Nichols Charter Bank - Brad Grayson Citizens Bank, Columbia - Amanda Matherne Cleveland State Bank - Bennett Crow Community Bancshares Inc. - Chris Blakeney, John Paul Rhea Community Bank of Mississippi - Monica Cook, Chris Ishee Community Bank, Coast - Matt Boney, Rhett Chancey, Jeff Keenum Community Bank, Ellisville - Ryan Haarala, Seth Miles Community Bank, North Mississippi - Kevin Brown, Kevin McCartney, Andrew McDowell Copiah Bank, N.A. - Leslie Fortenberry Fenimore, Kay, Harrison and Ford, LLP - Doug Weissinger First National Bank of Picayune - David Levy First National Bankers Bank - Michelle Adams, Grant Gordy First Security Bank - Cody Harrell

First State Bank - Stacy Hutto, Rachel Stone First State Bank, Waynesboro - Jeanette Tolon FNB Oxford Bank - Pam Murphree, Bill Taylor Guaranty Bank & Trust Company - Diedre Barret, Mary Claire Glasco, Addison Lawrence, Emerson Lovelace, Brandy Tominello Hancock Bank - John Payton Hood, Benji Richoux, Sam Sandoz, Nikki Skrmetti, Katie Widdows Mechanics Bank - Jeff Bynum, Shannon Davis, Lindsey Faust Merchants & Marine Bank - Leigh Rayburn, Monica Stork Newton County Bank - Joe Clay Pike National Bank - Angie Davis Planters Bank & Trust Company - Chase McPherson, Grant Phillips PriorityOne Bank - Scott Barnes, Jenny Herrington Regions Bank - Shane Fitzgerald, Andy Miller, Antwann Richardson, Robert Toomey Ross & Yerger - Travis Clayton Southern Bancorp - Rials McWilliams The Citizens Bank, Philadelphia - Sam Mars The Peoples Bank, Biloxi - Leah Anderson, Kevin Estrade

Trustmark National Bank - Ralph Clark, Joey Kern, Ann McDonald, Jon-Michael Trimm, Dee Williams JULY/AUGUST 2015

MS School of Banking THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

ABA BankExec Simulation Second-year MSB student teams manage their own banks in the ABA BankExec Financial Management Simulation.

Acquire U.S. Bank (L to R): Tonya Leach, BJ Cooley, Debbie Walker, and Chris Estrade.

TKO Financial Co. (L to R): Robert Hawkins, Jamie Windham, Austin Shafer, Jordon Creech, and Stefani Evans.

A Different Kind of Bank (L to R): Matt Different, Julie Schmidt, Rod Duke, Gordon Fellows, and Shana Robertson.

The Wolves of Main Street (L to R): Linda White, Brian Hughes, Jay Bourne, Ryan McInnis, and Russ Guess.

Iron Bank of Bravo$ (L to R): Justin Wadsworth, Gus Brand, Ryan Reeves, Lisa Woodruff, and Wayne McKenzie.

321 Bank (L to R): Leslie Howell, Brice Richardson, Jay Cook, Keauna Toatley, and Melissa Wooten.

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Spreads Like Jelly Bank (L to R): Walt Stephens, Chris Davidson, Carlos Brown, and Marshall Fratesi.

GAB Bank (L to R): Chris West, Stephen Harris, Jacob Blakeney, Renae Harwell, and Chase Maxwell.

Past Our Bedtime Bank (L to R): Steven Singleterry, Andrew Fox, Edgar Ruiz, Miriam Knight, and Clint Dalrymple.

Kick Your Assets (L to R): Trent Nelson, David Dixon, Andy Young, Hannah Conaway, and Morgan Holloway.

2016 Session

will be held April 3-9, 2016 University of Mississippi Oxford, MS Applications will be available September 1, 2015

JULY/AUGUST 2015

If two tiers work for regulation, Why not deposit insurance? By Joseph H. Neely A former Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. chair is now calling for a two-tiered legislative solution that could significantly reduce the regulatory burden on community banks. This approach “might give regulators the ability to craft simpler rules for banks with much simpler business models,” former FDIC head Sheila Bair said in a February interview with American Banker. “It’s clean, simple, easy to write … I don’t know why anyone would object to it.” I agree: I don’t know why anyone would object to it. I also don’t know why any community banker or taxpayer would object to applying this same premise to FDIC deposit insurance by separating the risk concentrations that exist within the fund. Perhaps a look back into the history of the deposit insurance fund offers some perspective on why this approach merits consideration. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act was enacted in 1991 as the industry reeled from the bank failures of the 1980s. The law restructured the entire deposit insurance system and changed the assessment process from flat-rate premiums to risk-based premiums. Obviously, lawmakers realized that all banks did not pose the same risks to the fund and made a distinction in risk profiles and premiums for the first time. The FDICIA was also notable for formally recognizing the term “too big to fail,” although the term “TBTF” first rose from the ashes of Continental Illinois National Bank in 1984. The law established procedures to be followed in determining whether an institution posed too great of a systemic risk to allow its failure. TBTF has since been a major point of discussion and controversy. As required by the Dodd-Frank Act, the FDIC began assessing banks based on their assets rather than deposits. At year-end 2014, over 99.5% of the insured institutions — or 6,486 banks — comprised only 36.5% of the total assessment base. Conversely, less than .5% of the institutions — 23 large institutions — represented 63.5% of the total assessment base. It’s safe to say that all banks do not pose the same level of risk to the fund, as was recognized with the implementation 20

of FDICIA. Dig a little deeper. At year-end 2014, the biggest four bank holding companies held assets totaling $8.2 trillion. They are JPMorgan Chase ($2.6 trillion), Bank of America ($2.1 trillion), Citigroup ($1.8 trillion) and Wells Fargo ($1.7 trillion). These institutions hold 1.5 times the total assets of the remaining top 50 banks combined. To put it in perspective, the collapse of Washington Mutual in 2008 represents the largest bank failure in U.S. history. However, JPMorgan Chase is over eight times larger than Washington Mutual was at closure ($307 billion). Ironically, WaMu’s banking operations were acquired from FDIC receivership by none other than JPMorgan Chase. The list of candidates with the capacity to acquire WaMu was a small one. A list of candidates with the capacity to acquire the big four doesn’t exist. At the beginning of the financial crisis in mid-2008, the big four banks held 33% of the total reported assets of all insured institutions. As of December 2014, they held 42% of the total $15.6 trillion in total reported assets of all FDIC-insured institutions. The concentration and exposure in the deposit insurance fund continues to grow while TBTF celebrates its healthy, unchallenged 30 years of existence. Former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan is widely credited as the master of “Fedspeak.” He could make the simplest subject matter sound so ambiguous and confusing that his audience would argue over interpretations. However, in 2009, Alan Greenspan may have made one of his simplest statements ever regarding TBTF: “If they’re too big to fail, they’re too big.” Moral hazard occurs when one party takes more risks because someone else bears the burden of those risks. Clearly, the smaller banks in the deposit insurance fund are subsidizing the activities of the largest banks. The insurance fund effectively insures compacts and Ferraris under the same basic premium structure, with no consideration for systemic risk. There is no logical justification for placing a smalltown community bank in the same risk pool with a complex megabank, requiring

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them to subsidize various activities that they don’t engage in or even understand. At year-end 2014, 98% of the 6,509 insured institutions reported under $10 billion in assets. This needn’t be the threshold in a two-tiered system, but it is a good place to start the discussion — and also happens to be the same cutoff Bair references in her proposal. Smaller, less-complex banks would eagerly support participating in an insurance fund with others who bring the same basic operational risks to bear, even if their assets exceed a certain threshold. The existing risk-based premium structure could account for capitalization, “Camels” ratings and other traditional measures of performance and soundness. The larger, more complex institutions would then be left to subsidize and support each other in a separate systemic risk pool or go it alone. This would be a big first step in addressing moral hazard and TBTF. The burden of responsibility for the largest banks’ riskier activities and increasing asset concentration would shift from the subsidizing smaller banks and taxpayers to the depositors and counterparties of those complex institutions. This is certainly not a new or novel solution to an old problem. However, it would be similar in concept to Bair’s recent promotion of simpler rules for banks with simpler business models. Bair suggests that legislation implementing a two-tiered regulatory system for banks would be clean, simple and easy to write. I am not so sure the same approach with deposit insurance would be easy to write, but it could be clean and simple. And while large, complex banks would surely object to a tiered approach for deposit insurance, traditional community bankers and taxpayers would rejoice. Joseph H. Neely is a former director of the FDIC. He is president of Neely and Associates, a consulting firm providing advisory services to community banks.

EXPECT TO WIN Mississippi Bankers ‘Expect to Win’ at 2015 MBA Convention Over 630 Mississippi bankers, banking associates and their families attended the 2015 convention to honor outgoing MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley of Community Bancshares, Inc, in Brandon. The 2015 MBA Convention was held at the Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Destin, FL. The theme of this year’s convention, ‘Expect to Win’ was based on Bagley’s coaching leadership style. The theme was executed by playing off ESPN’s “Gameday” experience. The convention featured a trade show comprised of 60 exhibitors, three general sessions, golf tournament, spouse program and daily social and recreational events. General session speakers included Elliot Eisenberg, economist; Jere Nash and Andy Taggart, political consultants; Jeff Plagge, Immediate Past ABA Chairman; and Dan Reeves, former NFL coach. Diane Tate was the guest speaker at the spouse

program. At the annual business session, George Marx of Hazlehurst was elected MBA Chairman for 2015-16, and officers and directors were elected (see pages 27-28 for more information). At the convention’s Annual Banquet, outgoing Chairman Bagley was honored by his bank, Community Bancshares Inc., with a trip to Italy and the MBA with a trip to Napa Valley, CA. Entertainment was provided by the Motown/R&B group, Spectrum. Major sponsors of this year’s convention were Trustmark National Bank, Community Bancshares Inc., Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas, FNBB Mississippi and FNBB Capital Markets, Stockett & Thomas and Chairman Freddie Bagley addresses the opening sesCrews & Associates.

Incoming MBA Chairman George Marx (L) accepts the gavel from Freddie Bagley.

sion of the 127th MBA Convention.

Spouse Committee members helped plan the spouse program and brunch honoring Mary Lynn Bagley, wife of MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley. L to R: Theresa Sones, Glinda Busby, Mary Lynn Bagley, Cheryl Moore, Lisa Nicholson, chairman; and Kim Haynes. JULY/AUGUST 2015

MBA Convention ‘Expect to Win’ THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

General Session speakers draw large crowds During MBA Convention During this year’s MBA Convention, the general session speakers drew large crowds each day. On Thursday, May 14, economist Elliot Eisenberg spoke to convention participants regarding current economic trends and political consultants Jere Nash and Andy Taggart provided a preview of the upcoming statewide elections in a presentation entitled, “Mississippi Politics 2015: From the Right and Left.” The general session on Friday featured Jeff Plagge, Immediate Past ABA Chairman, who provided convention participants with an update on ABA and Washington D.C. Rounding out the Friday session was former NFL coach, Dan Reeves. Numerous Mississippi public officials also participated in the 2015 MBA Convention. These included Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves, Attorney General Jim Hood, Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, State Auditor Stacey Pickering, Speaker Pro Temp Greg Snowden, Chairman of House Banking Committee Hank Zuber, and Department of Banking and Consumer Finance Commissioner Charlotte Corley.

Former NFL Coach Dan Reeves addresses MBA Convention attendees at the Friday morning General Session.

Immediate Past ABA Chairman Jeff Plagge speaks at the Friday General Session.

Elliot Eisenberg, economist, provides convention participants with a current economic forecast.

Conservative Republican Andy Taggart gives an overview of the upcoming statewide elections from the “right” perspective.

Liberal Democrat Jere Nash gives an overview of the upcoming statewide elections from the “left” perspective.

Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves speaks during the 2015 MBA Annual Business Session.

Chairman of the House Banking & Finance Committee Hank Zuber makes comments during the Annual Business Session.

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MBA Convention ‘Expect to Win’ THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Trace Show exhibitors Steve White and Nick Nerren of Jack Henry Banking speak to convention participants about their services. Winners of the annual golf tournament were (L to R) Rodney Mortimer, Rusty Bennett, Pax Mogenson, and Frank Sibley.

Bill Barry of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation and his spouse Amy participate in the 2015 Trade Show at the annual convention.

Michael Booker and wife, Irene, pose at the MBA Convention “Gameday” desk.

(L to R) MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley, Kim Haynes, and Kay Sibley pose for a photo during the opening night of the 2015 MBA Convention.

(L to R) Melissa Barnes, Bill Renovich, and Molly Bagley were the big winners at “Grand Prize Giveaways,” emceed by Mac Deaver.

(L to R) 2014-15 MBA Officers and Spouses: Kay Sibley, Frank Sibley, Mary Lynn Bagley, Freddie Bagley, Diane Marx and George Marx. JULY/AUGUST 2015

MBA Convention ‘Expect to Win’ THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

During the Annual Banquet, MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley gave his closing remarks prior to introducing the new chairman.

MBA Chairman Bagley took the stage with the Annual Banquet’s evening entertainment, the Motown/R&B group, Spectrum.

Annual Banquet

2015-16 MBA Chairman George Marx presents Freddie Bagley with gift from the association.

Mary Lynn Bagley and MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley pose for a photo prior to Annual Banquet.

The banquet’s entertainment provided by Spectrum was a big hit. 24

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Convention participants are led by outgoing MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley in a dance.

Chuck Nicholson, CEO, presented MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley with a gift from Community Bancshares.

MBA Convention ‘Expect to Win’ THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Past Chairman First Row (L to R): Vance Witt, Bobby Martin, Odean Busby, Freddie Bagley, Buddy Prestridge, and Larry Pratt. Second Row (L to R): Bill Sones, George Schloegel, Fred Miller, Robin McGraw, Huey Townesend, and Greg Taylor

2015-16 Board of Directors First Row (L to R): John Neville, Jerry Host, Frank Sibley, George Marx, Freddie Bagley, Odean Busby, and Johnny Barrett. Second Row (L to R): Mac Deaver, Michael Dudley, Frank West, Mitch Waycaster, Bobby Steinriede, Buddy Mortimer, Art Stevens, and Moak Griffin.

Save The Date! 2016 MBA ANNUAL CONVENTION Bagley Family

May 11-15

Above: Chairman Freddie Bagley attends the annual banquet with his family: (L to R) son-in-law Tyson Mills, daughter Bethany Mills, wife Mary Lynn, daughter Brett Thompson, daughter Brooke Worthy, and son-in-law Dr. Michael Worthy.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

KNOWING THOSE YOU SERVE LEADS TO GREATER SUCCESS Hazlehurst Banker George R. Marx is MBA’s 127th Chairman For George Marx, banking has always been about people. Adhering to a philosophy that “business comes to those who ask for it and stays with those who appreciate it,” George has enjoyed a successful banking career for 46 years. Now, as the 2015-16 MBA Chairman, Marx hopes to lead the association by cultivating relationships with the member banks of Mississippi, working to relieve regulatory burdens and helping mold the young bankers of today for the future leadership of banking.

THE GEORGE R. MARX FILE HOME: HAZLEHURST BANK: COPIAH BANK, N.A. POSITION: CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LENGTH OF SERVICE: 46 YEARS FAMILY: WIFE, DIANE; CHILDREN RAMSEY, WHITNEY AND DENTON

The Early Years

Being a “people person” was ingrained in Marx from an early age. His mother never met a stranger, and she instilled that friendliness in her son. Also, his grandfather, George Marx, served nine consecutive terms as a Copiah County Supervisor, which was a very good indication of being a “people” person. All throughout Marx’s early years he was very sociable and active in all high school sports. Raised in Hazlehurst as an only child, he cherished that small town feeling and carried it with him as he ventured to Mississippi State University to begin his freshman year. Since Marx had grown up on a farm, he decided to major in pre-veterinarian medicine. However, after two summers working as a bank teller at the Bank of Hazlehurst, he decided to change his major to banking and finance. Marx loved the interaction with people that being a bank teller provided and knew that he wanted a career in which he could serve others.

Banking Career

Upon graduating from Mississippi State in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in banking and finance, Marx joined Deposit Guaranty National Bank in the management training program. He quickly rose to Real Estate Officer, Assistant Vice President, and Assistant Manager in the Real Estate department. However, after six years at Deposit Guaranty, Marx was approached by George Covington, who served as the Chairman of the Board for the Bank of Hazlehurst, to come home to Hazlehurst. In 1975, Marx joined the Bank of Hazlehurst as Assistant Vice President. He has been with the bank ever since and now serves as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of now-named Copiah Bank, N.A., headquartered in Hazlehurst. The bank was founded in 1891 and has withstood the test of time - never closing, not even during the Great Depression. The bank designed its business around customer service and hometown values, sharing the philosophy that knowing those you serve would lead to success. Marx is very quick to point out that he owes a great deal of his personal success to a dedicated group of officers and employees at the bank and to his family.

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“Business comes to those who ask for it and stays with those who appreciate it.” - George R. Marx

Life Outside of the Bank

Marx and his wife, Diane, will celebrate 47 years of marriage this December. They met through a mutual friend while he was at Mississippi State and she was at MSCW, and got married on December 28, 1968. They later welcomed son Ramsey, daughter Whitney, and son Denton. They are now the proud grandparents of eight grandchildren. George and Diane are active members of Hazlehurst United Methodist Church. Being an active member and leader in his community and seeking out numerous ways to give back has always been very important to Marx. The Copiah County Heart Association is one of many organizations to which he has dedicated numerous years of service. He also served as president of the Hazlehurst Chamber of Commerce, Copiah Educational Fo u n d a t i o n , In c . , the Copiah County Chapter of the Mississippi State University Alumni Association, and the Copiah Academy Athletic Booster Club. He served as treasurer of Hazlehurst Youth Sports, Inc., and coached Little League baseball for over 20 years. He also served as treasurer of the Copiah Fair Association and the Copiah Forestry Association. He is a member of the Executive Board of the Copiah Endowment Corporation, and serves on the boards of Hardy Wilson Memorial Hospital and the Copiah County Economic Development District. In addition to his community involvement, Marx has always enjoyed spending time outdoors as a hunter. Raised on a farm, Marx has always had an infinity for animals. He grew up hunting with dogs and has always had a dog. He has enjoyed all types of hunting, including quail, deer, squirrel, and duck. Marx also enjoys golf and was a dedicated and competitive runner for over 20 years. He enjoys college sports, especially football, basketball and baseball. George and Diane have always loved to travel. Their excursions have carried them across the United States. Some of their favorite places to visit are Colorado, Wyoming, New York, Washington D.C. and the wine country of California.

Road to MBA Chairman

As Marx continued his banking career, he was encouraged by former MBA Chairman Buddy Prestridge to get involved with the Mississippi Bankers Association. He started his involvement with the association through serving on the Nominating Committee. He later was elected to a three-year term on the MBA Board of Directors and served on the Executive Committee. He also served as Chairman of the MBA Legislative Committee and Chairman of MBA Bank Lending Committee. As he continued to increase his participation within the association, he developed strong relationships along the way. Marx learned the importance of the MBA in the grand scheme of the banking industry, and had a strong desire to stay involved in the state association and the American Bankers Association. Marx became an active voice in the American Bankers Association, serving on the ABA’s Community Banker’s Council for six years, including three on the council’s administrative committee. His love of interacting with people helped him to develop strong relationships with other bank executives from across the country. In 2013, Marx was elected to serve as Treasurer of the MBA and later in 2014 as MBA Vice Chairman. During his time as Vice Chairman, Marx also served as chairman of the board of the MBA Education Foundation. It was during this time of service that Marx developed a strong passion for developing financial education throughout the state of Mississippi. He feels that “we can never do too much in the area of education – both through the MBA and personally.” This is an area that Marx hopes to continue to grow and develop during his time as MBA Chairman.

Looking to the Future

Reflecting on becoming the 127th MBA Chairman, Marx appreciates the value of the association. “Mississippi bankers need to realize how blessed we are to have the association that we have,” Marx stated. Continued on Page 26 JULY/AUGUST 2015

He notes that many bankers associations in other states are fractured. “We are fortunate to have a strong, unified association.” Marx hopes during his time as MBA Chairman to continue this unity. To accomplish this, Marx will focus on his three key goals: cultivating relationships, working for regulatory relief, and developing young banker leadership. Marx’s philosophy is based on getting to know your customers and valuing them. As MBA Chairman, Marx looks forward to visiting other Mississippi bankers. He feels this is an opportunity not only to get to know other bankers from across the state but to also discover how the association can grow and provide more services to its member banks. He plans to be a listening ear to member banks and to use banker feedback to strengthen the unity within the association. In addition, Marx realizes how regulatory issues are crippling the community banks of Mississippi. He wants the MBA to “be a force in making headway to achieve some relief.” As MBA Chairman, he would like to spearhead steps toward reducing the regulatory burden for the banks in Mississippi. Also, he wants to develop new initiatives for the association that will lead not only to success but to significance. Lastly, Marx realizes that the future of banking and the association is in the hands of the next generation. During his time as MBA Chairman, he wants to help make young people aware that “banking is still a noble profession.” Marx stated, “Bankers have been and always will be looked to for leadership in their communities.” When asked what three qualities he looks for in a young banker, Marx responded with “initiative, loyalty and willingness to change.” Marx adds that there is “no substitute for hard work.” He shares two lessons that he has learned through his career: “Always do the right thing even when no one else is around,” and “Be decisive and persistent, persistent, persistent.” For George Marx, banking has always been about serving others, and he is excited to serve the members of the Mississippi Bankers Association as its 127th Chairman.

Photo from Previous Page (25), George with Grandchildren

Front Row (L to R): Meg Middleton, Jane Ramsey Middleton, Brantley Marx; Second Row (L to R): Randa Miles, George Marx, Russ Middleton; Back Row (L to R): Taylor Marx, Mary Clim Marx, Adison Marx.

Top Photo, The Marx Family

Front Row (L to R): Taylor Marx, Russ Middleton, Mary Clim Marx, Brantley Marx, Meg Middleton; Second Row (L to R): Adison Marx, George Marx, Diane Marx, Jane Ramsey Middleton; Back Row (L to R): Randa Miles, Son Ramsey Marx, Daughter-in-law Mandy Marx, Son Denton Marx, Daughter-inlaw Lori Marx, Daughter Whitney Middleton, and Son-in-law Dr. Drew Middleton.

Bottom Photo, George and Diane Marx

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Photo Credits Front Cover and Family Photos: Jennifer Blackwell Photography

MBA Leadership

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MBA leadership elected for 2015-16

Sibley elected vice chairman; Host chosen as treasurer Frank Sibley, Vice Chairman Frank Sibley of Marks has been elected Vice Chairman of the Mississippi Bankers Association. Sibley serves as president and chief executive officer of Citizens Bank Sibley & Trust and has been with the bank for 31 years. He graduated from Delta State University with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration. He is also a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at LSU and the Commercial Lending School at the University of Oklahoma. Sibley previously served as Treasurer of the MBA and a three-year term on the MBA Board of Directors. He also has served on the MBA Insurance Committee, Executive Committee and Legislative Committee, as well as a member of the board of the MBA Education Foundation. Active in his community, he is a past

president of the Indianola Lions Club, Marks Rotary Club, Delta State University Foundation Board, and the Wilson Lake Country Club. He is also on the Quitman County Industrial committee.

Jerry Host Treasurer Jerry Host of Jackson has been elected Treasurer of the Mississippi Bankers Association. Host serves as president and chief executive officer of Trustmark National Bank, Jackson, Host and he has been with the bank for 32 years. He received his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of South Alabama. Host graduated from the National School of Financial & Funds Management at the University of Illinois, and the Graduate School of Financial & Funds Management at the University of Oklahoma. He also is a graduate of the Graduate School

of Banking at LSU, and the Center for Creative Leadership, in Greensboro, North Carolina. Host previously served a three-year term on the MBA Board of Directors, including one year on the MBA Executive Committee. He currently is a member of the MBA Legislative Committee. Active in his community, Host serves on the executive committee for Governor Bryant’s Mississippi Works initiative. He is past chairman of the Board of Governors of the Mississippi Economic Council and currently serves on its executive committee. He serves as a director and member of the executive committee for the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership Board. He is past chairman of Pulse-EFT Association/Discover Financial Services. He also served as chairman of the board of the Mississippi Museum of Art, and is a former member of the Museum’s executive committee. Host is actively involved in numerous nonprofit organizations throughout the community.

Six bank executives join MBA Board of Directors Frank West, Group 2 Frank West of Batesville has been elected to a 3-year term on the Mississippi Bankers Association Board of Directors representing Group 2. West serves as presi- West dent, chief executive officer and chairman of First Security Bank in Batesville. He has been with First Security Bank for 40 years. He attended Northwest Mississippi Community College and the University of Mississippi. Prior to his election to the Board of Directors, West’s MBA service included membership on the Mississippi School of Banking board of trustees and the MBA

Legislative Committee. Active in his community, West is a member of the Panola County Community Development Organization. He also is a former Rotary Club member and Exchange Club member.

Moak Griffin, Group 4 Moak Griffin of Columbus has been elected to a 3-year term on the Mississippi Bankers Association Board of Directors representing Group 4. Griffin serves as pres- Griffin ident and chief executive officer of BankFirst Financial Services, Inc. He has been with BankFirst Financial

Services for 14 years. He earned a bachelor’s of arts degree from Mississippi State University. Prior to Griffin’s election to the MBA Board of Directors, he served as a member of the Mississippi Young Bankers executive council, the MBA Nominating Committee, and the Mississippi School of Banking board of trustees. Active in his community, Griffin serves on the board of directors for the Frank P. Phillips YMCA and the advisory board for MSU Department of Finance and Economics. He also is a member of LINK Executive Committee and a member of the Columbus Rotary Club

Continued on Page 28 JULY/AUGUST 2015

MBA Leadership

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

New members join the MBA Board of Directors (continued) Michael Dudley, Group 5 Michael Dudley of DeKalb has been elected to a 3-year term on the Mississippi Bankers Association Board of Directors representing Group 5. Dudley ser ves as Dudley president and chief executive officer of The Commercial Bank in DeKalb. He has been with The Commercial Bank for 25 years. He earned a bachelor’s of accounting degree from the Mississippi State University. Prior to Dudley’s election to the MBA Board of Directors, he served on the MBA Lending Committee and Legislative Committee. Active in his community, Dudley serves as Treasurer of the Community Foundation of East Mississippi. He also is a member of the Rotary Club and the lending committee of the East Central Planning Development District. Dudley is past president of the DeKalb Lions Club, past chairman of Kemper Academy School Board, past chairman of Lamar School board, past board president of Kemper County Chamber of Commerce, and a former member of the board for the Lauderdale County Red Cross.

Board of Directors, he served on the MBA VEBA Plan & Trust as trustee and chairman. Active in his community, Neville is on the board of directors for The Jackson Institute in Atlanta. He is also past member and elder of Highlands Presbyterian Church.

Hoppy Cole, Group 8 Hoppy Cole of Hattiesburg has been elected to a 3-year term on the Mississippi Bankers Association Board of Directors representing Group 8. Cole serves as presi- Cole dent and chief executive officer of The First, A National Banking Association. He has been with The First for 16 years. He earned a bachelor’s and master’s degrees of business administration from the University of Mississippi. Prior to Cole’s election to the MBA Board of Directors, he served on the MBA Nominating Committee and Legislative Committee. Active in his community, Cole is a board member of Area Development Partnership and a member of the Rotary Club.

John Neville, Group 6

Arthur DuCote, At Large

Jo h n Ne v i l l e o f Ridgeland has been elected to a 3-year term on the Mississippi Bankers Association Board of Directors representing Group 6. Neville serves as chief Neville executive officer of State Bank & Trust Company in Ridgeland. He has been with State Bank & Trust Company for 11 years. He earned a bachelor’s of business administration degree from the University of Mississippi. He also is a graduate of the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking. Prior to Neville’s election to the MBA

Arthur DuCote of Jackson has been elected to a 3-year term on the Mississippi Bankers Association Board of Directors. He will serve in an at-large position. DuCote serves as DuCote state president of Mississippi for Regions Bank. He has been with Regions Bank for 23 years. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Louisiana State University. Active in his community, DuCote serves on the board of governors for Mississippi Economic Council, and in his past, served on the executive commit-

tee and board of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, the board of Troy University/Montgomery, board of Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the board of Montgomery Museum of Art, and the Montgomery Zoo.

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Help us spread the good news about banking Traditional banking, like that practiced by our member banks, is all about supporting our communities and our state – and making a difference in the lives of our customers. Help us tell this important story. Let us know about your bank’s involvement in civic and community activities. Send us information on what you are doing. Please send articles, photos to rchew@msbankers.com or mail them to MBA at P.O. Box 37, Jackson, MS 39205-0037.

MBA Calendar

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Calendar of Events AUGUST 12-13 12 13 14 17 18 19-20 19 20 24 25 26 27 28

2015 Communications Workshop - Ridgeland Conducting Your Annual Physical Security Review IT Security Issues & Solutions SBA Lending: Demystifying the Risk of Monitoring & Compliance Introduction to Bank Marketing Lending Basics for Support Personnel IRA School - Embassy Suites, Ridgeland BSA/AML Compliance: Recent Developments & Common Errors Consumer Construction Loans Commercial Construction Loans Understanding Loan Documents, Part 1 Best Ever Consumer Compliance Checklists Understanding Real Estate Loan Documents, Part 2 Are You Diversifying Your Loan Portfolio Appropriately?

SEPTEMBER 17-18 Compliance Conference - Hilton Hotel, Jackson 22-23 MYB Leadership Conference & Golf Tournament - Hilton Hotel, Jackson

OCTOBER 4-7 7-8

Washington Visit - Mayflower Renaissance Hotel, Washington, D.C. Security Conference - Hilton Hotel, Jackson

NOVEMBER 2-6 5-6

A Banker in Every Classroom Trust Conference - Hilton Hotel, Jackson

Visit www.msbankers.com for Registration and more information JULY/AUGUST 2015

Bankers join 40-, 50- and 60-Year Clubs Dozens of Mississippi bankers were recognized at the MBA convention for their long service to the banking industry. Those present received certificates from Chairman Freddie Bagley. Banks are encouraged to submit photos of their 40-, 50-, and 60- Year Club recipients by September 14 for publication in the September/October issue of this magazine.

60 Year Club S.B. “Tubby” Gresham, Bank of Holly Springs, received his certificate for 60 Years in banking at the 2015 MBA Convention from MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley.

40 Year Club

S y c a m o r e B a n k ’s Chairman and CEO Jay Tindall congratulates and presents Donna Baxter Harris with her certificate for 40 years in banking.

Randy Randall, Planters Bank & Trust Company, received his 40-Year certificate from MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley at the 2015 MBA Convention.

Patricia Speed, Covington County Bank, received her 40-Year certificates from MBA Chairman Freddie Bagley at the 2015 MBA Convention. 32

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

2015 Sixty-Year Club Members Frances Madden, Golden Advantage Coordinator, Community Bank of MS, Forest S.B. “Tubby” Gresham, Chairman of the Board, Bank of Holly Springs

2015 Forty-Year Club Members Patricia Ables, BancorpSouth Sandra Adcock, Regions Bertha Brooks, BancorpSouth Jeanette Brown, BancorpSouth Dorothy Bruner, Regions Georgia T. Bullocks, First Commerical Bank Bettie S. Burks, Renasant Bank James H. Clayton, Planters Bank & Trust Company Sandra Curtis, The Citizens Bank of Philadelphia Linda Dozier, Regions Adele Dyar, Hancock Bank Sammy Everett, First Security Bank Jack B. Ezelle, First Southern Bank Linda Helwick, Hancock Bank Donna Harris, Sycamore Bank Daisy Herring, First Security Bank Pam Hill, BancorpSouth Burton B. Hosch, Renasant Bank Linda McCaa, First State Bank, Waynesboro Linda McMaster, First Commercial Bank

Janet Mitchell, Regions Barbara N. Nabors, Trustmark National Bank Catherine A. Nichols, Trustmark National Bank Lona Odom, BancorpSouth Charlotte Orick, First American National Bank James B. Randall, Planters Bank & Trust Company Sandra K. Ray, BancorpSouth Marsha Rosetti, Charter Bank Mary M. Satterthwaite, Trustmark National Bank Wanda Smith, BancorpSouth Billie Ruth Sowell, First Security Bank Patricia C. Speed, Covington County Bank Alana S. Stacy, Renasant Bank William Curtis Tate, BancorpSouth George W. Taylor, Community Bank of MS Sandra N. Trussell, Renasant Bank Deborah I. Tullos, Trustmark National Bank Gail Ivy Twiner, Trustmark National Bank William D. Tynes, Trustmark National Bank Judith Wood, Regions

Order Your 2015 Bank Directory The MBA’s Mississippi Bank Directory brings you the most up-to-date information on Mississippi’s banks. Use the directory to reach officers and directors or as a reference source to up-to-date financial data on the state’s banks. The directory includes: • • • • • • •

Mississippi commercial banks and branches by city/town Addresses, Phone numbers, Web sites and email addresses Routing numbers MBA Affiliate members Banking and trade organizations State and federal regulatory agencies Key state elected and appointed officials

$35

Order Today!

Visit www.msbankers.com or call (601) 948-6366 *Time to Update! The 2016 Bank Directory preparations are underway! You will receive a directory update form soon! JULY/AUGUST 2015

Bankers on the Move

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

BankPlus Michelle Burton has been promoted to First Vice President and Loan Operations Manager in the bank’s Loan Operations Department. She has over 23 years of experience in the banking industry and has been Burton with BankPlus for over 22 years. Jean Cooper has been promoted to Assistant Vice President in the bank’s Rankin County banking center. She has more than 12 years of experience in the banking industry and has been with Cooper BankPlus for over three years. Marc Forester has been promoted to Assistant Vice President and Technical Services Manager Security Administrator in the bank’s Operations Department. He is a graduate Forester of the United States Navy Technical Schools where he studied avionics. Forester has over three years of experience in the banking industry and has with BankPlus since 2012. St e p h e n Ge o r g e has joined BankPlus as Bank Officer in the bank’s Credit Administration Department. He received a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a master’s degree in George business administration from The University of Southern Mississippi. George also completed a four year Education for Ministry program through the University of the South, Sewanee. He has over five years of experience in the banking industry. 34

BankPlus

Citizens Bank, Columbia

Amer Hafeez has been promoted to Assistant Vice President and Applications Support Manager in the bank’s Operations center. He received a master’s degree in Computer Sciences and a post Hafeez graduate diploma in Computer Services. Hafeez has been with BankPlus for nine years.

David McLeod has been promoted to Assistant Vice President. He graduated from Pearl River Community College with an associate’s degree in electronics technology and business McLeod marketing and management. McLeod also graduated with honors with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He also received his diploma in bank operations from the American Institute of Banking (AIB).

Angela Martin has been promoted to Assistant Vice President & Loan Processing & Systems Manager in the bank’s Operations Center. She received an associate’s degree in business. Martin has Martin over 27 years of experience in the banking industry. Andy Nichols has joined BankPlus as Assistant Vice President in the bank’s DeSoto County banking center. He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Delta State University. Nichols Nichols has more than seven years in the banking industry.

Citizens Bank, Columbia Sandy Dillion Irby has been promoted to Branch Manager at the Magnolia Branch. She has over twenty years in the banking industry and has been an employee at Citizens Bank for the past five years.

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Irby

Cole Oglesbee has been promoted to Loan Officer at the Main Office. He attended Jones County Junior College and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration with concentration Oglesbee in information technology from Columbia Southern University.

First American National Bank David Brown has b e e n p ro m o t e d t o Community Bank Manager of the Fulton Offices. He graduated from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Brown Brown has also graduated from the Southeastern School of Commercial Lending at Vanderbilt University and the Barrett School of Banking at Christian Brothers University. He has over 12 years of experience in the banking industry.

Bankers on the Move

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

First American National Bank To m m y C h a m blee has been named Director of Strategic Planning at the corporate office in Iuka. He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the Chamblee University of Mississippi and is a graduate of the Southeastern School of Commercial Lending at Vanderbilt University. Chamblee has 15 years of experience in the banking industry. Justin Cheaves has been promoted to Vice President & Bank Secrecy Act Officer. He graduated from the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in human resource man- Cheaves agement. Cheaves is also a graduate of the Mississippi School of Banking. He has 10 years of banking experience.

Great Southern Bank Steven Cooksey has joined Great Southern Bank as Senior Vice President & Information Security Officer. He received a bachelor’s degree in business an industry with a concentration in accounting from Cooksey Mississippi State University in Meridian. Danielle Freeman has been promoted to Branch Manager of the Enterprise Branch. She began her career with Great Southern Bank in 2004.

Great Southern Bank Jennifer Hiatt has been promoted to Branch Manager of the Pachula Branch. She has over 20 years of experience in the financial industry.

Cathy Kennedy has been promoted to Assistant Vice President in Quitman. She graduated from the Mississippi School of Banking and has 37 years of experience in the financial industry. Kristin McDonald has been promoted to Branch Manager of the Decatur Branch. She graduated from East Central Community College and has over 15 years of experience in the financial industry. Mildred Smith has been promoted to Assistant Vice President in Waynesboro. She is a graduate of William Carey College and has 37 years of experience in finance. Shawntal Stamper has been promoted to Assistant Vice President & Marketing Officer in Meridian. She graduated from East Central Community College and has been with Great Southern Bank since 1996.

Hiatt

Great Southern Bank Anthony Thomas has been promoted to Officer Trainee in Meridian. He is a graduate of East Mississippi Community College and Mississippi State University.

Thomas

Guaranty Bank & Trust Co.

Kennedy

McDonald

Smith

Anna Hood has been promoted to LPL Financial Advisor. She is a graduate of Mississippi Delta Community College with an associate’s degree in general education. Hood has passed both the Series 7 and Series 66 exams. Lynn James has been promoted to Senior Operations Specialist. She received a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Mississippi. James has been with Guaranty Bank for nine years.

Hood

James

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Bankers on the Move

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Merchants & Marine Bank

RiverHills Bank

Trustmark National Bank

Amanda Brown has joined Merchants & Marine Bank as a Mortgage Officer. She holds an associate’s degree in business administration from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community Col- Brown lege. Brown has over 30 years of mortgage and banking experience.

Jud Watkins has joined RiverHills Bank as Vice President and Senior Lender of the Madison County office. He graduated summa cum laude from Mississippi College with Watkins a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Watkins is also a graduate of the Mississippi School of Banking and the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. He has 14 years of experience in the financial industry.

Rodney W. DePriest has been named Senior Vice President at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. He graduated from Mississippi College with a bachelor’s degree in business ad- DePriest ministration. DePriest has been with Trustmark for three years.

Planters Bank & Trust Co. Mark Norwood has joined Planters Bank & Trust Co. as Vice President. He graduated from Delta State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and received a master’s degree Norwood in business administration from the University of Mississippi. Will Sledge has been named President of the Ruleville office. He received bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in business administration from Delta State University. Sledge is also a graduate of the Sledge Mississippi School of Banking and the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. He has completed the Southeastern School of Commercial Lending. Sledge has been in the banking industry for 13 years.

PriorityOne Bank Natasha Nichole Braxton has been promoted to Loan Officer. She received an associate’s degree from Hinds Community College. Braxton has seven years of banking experience Braxton and has been with PriorityOne Bank since November 2008. 36

Trustmark National Bank Tracy (Tray) L. Bradshaw has been named Information Technology Officer at the Corporate main office in Jackson. He has 15 years of experience as a certified network engineer. Vanessa L. Butts has been named Assistant Vice President at the Turtle Creek office in Hattiesburg. She received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from The University of Southern Butts Mississippi. Butts has 15 years of experience in the finance industry. Joseph C. Dahm has been named Corporate Banking Officer at the Corporate main office in Jackson. He graduated from the University of South Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in Dahm business administration with a concentration in finance. Dahm has three year of experience in the financial industry.

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

James M. (Mike) Ferguson has been named Audit Officer at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Mississippi State Uni- Ferguson versity and is a Certified Information System Auditor (CISA). Ferguson has 25 years of experience in the financial industry, with a concentration in information systems for the past 15 years. Joan M. Greenwaldt has been named Branch Officer at the Pearl office. She has 25 years of experience in the financial industry. Greenwaldt

Julie A. Hall has been named Corporate Banking Officer at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. She received a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in Hall business administration with a concentration in finance from Mississippi College. Hall has three years of experience in the financial industry.

Bankers on the Move

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Trustmark National Bank

Roger D. (David) Harwell, Jr. has been named First Vice President and Privacy Officer at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. He received a bachelor’s degree in business admin- Harwell istration from Western Carolina University and a master’s degree in business administration from High Point University. Harwell is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). He has 25 years of experience in information security and technology.

Thomas (Tommy) C. Ladner has been named Assistant Vice President at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. He received an associate’s degree in data processing from Pearl Ladner River Junior College. Ladner has 28 years of experience in the financial industry.

Mark S. Walker has been named Investment Officer at the Corporate main office in Jackson. He received a bachelor’s degree in history from Bethel College and a master’s degree in Walker business administration from Mississippi College. Walker has completed the Series 65 Uniform Registered Investment Advisor Examination and has four years of experience in the financial industry.

Michael (Mike) W. Henderson has been named Appraisal Review Officer at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. He has more than 20 years of experience in the appraisal industry.

Henderson

Charles L. Molden Jr. has been named Appraisal Review Officer at the Corporate Main office in Jackson. He received a bachelor’s degree in economics with a concentration in ac- Molden counting from Tougaloo College and a master’s degree in business administration from Jackson State University. He has two years of experience in the financial industry.

Are your bankers on the move?

Send your submissions to rchew@msbankers.com. 2015 MYB LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

2015 MYB Leadership Conference & Golf Tournament

September 22-23 IT’S YOUR MOVE.

Hilton Hotel, Jackson To register, visit our website: www.msbankers.com JULY/AUGUST 2015

MBA Classified Ads

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

ACCOUNTANT 1: A community

bank in east central Mississippi is seeking an accountant. CPA preferred. Perform data analysis, budgeting and forecasting for the financial institution. Develop and implement financial institution fiscal plans and policies, including asset/ liability analysis. Candidate must possess strong analytical skills. A bachelor’s degree is required and a minimum of two years’ experience in public accounting; financial institutions preferable. Pay commensurate with qualifications and experience. Reports to Chief Executive Officer. Candidates may submit resumes to rchew@msbankers.com.

BANK EXAMINER: The Depart-

ment of Banking and Consumer Finance is seeking someone to fill the position of bank examiner. This is travel intensive examination work with the responsibility for conducting examinations of financial institutions. Duties include examination of a financial institution’s soundness, compliance with laws, and the preparation of reports of examination. The work requires knowledge of lending and bank operations. Loan review or lending experience is preferred. Please send resume to Sam Hubbard, Director, Banking Division, at sam.hubbard@dbcf.ms.gov.

dates may contact Nancy Gann at nancy. gann@banksouthern.com.

HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST: A community bank in Central

Mississippi, is seeking a human resources generalist to join their human resources department. The Human Resource Generalist is responsible for performing HR related duties on a professional level and works closely with the HR Manager. He/ She will also administer employee programs as well as provide support for various HR functions while demonstrating a high level of professionalism in dealing with confidential and sensitive issues. The generalist will assist management in the development and implementation of HR policies and procedures. They will also maintain knowledge of legal requirements as well as federal and state regulations affecting Human Resources. The generalist will assist management to ensure policies, procedures and reporting are compliant. Candidate must have three-five years previous HR experience as well as a familiarity with ERISA, ADA, AAP, FMLA, and related Federal and State employment laws. Candidate must possess strong analytical, verbal and written communication skills and must be proficient in Microsoft Office, specifically Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Interested candidates should submit resumes to rchew@msbankers.com.

LOAN AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER:

A North Mississippi Bank is seeking a

location. The candidate should have at least five years of commercial lending and business development experience. The bank is seeking someone who has knowledge or experience in the Clinton/Hinds County market. Pay commensurate with qualifications and experience. Candidates may submit confidential resumes to rchew@msbankers.com.

MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR: The Citizens Bank of Philadelphia

is seeking a Mortgage Loan Originator for a branch location in Hattiesburg, MS. The position will be responsible for initiating, processing and closing residential mortgage loans in accordance with bank policies. Responsibilities include initiating loans with customers, completing applications and ensuring proper disclosures are made to borrower. The originator will evaluate borrower requests and ensure borrower is matched to appropriate mortgage types. This position works closely with attorneys, underwriters, relators and appraisers, as well as bank lending staff on construction lending and recruiting new business. Other essential duties will include promoting the Bank by maintaining good customer relations and referring customers to appropriate staff for new services as well as representing the bank in the local community through active participation in community affairs. Prior experience in mortgage loan origination is required.

BRANCH MANAGER II/ Loan and Business Development Officer CONSUMER LENDER: A com- for their Oxford location. The candidate We provide a wide range of employee munity bank in Madison is seeking a branch manager/consumer lender. This individual will oversee branch staff including coordinating, planning and assigning work schedules, answering questions and solving problems posed by the staff, conducting evaluations, and motivating staff to meet performance levels. Provide service to customers seeking a consumer loan. Achieve and maintain required loan portfolio balance. Previous supervisory and consumer lending experience is required. Complete description and requirements at https://banksouthern. com/category/careers/. Interested candi-

should have at least five years of commercial lending and business development experience. The bank is seeking someone who has knowledge or experience in the Oxford/Lafayette Co. market. Pay commensurate with qualifications and experience. Candidates may submit confidential resumes to rchew@msbankers.com.

LOAN AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER 2: A Central Missis-

sippi Bank is seeking a Loan and Business Development Officer for their Clinton

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

benefits and compensation commensurate with experience. Please submit resumes to hr@tcbphila.com.

NETWORK/SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR: FNB Oxford Bank is seeking a full-time Network/Systems Administrator. Candidates should have experience in firewalls, routers, switches, database administration, PHP or similar, web development, patch management, Linux/UNIX, Windows Server, desktop support, and automation via scripting.

MBA Classified Ads

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Management of Information Systems is preferred. Other bachelor’s degrees may be supplemented by equivalent work experience. Resumes may be sent to hr@ fnboxford.com. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

PRIVATE BANKER: A local commu-

nity bank seeks a private banker to work in a branch location to facilitate teller transactions for private banking clients/ customers, seek and engage loan and deposit clients/customers, facilitate contract signings and closings, comply with all applicable laws, assist in the collection and creation of paperwork for processing of deposit and loan operations, complete due diligence and basic paperwork on loan applications and new account customers, return phone calls and answer questions related to the preparation of customer documents in deposit and lending operations, maintain and service a high call volume of existing and potential clients/ customers, coordinate with Deposit and Loan Operations to ensure follow up of necessary documentation, ensure customer contact and satisfaction for all banking needs. Skills/Requirements: • Previous bank experience in lend ing and/or deposit operations • Previous experience in attorney loan closings and/or mortgage industry • PC proficiency and ability to use Microsoft products, such as Word and Excel • Ability to organize, multi task and meet deadlines • Well-developed interpersonal, communication and customer service skills • College experience is preferred Please send resume in strict confidence to jobapp@megagate.com and/or apply at the local WIN Job Center. The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). No applicant for employment with the Company shall be subjected to discrimination because of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, disability, age, reprisal for engaging in anti-discrimination

activities, protected genetic information, sexual orientation or parental status.

SENIOR LENDING OFFICER:

Progressive North MS community bank seeking career minded banker for Senior Lending Position. Background requirements should include 6 + years in commercial lending, good cash flow analysis skills in documenting/presenting cash flow models to loan committee, good sales skills, community involvement, formal credit training, detailed knowledge of compliance, and familiarity of loan documentation requirements. This position includes portfolio management as well as supervision of lending and support personnel. This position reports to the CEO. Candidates may submit their resumes to rchew@msbankers.com.

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER: A community bank in Meridian is seeking a Senior Loan Officer. Successful candidates will have ten plus years of lending experience, preferably in commercial/real estate. Also a successful candidate will have experience in business development and the oversight of support staff. Seeking an individual who is a graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. Candidates with knowledge or experience in the Meridian market are preferred. Opportunity for advancement within 3-5 years. Candidates may submit confidential resumes to rchew@msbankers.com. BANKER SEEKS NEW OPPORTUNITY: Relocating to Jackson area; seek-

ing employment in commercial lending. Commercial banking experience includes determining potential commercial banking needs for customers and prospects through community involvement, team prospecting, and relationship building. Background in structuring, analyzing and underwriting loans including manufacturing, health care, public finance, and commercial real estate. Excellent communication and analytical skills. For additional information, please contact rchew@msbankers.com.

BANKER SEEKS NEW OPPORTUNITY 2: Compliance/Operations Professional displaced in a merger is seeking new opportunity. Willing to relocate. Experience includes 4 years of Compliance/BSA as well as 7 years as a Sr. Business Analyst for Fiserv. Areas of experience include supervisory experience, training experience, and excellent project management skills. Versatile in banking back office functions. Quick learner and good with systems, processes, and technical writing. For additional information, please contact rchew@msbankers.com.

RELOCATING BANKER SEEKS NEW OPPORTUNITY: Native

Mississippian and experienced banker looking for a return to the Oxford area. Candidate has extensive and advanced experience in capital markets, correspondent banking and credit functions after 11 years with an international bank. The candidate is interested in positions such as commercial lending, bond portfolio management, treasury or finance functions within the bank. Ideally, the target bank would be headquartered in Mississippi with long-term intentions to remain that way. The banker is open to discuss varied opportunities that may be available. For additional information, please contact rchew@msbankers.com.

HOW TO CONTACT US REGARDING A CLASSIFIED AD: Contact Rachel Chew, MBA, P.O. Box 37 Jackson, MS 39205. (601) 948-6366. rchew@msbankers.com

For more information on our Classified Ad Policy, please visit our website, www.msbankers.com. JULY/AUGUST 2015

American Bankers Association THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

Tailoring Rules to Help Banks Succeed By Gov. Frank Keating, American Bankers Association President and CEO

When we talk about advocacy, most people probably think of Congress -- of lawmakers, bill introductions, committee actions and floor votes -- culminating, perhaps, in a signing ceremony at the White Keating House. Yet, there’s another type of advocacy that’s equally important to our industry: regulatory advocacy. As you well know, how an implementing regulation is drafted, proposed and applied can have a significant impact on your customers and community, and your institution. That’s why ABA puts significant effort and resources into shaping the rules that shape your business. We leverage the expertise we have on staff and the knowledge of our member bankers and the state associations to craft detailed and meaningful comment letters on proposals. We supplement our letters with personal meetings with regulatory staff, and when necessary, we get Congress involved. These efforts have produced results -- successes that can be found in subtle yet important provisions of final and proposed rules. For example, the CFPB -- responding to our views -- proposed lifting the small originator QM threshold and expanding the definition of rural and underserved

areas. It also finalized helpful fixes to the TILA-RESPA mortgage disclosures. Our advocacy on Basel III allowed most banks to opt out of running unrecognized gains and losses through their Basel capital calculations. We also secured a two-year extension of the Volcker Rule’s phase-in on funds investments, and the exclusion of bank custodial operations from the Labor Department’s proposed “fiduciary” rule. And in response to an ABA/state association recommendation, regulators are now considering proposing regulations that would exempt highly capitalized banks from much of Basel III implementation. Our regulatory outreach efforts go beyond the financial regulators, too. Thanks to our regulatory advocacy, the Federal Communications Commission approved a proposal to exempt mobile fraud alerts from Telephone Consumer Protection Act limitations. We will continue to work to reduce other unnecessary burdens associated with arbitrary statutory and regulatory thresholds affecting mid-sized to smaller institutions, as well as to combat “trickledown” regulation harming thousands of banks. And we will remain on guard as the CFPB turns its attention to new areas, including overdraft protection. Sometimes, however, our collective efforts with the agencies are not enough to right-size regulation. The political

environment can make regulators skittish about providing relief that, while appropriate, could be second-guessed by Congress. To help persuade them to take action, ABA and the state associations conceived of legislation -- introduced by Rep. Scott Tipton (R-Colo.) in June as the TAILOR Act (H.R. 2896) -- that would require regulators to tailor rules to a bank’s business model and risk profile. Simply put, it frees regulators to use common sense, applying rules only where appropriate while cutting back on those that come with high costs and add little to safety and soundness. Such an approach to regulation is long overdue. ABA’s 2015 Survey of Bank Compliance Officers found that growing regulatory compliance burdens have led nearly half of all banks to reduce their offerings for loan accounts, deposit accounts, or other services. And 46 percent said their banks had decided not to launch a product, open a new channel or enter a new market due to compliance concerns. These findings are clear, objective proof that change is needed in order for banks to effectively and successfully serve their customers and communities. Please help us create that change by urging your representatives to cosponsor H.R. 2896.

2015 MBA Communications Workshop “Mapping Your Marketing Strategy” August 12-13, 2015 Ridgeland Visit www.msbankers.com, for more information. 40

THE MISSISSIPPI BANKER

We’re Building A Strong Foundation The Mississippi Bankers Association has established the MBA Education Foundation to support scholarship and financial education programs of the association and its member banks.

P.O. Box 37 • Jackson, MS 39205-0037 • (601) 948-6366 The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. Please consult your tax advisor to determine the tax deductibility of your gift.

HEDERMAN BROTHERS DIGITAL

Where quality, short runs and quick turnarounds meet! Our Digital Department has five presses including our newest addition, the Indigo press with enhanced capabilities. We offer greater efficiencies, faster processing of complex variable jobs and advanced color quality. • Variable Print • Short Runs with High Quality Printing • Mailing

• Single or Multiple Colors • Quick Turnaround • Affordable

Hederman has the print and software solutions essential to delivering excellence for your business.

Hederman Brothers, your marketing partner 500 Steed Road Ridgeland, Mississippi 39157 601.853.7300 1.800.844.7301 www.hederman.com

DIRECT

DIGITAL

GREEN

CROSS MEDIA

DESIGN