Prime Meridian Bank

is funded by the National Science Foundation. The more investment we have in research, the more it helps the community with jobs, jobs, jobs. We’ve got one of the most highly educated populations here because of the universities. So, why don’t we leverage all these things into building up our local economy? The answer is, we are. “For too long, Tallahassee has been a government and education town. Our concept is: let’s bring in industry and high-end scientific research. For instance, Taxol – the cancer drug – was invented here. Having opportunities like that is what gets me excited. Working with our not-for-profits does, too. Our Bank is heavily involved in the Boys & Girls Club – an organization that can get to kids at a young age, mentor them and help them learn. That’s building a community the right way because you have to build it for everyone. “Amazon is currently constructing a robotics fulfillment center here which comes online end of 2022. That’s a huge boost to the community, as well, and for the betterment of all. As they say, a rising tide lifts all boats – at least the ones that don’t have holes in them. We can’t solve every problem. But we can try to help the community and help people who want to accomplish great things.” BVM: Tell us about your ‘building community bankers’ philosophy? Dixon: “Our mission statement is: “Building bankers to serve our clients and community in order to optimize shareholder value.” We have just under 100 full-time employees, and I’ll have about 25 of those people in our management meetings. “In some businesses, that circle is much smaller. But here’s the thing: I can’t give you experience – that takes a while – but I can give you exposure. Then, as you come across things you’ve never