Georgia Bankers Association

so bankers work closely with farmers and ag- related businesses to help people around the world enjoy Georgia-grown products. All of this works hand-in-hand to create a diverse economy supported by a robust banking system. BVM: What is the role of the state’s banking industry in commerce and communities? Brannen: Most people understand that banks serve as critical infrastructure for family and business finances. The loans they make and deposits they protect are the backbone of commerce. And more than 50,000 Georgians who happen to be bankers live and raise families here, so they’re fully invested in the financial wellbeing of their fellow Georgians. There’s not a town in Georgia where you won’t find bankers serving in volunteer, appointed, or elected roles. Bankers serve as state legislators, school board members, county commissioners, and on economic development boards. For example, this year’s GBA Chairman, Luke Flatt of AB&T in Albany, chaired his local chamber of commerce. His predecessor as Chairman, Spence Mullis of Morris Bank, was recognized nationally for his leadership in revitalizing the downtown Dublin area. Robert James of Savannah’s Carver State Bank has been at the forefront of targeting needed services and investments for customers in low-to-moderate-income areas during his 50- year career in banking. I could go on and on. Throughout the pandemic, bankers were flexible and innovative. As financial first responders, they found new ways to make sure customers could make transactions, were out front on providing fee waivers and payment deferrals and stayed connected to their communities. One example I love is the Geo. D. Warthen Bank in Sandersville hosting Santa visits through its drive-through so kids could safely pass on their wish lists as a twist on a beloved holiday tradition. To me, that’s the very spirit of what banking in Georgia is all about.