LEAD: Helping to Grow the Next Generation of Community Bankers

The LEAD Division is pivotal in advancing future financial leaders and promoting initiatives like the Julian & Jan Hester Memorial Scholarship, which supports the academic pursuits of students linked to the community banking sector. Additionally, the division spearheads fundraising for the CBA’s Advocacy Fund, enhancing political advocacy for community banks.

Established in 1979 as the Young Bankers section to share educational and legislative updates with bank executives, it has evolved into the LEAD Division, a hub for networking and professional development.

The LEAD Board continues to thrive and bring about opportunities to increase awareness of our great industry. The leaders who serve on the board continue to share their passion for their careers and help rise up the next generation of community bankers. Check out the latest issue of Georgia Communities First Magazine for the feature on the LEAD Division. The section includes:

• Interview with Mike Underwood, Peach State Bank, on history of the Leadership Division and why he serves on the LEAD Board.

• Highlights from the LEAD Board’s visit to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

• Testimonials from LEAD bankers on why participation has made such a positive difference in their banking careers.