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PALMETTO SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS ASSOCIATION Issue One 2022 Banker
Growth You Can
Bank On
2022 SOUTH CAROLINA BANKERS SCHOOL
July 10-15, 2022
Lander University, Greenwood, SC
• One of the premier state banking programs in the country For more information,
• Integrated and complete set of usable courses covering all please call Carolyn L. Bradley
aspects of banking, as well as overall bank management at 803.779.0850 or email
carolynbradley@scbankers.org.
• Academic and social interactions with fellow bankers conducive
to joint bank problem solving later in the workplace
• Acquire a better knowledge of the total scope and role of the
financial services industry in today’s economy Register Today at
• Provides benefits for the duration of one’s banking career www.scbankers.org
Contents
2009 Park Street I PO Box 1483
Columbia, S.C., 29202-1483
803.779.0850 I Fax: 803.779.0890
www.scbankers.org
2021-22 SC BA EXEC U TIV E CO M M ITTE E
Chairman......................................................................... K. Wayne Wicker, South Atlantic Bank
Chairman-Elect.............................................. Fleetwood S. Hassell, The Bank of South Carolina
5 President’s Message
First Vice Chairman................................................................................. Boyd B. Jones, Synovus
Treasurer...................................................................... Jennifer T. Jones, CBL State Savings Bank
Immediate Past Chairman.................................................. James A. Bennett, First Citizens Bank 7 ABA Update
2021-22 SC BA BOARD O F D IR E CTO R S
Second Immediate Past Chairman................................................Samuel L. Erwin, First Horizon
President & CEO..................................... Fred L. Green III, South Carolina Bankers Association
Directors...........................................................................Thomas Bouchette, The Citizens Bank
8 FDIC Board Takeover
Renee Brooks, SouthState Bank
Richard D. Burleson, Community First Bank
J. Holt Chetwood, First Citizens Bank
Robert F. Dozier, Jr., First Reliance Bank
Curtis T. Evatt, Oconee Federal Savings & Loan
12 Legislative Spotlight
14
C. Justin Hawkins, Wells Fargo
M.J. Huggins III, United Bank BankPAC Sporting Clays
John D. Kimberly, Park National Bank
David P. Looper, Wells Fargo
18
Dominik Mjartan, Optus Bank
Marvin E. Robinson, Jr., Ameris Bank Women in Banking
Samuel R. Small, Jr., First Palmetto Bank
H. Richard Sturm, Ameris Bank
22
C. Kyle Thomas, Blue Ridge Bank
2021-22 C OMMUNI TY B A N KE R S D IV IS IO N B O A R D
Legislative Reception
Chairman...........................................................Curtis T. Evatt, Oconee Federal Savings & Loan
26
Immediate Past Chairman.................................................. J. Ted Nissen, First Community Bank
Directors.........................................Marion E. “Buzz” Freeman, Jr., The Conway National Bank Washington Summit
L.E. “Bo” Griffin, Home Federal Savings & Loan
Richard N. McIntyre, First Reliance Bank
28
Jamie O. Morphis III, Carolina Bank & Trust Co.
2021-22 BANK ERS SC H O O L B O A R D
Young Bankers Division
Chair................................................................................. Marvin E. Robinson, Jr., Ameris Bank
34
Chair-Elect....................................................................... Richard N. Burch, South Atlantic Bank
Immediate Past Chair.....................................................................Annette L. Scott, Countybank
Directors.............................................................. Thomas C. Anderson, Jr., First Palmetto Bank
Community Bankers Division
Robert P. Hucks II, Coastal Carolina National Bank
36
Calvin C. Hurst, Southern First Bank
John M. Leighton, SouthState Bank
Joseph A. Painter, First Community Bank Welcome New Members
Michelle B. Seaver, United Community Bank
41
J. Reeves Skeen, First Citizens Bank
Robert L. White, Bank of Travelers Rest Education & Professional
Mze Wilkins Development
Course Coordinators........................................................................................James R. Clarkson
John C. Griggs III, Synovus
W. David Keller, The Citizens Bank
Francis A. Townsend III, The Southern Bank 42 Personal Transactions
2021-22 Y OUNG BAN KE R S D IV IS IO N B O A R D O F D I R EC T OR S
Chair................................................................................................David P. Looper, Wells Fargo
Chair-Elect.................................................................................Rufus T. Dunlap V, Countybank
First Vice Chairman...................................................................... B. Oneal Staples, Ameris Bank
46 Banking News
Immediate Past Chair............................................................Allison B. Cranford, TD Bank, N.A.
Directors..................................................................................................Reid J. Boehm, Synovus
Michelle A. Coletta, South Atlantic Bank
SC B A St a f f
Vaughan R. Dozier, Jr., First Community Bank
Margi M. Fleming, The Citizens Bank President & CEO............................. Fred L. Green III
Austin J. Goforth, First Palmetto Bank Chief Operating Officer.................... Richards H. Green
Lauren D. Greene, First Citizens Bank Senior Vice President....................... Carolyn L. Bradley
Daniel Harshaw, Bank of York Senior Vice President....................... E. Anne Gillespie
Joseph H. Hyman, The Conway National Bank Senior Vice President & Counsel..... A. O’Neil Rashley, Jr., Esq.
Othniel W. Laffitte, GrandSouth Bank Accounting Officer........................... Israel D. Reeves
Administrative Assistant................... Bonnie E. Nelson
Everette J. Livingston, First Citizens Bank
S. Alexis Matthews, The Peoples Bank The Palmetto Banker is a publication of the South Carolina
Jared A. Polk, Enterprise Bank of SC Bankers Association. The magazine exists to serve its members by
Charles H. Redmond, SouthState Bank communicating news of interest, education and SCBA activities.
Lincoln R. Stewart, Countybank Items from members are welcome, however the editor reserves the
M. Brice Sprayberry III, United Community Bank right to refuse copy. With the exception of official announcements, the
SCBA disclaims responsibility for opinions expressed and statements
made in articles published in the Palmetto Banker.
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President’s
Message
P L AY I N G T H E
Long Game
WITH
RESILIENCE Fred L. Green III, President & CEO
South Carolina Bankers Association
Spring is my favorite time of the year. I enjoy the four different those same characteristics are important in our legislative
and distinct seasons we have in South Carolina and each one has activities. There are many sensible and logical things we would
unique characteristics, but Spring in my favorite. To me, Spring is love to fix with the snap of a finger. Leveling the playing field
the season of renewal. Trees, barren over the cold winter sprout with credit unions and having sensible regulation are some
new growth. Flowers, whether wild or carefully cultivated, offer that quickly come to mind.
a beautiful array of colors and smells. Wildlife is more active.
The smallest creatures like butterflies leave their cocoons and the A relatively new and dangerous issue we face is in the area
larger animals like deer give birth to the next generation. of environmental, social, and governance, or ESG, initiatives.
Bank-driven programs that take into account a community’s
Because of the warmer and longer days, we humans also take environment, social concerns, or how a bank governs itself can
advantage of the change of season. We spend more time outdoors be an important part of how a bank meets the needs of the
walking, playing golf, watching our children’s sports, fishing, and communities it serves. Recently, however, policymakers have
for me, chasing wild turkeys. For those unfamiliar with the sport, considered, and in some cases enacted, policies that would in
spring turkey hunting is the most challenging of all big game effect impose ESG-related requirements on banks under the guise
hunting. The season is short, a little over 30 days, and bad weather of safety and soundness. In other cases, policymakers have tried
can always interrupt the best laid plans during the five or six to prohibit banks from considering ESG factors. These initiatives
weekends of the season. Strategy, tactics, patience, perseverance, are efforts to force us to bank or not bank a lawful company
skill, and luck all play a role in a successful hunt. I describe it as a or industry. Both sides of this political spectrum represent
chess match in the woods with an opponent that “makes his living inappropriate governmental intervention into a bank’s business
there” versus someone like me who is an infrequent visitor. The decisions. Regulation taken on one side of the political spectrum
odds are heavily stacked in favor of the weary old Tom. will be countered by an opposite reaction by others.
So, you might wonder how all these Spring activities have Banks should be free to lend to and generally do business
anything to do with the South Carolina Bankers Association or with any entity or activity that is legal, without government
banking in general. This edition of the Palmetto Banker is interference. Likewise, banks should not be compelled to do
dedicated to a renewal of sorts of our activities and interaction business with an entity, except in the case of fair lending or
with our bankers. After another COVID related interruption this anti-discrimination requirements. Allowing banks to make their
past winter, we have enjoyed many opportunities to meet in own business decisions has helped foster the deepest and most
person with our members this Spring. The volume of pictures in resilient banking system in the world, and policymakers should
this edition of the many events speaks to the pent-up demands not undermine that.
of getting out and catching up with old friends. All of the various
topics, programs, and events are important and beneficial, but A successful outcome on all of these political and regulatory
maybe the biggest benefit is the intangible one of spending challenges we face requires us to play the “long game.” If the
time on important issues with each other. current environment is not conducive to a favorable outcome,
we don’t give up. We give it our best and we persevere. As an
Segueing back to my earlier Spring turkey hunting comments, industry, we also are very resilient. We continue to advance the
they also have parallels to our business. Just as strategy, tactics, agenda regardless of the challenge because at some point, just like
patience, perseverance, skill, and luck are important in that sport, in turkey hunting, it all comes together.
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 5
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ABA
U p d at e
CRYPTOCURRENCIES:
Unlocking Banking’s
‘New Frontier’ Rob Nichols, President and CEO
American Bankers Association
nichols@aba.com
In case you haven’t noticed, Large custody banks—like the Bank of the President’s Working Group on
cryptocurrencies are an increasingly hot New York Mellon and Northern Trust— Financial Markets highlighted the risks
topic of conversation in this country. are also developing custody services of stablecoins, recommending that
for crypto. they be issued by insured depository
According to a Pew Research Center institutions that are subject to
sur vey fielded in November, 86% Bank customers know they can rely on consolidated supervision, and that any
of Americans said they have heard their banks to steward their finances and providers of custodial wallets be subject
about cryptocurrencies, and 16% said keep their financial data safe. A recent to appropriate federal oversight as well.
they have invested in, traded or used Morning Consult poll highlighted that
them. Cryptocurrency use is growing banks are the most trusted among all For our part, ABA is taking a deep dive
particularly rapidly among younger financial services providers. Given that, into what we can do to support banks’
Americans, with 31% of Americans it’s no surprise that consumers want to participation in crypto and other digital
between ages 18 and 29 telling Pew they receive cryptocurrency services from assets through both our advocacy and
have participated in crypto transactions. their bank. But don’t just take my word t h ro u g h t e c h n o l o g y p a r t n e r s h i p s .
for it: a survey from NYDIG, a bitcoin Additionally, in December, we made an
More often than not, these trades services firm, confirmed that a whopping investment in NYDIG, a leading provider
are happening through financial 81% of bitcoin holders would shift their of bitcoin services for banks. This
intermediaries—and consumers are bitcoin to a bank if it offered secure investment will support banks’ ability to
increasingly turning to banks to hold bitcoin storage. Undoubtedly, this “new meet customer demand in this rapidly
these digital assets. In fact, I’ve heard frontier” of cryptocurrency represents a evolving market, so that as we unlock
from a growing number of bank leaders huge opportunity for banks. this “new frontier” of cryptocurrencies
that their customers want to buy, hold and digital assets, consumers can
and use crypto—and they want to do it But in order for banks to successfully continue to place their trust in America’s
through their banks. navigate this new frontier, the bank banks to meet their financial needs.
regulatory architecture needs to catch
Banks have already begun making up—quickly. More clarity is needed from We understand that expanding into
inroads into the crypto services business the banking agencies about how banks cryptocurrency products and solutions
—offering a responsible pathway for can offer these services in a safe and won’t be for every bank, and that’s okay.
consumers to adopt these novel financial sound manner. Without this clarity, the We firmly stand with banks in their right
products. Take for example Vast Bank, unlevel playing field between banks and to decide, according to their own
a community institution based in the rapidly growing cadre of firms judgment and market strategy, what
Oklahoma that recently launched a seeking to operate as banks while products they will offer. However, even
cr ypto custody account that bank evading the full scope of bank with mixed opinions on the value of
customers can manage in their app regulations, will continue. cryptocurrency as an asset class or as a
alongside their FDIC-insured dollar basis for a product set, ABA believes
account. Or Quontic Bank, which offers a There have been some positive strongly that banks should have access
checking product that provides rewards developments, with the OCC issuing an to the tools, partners and regulatory
in bitcoin, offering consumers an interpretive letter clarifying its approach frameworks that allow them to meet
opportunity to wade into the crypto for approving crypto-related activities for their customers’ needs.
space without buying it themselves. national banks. Additionally, a report by
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 7
AN OVERVIEW OF CONCERNING RECENT
DEVELOPMENTS AT THE FDIC
An Interview with Former FDIC Board Member
and Mississippi Banker Joe Neely
Article Courtesy of Mississippi Bankers Association
The Federal Deposit Insurance banking consulting entity. Neely’s broad
Corporation (FDIC) is an independent banking experience including his time on
agency created by Congress to maintain the FDIC board gives him unique
stability and public confidence in the knowledge of this situation. MBA
nation’s banking system by insuring bank considers his perspectives as informative
deposits. It has served this function since to bankers in order to raise their awareness
its creation in 1933, in a purposely of recent developments and the current
designed, balanced, non-partisan manner. environment at the FDIC.
However, in December, some members of
the Board of Directors bypassed the FDIC Background 101
normal agenda and staff vetting procedures
in an unprecedented move that seems to The FDIC is governed by a five-person
be politically motivated. Board of Directors that includes the
Comptroller of the Currency and the
These actions led to the FDIC Chair’s Director of the Consumer Financial
abrupt resignation and have led some to Protection Bureau, and three independent
question the remaining leadership’s FDIC Directors all of whom are appointed
objectiveness, including Mississippi’s own by the President and then confirmed by
former FDIC board member, Joe Neely. He the Senate. Each board member must meet
is a former career banker, a state certain statutory requirements. For
Commissioner of Banking and Consumer example, one must have state bank
Finance, retired Chief Executive at First supervisory experience. The number and
National Bankers Bank, and currently composition of board seats has varied
principal of Neely and Associates, LLC, a somewhat due to changes made by
8 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER
Congress over the almost 90 years of the add a record of the vote to the FDIC’s He continued that he is also ver y
FDIC’s existence. Importantly, no more official minutes. c o n c e r n e d a b o u t t h e F D I C s t a ff .
than three board members can be from the “FDIC staff was bypassed in the drafting
same political party. J u s t t w o w e e k s l a t e r, M c Wi l l i a m s of the proposed bank merger document.
s u b m i t t e d h e r r e s i g n a t i o n l e t t e r. As a result, it was filled with inaccuracies,
Currently the Vice Chairman seat is vacant McWilliams had been FDIC Chair since omissions, and misrepresentations that
and, as of February 4, 2022, Chairman 2018 and she was appointed for a term would not have been present had the
Jelena McWilliams’ resignation leaves the extending through 2024. Her resignation experienced people at the FDIC been
Chairman position officially vacant. FDIC leaves key regulatory agency leadership allowed to research and prepare the
Director Martin Gruenberg will likely positions for President Biden to fill, document. No Director is intelligent,
function as Interim Chairman until pending Senate confirmation. President astute, or seasoned enough to make
which time the White House elects to Biden’s recent pick for Comptroller of informed decisions on complex and
nominate a Chairman and that nominee the Currency, Saule Omarova, withdrew technical matters without assistance and
is subsequently confirmed by the Senate. after facing bipartisan Senate opposition support of the capable and experienced
As of publication, the board members are in December. staff at the FDIC,” he said.
Martin Gruenberg, Director, FDIC;
Michael Hsu, Director, Acting Comptroller What it Means Given the mission of the FDIC, Neely
of the Currency; and most recently for the FDIC Now believes that every banker should be
appointed, Rohit Chopra, Director, CFPB. concerned about what is currently going
All three are considered Democrats and “I was very impressed with Chairman on within the board. “Each pillar of the
were appointed by Democratic presidents, McWilliams, having had the opportunity mission affects every deposit holder in
meaning there is currently no voice from to meet with her personally and privately. America. The overwhelming majority of
the Republican party on the board. Her heart was in the job, and I have Americans are banking at FDIC regulated
no doubt that she tried every day to do and insured banks, and you want a
What Happened the right thing, especially given her regulator who is not using political bias
in December background,” said Joe Neely. McWilliams or an agenda when supervising the safety
immigrated to America from Yugoslavia and soundness of that institution.
Newly appointed member Chopra and in 1991, and her father lost all deposits You also want the deposit insurance
longtime member Gruenberg acted in a bank failure. fund protected and preserved without
unprecedentedly when they held a private, prejudice or bias toward any depositor.
unscheduled vote to solicit public Neely was appointed to the FDIC board of And, if a bank should fail, you want to
feedback on potential changes to the directors in 1996. He was a Republican see that the institution is liquidated and
FDIC’s bank merger approval process. The appointed by President Bill Clinton assumed in an orderly and independent
FDIC Chair controls the agenda, and (Democrat). It was a 5-person board at the process without favor to any depositor,
Chopra and Gruenberg attempted to time. However, the Office of Thrift claimant, or stakeholder.”
override that protocol. McWilliams did not Supervision Director held the seat now
participate in the vote and cited the held by the CFPB Director. Neely handled one bank failure while he
maneuver as improper and out of order. In was the Mississippi Commissioner of
an official statement, the FDIC said the “Since its founding, the board has worked Banking and Consumer Finance, and it’s
action was not valid. This then led to collegially to achieve the Corporation’s an experience he said he’ll never forget.
debate over whether a majority of the mission by blending their combined “It was the right decision, but no one
board can force items onto the board expertise and experience while relying was as nervous as I was walking into
agenda without the consent of the Chair. heavily upon the support of FDIC staff. As that bank. However, because of the
“The FDIC has three responsibilities,” said a board member, you must leave your long-standing protocols and procedures
Neely. “To effectively supervise state- personal or political agendas at the door. in place established by the FDIC,
chartered banks, to protect and preserve What has happened recently is a classic everything was handled properly and
the integrity of the deposit insurance fund, example of what happens when partisan efficiently. That’s the system that needs to
and to provide for the orderly liquidation politics enters the boardroom of what be preserved. You don’t want partisan
of failed institutions. For 88 years, the should be an independent agency,” he said. politics interfering with that process
FDIC has successfully and efficiently Neely said that during his own 14-month and skewing the balance somehow.”
accomplished this mission. And for that confirmation process that no one once
time, the Chairman has managed the tried to influence his vote, including any What Can Be Done
agenda [of Board meetings]. Chopra and Senator or the White House. He believes
Gruenberg circumvented 88 years of that appears to have changed now. “Certain “The FDIC cannot effectively operate with
process and protocol, as well as bypassed Directors are clearly carrying out the political influence. Congress will have to
FDIC staff, with their attempt to publish motives of their political supporters and act to help restore balance to the board.
their proposed rule for comment.” the current administration. For example, But for Congress to act, they must hear
Chopra initiated this pre-meditated coup from American citizens and the banking
Then, at a December 14 board meeting, less than three weeks after being sworn in industry,” said Neely.
McWilliams rejected a bid by Chopra to as Director of CFPB,” he said.
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 9
Neely advocates for returning to the three- He said it’s also worth pointing out entire free world beats a path to the FDIC’s
member board composition that existed that there is currently no community door and envies the American system
prior to the passage of FIRREA in 1989 as bank representation on the board. of depositor protection. Why would we
a result of the savings and loan crisis. “The No present board member has experience allow that system to be compromised or
more agencies that are represented on the supervising state-chartered banks, placed in jeopardy?”
board, the more convoluted it becomes.” which is required by statute. Neely was the
The CFPB did not even exist when the first FDIC Director to meet this newly He is strongly advocating for bankers to
board structure was changed from 3 seats adopted statutory requirement, having get involved and reach out to Congress so
to 5 a few decades ago. The CFPB has a served as Mississippi’s Commissioner of the FDIC system can be preserved and
seat on the board as a result of the passage Banking and Consumer Finance. The proper balance on the board can be
of Dodd-Frank in 2010, which eliminated Conference of State Bank Supervisors restored. “We don’t need to tinker with
the OTS and created the CFPB. According (CSBS), a national group dedicated to the FDIC. We need to make sure this
to Neely, that was the prime opportunity to advancing state bank regulation and system prevails and performs its primary
return to a three-member board and supervision, addressed this in a letter to missions for the benefit of the American
internally refocus the FDIC’s mission. Senate leadership on January 31. depositor and our country.”
Not only is it not balanced politically now, According to Neely, “The FDIC is one of Overall, Neely emphasized that the FDIC
but the FDIC board does not accurately the sacred success story institutions in is still the strong institution it always
represent the banking industry or the American history. It was created from a has been, and the deposit insurance fund
depositor base across the country. “The horrible situation, and it has done a is sound. This invasion of partisan politics
FDIC shouldn’t make any policy decisions wonderful job to ensure that situation into FDIC governance is just a “crack in
until there is a voice representing the doesn’t happen again.” the veneer,” but one that needs attention
minority political party on the board. immediately to maintain the ability of the
There used to be a commitment to Neely said that countries all over the world FDIC to meet its mission for the benefit
representation from both parties, and that use the FDIC as a model for insuring of the American public.
commitment needs to be reestablished. deposits within their institutions. While
And until this happens, it is eroding the Neely was on the board, he worked with
board’s ability to meet its mission in a the nation of Korea to establish the Korea
bipartisan manner,” he added. Deposit Insurance Corporation. “The
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Spotlight
Senator Mike Reichenbach:
S O U T H C A R O L I N A ’ S N E W E S T S TAT E S E N AT O R
By: Neil Rashley, SCBA Senior Vice President and Counsel
In 2021 he was appointed to the board of First Reliance Bank.
“I joined the First Reliance board because I’ve seen firsthand
how community banks can have such a positive influence on a
local community through the relationships they build. Just as my
wife, my team and I worked to make our dealerships successful
coming out of the Great Recession, community banks work hard
daily to not only help business succeed but also help people get
back on their feet, get into homes, and get into transportation.
Our bank team is always asking what’s best for our shareholders,
customers, employees and community.”
Beyond his dealerships and bank board involvement,
Sen. Reichenbach is extensively involved in the Florence business
community. He was chosen as a member of the inaugural board
of the Francis Marion University School of Business Center for
Entrepreneurship. In 2015, he was honored to be named a
charter member of the Florence-Darlington Technical College’s
Entrepreneurial Forum. He also has served on the boards for the
Florence-Darlington Technical College Foundation, and the
Francis Marion University School of Business Advisory Board. In
Senator Mike Reichenbach (R–Florence) is South Carolina’s 2011, he was named the “Businessperson of the Year” by the
newest state senator but, more than that, he sees himself as a Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce.
job-creating businessman, a sworn law enforcement officer, and
a dedicated community volunteer. Elected on March 29, 2022 to Sen. Reichenbach was commissioned as a law enforcement
fill the seat of deceased, long-time senator, Hugh Leatherman, officer 20 years ago; first with SLED, as a state constable, and
Reichenbach looks to bring to the Senate a fresh perspective of a then with DNR as a game warden and deputy law enforcement
successful businessman. officer. In 2012, he was selected for the U.S. Army War College’s
National Security Seminar, and in 2018, he was promoted to
Originally from Ohio, Sen. Reichenbach graduated from Bowling Major in the South Carolina Military Department’s Joint Services
Green State University with a business degree in accounting. Detachment. In 2019, Reichenbach was awarded the South
While earning his MBA from the University of Michigan, Mike Carolina Military Department’s Certificate of Achievement for
met his wife, Charisse, in a Detroit church; and they have been extraordinary leadership.
married for more than 25 years.
He was selected to the Leadership Florence Class of 2020,
In Ohio, he worked with the Ford Motor Company but then Leadership South Carolina Class of 2020, Liberty Fellowship
decided to pursue his dream of owning a dealership. He and Class of 2019 (an Aspen Global Leadership Network Fellowship)
Charisse sought out solid communities to raise their children, and The Riley Institute’s Diversity Leadership Initiative Class of
while also running a dealership, and they discovered Florence, SC. 2018. He has completed tenures as the Chairman of the Board of
They purchased a Ford dealership there in 2008 and, even though the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce and Vice Chairman
they began during a recession, they opened two more dealerships, of the Coastal Carolina Hospital Board of Directors, and currently
creating many new jobs. “When my wife and I purchased our first serves as the Vice Chairman of the McLeod Health Foundation
dealership in 2008, during the recession, we saw the struggles Board, as well as a Member of the Board of Directors for United
many business owners face–making payroll, choosing healthcare Way Association of South Carolina.
plans, and managing frivolous lawsuits. Business owners learn
quickly to wear multiple hats,” he stated. It was these observations He and Charisse have two children attending the University of
that led him to run for the Senate seat so he could address the South Carolina. The Reichenbach family resides in Florence and
many problems and needs of small businesses. are active members of NewSpring Church.
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FNBB Services Corp. is not a CPA firm and does not engage in the practice of public accounting..
Insurance products are not insured by any Federal government agency. Not a deposit. Not FDIC insured and not guaranteed by this bank.2021 BANKPAC
SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT
hosted by the Young Bankers Division
Our Young Bankers Division has become more
Thank You Sponsors active in engaging with our grassroots efforts.
Thanks to everyone who supported the Young
Bankers Division third annual BankPAC Sporting
Clays Tournament Fundraiser held on Wednesday,
November 17, at Palmetto Shooting Complex in
Edgefield, South Carolina.
Chair of the Event, Margi Fleming, Vice President C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S
Human Resources, Branch Administration & TO THE WINNING TEAM:
Marketing, The Citizens Bank had this to say, Ben Barnhill, Nelson Mullins Riley
“This year’s BankPac Sporting Clays Fundraiser & Scarborough, LLP
was a tremendous success with around 100 Michael Boozer, Integrated Financial
shooters, amazing weather and friendly Solutions
competition. The event was held at the Duffie Powers, Gallivan, White &
Boyd, P.A.
renowned Palmetto Shooting Complex and
Ben Skelley, AgSouth Farm Credit, ACA
raised about $22,000 for SCBA State Pac. The
State Pac supports state legislators who support
the banking industry and the pro-business
agenda in our State. We were also excited to
have four legislators attend the event this year
and hope to continue to increase those
connections over time.”
Anyone who shares an interest in the future of
the banking industry and wishes to preserve the
important role of banks in our economy and our
communities should contribute annually to one HIGHEST FEMALE SHOOTER
of our PACs. Lisa LaFrance
SAVE THE DATE FOR
THIS YEAR’S TOURNAMENT
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16
Palmetto Shooting Complex
Edgefield, South Carolina HIGHEST MALE SHOOTER
Duffie Powers
Gallivan, White & Boyd, P.A.
If you have questions regarding the SCBA’s
B a n k PA C s , p l e a s e c o n t a c t R i c k G r e e n ,
rickgreen@scbankers.org or (803) 779-0850.
If you are interested in securing a sponsorship for
the 2022 event, contact Carolyn L. Bradley,
carolynbradley@scbankers.org or (803) 779-0850.
14 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERPhoto Recap I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 15
2021 BANKPAC SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT hosted by the Young Bankers Division WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2021 The Palmetto Shooting Complex, Edgefield, SC 16 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER
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2022 LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM Tuesday, February 8 – Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Hilton Columbia Center | Columbia, South Carolina Thank You Sponsors
Photo Recap I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 19
2022 LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM Tuesday, February 8 – Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Hilton Columbia Center | Columbia, South Carolina 20 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 21
LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION 22 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER
Photo Recap
LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION
Photo Recap
The South Carolina Small Business Development Centers has a
network of over 50 highly-trained professionals across the state to help
businesses adapt and recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19.
We help clients to:
Understand lender’s needs
Identify financing options and facilitate lender referrals
Prepare a business plan, financial projections and other aspects of
loan applications
Understand financial reports and implement solid fiscal practices like
budgeting, bookkeeping and cash flow
We offer no-fee, confidential business consulting and affordable educational
workshops. You can trust us to refer clients who are knowledgeable and
equipped to do business with you.
Contact us. We can help. Visit SCSBDC.com
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 25WASHINGTON SUMMIT 26 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER
Photo Recap
Young Bankers
Division
2 0 2 2 Y O U N G B A N K E R S D I V I S I O N
Annual Conference
The 2022 Young Bankers Division Annual Conference proved to be most successful with
phenomenal attendance and participation among emerging leaders. The Annual Conference
provided a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, establish, cultivate and maintain
relationships and learn about the critical issues facing bankers and the banking industry
today. On March 18–20, close to 200 bankers, associates, spouses and guests gathered at The
Sweetgrass Inn, Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms, SC for educational presentations, business
development and fellowship.
One of the most important initiatives of the SCBA is to facilitate peer-to-peer interaction for our
member banks and business-to-business interaction for our banks and associate members.
The business sessions and relaxing atmosphere throughout the 2022 Conference created an
opportunity for just that. Chair David Looper, Wells Fargo, was delighted to present a conference
with a diverse and varied array of speakers able to talk on a range of important topics. Over
the weekend attendees had access to top industry thought leaders, shared ideas with peers,
received strategies for solving challenges and gained insight to help influence positive change
within their organization. Featured speakers included: James C. Ballentine, Executive Vice
President of Congressional Relations and Political Affairs, American Bankers Association;
Blake E. Fortier, Manager — Commercial Product, nCino; Gina Ginn Greenwood, JD, CIPP/US,
Partner, Co-Chair, Data Breach Response Practice, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough, LLP;
LaVaughn M. Henry, PHD, CBE, Special Assistant to the Sr. Deputy Director of Supervision and
Policy in the Division of Risk Management & Supervision of the FDIC; and André Kennebrew,
Director of Relationships, LifeShape International.
On Saturday morning, Connor Shaw, USC’s all time winning quarterback and Benefits Advisor with
HUB International led an inspirational prayer breakfast. The Conference concluded with dinner
and dancing to “Fantasy” on Saturday evening.
Rufus T. “Wells” Dunlap V, Countybank, was elected to serve as Chair of the Young Bankers
Division Board for the 2022-2023 SCBA year and he is excited to announce the 2023 Conference
will be held at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, Greensboro, GA, March 3-5, 2023. Please
mark these dates on your calendar and make plans to send your emerging leaders.
Our goal is to educate and empower tomorrow’s banking and business leaders while also
encouraging personal, professional and community development. What makes the Young Bankers
Division and the SCBA unique is the ability for each to compete fiercely by day but to come together
and interact socially by night with each other to share ideas, challenges and opportunities.
A special thanks to our many sponsors — this event would not be possible without your support!
For more information about the Young Bankers Division and/or the Annual Conference, please
contact Carolyn L. Bradley, carolynbradley@scbankers.org or (803) 779-0850.
28 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERThank You Sponsors
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 292 0 2 2 Y O U N G
Annual Conference
B A N K E R S D I V I S I O N
Photo Recap
30 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERThere's lending, and
there's intelligent lending.
Identify profitable opportunities with our essential
solutions for your commercial lending lifecycle.
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local market characteristics. prospects with in-depth industry profiles.
To learn more please visit spglobal.com/commercial-lending.
Copyright © 2022 by S&P Global Market Intelligence Inc. All rights reserved. No content, including by framing or similar means, may be reproduced or
distributed without the prior written permission of S&P Global Market Intelligence or its affiliates. The content is provided on an “as is” basis.Young Bankers
Division
2022 State House Visit
Several years ago, the Young Bankers Division Board of Directors recognized the need to become
more politically active and jumped at the opportunity. Public policies at the state and national
level have a direct impact on a bank’s ability to succeed and meet customer needs. On March 2,
about 20 of the young bankers and bank representatives met at the State House and visited
with Chairmen Sandifer, Cromer and Davis, as well as Senator Alexander, President of the Senate.
When our elected officials know you and understand your business, they are far more likely to
approach policy development in a manner that can reduce your risk. If you are an emerging
leader interested in joining this important initiative and maximizing your voice, please contact
Carolyn L. Bradley, carolynbradley@scbankers.org or (803) 779-0850.
32 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERPhoto Recap I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 33
2022 COMMUNITY
BANKERS FORUM
Photo Recap
Thursday, March 31, 2022
Columbia, SC
Thank You Sponsors
34 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERCustom cybersecurity solutions
based on your needs.
Gain a trusted cybersecurity advisor and ensure your ISP is well-
managed with CONSULTING services.
Receive personalized NETWORK SECURITY testing tailored
to your size and complexity.
Go beyond a checklist with a risk-based IT AUDIT, reviewing for
compliance and adequacy.
Participate in uniquely designed, role-based, industry-specific
cybersecurity EDUCATION.
Contact Nick Podhradsky
605-770-3926 | nick@sbscyber.com | www.sbscyber.com
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 35New
M e mb e r s
Welcome
We are fortunate to have an active and engaged roster of Associate members
and proudly welcome these new members:
Alliance Partners BancAlliance is a network of over 300 community banks
4475 Willard Avenue, Suite 1100 throughout the country. BancAlliance offers efficient and easy
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
access to its commercial loan program, consumer loan program
(301) 232-5400
alliancepartners.com and small business loan programs through membership. There is
no upfront fee to join and fees are only payable to the extent
Mr. Abraham Swartz (Abe) members participate in a BancAlliance opportunity.
Vice President, Southeast Development
106 Sneed Dr.
Taylors, SC 29687
(864) 436-8513
ASwartz@alliancepartners.com
Card Payment Solutions Based in Florence, South Carolina, Card Payment Solutions
514 Second Loop Road, Suite A and B provides merchant processing and e-commerce services to small
Florence, SC 29505
business and enterprise clients throughout the United States,
(843) 661-1003
www.cardpaymentsolutions.com making it easier and more affordable for businesses to connect
with customers and collect payments for products and services.
Mr. Raymond Watson (Jaye)
514 Second Loop Road, Suites A and B We serve clients across a wide range of retail, online, and service
Florence, SC 29505
markets, with offices located nationwide, coast to coast. Contact us
(843) 661-1003
jaye@cardpaymentsolutions.com today to learn how we can help your business earn more profit on
every card transaction.
Celero Commerce Celero Commerce is a FinTech company that partners with
100 Westwood Pl. #200 Financial Institutions to deliver payment processing services, business
Brentwood, TN 37027
management software, and data intelligence to small and medium-
(844) 423-5376
www.celerocommerce.com sized businesses across the US. Celero empowers business owners and
executives to focus on driving commerce and cultivating growth and
Mr. John Dodd profitability. We want to help them win. This core goal is reflected in
100 Westwood Pl. #200 our name, as Celero is from Latin meaning “accelerate.” We pride
Brentwood, TN 37027
ourselves on helping our customers earn more revenue, drive repeat
(615) 376-7878
johnd@celerocommerce.com business, and increase efficiency and market share. Our headquarter
is in Nashville, and we have offices in Los Angeles, Petaluma, Dallas,
Minneapolis, Greenville, Boca Raton, and Chicago.
36 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERDC BLOX The data center industry is changing. The explosive growth of data,
6 W Druid Hills NE applications, devices, and content are stretching the capacity of IT
Atlanta, GA 30080 and network infrastructure. IT departments are being challenged to
(877) 590-1684 effectively deliver more information and services to their customers,
www.dcblox.com
efficiently scale their systems, and protect their business’s data, all
Mr. Ted Hassold while keeping a cap on budgets. DC BLOX addresses these problems
Sr. Director Business Development by building Tier 3 data centers in growing underserved markets in
33 Global Drive the Southeastern United States, connecting them with a high-speed
Greenville, SC 29607 optical network, and hosting cloud services to enable area businesses
(864) 420-6954 to effectively serve their local customers, efficiently scale their
ted.hassold@dcblox.com infrastructure, and ensure business continuity.
Forum Benefits Forum Benefits, LLC was founded in South Carolina in 1999.
1122 S. Main Street, Suite B We were founded as an independently owned agency specializing in
Greenville, SC 29601 employee benefit planning and administration. In December 2016,
(864) 233-1101 (213) Forum joined 23 other entrepreneurial insurance and financial services
www.forumbenefits.aleragroup.com
companies across the US to form a brand-new-company Alera Group,
Mr. Brian Stritt Inc. Our combined mission is to transform the client experience by
1122 S. Main Street, Suite B providing a greater depth and breadth of resources, innovative
Greenville, SC 29601 thinking, and constant collaboration while maintaining strong local
(864) 233-1101 (204) relationships. Strong values have always guided our interactions with
bstritt@forumbenefits.com our banking clients, their employees and each other. At Forum, we
work with our clients to build a comprehensive and flexible benefits
program to fit the goals of their organization.
Luse Gorman, PC Luse Gorman, PC is a Washington, D.C.-headquartered law firm
5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW specializing in the representation of financial institutions. Many of our
Suite 780 partners have served in senior positions with federal and state banking
Washington, DC 20015 and securities agencies. Our experience provides the firm with a
(202) 274-2027
unique perspective and advantage when advising and assisting clients
www.luselaw.com
on regulatory and transactional matters. Luse Gorman has been
Mr. Thomas P. Hutton (Tom) recognized as a national leader in capital offerings, mergers and
7012 Old Cabin Lane acquisitions and corporate restructuring transactions. Our practice
Rockville, MD 20852 includes mergers and acquisitions, public and private equity and debt
(202) 801-4272 offerings, public company reporting and disclosure, shareholder
thutton@luselaw.com relations, mutual restructuring transactions, executive compensation
and employee benefits matters, taxation, corporate governance,
FinTech, regulatory compliance and enforcement, holding company
formation, de novo bank formations and charter conversions.
nCino nCino (NASDAQ: NCNO) is the worldwide leader in cloud banking.
6770 Parker Farm Drive The nCino Bank Operating System® empowers financial institutions
Suite 300 with scalable technology to help them achieve revenue growth, greater
Wilmington, NC 28405 efficiency, cost savings and regulatory compliance. In a digital-first
(888) 676-2466
world, nCino’s single digital platform enhances the employee and
www.ncino.com
client experience to enable financial institutions to more effectively
Mr. Blake Fortier onboard new clients, make loans and manage the entire loan life cycle,
332 Majestic Oaks Drive and open deposit and other accounts across lines of business and
Hampstead, NC 28443 channels. Transforming how financial institutions operate through
(413) 658-5262 innovation, reputation and speed, nCino works with more than 1,200
blake.fortier@ncino.com financial institutions globally, whose assets range in size from $30
million to more than $2 trillion.
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 37New
M e mb e r s
Otegrity, Inc. Challenged with Human Resources, Benefit and Retirement
1377 Oakfield Drive Administration, Payroll Processing and Administration, Compliance
Brandon, FL 33511 and Risk Management? Otegrity, an administrative service
(813) 324-2800 organization, manages transactional human resources administration
www.otegrity.com
to allow you to put the Human back in Human Resources. With our
Mr. Justin M. Workman dedicated Human Resources Advisor, we enhance your team so you
Business Development Specialist can focus on growing your business and increasing productivity and
1019 Chevis St. profitability. Additionally, our technology tools and Human Resource
Columbia, SC 29205 Information System (HRIS) provides a streamlined solution for small
(803) 317-0917 and large companies. From applicant tracking, hiring, electronic
justin@otegrity.com onboarding to payroll processing, and more, we provide you with
the tools you need to succeed. For more information, please contact
us today. We make the complex simple!
Rivel, Inc. Rivel CXLign Banking if the largest banking survey in the country
57 Greens Farm Road which utilizes hundreds of thousands of interviews annually, in
Westport, CT 06880 26 states, providing banks insight into their local reputation,
(203) 226-0800 performance, and opportunity. The Banking Benchmarks rely on
www.rivel.com/cxlign
objective (double-blind) feedback and a syndicated approach that
Ms. Melissa Randi is more reliable and affordable than custom or internal research.
57 Greens Farm Road Banking institutions can increase their market share, create effective
Westport, CT 06880 messaging, and focus on the right products to drive customer loyalty.
(203) 331-5118
mrandi@rivel.com
Stout Stout is a global investment bank and advisory firm specializing in
1201 West Peachtree St NW corporate finance, valuation, financial disputes, and investigations.
Atlanta, GA 30309 We serve a range of clients, from public corporations to privately
(678) 573-2693 held companies in numerous industries. Our clients and their
www.securariskmanagement.com
advisors rely on our premier expertise, deep industry knowledge,
Ms. Terri Sands and unparalleled responsiveness on complex matters.
Managing Director – Disputes,
Compliance, & Investigations
1201 West Peachtree St NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 991-9821
tsands@stout.com
Veroogle LLC Veroogle.com is a registered ISO (Independent Sales Organization)
3833 Mayfair Street, Suite 100 providing electronic payment processing to merchants of all sizes.
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 With the corporate office located in Myrtle-Beach SC, their focus is
(843) 839-4122 partnering with community banks and associations to provide
veroogle.com
superior merchant credit card processing services. Veroogle.com has
Mr. Brian Peters an A+ rating with the BBB, and they are members of the Electronic
President Transaction Association. Since 2011 Veroogle professionals have
3833 Mayfair Street, Suite 100 been Certified Payments Professionals by the Electronic Transaction
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 Association, they offer all types of card processing and point of sale
(843) 602-2031 systems, including surcharging and cash discounting. They offer a
brianpeters@veroogle.com lifetime discount rate lock guarantee, no long term contract with
their clients.
38 I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKERWard and Smith, P.A. Ward and Smith, P.A. is a full-service law firm with more than 90
1001 College Court attorneys working as a team from five offices, from the coast to the
New Bern, NC 28562 mountains of North Carolina. Our goal is to provide exceptional
(252) 672-5400 service to our clients. In order to focus on and respond to specific
www.wardandsmith.com
client needs, we have developed teams in specific industries and
Mr. B. T. Atkinson, Esquire fields of law as necessary to serve our clients within various segments
127 Racine Drive of the market. We invite you to explore our firm, and hope to be
Wilmington, NC 28403 of service.
(910) 794-4845
btatkinson@wardandsmith.com
Wolf & Company, P.C. At Wolf, we leverage over 100 years of experience to address the
255 State Street business challenges of today. Our innovative public accounting, risk
Boston, MA 02110 management, and consulting services provide unparalleled guidance
(617) 439-9700 to organizations of all sizes across industries, regions, and the globe.
www.wolfandco.com
We work with you as a trusted partner and expert, building strong
Mr. Richard Fay relationships for lasting success. Our culture of innovation and
255 State Street respect extends to each of our offices and employees. From impactful
Boston, MA 02110 development opportunities and philanthropic events, to a generous
(617) 428-5466 benefits package and work-life balance, our inclusive atmosphere
rfay@wolfandco.com empowers employees to grow, exceed goals, and give back.
For more information about Associate Membership, please contact SCBA Senior Vice President Carolyn Laffitte Bradley by email
at carolynbradley@scbankers.org
TO VIEW OUR ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY, SCAN QR CODE.
I S S U E O N E 2 0 2 2 • PALMETTO BANKER 39You can also read
