Frank Griffin Elected as Chair of Community Bankers Association of Georgia

Staff Report

Thursday, June 20th, 2024

President, Flint Community Bank, Albany, was elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of Community Bankers Association of Georgia (CBA). Nominations for the 2024-25 CBA Board of Directors were announced and approved at CBA’s Annual convention held June 5 – 9, 2024 at The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island, FL. His term began June 6, 2024. 

“The CBA Board of Directors consists of true community bankers. As pillars of their respective communities, they are asked to serve on many different boards and committees. Recognizing the importance of having a community bank-only focused association in Georgia, they have chosen to devote their time and talents to guide CBA. It is a privilege to serve as their President/CEO”, stated John McNair, President & CEO, Community Bankers Association of Georgia. 

CBA is delighted to welcome the following new members to the Board:

Mr. Mani Swarnam, Georgia Primary Bank, Atlanta

Mr. Jonathon Pope, Exchange Bank, Milledgeville

Mr. Chris Cochran, Affinity Bank, Atlanta

Additionally, CBA wishes to thank the following that are stepping off the Board for their exemplary service:

Mr. Monty Watson, Piedmont Bank, Peachtree Corners 

Mr. Harold Reynolds, Bank South, Greensboro

Mr. Bill Walker, Legacy State Bank, Loganville

“The next 12 months will be filled with challenges and opportunities. CBA is in a very strong position to continue its leadership role in Georgia and to serve our members well into the future,” stated McNair.       

Board members are selected from two divisions across the state of Georgia, ensuring all Georgia community banks are equally represented. Board members are elected to a one-year term. During the year, Directors will be involved in several items on behalf of the CBA membership, such as responding to proposed rules and regulations from the various regulatory agencies, reviewing services which will benefit the community banking industry, and weighing in on proposed legislation. 

CBA was founded in 1969 by a group of Georgia community bankers to protect the political interests of locally owned community banks. Representing approximately 135 community banks and 150 associate member companies, CBA offers services in three distinct areas: Legislative, Professional Development and Member Services. CBA is the state’s only advocate working solely for the interests of community banks and their customers. 

For more information, contact CBA at (770) 541- 4490 or visit www.cbaofga.com.