Marks first eminent scholar since 2009 to be funded by state program
STATESBORO — Georgia Southern University and BB&T have signed an agreement to create the BB&T Executive in Residence, part of the state’s eminent scholar program, after BB&T donated $500,000 and the state of Georgia matched the funds during the 2012 legislative session.
This is the first eminent scholar since 2009 to be funded by the program, which is designed to bring top faculty to University System of Georgia institutions.
“Given the banking climate in our state and country, this position will play a major role in providing guidance on banking policy,” said Georgia Southern President Brooks Keel.
He said it is a perfect example of a public-private partnership that will help students meet the challenges of the real world.
“We appreciate BB&T making the commitment with this endowment and helping prepare Georgia Southern students for careers in banking,” said state Sen. Jack Hill, R-Reidsville. “I believe this scholar program proves to the board of regents that industry wants to step up and help.”
In addition to a focus on teaching, the position will serve as an independent and objective resource for legislators in addressing policy issues faced by rural community banks. One major area of focus will be in the area of regulatory compliance, which places a cost burden on smaller banks.
The new position will also expand the university’s services to rural-based community credit unions, and the university will provide strategic planning, marketing and pricing strategy support to area financial institutions.
“BB&T is committed to supporting education at all levels,” said John Lane, BB&T city executive for Statesboro. “As part of our mission, BB&T strives to make the communities in which we work better places to live. The BB&T Chair of Banking is an investment in higher education that will yield graduates better prepared for a career in banking.”