Clayton State University and The First Bank Join for a Multi-Year Partnership

(February 18, 2025) - On Thursday, February 13, 2025, Clayton State University and The First Bank joined in Morrow, GA to recognize and commemorate a newly minted partnership through a generous gift of $75,000. The donation, which is an outright gift, will be utilized over a two-year period. This gift is a testament to First Bank's commitment to our community and supporting the University’s mission in serving as a catalyst of change to improve the social mobility of our students and campus community.

“We’re excited about this gift and its impact to support our mission social mobility,” said Georj L. Lewis, Ed.D. Clayton State University President. “With partnerships such as these, we are able to support our students—whether in athletics, our academic programs in the College of Business, or through engaging and educational programs—and for us, advancing their opportunities to access through positive social mobility is essential to the University, and all that we do.”

First Bank acknowledges the significance of supporting the community, and this contribution will greatly benefit Clayton State University students and various initiatives.

The gift allocation is as follows:

• Scholarships: $30,000 for (30) $1,000 scholarships for College of Business students
• Marketing: $25,000 for athletic sponsorships
• Financial Literacy Education: $10,000 to support educational programs
• Corporate Sponsorships of Community Programs and Events: $10,000 for additional community engagement activities

As one of the largest certified Community Development Financial Institutions in the nation, The First Bank committed to giving back to the communities they serve to ensure a brighter future for everyone.

“The first bank is committed to supporting the communities that we operate in across our footprint,” said Steve D. Parker, Vice President of Community Affairs when commenting on the excitement of this partnership. “One of the things that excites us most about what's happening here at Clayton State is your mission. and that center on social mobility, which gets at the heart of our work in the community and we're simply excited to be a part of that that goes from supporting scholarships to athletics, you work in the community, surrounding the area of Clayton and Henry Fayette [Counties] and beyond, and we're just excited to be a part of that.”

The funds will have a significant impact in supporting scholarships for our College of Business students, fostering the growth of our athletic programs, enhancing financial literacy education, and contributing to community-driven events and initiatives. 

This partnership highlights First Bank's commitment to making a positive impact on education and community development.