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FITZGERALD, Ga. (WALB) - Colony Bank announced on Monday that Derek Shelnutt is the only Georgia banker awarded Independent Banker magazine’s 40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders of 2025.

The release said the award recognized leaders across the country who are making significant contributions to the future of community banking.

According to a release, Shelnutt, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, played an “instrumental role in the Bank’s growth and performance, helping guide its financial strategy as it has expanded to more than $3 billion in assets.”

The release said that Shelnutt also strengthened the organization’s commitment to programs that support rural healthcare, expanded access to education, and provided opportunities for young adults transitioning out of foster care, most notably through the Georgia HEART Program, Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, and Fostering Success.

“Derek has done an outstanding job leading our financial strategy and aligning it with our purpose as a community bank,” said T. Heath Fountain, Chief Executive Officer of Colony Bank. “We’re proud of his achievements and are grateful to have his leadership on our executive team.”

Read more about the 2025 honorees here.

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