First Port City Bank (FPCB) is pleased to announce the continued professional development of Boone Kennedy and Chandler Ray through their participation in the 2026 on-campus session of the Georgia Banking School at the University of Georgia in Athens. Kennedy and Ray attended the session as first-year students in the prestigious three-year program administered by the Georgia Bankers Association.
Established in 1961, the Georgia Banking School is designed to prepare future bank leaders to effectively and profitably serve their communities through a deeper understanding of banking operations, regulations, leadership, and management principles. Participants complete an intensive one-week residence session each year, along with home-study assignments between sessions.
The program features a comprehensive curriculum led by University of Georgia faculty members, veteran bankers, and industry specialists.
“The first year of Georgia Banking School is where future leaders begin to build a strong foundation in banking and management,” said Peter Faser, Board Chair of the Georgia Banking School and founder and business strategy advisor of The Profitability Coach. “These students are gaining the knowledge and perspective they need to grow in their careers and better serve their banks and communities.”
“Investing in the growth and development of our team is an investment in the future of First Port City Bank and the communities we serve,” said Scott Ewing, President and CEO of First Port City Bank. “We are proud of Boone Kennedy and Chandler Ray for being selected to attend the Graduate School of Banking in Athens, Georgia. This prestigious program will provide them with valuable knowledge, leadership training, and industry insight that will continue to strengthen our bank and enhance the level of service we provide to our customers.”
Founded in 1892, the Georgia Bankers Association promotes the general welfare and usefulness of banking and the preservation of a sound banking system. For more than 130 years, the GBA has provided Georgia banks with professional development opportunities, advocacy, and industry resources.
Founded in 1974, First Port City Bank is approximately a $600 million community bank offering a full line of financial services and banking solutions through five full-service offices located in Bainbridge and Donalsonville, Georgia, and Yulee and Fernandina Beach, Florida. First Port City Bank is consistently ranked among the top community banks in the nation and continues to receive an “Excellent” financial rating from BauerFinancial, Inc., of Coral Gables, Florida. In 2025, First Port City Bank was voted “Best Bank” in both Decatur County and Nassau County.
