Exchange Bank Commits $50,000 to Georgia College Supporting Business Education and Athletics
Published: 7:00 am Friday, October 9, 2026
Georgia College & State University has announced a new five-year commitment of $50,000 from Exchange Bank to support the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology and GCSU Athletics. This partnership enhances the long-standing relationship between Exchange Bank and Georgia College, fostering student achievement and academic excellence as well as contributing to Bobcat Athletics.
Through this agreement, Exchange Bank will act as the exclusive presenting sponsor of Atkinson Honors, an annual event that recognizes the college’s top students. Additionally, funds will be allocated to Bobcat Baseball and the future E.R. Snell Family Stadium at John Kurtz Field, with Exchange Bank serving as a platinum partner of GCSU Athletics. This partnership aims to provide long-term support for the baseball program and expand the bank’s involvement in athletics.
John C. Childs Jr., president and CEO of Exchange Bank, emphasized the importance of this commitment in contributing to the community’s future, saying, “We are proud to deepen our relationship with the university through a commitment that supports students both academically and athletically.”
The partnership, totaling $50,000 through 2031, will see $10,000 invested annually, with half of the funds directed towards the Atkinson Honors sponsorship and the remaining $25,000 supporting GCSU Baseball and Athletics.
Jonathan Pope, senior vice president and commercial lender at Exchange Bank, highlighted that their relationship with Georgia College is more than a traditional partnership, noting the bank’s investment in local students and athletes.
Dr. Amit Ghosh, dean of the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology, expressed gratitude for Exchange Bank’s support, reinforcing the connection between academia and the local business community. The partnership will also enhance the recognition of student-athletes pursuing degrees in business-related fields.
Moreover, Exchange Bank will receive premier recognition at the E.R. Snell Family Stadium and will be involved in ceremonial events during the stadium’s opening season in 2028.
This partnership signifies a holistic commitment to supporting both academic and athletic pursuits at Georgia College through 2031.
