Colony Bank is proud to announce that Derek Shelnutt, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has been named one of Independent Banker magazine’s 40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders of 2025. This award recognizes leaders across the country who are making significant contributions to the future of community banking. Shelnutt is the only Georgia banker selected for this year’s national honor.

Since joining Colony in 2020, Shelnutt has 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.

In addition, Shelnutt has been a driving force behind several of Colony’s key community initiatives. His leadership has strengthened the organization’s commitment to programs that support rural healthcare, expand access to education, and provide 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.”

Shelnutt is a graduate of the University of West Georgia and currently serves on the advisory board for the Richards College of Business, where he mentors students and encourages interest in careers in community banking.

The 40 Under 40 list is featured in the June issue of Independent Banker magazine, which is published by the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA). To read more about the 2025 honorees, visit the article at: https://www.independentbanker.org/article/2025/06/01/40-under-40-2025's-community-bank-leaders