The First Bank recently announced its donation of $1 million to 12 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Recipients in each state include Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, Southern University and A&M College, Southern University at New Orleans, Dillard University, Xavier University of Louisiana, Bishop State Community College, Albany State University, Savannah State University, Florida A&M University and Edward Waters University.

“Historically Black Colleges and Universities date back to the late 1800s and were created to provide Black students an opportunity for higher education,” said Jerome Brown, Chief Community Officer for The First Bank. “Today, they continue to serve higher education and a broad range of economic and community development purposes. The First Bank has many HBCUs in its footprint of operation and understands the role we play to help the schools’ effort for educational achievement.”

As one of the largest certified Community Development Financial Institutions in the nation, The First Bank has awarded over $70 million in community investments to support economic growth and job creation since 2010. In the last year alone, the bank has donated over $1.6 million to deserving charities including schools, children’s homes, food banks, hospitals and local housing initiatives.

“Our bank believes in supporting its markets by investing in communities, providing financial education and generating across to credit,” said Hoppy Cole, President and Chief Executive Officer of The First Bank. “Education is key to forming these three fundamental building blocks, which is why we believe so strongly in the mission of these universities and want to support the great work they are doing in their colleges of business and small business development centers to educate our future business leaders.”

“We thank The First Bank for their $1 million donation to the twelve chosen HBCUs, and we truly appreciate them for their continued investment in the educational achievement of our HBCU institutions as they continue to provide opportunity to students who need it most,” said Demetrius Johnson Jr., Founder, President & CEO of the HBCU Campaign Fund. “This monumental donation to our HBCUs means much more to the future as they further the mission and role they play not just in higher education but in this nation and as they strengthen economic and community development.”

With over 1,000 team members and 116 locations throughout a five-state region, The First Bank is a key financial partner and supporter for many communities throughout the Southeast. In 2023, bank team members donated over 3,500 volunteer hours to more than 700 organizations including delivering financial education to over 52,000 community members and students.

About The First Bank
The First Bancshares, Inc., headquartered in Hattiesburg, Miss., is the parent company of The First Bank.  Founded in 1996 near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, The First has grown rapidly through Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Florida and Georgia providing services competitive to those found at larger regional banks. The Company’s stock is traded on Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol FBMS. Information is available on the Company’s website www.TheFirstBank.com.

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