Colony Bank is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Colony Leadership Academy, a year-long leadership development program created to equip the next generation of leaders. Nominations will remain open through October 3, 2025.

The program is open to current high school juniors enrolled in the 2025–2026 school year. It offers students a unique opportunity to gain professional leadership training, explore Georgia’s diverse industries, and build relationships that extend far beyond their own communities.

Through three weekend sessions held in different regions of the state, students engage directly with local leaders, businesses, and organizations, giving them a first-hand look at the economic, cultural, and professional opportunities available across Georgia. A key feature of the program is the partnership with the University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development, whose expertise provides professional-level training typically reserved for adult leadership programs.

Since its launch in 2021, the Academy has graduated more than 200 students, awarding over $100,000 in scholarships to support their higher education. Each participant who completes the program is eligible for a scholarship of up to $1,000 to the college or university of their choice.

To qualify, students must:

• Be a current high school junior during the 2025–2026 school year

• Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent

• Be nominated by a community member

• Receive parental approval, school administrator consent, and two personal references

Applications will be sent to nominated students after the close of the nomination period, with final selections for the 2026 class announced in late November. The program runs from February through November 2026.

Commenting on the announcement Heath Fountain, Chief Executive Officer, said, “Colony Leadership Academy is a unique program that has a tremendous impact on participating students and our local communities. We’re excited to begin receiving nominations for next year’s class and look forward to another great year.”

For more information on the program or to nominate a student, visit our website at:  www.colony.bank/colony-leadership-academy