MOUNT VERNON—The shareholders and the employees of Mount Vernon Bank are donating $25,000 to Brewton-Parker College’s Rise and Shine capital campaign for the construction of new dorms and renovation of campus facilities. Given in honor of Don Thigpen, CEO of Mount Vernon Bank, and his wife Beverly, this donation continues a historical relationship between the two institutions that has existed for more than a century.
Mount Vernon Bank has a strong history of support for the Toombs-Montgomery community. Founded in 1901, the bank developed into Mount Vernon’s hometown bank with two branches in Vidalia. Throughout the years, the bank offered countless support to BPC through its services and donations, and both institutions have become vital assets to the local area.
In 1960, Thigpen attended BPC with his soon to be wife, Beverly, now married 55 years. Before growing into an accredited four-year college, BPC thrived as the area’s local junior college, offering two years of quality education to the surrounding region. According to Mr. Thigpen, this region was a community that consisted of more than just Montgomery County—it extended into the surrounding counties, including Treutlen, Wheeler, Toombs and Jeff Davis.
“Education is very important as it provides opportunities,” stated Thigpen. “Not many people can afford to go away to college, but BPC offers them a chance to get their education right here.”
Mr. Thigpen has been in the banking industry since his graduation from BPC, accumulating over 55 years of experience. In 1995, Thigpen partnered with a group of local citizens to purchase Mount Vernon Bank. Since then, he and his son have ensured that the bank remain an integral part of the community, as exemplified by the latest gift to BPC.
“We know the importance of BPC,” commented Thigpen’s son, D. Alan Thigpen, President of Mount Vernon Bank and BPC Alumnus. “Not just for Mount Vernon, but for the entire area. We are excited to support BPC as an economic engine that brings students to Mount Vernon to live and shop here.”
This economic benefit extends beyond the typical four years of a liberal arts degree. Over the years, BPC students have remained in the area to raise families and start businesses. In addition, many of the alumni from BPC’s Division of Education have remained in the local school system, providing an education to the next generation of community leaders.
Dr. Steve Echols, BPC President, stated, “We are overwhelmed by the incredible support that the shareholders and employees of Mount Vernon Bank have provided. This very generous gift is a great encouragement to Brewton-Parker alumni and constituents. We know that without the support of the community, BPC would not exist. We are so grateful to Mount Vernon Bank for standing with us through the years, and likewise BPC desires to be a blessing to this entire region in the coming years.”
As BPC continues to flourish as South Georgia’s Christian College, it looks forward to more partnerships with institutions like Mount Vernon Bank.
