Pinnacle Financial Corporation, the holding company for Pinnacle Bank and Morris State Bancshares, Inc., the holding company for Morris Bank, announced in November a strategic partnership under an exciting new brand name. Today, they are proud to announce Vallant Financial, Inc. will become their unified holding company representing their forward-thinking and deep commitment to community the two companies have been known to provide since 1934.

“We’re thrilled to begin crafting this next chapter with our new teammates to bring a uniquely dynamic community banking structure to our current and prospective customers,” said Jackson McConnell, Chief Executive Officer of Pinnacle. “Vallant is a thoughtful evolution of the word valiant, representing courage, strength and resilience. These attributes are what both companies are known for in our communities.” As the company approaches their mid-year merger, there will be more communication to come as the full brand is unveiled.

Once approved, growth for both Pinnacle and Morris means better access for customers, more resources for each market, enhanced services and career opportunities for teammates, plus added value for shareholders and the communities the companies serve. “It isn’t just a name change,” said Spence Mullis, Chairman and CEO of Morris. “It’s a declaration of our shared purpose to serve Georgia and the Southeast as the premier community banking partner.” David Voyles, President of Pinnacle, shares in the excitement, saying, “We’re creating a powerful alliance of two institutions with deep roots in Georgia, serving families, businesses, and communities all while maintaining the local decision-making, care and deeply personal service defining our approach.”

While the renaming process is underway for both companies, customers can expect the same friendly team members and hands-on, hometown service they currently receive from Pinnacle Bank and Morris Bank.