Newton Federal Bank has named Jeff Bankston its new vice president and commercial lender for the Athens/Oconee market. Bankston comes to Newton Federal Bank with nearly 30 years of banking experience in northeast Georgia.

He started his banking career in his hometown of Fitzgerald, Ga., with C&S Bank. Prior to joining Newton Federal Bank, Bankston served in various roles at Athens First Bank & Trust, National Bank of Georgia and Pinnacle Bank.

In his new role with Newton Federal Bank, Bankston will be responsible for establishing and managing a market presence in Athens and Oconee County.

A member of the executive board of the Athens YMCA, Bankston is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in economics. He also earned a diploma from the Georgia Banking School at UGA.

“Jeff brings the character, commitment, and focus that has become the foundation for our selection process in choosing members to join our team to expand our presence in thriving markets,” said Johnny Smith, president and CEO of Newton Federal Bank. “We’re very excited to have someone with Jeff’s market knowledge and community involvement to join our team.”