The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) recognized SunTrust as the latest honoree in the Georgia Business History Initiative with the dedication of a new historical marker in downtown Atlanta.

Each year, the GHS initiative recognizes iconic companies in the state to teach Georgia students, citizens, and tourists alike about the pivotal role of the state’s leading businesses in the economic, cultural, and social development of Georgia and the United States.

“For nearly 130 years, SunTrust has served as ‘Georgia’s Bank.’ As such, it helped to finance the remarkable growth enjoyed by the state and the city of Atlanta during the 20th and early 21st centuries,” said Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society. “As the bank prepares to begin a new chapter under a new name, the Georgia Historical Society is pleased to be able to tell the story of this iconic institution. Through the GHS Business History Initiative, middle school students and the public will gain a deeper understanding of the key role that SunTrust and banking have played in creating the world we live in today.”
 
In addition to Dr. Groce, speakers for the dedication included William H. Rogers, Jr., Chairman and CEO SunTrust Banks, Inc.; Alston D. “Pete” Correll, Chairman of the Board, Grady Health Foundation and member of the Board of Curators of the Georgia Historical Society; and Jenna Kelly, President, Georgia Division SunTrust Banks, Inc.
 
“This is an extraordinary day in the remarkable history of SunTrust as we commemorate and celebrate the special relationship between our company and this great city and state through the dedication of a Georgia Historical marker,” said Bill Rogers, Chairman and CEO of SunTrust Banks, Inc. “Back in 1893, SunTrust predecessor, Commercial Travelers’ Savings Bank, changed its name to Trust Company of Georgia and moved into the Southeast’s first ‘skyscraper’ – located right here at this very corner. That is why this specific location is so important for this historical marker.”
 
In addition to the new historical marker the Georgia Historical Society has compiled a case study outlining the history of the company from the founding of The Commercial Travelers’ Savings Bank through the 2019 announcement of the merger with BB&T Corp of North Carolina. Through these educational materials, available online at GeorgiaHistory.com, students can learn about SunTrust and its role in Georgia and American History for generations to come.