South Carolina Bankers Association honors Othniel W. Laffitte with the 2026 Outstanding Young Banker Award
June 22, 2026
The South Carolina Bankers Association (SCBA) announced Othniel W. Laffitte as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Young Banker Award. Othniel, who serves as the Senior Vice President and Market Executive for Palmetto State Bank in Greenville, received this recognition during the SCBA’s annual meeting held in Naples, Florida.
Since its establishment in 1970, the Outstanding Young Banker Award has been a hallmark of excellence within the SCBA, honoring one deserving banker each year. Chosen by the SCBA Past Chairman’s Club, this award represents the highest form of acknowledgment bestowed by the organization.
Othniel’s impressive credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Business Economics with a concentration in Finance from Wofford College, earned in 2010. He is also a 2016 graduate of the South Carolina Bankers School and a 2022 graduate of the Graduate School of Banking at LSU. His banking career, has been marked by significant accomplishments throughout his 16 year banking career. He joined Palmetto State Bank in February 2025 to lead the bank’s expansion in Greenville, SC. Over this relatively short period of time he has built a team and attracted new customers to the bank contributing to the overall growth of Palmetto State Bank.
In addition to his professional successes, Othniel is actively engaged in community service. He volunteers with several nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing literacy and providing support to families affected by pediatric cancer. Othniel has also taken on significant leadership roles within the SCBA, having previously served as chairman of the Emerging Leaders Division and as a member of the SCBA Board of Directors. His contributions strengthened the division’s initiatives and helped cultivate the future leaders of the banking industry.
“I’ve had the pleasure of watching Othniel grow and mature as a n accomplished banking leader over the last dozen years. I’m extremely proud of his success and am thrilled he has been reco gnized by our Association with our most prestigious award,” said Fred Green, SCBA President, CEO, and 1994 Outstanding Young Banker Honoree.
The SCBA extends its congratulations to Othniel W. Laffitte for this well-deserved accolade, recognizing his dedication to both his profession and his community.
The South Carolina Bankers Association is the professional trade association organized to effectively represent the common interests and welfare of the banking industry in South Carolina and to promote the professional development of its members and their employees. The SCBA’s mission is to serve as a reliable and responsive source of in formation and education regarding areas of importance to the industry and to be the key advocate for ou r member institutions by providing leadership in legislative, regulatory, educational, and value-added services. Learn more at www.scbankers.org.
