Synovus Bank team members held a moving ceremony to dedicate the main lobby of their Statesboro branch to the late Steven Sanders, a beloved and highly respected employee.
The event, attended by a large gathering of family, friends, colleagues, fellow Kiwanians and community members, including his wife Kristie and son Dalton, celebrated Sanders's significant contributions to the bank and the community.
"Today is a big day," began Chad Wiggins, Synovus Statesboro Market President, opening the ceremony. "We're naming this lobby for Steven Sanders, and we're calling it the Sanders Lobby. It's like joining our Hall of Fame."
Wiggins highlighted the bank's previous honors, such as the Charlie Olliff Square and the Bruce Yawn Community Room, emphasizing that Sanders was joining a distinguished list of individuals who had made lasting impacts.
Reflecting on Sanders's character, Wiggins shared, "When I think about Steven and the life he led, I think about Galatians 5:22 – the fruit of the spirit. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Every one of those words, I can relate to Steven in some way."
Brad Sheffield, Synovus Director, Consumer Credit Mobility and Strategy Execution, spoke of his exceptional performance within the bank. "Statesboro is a very high-performing place," Sheffield stated. "And Steven was a major part of that. He did it with excellence. He went the extra mile for customers, and that's a testament to who he was."
Sheffield recounted how Sanders always prioritized customer needs, even if it meant delaying his own lunch or personal matters.
Pastor Tony Pagliarullo, Sanders's pastor, shared personal reflections on his relationship with Sanders. "I first met Steven as a customer, not as his pastor," Pastor Pagliarullo recalled. "He impressed me even then with the excellence that he embodied in his family, his work, and his community involvement."
He emphasized that Sanders's legacy would serve as a reminder for everyone to strive for excellence in their own lives.
Following the heartfelt speeches, a plaque was unveiled to commemorate the dedication of the "Sanders Lobby." The ceremony concluded with refreshments and an opportunity for attendees to reflect on Sanders's life and the positive impact he had on those around him.
"Do it with excellence," Sheffield concluded. "Do whatever you do with excellence and then some. I want to give us a challenge to leave here and strive for that excellence in our own lives, whether it's in our jobs, with our families, or within our community."
The dedication of the "Sanders Lobby" serves as a lasting tribute to Steven Sanders and his enduring legacy of service, excellence, and genuine care for others within the Synovus Bank and the Statesboro community.
The Plaque
Steven Sanders
17 Years of Service
2007- 2024
The Sanders Lobby stands to recognize a cherished member of the Synovus Bank family and the Statesboro community. Steven Sanders embodied kindness, innate joy. and selfless generosity in every facet of his life. He had a rare gift for making others feel valued and understood, a testament to his genuine spirit and love for people His presence was a constant source of encouragement and positivity, and his loss leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Steven's devotion to his family was unmatched. He adored his wife, Kristie, and his son, Dalton, and poured his heart into their lives with unwavering love and support. He was a true family man, building a legacy of care and commitment that will endure through his loved ones. Beyond his family, Steven's dedication extended to his community and church. As a leader in the local Kiwanis Club and a prominent figure in the Georgia Banker's Association, he exemplified servant leadership, inspiring others with his passion for service and his tireless efforts to uplift those around him.
Steven's career in banking was more than a profession; it was a calling. His contributions to Synovus and the broader banking industry were profound, reflecting his deep commitment to excellence and integrity. The Statesboro community was fortunate to know Steven, a man who was as respected as he was loved. Steven Sanders leaves behind a legacy of kindness, authenticity, and service that will continue to inspire us all. May his memory be a blessing and a reminder of the impact one person can make when they live a life rooted in love and generosity.
