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Beyond the balance sheet: Looking beyond traditional banking to examine the bigger picture of growth opportunity and long-term success

By Faith Hatton, posted May 28, 2026 on BizFayetteville.com

The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is excited to announce our second Power Breakfast for 2026: Beyond the Balance Sheet, a banking-focused event exploring the relationship between bankers and businesses. 

This event will have a regional focus with leadership from three banks making an impact in the greater Fayetteville area. 

Featured panelists include Julie Gurtis, president of United Bank; Steve Jones, president of the Carolinas for TowneBank, the new parent organization to the newly acquired Dogwood State Bank; and Seth Perigo, president of the Triangle and Eastern North Carolina market for Huntington National Bank. 

Hear from industry leaders as they share perspectives on the evolving economic landscape and the role financial institutions play in supporting businesses, communities and innovation.

“Choosing a bank is one of the most crucial decisions a business owner can make. The role financial institutions play in supporting businesses, communities and innovation is invaluable and having a banking partner that you can trust is so important,” shared Publisher of the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal Faith Hatton. “Each of these banks has a unique perspective that I know will be invaluable for our guests. We’re very excited to give these leaders a platform for them to share their unique perspectives.” 

United Bank is a legacy bank celebrating 187 years in business. With three locations in Fayetteville, they have been supporting area businesses since coming to the market in 2020. 

“As bankers, we have the unique opportunity to positively impact the communities we serve through our work – whether through the financial solutions we provide or the educational resources we share,” said Gurtis. “Events like this give us the chance to connect directly with the people and businesses of Fayetteville, better understand their financial needs and goals and explore how we can support their long-term success.” 

TowneBank has been making headlines following the recent merger with Dogwood State Bank. 

It was announced by TowneBank leadership that they plan to utilize Dogwood’s seasoned Small Business Association lending team to significantly enhance their small business lending capabilities and other services. The two have formed a partnership to continue the legacy of Dogwood, and combine resources into one dedicated financial institution that celebrates the power of local banking.”

“In the Fayetteville-Cumberland area, the strongest growth happens when banking is more than a transaction. ‘Beyond the balance sheet’ means showing up as a strategic partner, listening, understanding the local market and helping businesses plan for what’s next. That’s how you create lasting prosperity: one relationship at a time,” shared Jones. 

Huntington National Bank is new to the Fayetteville market but actively expanding in North Carolina. Recent acquisitions of banking institutions in key markets like Texas have jumpstarted growth across the south. The bank serves residents of Fayetteville as well and though they do not yet have a local physical branch, they’re looking to continue to invest in technology and innovation to meet customer needs.

“At Huntington Bank, we are deeply committed to strengthening the communities we serve,” said Perigo. “I look forward to serving as a panelist at next month’s Power Breakfast, which is an opportunity to highlight the important role that banks play in helping drive long-term regional prosperity.” 

Beyond the Balance Sheet will be taking place at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden in the Ralph and Linda Huff Orangery on Thursday, June 4, from 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Tickets are on sale now. Reserve your seat by going to fayettevillepowerbreakfast.com.

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