BNA Bank to honor Chairman Vance Witt’s 58 Years of Service at Retirement Reception
Legacy of Leadership and Community Service Defined by Nearly Six Decades of Dedication
NEW ALBANY, MS – Sept 1, 2026 – BNA Bank today announces the retirement of Vance Witt, marking the conclusion of an extraordinary 58-year career in the banking industry. Mr. Witt’s tenure is highlighted by his profound impact as Chairman of the Board for 38 years, as well as his former roles as President and Chief Executive Officer.
Mr. Witt’s journey with the institution began in 1968, when it was known as the Bank of New Albany. His financial acumen quickly propelled him into leadership, and he served as President of BNA Bank from 1976 to 2002 and as CEO from 2002 to 2013, providing a steady hand through decades of growth and economic change.
Beyond the walls of the bank, Mr. Witt has been a titan of the Mississippi banking community. His professional service includes serving as President of the Mississippi Bankers Association and serving on numerous industry committees. His dedication to excellence was recognized in 2017 when he was named the Union County Development Association (UCDA) Citizen of the Year.
“Vance Witt’s name is synonymous with BNA Bank,” said the Board of Directors in a joint statement. “His 58 years of service have been characterized by unwavering integrity and a deep love for this community. While we will miss his guidance, his legacy is woven into the very fabric of this institution.”
Mr. Witt’s commitment to service extended into education and local heritage. He has served on the Northeast Mississippi Community College Board of Trustees since 2001 and previously led the Northeast Development Foundation. His civic contributions also include serving as President of the Union County Heritage Museum and as a member of the Boy Scouts of America board.
A devoted family man and member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Mr. Witt looks forward to spending his retirement with his wife, Martha “Tootsie” Witt, their daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Vance Witt Retirement Reception
The public is cordially invited to attend a reception honoring Mr. Witt from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Magnolia Civic Center in downtown New Albany, Mississippi.
BNA Bank, established in 1896, is a state-chartered bank with approximately $850 million in assets. It is one of the few ‘A’ rated banks by Weiss Bank Rating Services and was inducted into the Seifried and Brew Top 15th percentile of community banks. BNA has eight locations in Union, Lee and Pontotoc counties and one loan production office in Lafayette county.
