Columbia – September 09, 2026 -- TriStar Bank has put its name on a new community space inside Columbia State Community College's Southern Regional Technology Center (SRTC), a three-story facility that opened in August with a ribbon-cutting celebration.
The Community Room offers flexible seating for study and meetings
Located on the first floor of the SRTC, the TriStar Bank Community Room features an open design with seating and tables that can be arranged for studying, meetings, collaboration or community gatherings. It is one of several named spaces in the building funded through community donations.
The technology center is part of a $2.5 billion statewide education investment
The SRTC gives Columbia State additional space and technology to train students for regional career demand, and the facility is tied to Tennessee's broader $2.5 billion investment in public education. The center serves as a hub for workforce development in technology, healthcare and industrial fields, complementing programs at Tennessee College Applied Technology campuses in Pulaski and Hohenwald.
TriStar Bank President says the gift supports future community leaders
TriStar Bank President Ted Williams said the bank is "honored to be part of this project and to help provide a place where the community can come together and students can meet to work on the skills that will uplift our community." Columbia State Vice President for Advancement Bethany Lay credited donors and organizations across the three-story facility for making the project possible.
Students already plan to use the space between classes
First-year radiology student Addison McCormack said she can see herself using the Community Room to study between classes. Second-year respiratory therapy student Richard Martin said the SRTC is a valuable addition for students preparing for healthcare careers.
College leadership frames the opening as a workforce investment
Columbia State President Janet F. Smith said the facility reflects the college's commitment to giving students the skills and purpose needed for meaningful careers in healthcare and industry, strengthening the regional workforce and economy. She said partnerships like TriStar Bank's show students that education is a shared, community-wide commitment.