LAKE CITY, Fla., Oct. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — First Federal Bank is honored to announce that President and CEO John Medina has been named one of Florida Trend’s Florida 500, recognizing the state’s most influential leaders, for a second consecutive year. Honorees are selected not only for their professional achievements, but for their demonstrated impact beyond their companies: through community service, philanthropy, and leadership that sets the standard across their industries.

Under Medina’s leadership, First Federal Bank has grown to more than $4.5 billion in assets and over 600 employees, while expanding its presence across northern Florida, the southeast, and other U.S. markets. The bank supports more than 300 nonprofits annually, reflecting Medina’s deep commitment to service and community development.

Born in the Dominican Republic and fluent in Spanish, French, and English, Medina has journeyed from working on small farms in Suwannee County to leading a multi-state financial institution, reflecting his dedication, perseverance, and vision. He holds degrees from Florida Gateway College, Florida State University, and the University of Florida, and began his corporate career through First Union’s Executive Management Program in 1988. Throughout his career, Medina has led large-scale, multi-market banking operations and held senior executive positions with First Commerce Credit Union and Wachovia Bank. A former U.S. Army Infantry Officer, Medina is also an active community leader, serving on the boards of Florida Gateway College, the Florida Bankers Association, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, and other community organizations. He has been happily married for 37 years to DeeDee; together they raised three wonderful children and now enjoy time with two grandchildren.

“Being included on the Florida 500 again is humbling, and it truly reflects the work of our entire First Federal team,” said Medina. “As a mutual bank owned by our customers, we measure success not only by financial strength, but by the difference we make in the communities we call home. I’m grateful to share this recognition with our team members, customers, and the many community partners who make that impact possible.”

About First Federal Bank

First Federal Bank is a leading financial institution committed to serving the needs of its customers and communities. With banking locations in northern Florida and coastal South Carolina, First Federal Bank is a community-owned bank that provides a wide range of consumer and commercial banking solutions, services, and loans. Additionally, SBA and USDA customers are served by lending offices across the Southeast and Midwest, and mortgages are offered nationwide. With over $4.5 billion in assets, First Federal is headquartered in Lake City, Florida and has a steadfast focus on innovation and customer satisfaction. The bank has been consistently recognized with an “Excellent” rating from BauerFinancial, Inc. for over 20 years. Furthermore, Newsweek consecutively named First Federal the “Best Small Bank in Florida” from 2020 to 2023 and “Best Regional Bank” in 2024, 2025, and 2026. To learn more, visit the website at www.ffbf.com.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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SOURCE First Federal Bank