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SouthState Bank has become the first Summit Tier sponsor of Operation Elevate, marking a significant milestone for the veteran-led initiative. On February 4, 2026, Angel Gonzalez, Division President, Central Florida, presented a $30,000 donation, the highest pledge to date, in support of the mission. SouthState Bank has further demonstrated its commitment through a multi-year sponsorship, with an additional pledge scheduled for 2027.
SouthState Bank’s leadership investment reflects a commitment to resilience, decisive action, and leadership under pressure. At SouthState, team members are encouraged to pursue their ultimate purpose, both professionally and personally. Operation Elevate will carry this message to the highest point on Earth, Mount Everest, symbolizing endurance, accountability, and purpose-driven leadership.
“At SouthState Bank, we believe leadership is proven when the pressure is highest,” said Angel Gonzalez, Division President, Central Florida. “Operation Elevate represents the very values we stand for – discipline, resilience, and taking meaningful action to support veterans and first responders. We are proud to stand behind a mission that turns commitment into measurable impact and helps save lives.”
Operation Elevate is a veteran-led, mission-driven expedition that leverages the world’s most extreme environments to spotlight leadership under stress, resilience in adversity, and the urgent need for expanded mental health support for veterans and first responders.
Corporate partners who align with Operation Elevate stand behind a mission rooted in leadership under extreme pressure, veteran and first-responder resilience, mental health advocacy without stigma, and excellence earned through preparation and discipline.
Sponsorship dollars directly fund measurable suicide-prevention, intervention, and resilience-building initiatives, ensuring tangible impact beyond symbolic support.
Operation Elevate is powered by the Sgt. Anthony Patrick Muhlstadt Foundation (SAPMF), which delivers suicide-prevention and mental health workshops, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), resilience research and education, and direct support for individuals in crisis.
The Everest expedition is scheduled for March 2027 and will be led by seasoned climbers Matt David, Project Director and Team Leader, and Gary Burden, Expedition Climber and Corporate Leader.
Sponsorship is open – click here!
