EFFINGHAM, ILLINOIS – May 7, 2026 – In recognition of National Small Business Week, Midland States Bank is highlighting the leadership team driving its Community Economic Development strategy across Illinois and Missouri, reinforcing its commitment to supporting small businesses, expanding access to capital, and strengthening local economies in the communities it serves.
Leading this work is Cornell D. Lurry, Sr., Director of Community Economic Development, alongside Janie Jenkin, Regional Community Development Relationship Manager for Northwestern Illinois, and Maurice Allen, Regional Community Development Relationship Manager for St. Louis and Southern Illinois. Together, the team is responsible for advancing Midland’s Community Impact Investment initiatives and executing targeted regional strategies designed to increase opportunity and economic mobility.
Over the past several months, Lurry has stepped into his role as Director, while Jenkin joined the team to support Northwestern Illinois, complementing Allen’s ongoing leadership across Midland’s St. Louis and Southern Illinois markets. As a team, they bring a blend of experience, fresh perspective, and deep community relationships to Midland’s economic development efforts.
“Cornell’s leadership, collaborative spirit, and deep commitment to community impact have been evident throughout his time at Midland,” said Martesha Brown, Midland States Bank Market President serving the Rockford area and former Director of Community Economic Development. “He has built strong momentum with this team, and I’m confident in their ability to continue strengthening the relationships and initiatives that make a meaningful difference in our communities.”
This leadership team actively works across Midland’s footprint to deepen partnerships with community organizations and support initiatives focused on Midland’s six key pillars: small business development, financial empowerment, workforce development, health and wellness, housing, and education.
Lurry brings more than 20 years of experience in financial services, with a strong background in community investment, business banking, and housing initiatives. In his role, he leads the Community Economic Development team in aligning Midland’s strategic priorities with the evolving needs of the 
communities it serves.
During National Small Business Week and throughout the year, the Bank continues to invest in programs and resources that empower local businesses and strengthen the economic vitality of the communities it serves. Learn more about Midland’s community impact at midlandsb.com/about-us/community.
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About Midland States Bancorp, Inc.
Midland States Bancorp, Inc. is a community-based financial holding company headquartered in Effingham, Illinois, and is the sole shareholder of Midland States Bank. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had total assets of approximately $7.46 billion, and its Wealth Management Group had assets under administration of approximately $4.10 billion. The Company provides a full range of commercial and consumer banking products and services and business equipment financing, merchant credit card services, trust and investment management, insurance and financial planning services. For additional information, visit midlandsb.com or on LinkedIn.