POWERING ON THE ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

Our Team

Behind every thriving CEO program is a passionate group of people committed to making it happen. Our team brings together educators, entrepreneurs, and community builders who share a common belief: that every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their potential. From day-to-day operations to hands-on community support, each member of the Midland Institute team works tirelessly to equip the next generation of creative thinkers, ethical leaders, and entrepreneurs.

Donnie Wilson

Interim Executive Director

Anna Utz

Operations Leader

Chris Egelston

Community Engagement Leader

Connor Sanburn

Community Growth Specialist

Kris Noble

Board Growth & Support Specialist

Kristy Sayers

Director of Community Support

Janae Holtz

Innovation & Design Manager

Melanie Smith

New Facilitator Coach

Ashton Shultz

Alumni Coordinator & Fearless Founders Host

Alison Jefferson

Regional Support | Western Illinois

LeAndra Hartman

Regional Support Coordinator & Regional Support | Northern & Central Illinois

Michelle Niebrugge

Regional Support | Eastern & Southwestern Illinois

Christopher Swims

Regional Support | Metro East & Southwestern Illinois

Nealy Hamson

Regional Support | Southern Illinois

Katie Baustian

Regional Support | Minnesota

Kent Probst

Regional Support | Indiana & Ohio

Carson Etheridge

Program Support Intern