Marketing Disruptors
About Central States Marketing
Founded in Peoria, Illinois, Central States Marketing (CSM) is a full-service marketing and branding agency grounded in Midwest values and trusted by clients across the U.S. and internationally. For more than 25 years, we’ve combined business insight, creative excellence, and technical expertise to deliver the polish of a leading full-service marketing agency with the genuine, personal attention our clients deserve. We’re experts at helping you identify your story, harness it, and share it with the world—taking time to truly understand your unique position, challenges, and goals so we can create meaningful, results-driven marketing and branding strategies that set you apart.
our story
where we've been
CSM began with one simple goal: to help local businesses grow through smart, creative marketing. From those early days launching local campaigns in central Illinois, we’ve evolved into a strategic marketing and branding agency serving industries across healthcare, finance, higher education, and manufacturing. We combine market research, creative strategy, and digital innovation to deliver measurable results and long-term growth.
Through every stage of our growth, our focus has remained the same—helping clients strengthen their brand, expand their visibility, and connect with audiences through strategic, tailored marketing solutions that work.
our philosophy
The Why Behind the What
We believe strategy without execution is wasted. Operational efficiency affects marketing success. Creativity without purpose is just noise. And technology without human insight is only code. That’s why we bring all together—uniting strategy, creativity, and innovation into cohesive, outcome-driven marketing campaigns that not only look great but drive real business results.
At CSM, we approach every project with curiosity, data, and purpose. Whether it’s a new brand launch, a digital marketing campaign, or an integrated media strategy, our work is designed to inspire action and build momentum for your brand.
our values
what guides us
respect
We are driven by a feeling of deep admiration for others elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.
innovation
Next generation digital and physical experiences drive the team at Central States Marketing.
teamwork
Our team and our clients bring invaluable perspective to business growth and success.
disrupt
We challenge accepted norms and actively look for ways to better serve our clients.
support
We dedicate ourselves to providing solution based marketing with unparalleled service.
join the team
We’re always looking for talented individuals to help us disrupt and deliver.
apply todaymeet the team
Who We Are
Ann Johnston
President + Senior Project Manager
Brynne Behringer
Partner + Senior Project Manager
Ali Hogan
Senior Project Manager
Jason Starbird
Project Manager
strategy
- Ann Johnston
- Brynne Behringer
- Brian Buralli
- Ali Hogan
- Jason Starbird
- Allison Terveer
- Nyah Winiewicz
- Danetta Smith
- Mike Rea
- Megan Ayers
- Tina Machlan
media
- Amie Slott
- Tabatha Hart
- Melissa Diggle
- Kassy Kerr
- Delaney Walden
- Hannah Vysoky
- Kyra Doherty
- Shayla Mille
creative
- Michaela Frigren
- Jordan Tomlianovich
- Olivia Barnhart
- Emily Barker
- Alexus Coleman
- Samantha Knapp
development
- Ethan Morris
- Tim Kennedy
- Cory Turek
- Jawon Winbush
production
- Ryan Rogy
- Natalie Cordoba
certifications and associations
We Are Proud to Be Recognized
Certifications
Professional Associations
