Jerrilyn Darnell

Jerrilyn Darnell, Director of Data Privacy and Business Resiliency with First Merchants Bank, pours her all into helping others prepare for the future.

Jerrilyn comes from a software development background, but said she was drawn to First Merchants by its culture.

“First Merchants is a place where people show up for one another,” she explained, “which reinforces purpose, consistency, and integrity as meaningful, not symbolic, principles.”

In her work, Jerrilyn focuses on helping First Merchants strengthen its data privacy and manage its technology risk—which helps protect employees and customers as they work and bank. She also advises the bank on complying with federal regulations around data privacy and ensures that First Merchants has strong programs and procedures in place to mitigate technological risks so that the bank can be a secure, trusted partner for all our customers for decades to come.

For Jerrilyn, it’s about being purposeful, and about designing processes that are sustainable and secure.

“This is a place where I can invest energy in culture, clarity, and doing things the right way, even when it might be hard, reflecting what I value most in the organization is the opportunity to lead with purpose, values, and impact in a place where those things are taken seriously,” she shared.

It’s work she was recognized for with a Gold Shield—a recognition given to First Merchants employees who go above and beyond.

“This honor meant so much to me,” she said, “but it was also the result of a lot of work and collaboration across different departments within First Merchants to ensure that we were resilient, prepared, and risk-aware so that we can better protect our clients.”

Jerrilyn also uses her free time to help others prepare for the future. She frequently volunteers helping students and families apply for and complete FAFSA through local organization Teen Works.

“Teen Works helps remove barriers to higher education and workforce readiness, so I always enjoy partnering with them to help young people be prepared for their futures,” she said.

Jerrilyn also gives back through other volunteerism opportunities and encourages members of her team to volunteer their time, as well. And both her work and her desire to help others are guided by the same principles.

“My approach to work and giving back is shaped by a strong sense of responsibility to people and the systems that support them,” she said. “I’m motivated by doing thorough, often behind the scenes work that helps others succeed.”

In her spare time, Jerrilyn enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.

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The Teammates in Action series features First Merchants teammates who embody the spirit and impact of the company’s Vision: “to enhance the financial wellness of the diverse communities we serve.”