Spotlights | November 06, 2026
Northwest Bank’s Robert Cornelius Named to Buffalo Business First’s Power 100 Business Leaders of Color
BUFFALO, New York (November 6, 2026) – Northwest Bank is pleased to announce that Robert Cornelius, community lending officer, has been named to Buffalo Business First’s Power 100 Business Leaders of Color, a celebration of influential leaders of color making an impact across Western New York’s business and nonprofit communities.
The Power 100 Business Leaders of Color recognizes leaders who are helping shape Western New York through their professional accomplishments, community impact and influence. Buffalo Business First describes the honorees as leaders who foster creativity and inclusion, serve as role models for future generations, and demonstrate the value of diverse perspectives.
Cornelius’ recognition reflects a career and commitment to service centered on expanding financial education, homeownership opportunities, community partnerships and economic empowerment throughout Western New York.
Cornelius joined Northwest Bank in December 2024 and serves the Buffalo market as regional vice president and community lending officer. In his role, he originates CRA-qualifying residential mortgage and small-business relationships and serves as a liaison between Northwest and local organizations, including the Belmont Financial Education Center and Habitat for Humanity Buffalo.
A Buffalo native, U.S. Army veteran and Alfred University graduate, Cornelius has worked in banking since 2016. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for financial literacy and has worked with organizations and programs including the Juneteenth Youth Committee, WUFO Radio Station Community Outreach Program and community events at Martin Luther King Jr. Park and the Delavan/Grider Community Center. He has also spoken at Sankofa Days about the importance of developing strong financial habits.
Beyond his work at Northwest, Cornelius serves as treasurer of the Keon Coleman Family Foundation, continuing his commitment to creating opportunities for young people and families through education, connection and community support. His work with the foundation reflects his broader approach to community leadership and the value he places on partnerships that bring businesses, athletes, local organizations and residents together around a shared purpose.
“I’m honored to be recognized alongside so many leaders who are working to make a difference across Western New York,” said Cornelius. “For me, this work has always been about creating opportunity, whether that means helping someone understand their finances, preparing a family for homeownership or connecting people with resources that can help them build a stronger future. I’m grateful to Northwest for giving me the opportunity to continue that work in the community I call home.”
Cornelius’ work reflects Northwest’s commitment to being a neighborhood bank that combines financial expertise with meaningful local relationships. Through education, lending, and partnerships, he works to help remove barriers to financial opportunity and give individuals and families the tools they need to thrive.
“Robert brings an incredible passion for helping people and strengthening the Buffalo community,” said Rocco Diina, executive director, mortgage sales, Northwest Bank. “He understands that banking is about far more than just a transaction. It’s about building trust, creating opportunities and helping people take meaningful steps toward their goals.”
About Northwest Bank
Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Northwest Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company of Northwest Bank. Founded in 1896, Northwest Bank is a full-service financial institution offering a complete range of business and personal banking products, as well as employee benefits and wealth management services. Northwest operates more than 150 full-service financial centers and 11 drive-up locations across Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and Indiana, and provides customers with fee-free access to more than 55,000 ATMs. Northwest Bancshares, Inc.’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (NWBI).
