Local First with Executive Director Elissa Hillary

Published: March 22, 2015, 10:30 p.m.

"Elissa Hillary has served as executive director of Local First since 2007, her tenure marked by a period of unprecedented organizational growth. A graduate of the Community Leadership program at Aquinas College, Elissa’s commitment to West Michigan is rooted in the belief that locally owned businesses are critical in driving the economy and supporting the community. Today, that philosophy has achieved significant results, as Local First’s membership has grown from just 150 local businesses in 2007, to more than 800 local businesses in 2015. Led by Elissa Hillary, Local First has attracted national media recognition for its efforts, and is regarded as the premier organization advocating for local businesses in the Midwest." http://www.localfirst.com