Citizen of the Year

Hillebrand gets red carpet treatment for decades of service

Photos by John Heider

Sue Hillebrand, the longtime clerk for Northville Township, got the red carpet treatment and one big surprise on March 9, when she was recognized as the 2023 John Genitti Citizen of the Year.

The Northville Chamber of Commerce presented the award to Hillebrand, who served as the township’s clerk from 1992 to 2019, at a new volunteer recognition event. The night included a dinner at Genitti’s (the business started by the award’s namesake) and a stroll over to the Marquis Theatre, where a red carpet welcomed more than 100 guests.

Chamber Director Douglas Wallace created the award ceremony to highlight the work of volunteers – and encourage others to also volunteer.

In addition to Hillebrand’s award, four other individuals were recognized:

Nancy Darga - City of Northville Volunteer of the Year

Jeff Olles - Northville Township Volunteer of the Year

Linda Bastien - Northville Library Volunteer of the Year

Sher Watkins - Northville Chamber Volunteer of the Year

Hillebrand, no stranger to volunteering, helped steer the township government for nearly three decades and was a big proponent of preserving open space.

“This is overwhelming,” said a surprised Hillebrand as she received the award. “It was my privilege to be the clerk for seven terms, and work for the wonderful citizens of Northville Township. The whole Northville community has been a big part of my life.”