About Destination Hilliard Celebrating Everyone's Hometown
Destination Hilliard is the destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting our city's attractions, businesses, and events. We focus on celebrating our community, supporting local businesses, and bringing people together to enhance economic growth and foster a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
We Celebrate Our Community
Destination Hilliard is dedicated to showcasing the vibrant spirit of Everyone's Hometown. We work tirelessly to promote local businesses, organize exciting events, and create unforgettable experiences for both residents and visitors. Our mission is to make Hilliard a must-visit destination in central Ohio.
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We Support Local Businesses
At the heart of our efforts is a commitment to local businesses. We provide a platform for Hilliard's unique shops, restaurants, and services to shine. Through our marketing initiatives and community events, we help increase exposure for these local gems, ensuring that Hilliard's economy continues to thrive and grow.
We Bring People Together
Hilliard is more than just a place – it's a community. We take pride in shining a light on events that bring people together, from lively summer concerts and festivals to family-friendly activities in our beautiful parks. These gatherings not only create lasting memories but also strengthen the bonds that make Hilliard such a special place to live and visit.
We make Hilliard A Destination for everyone
Hilliard offers a host of experiences to explore - from our charming downtown and diverse dining options to unique attractions like the splash pad at Hilliard's Station Park and the Early Television Museum. We invite you to experience our city's warmth and vitality firsthand. Explore our parks, shop local, dine at our eateries, and join our community events. At Destination Hilliard, we're not just promoting a city – we're sharing our home.
Meet The team
Sam was first hired as tourism marketing coordinator for Destination Hilliard in March of 2022 and was named Executive Director in December 2022.
Her diverse education and employment background includes an undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University, a master’s degree from Wright State University in community counseling, 16 years teaching childbirth education for Ohio Health, previous editor of a Hilliard neighborhood publication, editor and assistant publisher for a magazine connecting the top 500 REALTORS® in central Ohio, and three years experience with public relations and social media for public schools. She completed the Ohio Tourism Leadership Academy program in 2024.
As an alum of Hilliard City Schools, Sam is deeply rooted in the Hilliard community. Sam and her husband, David, live in Hilliard with their four children – 2 Hilliard Bradley graduates and two currently attending Hilliard City Schools.
Elyssa started working with Destination Hilliard in 2023 and became the Event Marketing Coordinator in 2024. She has a background in event coordinating and real estate which has helped her develop a keen eye for detail and multitasking skills.
Elyssa currently lives in Hilliard with her husband. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring new places and spending time outdoors.
Destination hilliard board of directors
Sharon Grenier, President
Pete Cushnie, Secretary
Lauren McKinniss, Treasurer
Members: Mark Abate, Sarah Purdy, David Stewart, Jesse Taylor
Non-Voting Representatives: Greg Betts, Hilliard City Council, and Angela Zody, City of Hilliard Downtown Manager
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