WOMEN MAKING HISTORY 2026: Ashlee Willis: Creating Spaces Where Leadership, Community, and Opportunity Meet
- The Chronicle News
- 17 minutes ago
- 2 min read
For Ashlee Willis, leadership begins with connection.
As the Founder and CEO of Michigan Premier Events, Willis has spent the last decade helping organizations across Michigan bring their visions to life through meaningful, purpose-driven events. What began in May 2015 in Lansing has grown into an award-winning event management company known for delivering professional conferences, corporate gatherings, and community events that strengthen relationships and spark collaboration.
But for Willis, events have always been about something deeper than logistics.
“I have always believed in the power of bringing people together,” she says.
Through her company, Willis has helped organizations create experiences that elevate conversations, celebrate milestones, and support impactful causes throughout the region. Her work reflects a simple but powerful philosophy: when people gather with intention, great things happen. That same belief guides her community leadership.
🎙 Sunday Chronicle Interview
Ashlee Willis was also featured on The Sunday Chronicle, where she joined host Yanice Carter on Stacks 92.1 FM to discuss the vision behind Michigan Premier Events and her passion for building spaces where organizations and communities can connect with purpose. During the conversation, Willis shared insights on entrepreneurship, collaboration, and the importance of creating environments where leaders can gather, share ideas, and grow together.
CLICK BELOW ⬇️ TO LISTEN 🎧
In addition to running Michigan Premier Events, Willis currently is a candidate for Ms. Michigan Corporate America, using the platform to advocate for women’s leadership and professional empowerment.
She also plays a key role in one of Mid-Michigan’s most respected women’s leadership organizations. As a board member of ATHENA WIN, Willis chairs the organization’s Evening of Empowerment, an annual event designed to bring women together to network, share experiences, and grow as leaders.
Creating those spaces matters deeply to her.
“My goal is to create spaces where women feel empowered to lead, connect, and be seen,” Willis explains. “Strong communities are built when women uplift and collaborate with one another.”
For Willis, success has never been about standing alone at the top. Instead, it is about building pathways that allow others to rise alongside you.
Her message to the next generation of women leaders reflects that spirit.
“Lead with purpose, confidence, and collaboration,” she says. “Success isn’t built alone. It grows through partnerships, community, and lifting others as you rise.”
As Michigan Premier Events celebrates ten years of service in May 2026, Willis continues to expand her impact across the region, creating opportunities for organizations, professionals, and communities to gather, collaborate, and grow.
Her philosophy is best captured in her own words:
“When women lead with purpose and collaborate with intention, we don’t just open doors… we build pathways for others to rise.”
Through business, leadership, and service, Ashlee Willis is helping shape a stronger, more connected Mid-Michigan community.
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