EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University has selected Essence Wilson, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Communities First, Inc., as a recipient of the Alumni Service Award as part of its prestigious MSU Grand Awards. The Grand Awards are among the highest honors bestowed by the university, recognizing alumni whose extraordinary achievements and service exemplify the Spartan spirit and make a lasting impact locally, nationally and globally.
Each year, MSU honors Spartans who embody excellence, innovation and leadership in their respective fields. Wilson, who earned her Master of Science in Management, Strategy, and Leadership from MSU’s Eli Broad College of Business in 2015, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to community development, equitable housing, and economic empowerment.
As co-founder of Communities First, Inc., Wilson has played a pivotal role in transforming distressed neighborhoods through affordable housing, arts and culture initiatives and environmental education. Under her strategic leadership, the Flint-based nonprofit has leveraged more than $100 million in investment and now serves over 35,000 people annually. Her innovative, holistic approach to community building has helped create lasting change across Michigan and beyond.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from my alma mater,” said Essence Wilson. “Michigan State University shaped my perspective on leadership and service, and those lessons continue to guide me every day. This award isn’t just about me—it’s a reflection of the incredible work our team at Communities First, Inc. is doing to uplift communities, create opportunity, and build a more equitable future.”
“Essence exemplifies what it means to be a Spartan — combining vision, compassion, and determination to make the world a better place,” said Glenn Wilson, President and CEO of Communities First, Inc. “Her recognition from MSU is a well-deserved honor that reflects her tireless dedication to empowering people and revitalizing communities.”
Essence Wilson’s leadership extends beyond her organization. She currently serves as president of the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM), is the former chair of the Flint/Genesee Continuum of Care, and was recently selected as one of only 30 community development professionals nationwide to join the inaugural Community Development Voice initiative by the Community Opportunity Alliance. Her past honors include being named among Michigan Chronicle’s 40 Under 40, Flint & Genesee Group’s 40 Under 40 and Women Who Shape the State.
The 2025 MSU Grand Awards Ceremony took place Oct. 23 and formally recognized Wilson and other honorees, celebrating alumni whose professional excellence and service continue to elevate the prestige of Michigan State University and the Spartan community worldwide.
About Communities First, Inc.
Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit community development corporation based in Flint, Michigan, that fosters equitable real estate development, economic mobility and community engagement. Since its founding in 2010, the organization has invested over $100 million in community revitalization and serves more than 35,000 people annually. Learn more at www.communitiesfirstinc.org.
Communities First, Inc. is a nonprofit community development corporation based in Flint, Michigan, that fosters equitable real estate development, economic mobility and community engagement. Since its founding in 2010, the organization has invested over $100 million in community revitalization and serves more than 35,000 people annually. Learn more at www.communitiesfirstinc.org.
About Essence Wilson
Essence Wilson is the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Communities First, Inc., a Flint-based nonprofit focused on equitable real estate development, economic mobility and community engagement. Under her leadership, the organization has secured more than $100 million in investment and serves over 35,000 individuals annually. Wilson holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Kettering University and a master’s degree in management, strategy and leadership from Michigan State University. A passionate advocate for community transformation, she also serves as board president of CEDAM and was selected for the national Community Development Voice initiative. Her work has earned her numerous honors, including the “Women Who Shape the State” recognition and the Civic Achievement Award from Kettering University.
Essence Wilson is the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Communities First, Inc., a Flint-based nonprofit focused on equitable real estate development, economic mobility and community engagement. Under her leadership, the organization has secured more than $100 million in investment and serves over 35,000 individuals annually. Wilson holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Kettering University and a master’s degree in management, strategy and leadership from Michigan State University. A passionate advocate for community transformation, she also serves as board president of CEDAM and was selected for the national Community Development Voice initiative. Her work has earned her numerous honors, including the “Women Who Shape the State” recognition and the Civic Achievement Award from Kettering University.
