More than a business owner

When Central Michigan University alumna Helen Chase received the news that she was named the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year, she was surprised and deeply humbled.

“I’m in awe of the people who have received this honor before me,” she said. “To be included among them is incredibly meaningful—and it challenges me to do even more.”

Chase’s sense of humility is fitting for someone whose life and career have been intertwined with the Mount Pleasant community for decades.

A lifelong connection to Mount Pleasant—and CMU

Though born in Midland, Chase moved to Mount Pleasant as a nine-year-old and has called it home ever since. After graduating from Sacred Heart Academy, she chose CMU—a decision shaped by both practicality and purpose.

“I was a poor college kid,” she said. “I lived at home, earned a scholarship, and wanted to stay close to my family and my network.”

At Central, Chase pursued a degree in mathematics from the College of Science and Engineering, crediting the program not only for academic knowledge but for developing critical thinking skills that would guide her career.

“A math degree teaches you how to think,” she said. “That’s something I’ve carried with me every day.”

From student employee to small business leader

Chase’s professional journey began while she was still a CMU student, taking a part-time job at a downtown boutique—now known as Trillium Fine Clothing. What started as a college job soon turned into a lifelong calling.

By the time Chase graduated from Central in 1971, she was managing the store. Ten years later, she purchased it with a partner. Then in 1999, she became Trillium’s sole owner—a role she still holds today.

In total, Chase has spent more than five decades working in the same business, located in the same spot, in downtown Mt. Pleasant.

“This place is as much my home as my actual home is,” she said.

Through economic downturns and industry changes, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Chase credits the community for helping sustain the business. Loyal customers have supported the store in creative ways—even purchasing gift certificates while doors were closed.

“It was incredibly touching,” she said. “This business isn’t just a store—it’s a collection of friendships, and I’m so proud to have served multiple generations of local families.”

A legacy of service and giving back

Chase’s impact extends far beyond her storefront.

A longtime member of Zonta International’s Mount Pleasant chapter, she has spent more than 50 years advocating for women and improving lives in her community.

She also played a key role in numerous local initiatives, including:

• Organizing benefit fashion shows supporting the Red Cross and local music scholarships
• Serving as a founding member and officer of the Downtown Business Association
• Contributing leadership and service to the Chamber of Commerce

Her connection to CMU has remained strong as well. Chase spent nearly a decade supporting the university’s School of Music through the Opus fundraising gala, even serving as chair.

“I love CMU—and I’ve always had a special place in my heart for music,” she said.

A commitment that never left

Despite opportunities to leave, Chase says she never considered building her life anywhere else.

“From my 20s on, I was committed to downtown Mt. Pleasant and this community,” she said.

That commitment is rooted in a simple belief: giving back matters.

“I don’t think you can just show up,” she said. “I’m one of those who always raised her hand. You need to be a giving part of your community. If everyone did what they could, imagine what our communities could be.”

A well-earned honor

For Chase, being named Citizen of the Year isn’t a culmination—it’s motivation.

It reflects a lifetime of dedication to community, family, and the values that were strengthened while working at a local business while learning as a student at Central Michigan University.

And while she may still be “in awe” of the recognition, for most who know her and the time she’s given to her community, the honor—like the fine clothing she sells—fits perfectly.