MT. VERNON, IL — The board of trustees of Cedarhurst Center for the Arts has announced the appointment of Hillary Esser as the museum’s next Executive Director. Esser, a native of southern Illinois has served as Director of Development for Cedarhurst since 2010. During that time her primary responsibilities included raising funds for museum programs, expanding the Cedarhurst patron base, and raising awareness about Cedarhurst’s mission and programs throughout the region.

Esser grew up in Jefferson County and graduated from Mt. Vernon Township High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Eastern Illinois University, and a Master of Public Administration, with focus in nonprofit management, from University of Illinois-Springfield. Esser says this is a dream job.

Esser is heavily involved in the Mt. Vernon community. She is active with Mt. Vernon Rotary, serving as Club President from 2015-2016; First United Methodist Church, serving as co-chair of Church Council since 2017; and the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. She was named Young Professional of the Year by the Chamber in 2015.

Hillary is married to Josh Esser they have an 18-month old daughter, Madeline.

Cedarhurst in Mt. Vernon offers the region many art engagement opportunities, programs and events, as well as art classes for all ages. You can find more information at cedarhurst.org