Meet Christy

A mom, principled leader, and advocate for Saline students.

A mom of six, a longtime Saline volunteer and a financial services executive who believes every child deserves to be known, supported and given the chance to thrive.
Christy Lillie with her husband and their six children, seated together on a log at a Christmas tree farm.
Life in a Family of Eight

With ages ranging from 10 to 18, Christy’s children have been moving through Saline Area Schools from early childhood to high school. Often, she has a kiddo in each of the four buildings in a single year.

Her family was formed through both birth and adoption, with each member of the family bringing diverse identities, racial backgrounds, strengths, needs, and experiences. As a parent, Christy has navigated early intervention services, IEPs, and a 504 plan, and along the way, she’s learned that no two students need the same thing.

The Lillies moved to Saline 16 years ago for the schools. The district has given their family a great deal, and now Christy wants to give back.

Six children with different identities, racial backgrounds, strengths, and unique needs — continual reminders that education is never one-size-fits-all.
Experience that prepares her to serve

For 25 years, Christy was a financial services executive overseeing annual budgets of more than $100 million. She planned years ahead, questioned assumptions, and set policies that had to hold up under scrutiny.

That work also meant speaking truth to power, protecting everyday people from scams, and making hard calls. She is ready to bring the same preparation and dedication home to Saline: reading the material, showing up at district and community events, and listening to families and staff.

25 years
Leadership in financial services
$100M+
Annual budgets overseen
Christy Lillie speaking with a fellow panelist at a financial services leadership conference.
Christy speaking on an industry panel about how AI can fuel fraud, but also be used to fight back.
What that means on a school board

Financial Oversight & Long-Term Planning

Reading budgets closely, questioning assumptions and planning for future costs and obligations before they turn into emergencies.

Policies and Controls

Clear protocols that follow state and federal law and protect students, staff and district resources.

Thoughtful Decision-Making

Asking good questions, weighing other perspectives and explaining decisions clearly.

Service in action

Long before running for School Board, Christy was serving her community, supporting children, and stewarding the resources entrusted to her.

  • Founder, Northbridge Advisory Group2025–Present

    Protecting vulnerable populations from fraud and scams through education, practical tools, advocacy, and expert analysis.

  • Treasurer, Yunnan Kids International2014–Present

    Stewarding the finances of a nonprofit supporting orphaned and underprivileged children in Yunnan, China.

  • Coach, Saline Middle School Water Polo2021–Present

    Coaching young athletes and expanding opportunities for students to participate, compete, and grow—doubling the team’s roster in four years.

  • Treasurer, Saline-Milan Girls HS Water Polo2025–Present

    Managing team finances to support opportunities for Saline student-athletes.

  • Foster Parent, CMM West2016–2021

    Caring full-time for a child from Burkina Faso through multiple surgeries, recovery, and adaptation to a prosthetic leg.

  • President & Treasurer, Huron Valley Swim Club2010–2014

    Leading a community swim organization while strengthening its long-term financial sustainability, including establishing a sinking fund for future needs.

  • Treasurer, Maple Creek Subdivision2010–2012

    Managing neighborhood finances to support community needs and improvements.

  • Varsity Athlete, Captain, Advocate, Graduate, University of Michigan2001

    Helping university leadership transition women’s water polo from club to varsity status as Michigan expanded athletic opportunities under Title IX.

Christy Lillie presenting a scam prevention talk to community members.
Christy sharing scam-prevention resources with the Saline Senior Center.
Christy Lillie holding a young child in her arms and zipping up his winter coat as snow falls around them.
Christy with Abdoul, who stayed with the family as he received medical care at the University of Michigan.