Hillon’s first encounter with Hatch came in 2018 during HatchThis, an annual entrepreneurial weekend challenge. At the time, she was accompanying four students from Western Carolina University (WCU), where she serves as a faculty member. One student, Trinity Wiles, pitched an idea that was selected to be developed during the event.
“I hope to serve as a connector,” she explains, “fostering partnerships that strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.” With a focus on inclusive growth, Hillon is particularly passionate about engaging both college and K-12 students, ensuring that the next generation has access to the tools and mentorship they need to thrive.
Core values are central to Hillon’s leadership style. Whether in her role at WCU or as a board member at Hatch, she emphasizes humility, kindness, patience, and a lifelong commitment to growth. Her work is rooted in the belief that learning and innovation are continuous processes, both in the classroom and the community.
Looking ahead, Hillon is focused on expanding the reach and impact of the Elingburg Professorship initiatives at WCU. These programs aim to connect students with local businesses through mini-internships, startup mentorship, seed funding, and professional networking opportunities. The goal, she says, is to equip students with real-world skills while supporting regional economic vitality.
As a Hatch board member, Yue brings a deep well of experience, a collaborative mindset, and a strong vision for sustainable growth.
Her journey with Hatch may have started with a single student pitch in 2018—but today, Yue Hillon is helping shape the future of innovation in Western North Carolina.