First Lady Crisette M. Ellis

First Lady Crisette Ellis is a dynamic leader, inspirational speaker, and devoted woman of faith who proudly hails from Detroit, Michigan. A graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in Public Affairs Management, she is the beloved wife of Bishop Charles H. Ellis III, Senior Pastor of Greater Grace Temple in Detroit. Together, they are the proud parents of two children, Kiera and Charles IV, and doting grandparents to their grandson, Charles Ellis V.

Lady Crisette serves as the Director of the Powerful Women of Purpose (PWP) Women’s Ministry at Greater Grace Temple. With Holy Spirit-led vision and bold innovation, she empowers women to rise as spiritual warriors—equipped, confident, and victorious. Through creative initiatives like the PWP Boot Camp, she has transformed the lives of countless women, shifting mindsets from fear and defeat to faith and dominion. Her declaration is clear: “We are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus!”

A retired Mary Kay National Sales Director, Lady Crisette made history in 2002 by becoming Michigan’s first—and youngest—African American to achieve that elite title. Over her 32-year career, she built a legacy of excellence, earning prestigious awards, luxury cars, international travel, and global recognition. Most notably, she coordinated a historic display of over 150 Pink Cadillacs at the homegoing celebration of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin—a powerful symbol of feminine achievement and unity.

Now in her next chapter, Lady Crisette is the CEO and visionary behind Affirmations by Crisette, a lifestyle brand designed to inspire, uplift, and remind others of the power of positive confession and divine purpose. A firm believer that “death and life are in the power of the tongue,” she passionately teaches others to speak life, live boldly, and walk in their God-given destiny.

Whether as a wife, mother, grandmother, First Lady, or entrepreneur, Lady Crisette sows seeds of faith, excellence, and hope into every life she touches. She is a highly sought-after speaker, having shared her voice across the nation and internationally—from pulpits and women’s conferences to schools and universities.

Her authenticity, wisdom, and fire for God have ignited passion and purpose in multitudes. Guided by scriptures such as “To whom much is given, much is required” and her personal favorite, “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart,” Lady Crisette continues to lead, uplift, and inspire all who cross her path.