The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to spotlight Billy Nelson, Chief Executive Officer of Fairview, as part of our Community Proud series, sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union. Billy leads Fairview, a non-profit organization in Groton that has been serving the community since 1892 with residential, dining, and healthcare services for adults 62 and better.

A lifelong Connecticut resident, Billy was born and raised in Waterbury and now lives in Essex with his wife and two dogs. His journey at Fairview began in 2019 as Healthcare Administrator, followed by promotions to Executive Director in 2020 and CEO in 2022. Today, he oversees an organization of over 185 employees and is guiding a major expansion project, Vista Point at Fairview, which will bring new housing and services to hundreds of local residents.

Billy’s leadership is grounded in his personal story. The loss of his father to cancer at age 50 and his mother’s traumatic brain injury just years later inspired him to pursue a career in senior living and healthcare. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, he now finds deep meaning in working for a mission-driven non-profit that aligns with his values of service, compassion, and community. “Our mission of inspiring individuals to live their best lives is both broad enough to be meaningful and personal enough to make a daily impact,” he shared.

Fairview’s roots in the community are as strong as ever. Each Thursday, its on-campus restaurant, Grille92, welcomes U.S. Navy service members for a complimentary meal alongside retired veterans—creating intergenerational connections that Billy is especially proud of. Fairview also supports local initiatives such as the Alzheimer’s Association, American Red Cross blood drives, and the Katherine Hepburn Performing Arts Center.

When asked what this recognition means to him, Billy reflected on his father’s legacy of community involvement. “This recognition by the Chamber’s Community Proud series makes me feel like my father would be proud of my journey. It also reinforces my belief that no one achieves success alone—I owe so much to my wife, Meaghan, and to Fairview’s Board of Directors for their unwavering support.”

Outside of work, Billy is passionate about golf, his two dogs, and traveling with his wife—especially to their favorite getaway, St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. He also credits golf and his health journey with teaching him resilience, humility, and the importance of self-forgiveness.

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce congratulates Billy Nelson on this recognition. His story of perseverance, leadership, and service exemplifies what it means to be Community Proud.