Alumni-Owned Direct Thread Brings New Energy to Mercy Gear

July 22, 2025 | Uncategorized

We’d like to introduce you to our spirit wear partner, Direct Thread, a company owned and operated by Mercy alumni Elliott and Dustin Fisher. With deep roots in the community, this Mercy family will do their best to make sure you’re happy and excited with your new Mercy gear!

From Mercy Classrooms to Entrepreneurship

Elliott (‘91) and Dustin (‘92) both graduated from Mercy in the 6th grade (Dustin’s class was the last before Mercy expanded to include 7th and 8th grades). Their entrepreneurial journey started early, inspired by a family legacy of business ownership. “Our dad owns Fisher-Griffin Co. in Walnut Hills, so it kind of was in our blood from the start,” they shared.

What began as an online apparel project in 2007 eventually grew into Direct Thread, which they launched over five years ago. Today, the company creates high-quality merchandise for schools, businesses, and organizations across the region. “I’d like to think we have a knack for trends and creating designs that people love to wear,” says Dustin. “So helping schools and businesses have amazing products and spirit wear for their fans was right up our alley.”

Montessori Foundations, Lifelong Impact

Reflecting on their time at Mercy, Elliott and Dustin credit the school with shaping their creative and entrepreneurial spirits. “Mercy provided the foundation and was the bedrock of who we are today. It allowed us the opportunity to explore and think outside the box. It gave us the freedom to try new things and the confidence to accomplish whatever we put our minds to. Without Mercy, I truly don't think we would be where we are today.”

Their connection to Mercy is still going strong, both through their spirit wear partnership and through family ties. Their sister, Tiffani Driessen, is a Mercy grad (‘97 - 6th grade), a current parent, and co-chair of the MMFA.

Building Belonging Through Spirit Wear

“For me, Mercy has always felt like a second home,” Tiffani says. “I’m grateful for the chance to give back to a place that has played such a big role in my life.”

Tiffani sees spirit wear as more than just clothing, it’s a way to unite the community. “It helps everyone feel like they belong - students, parents, teachers, even alumni. It shows pride in Mercy and reminds us that we’re all connected.”

She’s looking forward to a great year ahead with the MMFA, starting with the Welcome Back Picnic, a favorite event that brings the whole Mercy family together.

Direct Thread x Mercy Montessori Spirit Wear

With Direct Thread at the helm, families can look forward to fresh seasonal designs, stylish new colors, and fast fulfillment. “We know you don’t want to wait many weeks to show your Mercy love,” says Dustin. “We absolutely LOVE being a part of the Mercy Spirit Wear program and having the opportunity to help many past and present Mercy students, faculty, and families be able to wear their Mercy gear proudly!”