Bethany Hartley is a seasoned non-profit leader with over 12 years of experience in economic development and entrepreneurship. She is the President and CEO of the South Bend - Elkhart Regional Partnership, a regional economic development organization that serves five counties in Indiana and Michigan.Bethany leads a team of professionals who are dedicated to catalyzing regional innovation, digital skills and new technology adoption, scaling startups, and ensuring inclusion to achieve shared prosperity. She is responsible for setting the strategic direction, overseeing the operations, and managing the multi-sector partnerships of the organization. Under her leadership, the Regional Partnership has launched and implemented several initiatives to support the regional ecosystem, such as the WE+YOU talent attraction brand, HustleSBE Business Bootcamp, and Founder Factory, a large-scale entrepreneurship event.Bethany has a strong background in leading digital system transformations, organizational restructuring, large event management, and marketing and communications strategy. She is skilled in social networking, online marketing, and social media marketing. She has also facilitated and participated in various trainings and certifications on inclusive leadership, board readiness, and entrepreneurship.Bethany holds a bachelor's degree from Loyola University Chicago and certificates from the University of Notre Dame, Babson College, and Catalyst Inc. She enjoys competing in triathlons, scuba diving, and spending time with her family. She is passionate about empowering women and minorities, creating place-based amenities, and telling the stories of the regional residents.