INDIANAPOLIS, IN (February 2, 2026) – Bethany Hartley, President & CEO of the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership (Regional Partnership), was elected Vice Chair of the Indiana Economic Development Association (IEDA) by the organization’s membership at its annual meeting in December. Hartley previously joined the board as a member in 2025.

“Economic development is ultimately about people and the communities we serve,” said Hartley. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to support IEDA’s mission and to collaborate with peers across the state to build a stronger, more resilient Indiana.”

The IEDA is the statewide organization representing Indiana’s economic development professionals and organizations. Founded in 1968, IEDA supports more than 400 members through advocacy, professional development, and collaboration, strengthening the capacity of leaders working to advance economic growth and opportunity in communities across the state.

Hartley is joined on the executive committee for 2026 by Chair John Launius of One Southern Indiana, Secretary Tenille Zartman from Grow Wabash County, and Treasurer Bryan Brackemyre of the Indiana Municipal Power Agency.

Hartley also serves on the board of directors for Startup Moxie Elkhart County, Memorial Hospital and RISE, Regional Innovation and Startup Education.

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About South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership

The South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership seeks to unify and collaborate so that together, communities across the region can work collectively to achieve what cannot be done individually. For more information about the Regional Partnership, visit SouthBendElkhart.org.

About IEDA

Since 1968, the Indiana Economic Development Association (IEDA) has been the united voice for the people building Indiana’s future. Representing over 400 members across local organizations, agencies, and corporations, we are a member-driven network focused on connection and growth. We provide the training and advocacy that empower professionals to turn vision into reality. For more information on how we’re building opportunity together, visit www.ieda.org.