President and CEO
Bethany Hartley currently serves as President and Chief Executive Officer at the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership, a collaboration of economic development partners in the South Bend - Elkhart Region, which encompasses 47 communities in northern Indiana and southwest Michigan. The organization serves as a single point of contact for regional communication and seeks to advance economic opportunities for all partner members through collaborative promotion, marketing, and capacity building efforts.
Bethany has over a decade of experience in non-profit leadership, primarily focused on economic development and entrepreneurship. Bethany joined the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership in 2018, first as the Director of Diversity and Inclusion, and was promoted to Chief Strategy Officer in 2020. Prior to the Regional Partnership, Bethany held leadership positions with RISE | Regional Innovation and Startup Education, Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Family and Children’s Center, and the Women’s Business Development Center in Chicago.
Bethany has led a wide range of projects and initiatives including digital system transformations, organizational restructuring, large event management, and marketing and communications strategy. As a part of the South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership, Hartley led the strategic development of new programs, digital-based infrastructure, and outreach initiatives.
Education and Professional Accreditations
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree, Loyola University Chicago
Certificates
- University of Notre Dame’s Masters of Non-Profit Administration
- University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business
- Babson College
- Catalyst Inc.
Civic Involvement
- Startup Moxie Elkhart County, Board of Directors
- Engaging Women Conference, Steering Committee
- Beacon Health Systems, Committee Member
- Girls on the Run of Northern Indiana, Champion, and Fundraiser
Fun Facts About Bethany
- In her personal time, Bethany enjoys cycling, running, reading, scuba diving, and spending time with her husband, two dogs, and four nieces.
- Bethany competes in triathlons, including her first – but not last – 70.3 Ironman.
Regional Favorites
Restaurant: “I have a lot of favorites when it comes to food, with my go-to spots being Bantam Chicken and Seafood in South Bend, Artisan in Elkhart, Goshen Brewing in... Goshen, and River St. Joe in Buchanan! All have great menus for even the pickiest of eaters!”
Outdoor Activity: “Too many to name!! I’m a big fan of all things running, biking, and swimming so I enjoy riding my bike in southwest Michigan, running the trails of Lydick Bog, and swimming in Lake Michigan.”
Shop: “Our local boutiques are a must including Inspire Me! in the East Race neighborhood of South Bend, The Craftsman’s Daughter in downtown Elkhart, and pretty much any shop along Goshen’s main street.”
Cultural Activity: “My husband and I enjoy catching shows – whether it’s Broadway, comedy, or music – at the Morris Performing Arts Center.”
Best Way to Spend a Saturday in the Region: “We love to spend our mornings exercising at our local gym, follow by breakfast or brunch at Monterrey Mexican Grill in Mishawaka. Depending on the weather we’ll either head up the coast for some beach time or explore the South Bend Farmers Market, usually ending the day with a community-based event.”
More information available for reference on Bethany's LinkedIn profile.