Relationship Builder. Leader. Results.
A passion for making a meaningful difference in the community while driving sustainable change through innovative partnerships.
A little about me…
Hi, I'm Bethany. I'm a mission-driven professional who thrives in dynamic, high-pressure environments. I bring clarity to project development while relying on my event management background to solve problems. I can read a room and successfully interact with fellow leaders and decision-makers. I'm charismatically assertive, which is directly related to the southern girl in me. I'm a strategic thinker with knowledge in leveraging major marketing, communications, and development initiatives. A listener who will prioritize your passions, goals, and desired outcomes while providing thought leadership.
As the Director of Development for Atlanta Mission, I lead day-to-day activities and strategy for our High Engagement team focusing on major gifts. I work to connect who and what to the heart and soul of Atlanta Mission, our clients, to provide life-changing services to those experiencing homelessness. By fostering these vital connections, I am committed to ensuring Atlanta Mission remains a beacon of hope and empowerment for all who choose our help. The Atlanta community, with its spirit of compassion and collaboration, is a driving force that inspires me every day. Together, we are addressing the immediate needs and transforming lives.
Prior to my role with Atlanta Mission, I was the Director of Development for the Alvarez College of Business at UT San Antonio, where I was the college's lead major gifts officer. I managed a portfolio of 80-100 donors and was instrumental in securing new endowments, developing new engagement activities, and restructuring the college's advisory board.
During my time with LEARFIELD, I was an essential player in growing the LEARFILED Minority Academy (now the EDGE Academy) by leading a team to create an industry-leading professional development program for people of color in sports marketing and management.
I have extensive skills in developing efficient and effective engagement strategies, resulting in impactful opportunities for partners, clients, and organizations. I have a comprehensive mix of experiences in strategic planning, communications, marketing, fund development, corporate partnerships, sponsorships, and board management.
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, I graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.A. in Communications and Information Sciences. When I'm not working, you can find me volunteering, traveling, supporting my favorite sports teams, entertaining family and friends, or spending time outside with my black English Lab, Magnolia. I'm a lifetime learner, always working to grow and improve each day.
What I bring to the table.
Leadership.
I listen to and respect those around me, considering their viewpoints when developing partnership ideas.
Inclusion for all. It's critical to have a seat at the table for everyone, so inspiration, creativity, and collaboration can thrive.
I strategically advise clients on maximizing their investment while keeping in mind the long-term strategic goals of the company I represent.
Lead by example. Exuding grace under pressure while thinking on my feet.
Flexibility is essential. I quickly adapt and pivot to meet business and client objectives as the environment changes.
I am a quick learner, willing to get my hands dirty to help drive the business forward.
I have a positive and energetic attitude. Essential when taking on a risk or challenge, recognizing when to change course, taking ownership of and learning from the mistakes while remembering to celebrate the wins.
Growing and maintaining relationships.
I have a clients first approach when solving problems to meet their needs and desires. Building their trust and keeping it is a priority.
A team player. Working hard to earn the trust of those I collaborate with, as well as senior and executive leadership.
Innovative.
I have a strong desire to help clients understand how technology, data, and storytelling are vital to connecting their brand with consumers. Making sure to harness brand affinity, excitement, and passion for driving revenue.
A healthy curiosity towards a client’s business goals and foundation. Seeking answers to questions like, "Does this activation make sense?" "What are the goals?" "Who are their customers?" and "How do my solutions support their strategy?"
I can oversee social media, website content, and strategies while working with the team to create engaging digital solutions from a top level.
Clear communication with strong organizational and presentation skills.
I am poised as I deliver clear, comprehensive, and compelling presentations bringing clarity to projects.
I have vast experience in advising and presenting to C-suite members on marketing and internal communication strategies.
I'm a proactive communicator and thinker with the ability to anticipate needs before they are requested.
Skillfully learned how to be charismatically assertive, keeping projects on target.
I will ensure your brand is protected while maintaining consistent messaging throughout all media and the activation process.
I am an expert in creating and organizing events and experiences, from intimate gatherings to company-wide events with 1,000+ attendees.
Working cross-functionally.
I enjoy collaborating with internal teams such as Digital, Finance, IT, Legal, Marketing, and Public Relations to develop, research, and identify new revenue-generating activations.
I am knowledgeable in creating and implementing strategic communication plans that support various company departments.
Excellent budget administration.
I have considerable experience in overseeing large and small budgets with a solid reputation for staying at or under budget.
I have a strong record of tactfully negotiating to save money without hindering the integrity of the project.
What people are saying.
“Bethany is the definition of a “go-getter.” She is a collaborative and creative marketing professional who seamlessly brings ideas to life! Bethany is also incredibly driven, loyal, enthusiastic, and fun! She would be a terrific addition to any organization looking to add a multidimensional leader with an extensive background in marketing and events.”
— Katy Young Staudt, Vice President, Turnkey Search
“Bethany is a proven leader that turns plans into action. She has a unique ability to accommodate all client requests with professionalism and positive energy. Whether it is an internal or external strategy, you can count on Bethany to execute flawlessly and with a smile on her face. Bethany is someone you want on your team.”
— Pat Flynn, Chief Executive Officer, Turba
“I have had the privilege of working with Bethany twice during her career. She is consistently an energetic, creative problem-solver who achieves results. Bethany has grown from a collaborative colleague to a dynamic leader. She thrives in a fast-paced environment with the expectation that she achieves lofty goals. Bethany is highly skilled in managing people and performance outcomes. Any team would be fortunate to have her on their roster.”
— Ashley Olive, Executive Director - Finance and Operations, The University of Alabama
“Bethany is an enthusiastic, genuine person who brings commitment and passion to her teammates and work. I've worked with Bethany for over five years and I've come to know her as a thoughtful and experienced leader who knows when to make decisions and when to delegate. She brings a clients-first approach to every project and stays calm under pressure. Bethany would be an asset to any team that wants to achieve and win the right way.”
— Andy Rawlings, Former Chief Revenue Officer, Learfield
“Bethany is that rare combination of professionalism and personality that makes working with her both productive and enjoyable. Simply put, she is a bridge-builder who knows how to get things done. Having worked with her at Leafield IMG College, I find that her knowledge of the sports marketing landscape allows her to efficiently and effectively navigate the marketing and event production life cycles. Results-oriented is a cliche' in business, but Bethany embodies the idea of focusing on the end game and driving toward the common goal despite differences. If you have the opportunity to work with Bethany, take it. You won't be disappointed.”
— Meka White Morris, Executive Vice President of Revenue, Chief Business Officer, Chicago Bears
“I had the distinct pleasure of having Bethany report to me in my former role with Learfield IMG College. Bethany is a natural leader. Her ability to strategically plan and execute events is remarkable. Bethany managed to create intimacy, at scale, to make every event attendee feel like a VIP — whether they were in a room of 10 people or 300 people. She regularly interfaced with the C-Suite and was successful at gaining not only their buy-in, but also their accolades for her work. While Bethany’s work ethic is impressive, I have always admired her outgoing spirit and ability to demonstrate grace under pressure. She is a rare mix of southern hospitality and acute business acumen. Bethany will be an asset to any organization. Consider yourself fortunate if you have the opportunity to work with her. I certainly do.”