Better Business Bureau serving the Heart of Texas (BBB) celebrates the appointment of Bethany Leffingwell as the organization’s first Executive Director of Development, where she will spearhead the nonprofit's philanthropic efforts across its 105-county service area. With over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, fund development, and growth strategies, Leffingwell joins BBB with a wealth of knowledge that will benefit consumers, businesses, and nonprofit organizations throughout the Austin, San Antonio, Waco, Bryan-College Station, Coastal Bend, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Permian Basin communities.
Before joining BBB, Leffingwell held leadership roles within several respected organizations that dedicate themselves to giving back to the community, including as the Director of Major Gifts for Ascension Seton and Sr. Vice President of Strategic Communications and Programming for the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce, where one of her key roles was to lead the expansion of the chamber’s business philanthropy initiative, Austin Gives.
"We are thrilled to welcome Bethany to our executive team," said Carrie Angell Hurt, president and CEO of Better Business Bureau serving the Heart of Texas. "Her extensive experience and proven track record in building effective relationships and strategic partnerships will be instrumental as we continue our mission of promoting business ethics, integrity, and trust throughout the Lone Star State."
With BBB, Leffingwell will focus on expanding the organization’s 501(c)3 entity, the Heart of Texas Education Foundation, which recently announced its strategic partnership with the NFL Alumni Association to develop tomorrow’s business leaders through programs emphasizing leadership, ethics, and integrity among youth and small businesses. Additionally, she will forge new partnerships and programs to support BBB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen marketplace trust, promote ethical practices, and reinforce business communities across Texas.
As BBB continues to adapt and grow after over a century in operation, Leffingwell will serve as a principal decision-maker to herald the organization into the future. In addition to the free services provided to the public, BBB regularly works with community groups and municipalities throughout its service area, such as partnering with the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department to administer more than $45 million in pandemic-related grants to small businesses and creative nonprofits between 2020-2022.
"BBB serving the Heart of Texas is an award-winning, growth-minded organization dedicated to the success of Texas area businesses, consumers, and community partners," said Leffingwell. "I am honored to lead the charge in expanding our impact and fostering meaningful connections within the Heart of Texas community during such an exciting time of strategic growth."
(Bethany Leffingwell)
