New Albany, IN – January 20, 2026 – At the Indiana Economic Development Association (IEDA) Annual Meeting this December, a community of practitioners came together not just to reflect on a year of progress, but to empower the leaders who will guide a shared mission forward.
They are proud to announce the election of their new Board Members and Officers for the upcoming year. These individuals represent the heart of Indiana’s economic development profession—bringing diverse expertise from urban centers to rural towns, all united by a single goal: creating opportunity for every Hoosier.
“The Indiana Economic Development Association has been a critical resource and catalyst for collaborative growth in the State of Indiana since 1968, and it is a distinct honor to serve my peers and state as Board Chair,” said the newly elected Board Chair, John Launius. “The IEDA, alongside a membership rich with expertise and experience, will continue to advocate, educate, and ensure statewide connectivity of economic development professionals and partners. I am humbled and excited to serve my peers, partners, and the State of Indiana in such a meaningful way.”
Leading the Way Together
The following leaders were elected by the membership to serve as advocates, mentors, and voices for 2026:
New Officers:
Chair: John Launius, One Southern Indiana
Vice Chair: Bethany Hartley, South Bend – Elkhart Regional Partnership
Secretary: Tenille Zartman, Grow Wabash County
Treasurer: Bryan Brackemyre, Indiana Municipal Power Agency
New Board Members:
Rachel Huser, Wabash Valley Power Alliance
Corey Murphy, New Castle Henry County Econ. Dev. Corp.
Chris Pfaff, Knox County Indiana Economic Development
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A Note from the IEDA
Economic development is more than just transactions; it’s about the people behind the progress. As Indiana’s only statewide association dedicated to this profession, IEDA serves as a “professional home” where practitioners find the credibility, belonging, and tools they need to thrive.
When our members are supported, their communities are stronger. We welcome these new leaders to the helm as we continue to share knowledge, influence policy, and invest in the leadership development that ensures long-term prosperity in every corner of our state.
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.
Media Contact: Jill Ewing, (317) 454-7013
About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.
Media Contact: Ellinor Smith, (812) 206-9029
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