Bentonville nonprofit policy think-tank Heartland Forward has named Brian Kelsey its new vice president of programs and strategy.
In this role, Kelsey will lead Heartland Forward’s community-driven programs in impact areas of regional competitiveness, talent pipeline and health and wellness. The organization’s mission is to accelerate economic growth in states and communities in the middle of the country. Its goal is to generate $500 million in economic impact in the heartland by 2030.
“Brian is a seasoned leader who understands that strategy is nothing without impact,” said Angie Cooper, president of Heartland Forward. “As we work to fuel economic growth for our communities, his extensive background proves his ability to turn big ideas into measurable outcomes. We’re excited to welcome him to the team as we continue to drive our mission forward and unlock new opportunities for the heartland.”
Current initiatives include enhancing investment in the heartland through the Center for Investment Readiness, supporting career readiness for high school graduates through rootEd Arkansas, crafting smart AI decisions and policy with the Heartland AI Caucus, and creating and sustaining healthy communities.
“As a heartland resident myself, I have spent my career spearheading community, economic and workforce development strategies in communities I love,” said Kelsey. “The middle of our country deserves our attention and investment, and I look forward to joining the Heartland Forward team to guide our programmatic resources to drive the greatest impact for our region.”
Before joining Heartland Forward, Kelsey held the role of consulting manager of economic development at Ernst & Young, where he created regional economic development strategies across the country. Kelsey earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and history from the University of North Carolina and his Master of Public Administration from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas.
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