Betsy Fretwell is stepping down as Interim President and CEO of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) at the end of the month, concluding a tenure that began in January 2025. She will continue to support the organization through 2025 in the role of Strategic Advisor, ensuring continuity during the leadership transition.
Fretwell took the helm during a pivotal phase for the regional economic development agency, guiding it through organizational changes while advancing efforts to position Southern Nevada as a prime destination for business investment and retention. Under her leadership, LVGEA strengthened regional partnerships, refined its economic development strategy, and laid the foundation for future growth.
Lauri Perdue, Chair of the LVGEA Board of Directors, praised Fretwell’s contributions, noting her decisive leadership and ability to navigate complex challenges. “She brought clarity, strength, and vision during a critical period,” Perdue said. “Her work has strengthened relationships across the region and set the organization on a path for long-term success.”
Fretwell expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, emphasizing collaboration with regional stakeholders. She also voiced confidence in incoming CEO Danielle Casey, whom she will support during the transition. “Danielle brings exceptional expertise and energy to this role,” Fretwell said. “I’m confident she will lead LVGEA into a new era of innovation and impact.”
Established nearly 70 years ago, LVGEA has played a central role in diversifying Southern Nevada’s economy by attracting high-caliber companies and fostering resilient business ecosystems. The organization remains committed to supporting sustainable economic growth across the region.
— news from Nevada Business Magazine
— News Original —
Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance Interim President & CEO Concludes Tenure, Continues as Strategic Advisor
The Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA) announces the departure of Interim President & CEO Betsy Fretwell, who will conclude her role at the end of the month. She will continue to support the organization as a Strategic Advisor through the end of 2025.
Fretwell stepped into the interim role in January 2025, guiding the organization through a period of transition while reinforcing LVGEA’s role in elevating Southern Nevada as a premier location for business attraction and retention, and further enhancing Las Vegas. Under her direction, LVGEA advanced several key initiatives, reinforced its regional partnerships, and laid the groundwork for the organization’s next chapter.
“Betsy has brought valuable leadership, strength, and vision to the LVGEA during a pivotal time,” said Lauri Perdue, Chair of the LVGEA Board of Directors. “As interim CEO, she stepped up with confidence, navigated challenges with clarity, and strengthened relationships across the region. Her dedication to our mission has positioned the organization for lasting success. We are deeply grateful for her service and the momentum she’s helped create.”
During her tenure, Fretwell led efforts to enhance the organization’s regional economic development strategy, improve internal operational alignment, and support the transition to permanent leadership. Her continued involvement as a strategic advisor will ensure a smooth handoff and continuity on key initiatives through the end of 2025.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together during this transitional phase,” said Fretwell. “It has been a privilege to lead such a dedicated team and collaborate with our partners throughout the region. I’m especially excited to support Danielle Casey as she steps into the CEO role. Danielle brings tremendous expertise and energy to this position, and I am fully confident in her ability to lead LVGEA into its next era of impact and innovation.”
For nearly 70 years, LVGEA has been a driving force behind Southern Nevada’s economic diversification and growth, uniting regional partners and attracting high-quality companies to the region. The organization is committed to fostering a resilient, innovative economy that supports businesses and communities alike.
For more information about LVGEA and its initiatives, visit www.lvgea.org.