Bethany Costello

Executive Director, Center for Community Partnerships

Bethany Costello is an experienced professional in community relations and civic engagement and has worked at RISD since 2013. In her current role, she drives strategic leadership for community and government relations, oversees diverse civic engagement initiatives and partnerships, and serves as the primary liaison to government entities at the local, state, and federal levels, advancing institutional interests and policy priorities.

Previously, Bethany held multiple positions at the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, including vice president of public affairs and director of public relations. Educational qualifications include a Master’s degree in public administration from Roger Williams University and a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Rhode Island, along with participation in the Women’s Institute for Leadership Program at Bryant University’s Executive Development Center.