At the Helm
I’m Betsy Fleming, founder of Cressence. A transformative leader, executive coach, investor and philanthropist focused on advancing and equipping women as leaders, entrepreneurs and individuals, I prioritize partnerships, collaboration and curiosity in my work across different sectors.
Always eager to learn, I believe in the power of storytelling and navigating, with intention, the dynamic balance between the individual and the collective. My goal is to leverage a visionary creative mindset and an actionable process-driven system in support of individual clients, businesses and organizations.
My professional background
I have experience leading business and arts organizations, non-profit and educational institutions. I also have extensive public speaking, teaching and writing experience in the areas of leadership, advancing women, creativity, art, and design. Highlights include:
Converse College president, 11 years (private master’s university with undergraduate women’s college and co-ed graduate programs)
Museum professional, 10 years in field including 3 years as Executive Director of Gibbes Museum of Art
Moderator for The Aspen Institute
Board leadership, including 2 corporate boards and numerous nonprofit and education entities such as the Aspen Institute, Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina, Davidson College, Spoleto Festival USA, and Phillips Exeter Academy
Early-stage investor in women-owned and women-empowering businesses
Yale PhD, published art and design historian
Ongoing professional development and training as a coach, investor and leader
On a personal level
I love art. I paint, primarily portraits, using gesture to capture character. I also collect art and design, with an eye towards female artists and works tied to the American South. For me, life is a work of art—a constant process of renewal and discovery, becoming more extraordinary as we add color, shape and depth along the way.
Ever curious about different cultures and places, I take advantage of every opportunity to travel near and far, and especially enjoy spending time outdoors.
I am passionate about activating and empowering the agency, authority and authenticity of women - be they my stepdaughters, my nieces, the college students I oversaw for 11 years, CEOs, artists, or entrepreneurs.
My deepest desire is to be of service in building a world that fully empowers human creativity, expression and accomplishment, to be a part of creating a better, more beautiful future. I want our full diversity of voices and experiences to be known.
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