Haley Bennett, Director of Government Relations
Haley Bennett serves as the Director of Government Relations for Traverse Connect and the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance. Through her role she advances the goals and policy priorities of the business community, provides legislative analysis, strategic advice, and leads efforts to position the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance as the region’s foremost legislative advocate.
Haley is a proud Spartan and holds both a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree with a concentration in Organization and Community Leadership from Michigan State University. Haley began her career as an intern in the Michigan Legislature where she gained invaluable experience in government operations and legislative processes. She has dedicated her career to advancing public policy focused on equity, access to healthy food and rural development, working across both public and private sectors.Before joining Traverse Connect Haley’s most recent roles include Food & Farms Policy Associate for the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities, Community Affairs Liaison in the Executive Office of Governor Whitmer, and Director of Community Partners at Taste the Local Difference.
Residing in Traverse City with her husband, baby boy and energetic Aussie, Haley enjoys spending as much time as she can outdoors; tending to her garden, cooking delicious meals, and enjoying all that northern Michigan has to offer.