Last week, the Rowan EDC announced its 2025 board leadership and new members.

“As Rowan County prepares for an exciting year of economic development opportunities, the EDC welcomes a dedicated group of leaders to guide its efforts in fostering growth and innovation,” the release said.

Chief Lending Officer and Executive Vice President of F&M Bank Tim Proper was named board chair for 2025. With more than 30 years of experience in banking and nearly two decades at F&M Bank, Proper is a seasoned leader committed to cultivating meaningful relationships and driving economic success. A Salisbury resident for more than 20 years, Proper has served on the Rowan EDC board since 2018 and is passionate about making a tangible impact on the community.

“It’s an honor to serve as the Rowan EDC Board Chair during such an exciting time,” Proper said. “I’m thrilled to work alongside this talented group of leaders to support our businesses, attract new investments, and create opportunities that benefit the entire Rowan County community.”

The Rowan EDC extends its gratitude to Immediate Past Chair Nicole Holmes Matangira for her “exemplary leadership and dedication” throughout 2024.

“Her contributions were instrumental in advancing the EDC’s mission and positioning Rowan County as a competitive destination for business and talent,” the release noted.

Joining Proper in leadership roles for 2025 are Greg Alcorn of Global Contact Services as chair elect and Victor Wallace of Wallace Realty as secretary/treasurer. The EDC is also proud to welcome Don Ruddy of Hexagon Agility, who begins his first term, and Karla Foster Leonard of New Pointe Properties, who officially starts her second term after completing a partial term in 2024.

The complete list of 2025 board members includes:

• Tim Proper, F&M Bank, chair
• Nicole Holmes Matangira, Holmes Iron & Metal, immediate past chair
• Greg Alcorn, Global Contact Services, chair elect
• Victor Wallace, Wallace Realty, secretary/treasurer
• Cynthia Mynatt, Ben Mynatt Nissan
• Lawrence Roth, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar/Salisbury Tavern and Leisure Club
• Karla Foster Leonard, New Pointe Realty, LLC
• Ashley Stewart, Town of Landis/USI Insurance Services
• Dr. Anthony Davis, Livingstone College
• Luke Fisher, Carrol Fisher Construction
• Don Ruddy, Hexagon Agility
• Gary Blabon, Novant Health
• Steve Fisher, F&M Bank, ex-officio member, chair of the board, Rowan Chamber of Commerce

Rowan EDC President Rod Crider expressed his enthusiasm for the new leadership team.

“We are deeply grateful to Nicole Holmes Matangira for her outstanding service as board chair in 2024,” Crider said. “Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome Tim Proper as our new chair and continue building on our progress. With this exceptional group of leaders, Rowan EDC is well-equipped to advance key initiatives, attract new investments, and drive economic growth in 2025.”

The release indicated that Rowan EDC “anticipates a year of dynamic project announcements, strengthened partnerships, and continued efforts to make Rowan County a premier location for businesses and residents alike.”