Economic Development Team

Currently, Stephen is a member of the Executive Committee of the Southeastern Economic Development Commission (SEDC) in southeastern North Carolina. He also serves as an ex-officio liaison with the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board. His dedication to public service is further exemplified by his tenure as an elected Town Commissioner and Mayor Pro-Tem in the Town of Wake Forest from 2003 to 2007. His outstanding contributions to the business community were recognized early in his career when he received the prestigious 40 Under 40 designation from the Triangle Business Journal in 2001.

Stephen completed the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute in 2021, further enhancing his expertise in economic development. He also holds a Master's of Public Administration and a bachelor of science degree from Western Carolina University, as well as a bachelor of arts degree from Mars Hill College.

Stephen often remarks that he needs a hobby. In his free time, he enjoys being with his wife and children. His son, Sailor, is currently attending Wake Technical Community College and plans to transfer to North Carolina State University for his final two years. His daughter, Sadie, is a junior in high school and a passionate competitive soccer player.

Her multifaceted background, encompassing real estate and municipal planning, equips her with a comprehensive skill set to drive business development efforts across Harnett County. Angie's commitment to community extends beyond her professional duties; she actively serves on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors for the Harnett County Business Education Partnership (HCBEP), as well as the Leadership Harnett Board of Directors.

Angie's passion for economic development stems from the dynamic nature of the field. She enjoys the opportunity to tackle diverse projects, engaging with industry partners to foster growth and innovation. In recognition of her achievements, Angie received the Triangle Business Journal’s Women in Business Award in 2024, an honor celebrating women who exemplify professional excellence, leadership, and community engagement.

Outside of work, Angie enjoys outdoor activities, particularly spending quality time with her family at the beach, honing her cornhole skills, and embracing the thrill of pickleball

With over 15 years of experience across multiple sectors, Elizabeth specializes in crafting impactful content for websites, e-newsletters, social media, and print materials. Her background in marketing and communications within state government, nonprofits, and higher education has given her the expertise to engage a broad range of audiences - including businesses, residents, and community leaders.

Elizabeth is a member of the Leadership Harnett Class of 2025, a program that brings together leaders from across Harnett County to explore critical aspects of the community, strengthen their commitment to public service, and prepare them for greater leadership responsibilities. She is also a 2025 graduate of Harnett County Government’s inaugural Harnett Management Academy, a comprehensive leadership development program designed to shape the County's future leaders.

Passionate about community service, Elizabeth has contributed to several local nonprofit organizations, including the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center Friends and the Fuquay-Varina Junior Woman’s Club, where she held leadership roles and helped grow membership, raise awareness, and secure funding.

To Elizabeth, economic development is about enhancing the quality of life for all members of the community. She enjoys collaborating with local partners and community members to share their stories to inspire growth, opportunity, and connection.

Elizabeth holds a bachelor of arts degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from William Peace University, formerly Peace College. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and reconnecting with her roots in Northeastern North Carolina.

With over two decades of experience in the real estate and legal fields, Jade brings a wealth of knowledge to her position. As a licensed Real Estate Title Insurance Underwriter and certified notary public, she has a keen understanding of the intricacies of property transactions. Additionally, Jade recently earned her certificate in Fiscal Training from the NC Department of Treasurer, further enhancing her skill set in financial management for local government.

Outside of her professional commitments, Jade actively contributes to her community as Chair of the Friends of Raven Rock and as a Harnett County Dangerous Dog Committee board member.

What drives Jade's passion for economic development? It's the intersection of real estate and finance, coupled with the opportunity to contribute to the growth and prosperity of her hometown. Jade's favorite aspect of her work is the satisfaction of bringing businesses and jobs to Harnett County, enriching the community she calls home.