Board of Directors 2021

JD Yearwood has been working in the Matthews area since 2009 when he began leasing Matthews Station (located in Downtown Matthews) a 50,000 SF Mixed Use development for Lat Purser & Associates, Inc. Over the years JD has helped facilitate a number of office and retail users open in Matthews including; Pizza Peel, Buffalo Jackson, Great Harvest Bread Co., Edible Art Cake Shop, Black Chicken Wine Bar and Market, Law Office of Robert Forquer and Chiropractic Health of Matthews.

In his current role with Park Commercial Real Estate, JD specializes in helping local owners and businesses with their Commercial Real Estate needs. 

I'm a certified HR Professional that uses business acumen to help small businesses succeed.

Kim Gossage is a partner at Garrity & Gossage, LLP, a law firm in Matthews that provides estate planning, probate, and elder law services.  A native of Virginia, Kim holds two Bachelor's degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a law degree from Wake Forest University.  When she's not at work, Kim is usually either kayaking or attending bluegrass festivals.

Jennifer Anthony is a graduate from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration majoring in Finance. She also holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Wingate University. Jennifer joined Novant Health in 2005 and is presently over Operational Finance for Novant Health Matthews Medical Center. Having been raised in the Matthews community and now having a career in Matthews as well, Jennifer naturally enjoys being greatly involved throughout the Matthews area.    

Karla is the Supervisor of Community Health and Wellness for Novant Health Matthews Medical Center and before she began her work as the community nurse educator she was a labor and delivery nurse for 12+ years.  She received both her Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Masters of Science in Nursing Education (MSN) at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.  Karla was recently married to her high school sweetheart Kelly and together they have 5 children and 1 granddaughter.  Other than playing with her granddaughter, Karla loves yoga, kayaking and biking and she considers herself blessed to work in the Matthews community.

I am a connector, I thrive on connecting people with resources. Plus, I love coming up with creative solutions to your real estate needs.  These skills, coupled with my passion for community, is why I love what I do!  

As a real estate broker focusing on the Charlotte/Matthews and the High Country of NC (Boone/Blowing Rock/Linville) markets, I get to blend my skills with my passion and put the pieces of the puzzle together for my clients.

I understand how buying or selling a home can be overwhelming. That is why I am available to guide you through the process. 

Thank you for considering me for your real estate needs. I would love to be your PARTNER IN THE PROCESS!

Gillian Baker, Realtor®

Licensed in NC & SC 

Ben is the President of Live Events Media Group, one of the premier corporate event production and audio-visual experts in the Eastern United States.

Ben and his wife are both native Charlotteans that moved to Matthews in 2016. Walking around town with their two small children and two large dogs is a favorite activity for them and they love calling Matthews home now.

I am the Relationship Manager for Mario's Italian Restaurant/John's Place. I love to help people connect. I have been involved with the Matthews community for over 30 years. Matthews is truly a great place to live, work and play. My Wife and I raised our 2 sons here, and now I have involved my Grandchildren with local events here too! I am the Ambassador Chair of the Matthews Chamber and currently sit on the Board of Directors of the Matthews Chamber. I am the current President of the Rotary Club of Matthews. I am currently on the Board of Directors of the Greater Matthews Habitiat for Humanity. I love people and sincerly want to see our local businesses thrive in Matthews. 

Celinda has over 30 years with State Farm, specializing in Auto, Home and Business Insurance.  She loves to help people protect their assets and plan for the future.  Her team is committed to remarkable customer service, and they have over 50 years of combined experience!  Celinda is involved in the Matthews community and serves as an Ambassador on the Matthews Chamber of Commerce. 

Reverend Dr. Larry W. Whitley is serving his second term on the Board of Commissioners, having served from 2015-2017. Pastor Whitley was born and reared in Zebulon, N.C. where he graduated from James E. Shepherd High School in 1970. He earned a B.S. Degree in Art Education from North Carolina A&T State University in 1974. His basic training for The North Carolina Highway Patrol was received from UNC at Chapel Hill, North Carolina in 1975, and Administrative Officer training from North Carolina State University in 1991. He also attended Columbia Bible College, Columbia South Carolina in 1992 – 1994. He is presently the Pastor of Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, located in Matthews, North Carolina.