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Downtown Elon Inc.

The Downtown Board was appointed by the Town Council as a volunteer board to serve Downtown Elon through economic development, beautification, events and to support downtown businesses through its efforts.  In 2021, Downtown Elon Inc was established as a 501c3 to support the growth and enhancement of downtown with the ability to receive grant monies and programs to support the continuing effort to build and sustain a viable downtown.

Economic Vision:

Downtown Elon is the center of the community that brings the residents and visitors together by fostering a safe and engaging space for a diverse population with social, educational, cultural, retail and dining opportunities.

Mission: 

Downtown Elon champions and promotes public and private partnerships to expand economic growth and downtown redevelopment by creating investment opportunities, growth and expansion of  downtown projects for more commercial space and downtown living.

 

Downtown Elon Board Members 

Clark Bennett, Chair

Clark graduated from Elon University (Class of 96). “My family and I have called the Town of Elon our home for twenty-five years. During that time, I have watched our town grow in many positive directions. Several years back I felt led to get involved by promoting smart growth and community engagement between our town and Elon University.  I currently serve on various committees: Town of Elon Planning and Zoning Board, Current Chairperson for the Downtown Development Board, and member of the Town of Elon Downtown Economics Vitality Committee.   As we continue to look at working together between the town and the university, we will continue to make our town a very special place.

 

Mackenzie Brown, Vice Chair

I serve on the Downtown Board because Elon is near and dear to my heart. Our family has owned businesses and real estate for over 30 years. Growing up around downtown, the University and as a Real Estate agent who has been involved in many transactions, I have seen Elon change by great measures, for the good of course! My goal is continue to help Elon grow and staying involved is key. I am honored to be a part of such an outgoing, hardworking group of people who want to see Elon thrive!

 

 

Mark Greene, Treasurer

Alderman Mark GreeneMark Greene and his wife Siobhan have lived in the Town of Elon for 21 years. Mark served on the Town Council for 16 years. He has worked for State Employees Credit Union for 41 years as a Senior Vice-President. Mark serves on the Downtown Elon Board, because he has a vested interest in the Town and wants to see the downtown area become a destination for everyone to enjoy.

 

Patrick Noltemeyer, member(University Liaison)

Dr. Patrick Noltemeyer serves as Associate Vice President, Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Board of Trustees at Elon University.  A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Patrick received his Bachelor of Science degree from Centre College where he studied Psychology and Sociology, a master’s degree in higher education from the University of Kentucky, and his doctorate in education from the University of Louisville. In 2019, Patrick joined the senior administration and Dr. Connie Book, President of Elon University, as Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Board of Trustees. In this role, Patrick coordinates the day-to-day initiatives of President Book and the Office of the President, provides support and guidance for the work of members of the senior administration and serves as the university’s chief liaison to the Board of Trustees. In 2023 Patrick was promoted to Associate Vice President.

Don Scott, member

Don is a graduate of UNC-CH 1972. US Air Force Reserves, 1971-1977. He has been in the textile business since graduating from Carolina.  He is the CEO of The Ameritech Group, USA, Inc., a textile manufacturing, marketing and sales company.  He and his wife, Sherry have lived in Elon on East College Avenue for the past 34 years.  “We have witnessed the growth of the University and Town, some good, some bad.  My hope is that the Downtown Board can present and develop a strategic plan that will enhance the future growth of our town to benefit our citizens, surrounding area and the University.”

 

Kimberly Holt, member

As a lifelong resident of Alamance County who has worked in downtown Elon at Pandora’s Pies for over 11 years. She became owner of Pandora’s 3 years ago.  “I am excited about where things are heading, and I will continue to work as hard as I can to improve the charm and vitality of our awesome district. I am particularly proud of the high-quality, high-impact female-run businesses in this area.”

 

 

Phil Smith, member

Phil Smith is a native of Durham, NC. and holds a BA in Biology from UNC-Wilmington and M.Div. from the McAfee School of Theology at Mercer University.  Following a twenty-year career in faith formation and spirituality with youth and college students, including eight years at Elon University, Phil brought to fruition a long held dream of opening a space to build community around great coffee, craft beer, and fine wine.  He has operated The Oak House in downtown Elon since September of 2014 and serves on the Downtown Advisory Board to help represent the voice of small businesses in the community.

Jill Avillion, member

Jill Avillion has lived in Elon, NC for the past ten years.  Originally from Central Pennsylvania, she has been a North Carolina resident since 2001.  Jill is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University, with a degree in Psychology, and until purchasing Beer Republic Elon, she worked as a CPS Investigator for more than a decade.  Jill has been married for over 20 years and has two amazing children.  When not running Beer Republic she enjoys live music, hiking, gardening, and cooking.  Jill became a member of the board because she believes that local government has the most impact on our daily lives.

Emily Sharpe, MayorAlderwoman Emily Sharpe

 

 

 

Jill Weston, Staff Liaison acting Secretary
Downtown Development Director
104 S Williamson Ave
Elon, NC 27244
336.586.1009