Matthew Lawrence Pierce

Matthew Lawrence Pierce has substantial experience in municipal management and economic development, currently serving as the Assistant to the City Manager for the City of Statesville since November 2021. Prior roles include Director of Business Retention & Expansion at the Iredell County Economic Development Corporation and Project Manager at Garner Economics, LLC. Matthew's background also encompasses academic roles, including a Doctoral Student in Practical Theology at Emory University and Managing Editor for Practical Matters. A diverse skill set in research, publication management, and community engagement is complemented by a robust educational foundation that includes a Ph.D. from Emory University, a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of New Orleans, and a Master of Divinity from Duke University.