Meet The Board
President
Mandy Freeland
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I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Statistics, with a minor in Music Therapy, from Florida State University in 2006. After graduating, I dedicated my career to serving others by working in child welfare, domestic violence prevention, food insecurity, and education through roles at the university, local school systems, nonprofit organizations, and county government.
During my years as a social worker and program coordinator, I often found myself in the kitchen, experimenting with recipes and sharing them with friends and colleagues. This passion inspired me to open HomeSliced Bakery in Conover in 2020 as a side hustle. After its success, I left social work in 2021 to focus fully on my bakery, family, and community service. In 2022, I founded Conover Community Partners out of a deep love for the Conover community.
I am an active member of New Life ACC and volunteer as a board member with four additional local nonprofit organizations. I’ve been married to my husband for 18 years, and we have two wonderful sons. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, baking, cooking, running with my dog, crafting, fishing, hiking, biking, gardening, and making music.
Treasurer
Allan Perkins
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I am a proud native of Newton-Conover and a graduate of Newton-Conover High School. With over 20 years of experience in the food industry, I’ve built a career dedicated to creating welcoming spaces where people can gather and enjoy great food. As the owner and operator of 1877 Pub & Grub in downtown Conover, I am committed to offering a dining experience that reflects the charm and hospitality of our community.
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Outside of work, I am passionate about traveling and exploring new places, which often inspires fresh ideas for my business. I am also deeply invested in giving back to the community that has shaped me. Whether through supporting local initiatives or creating a space for neighbors to connect, I take pride in contributing to Conover's growth and vibrancy.
Events Chair
Mark Minton
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Born in Lenoir, NC, I have been a proud resident of Conover for 17 years. My professional journey began in furniture making, where I refined my skills as an upholstery worker for 28 years.
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In 2017, my wife Coreana and I fulfilled a longtime dream by founding Patriot Jerky LLC. We produce small craft-batch beef jerky in downtown Conover and proudly distribute our products across the country.
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I am passionate about giving back to the community in any way I can. In my free time, I enjoy cars, music, cooking, and watching movies.
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Public Information Officer
Tanner Moncrieff
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Born in Roanoke, VA, I’ve had the opportunity to live in Florida, Minnesota, Virginia and now North Carolina—this is my second time calling NC home. I’ve lived in Catawba County for about three years. I attended Liberty University, where I majored in Business Administration.
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I am the proud owner of Carpe Diem Antiques in downtown Conover. My passion for downtowns and revitalization is what brought me to Conover Community Partners.
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Professionally, I have over 15 years of experience in the industrial distribution market, specializing in rubber components. Outside of work, I enjoy going to auctions with my wife, attending concerts on the weekends, and traveling to new places.
Vice President
Brad Seese
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Born in Baltimore, MD, I have called Catawba County, NC, home for over 45 years. I attended Appalachian State University, majoring in Political Science with a focus on Public Administration and a minor in Public Management.
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I am driven by stories of personal growth and inspired by creative problem solvers. My passion for positive change in our communities fuels my involvement with Conover Community Partners. One of my heroes is Mike Rowe, whose advocacy for vocational studies and blue-collar careers highlights the value of diverse paths to success alongside traditional higher education.
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With over 30 years in advanced textile manufacturing, I serve as the Vice President of Manufacturing at Clothing 2.0, proudly headquartered in Conover, NC. A self-proclaimed "Yarn Geek," I have a quirky passion for technical textiles.
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Outside of work, I am an avid motorsport and NASCAR fan, regularly attending races and celebrating the excitement of the track.
Secretary
Patricia Hatch
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Born and raised on the North Carolina coast, I have lived in Conover since 2008. In 2016, my husband Ralph and I fulfilled a dream by restoring a 100-year-old historic home in downtown Conover and opening Sweet Tea Bed & Breakfast. During our time as proprietors, we welcomed thousands of guests, hosted hundreds of events, and forged lasting partnerships with local businesses and community members.
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Professionally, my background includes roles in marketing, customer service, and credit management. My position as a Community Development Administrator for a North Carolina municipality, however, solidified my passion for downtown revitalization and economic development. This passion inspired the creation of Conover Community Partners through collaboration with local business leaders.
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Although retired from the Bed & Breakfast, my husband and I continue to live in downtown Conover, enjoying time with family and friends, traveling, and volunteering at our church.
Support Chair
Teresa Blalock
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A lifelong resident of Catawba County, I have lived in Conover for over 30 years. I am the owner of Marie and Twannette’s Take Home Foods, a business I proudly established in 2011.
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I enjoy community involvement, spending time with my family, and the independence of being my own boss. As Support Chair for Conover Community Partners, I contribute by volunteering for event planning, social media management, and assisting in various capacities to support the organization’s goals.
Membership Chair
Julie Miller