The Shadow
Harrisonburg, Va. (VR) – September 23, 2025 – The Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) awarded its most prestigious honor, the Cardinal Award, to Alleghany County Administrator Kenneth T. “Ken” McFadyen, MPA, during the organization’s 2025 Fall Conference in Harrisonburg last week.
The Cardinal Award recognizes leadership in economic development, outstanding professional accomplishments and exceptional service to VEDA. McFadyen embodies each of these qualities through a career spanning more than two decades of dedicated service to local government and economic development across Virginia and North Carolina.
McFadyen began his career in North Carolina local government before moving to Virginia, where he has held leadership roles that include Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Crossroads Economic Development Authority and Director of Economic Development for Botetourt County. In June 2025, he became County Administrator for Alleghany County.
Throughout his career, McFadyen has helped secure transformative projects, including Botetourt County’s historic announcement of Google’s first hyperscale data center in Southwest Virginia, along with major investments from Eldor Corporation, New Belgium Brewing, Altec, Universal and Pratt Industries. Collectively, these efforts have generated more than 720 jobs and over $180 million in capital investment.
A tireless advocate for the profession, McFadyen served on VEDA’s Board of Directors from 2013 to 2019, serving as President in 2018. He also served as VEDA Secretary, Treasurer, and Vice President and has chaired key committees including the Economic Development Day Committee, Nominating Committee and Past Presidents Council.
During a pivotal period following the 2016 JLARC review of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, McFadyen led VEDA’s public policy efforts, testifying before the House Appropriations Committee and helping to shape legislative reforms.
“Ken’s leadership, vision and dedication have strengthened VEDA and the economic development profession across the Commonwealth,” said VEDA President Greg Hitchin. “His service, from mentoring emerging leaders to advocating for sound economic development policy, sets a high bar for all of us in this field.”
McFadyen holds a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University and has remained deeply engaged in civic service, including serving on the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s Board of Trustees.
VEDA is a member-based professional association committed to providing training and development; networking opportunities; and serving as the voice of the economic development community, creating economic opportunity and prosperity for the Commonwealth of Virginia. VEDA’s members is comprised of more than 625 economic development professionals and related industry professionals from across the Commonwealth of Virginia. For more information about VEDA visit the website at
