The Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) presented J. Michael “Mike” Davidson, director of economic development for Campbell County, with the 2017 Cardinal Award at the VEDA Annual Meeting on Oct. 13, in Virginia Beach.
The Cardinal Award is the most prestigious award given by VEDA to its members. The award recognizes leadership in the field of economic development, outstanding professional accomplishments, and exceptional service to the organization. Nominations are open in early summer each year to VEDA past or current members. The nominator must be a member of the association.
Davidson has been the director of the Campbell County Economic Development Department for 19 years. The department handles strategic economic development activities in Campbell County, such as tourism promotion, existing business retention and expansions, encouragement of entrepreneurialism, new business start-ups, and the attraction and recruitment of new businesses and industry.
The department provides staff support for the Campbell County Industrial Development Authority, the Campbell County Economic Development Commission, and the Brookneal Campbell County Airport Authority.
Davidson has both public and private sector experience with 20 years as a small business owner, 12 years of service on the Campbell County Board of Supervisors, and seven years on the Board of Directors of the Virginia Association of Counties. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance and chairs the region’s economic development council. Davidson also serves on the Board of Directors of Patrick Henry Family Services, the parent organization of the Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Home.
Campbell County Administrator Frank Rogers said, “Mike Davidson has been a steadfast champion for economic development in Campbell County for many years. He recognizes the importance of creating a community where entrepreneurship can blossom, where existing businesses can prosper and grow, and where new industry can locate and thrive. Mike’s commitment to economic development and his dedication to Campbell County are remarkable. The county and the region are incredibly fortunate to have a professional of Mike’s caliber advocating on our behalf.”
VEDA's membership is comprised of more than 530 economic development professionals and related industry professionals from across the Commonwealth of Virginia.