VIRGINIA ECONOMIC DEVELOPERS HONOR VETERAN PROFESSIONAL

Richmond - The Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) presented Brian B. Shull, Economic Development Director, City of Harrisonburg, with the 2014 Cardinal Award at the VEDA Fall Conference-Governor's Conference on Economic Development, earlier this month in Richmond.

"With more than 25 years in the profession, Brian is the

 consummate economic development professional," said Debbie Melvin (Virginia Economic Development Partnership) in her nomination of Shull. "Brian not only does an excellent job with business attraction and retention in Harrisonburg, he truly understands the value of regional cooperation and is an integral part of the Shenandoah Valley team. He is a champion of economic development efforts in his daily role, as well as in his outreach efforts, particularly through his participation in Rotary International."

In his 16 years as economic development director for the City of Harrisonburg, Shull has been involved in the development of the Harrisonburg Technology Park; the SRI CADRE recruitment team; the Harrisonburg Crossing retail complex; and several expansions of Rosetta Stone. During his career, he has served on numerous committees as well as president of the Virginia Economic Developers Association; secretary-treasurer, Shenandoah Valley Partnership; chairman, Friendship Industries Board of Directors; and was founding president of the Harrisonburg Children's Museum.

The Cardinal Award is the most prestigious award bestowed by VEDA to deserving 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.

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 membership is comprised of more than 530 economic development professionals and related industry professionals from across the Commonwealth of Virginia.  For more information about VEDA, visit the Website at www.GoVEDA.org.

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