McKinley “Ken” Dull, president of Wilmington-based McKinley Building Corp., has been given the Outstanding Philanthropist Award in Wilmington by the Cape Fear Region Chapter of the North Carolina Association of Fundraising Professionals.  

"Ken's philanthropic endeavors have left an indelible mark on the Wilmington community. Notably, he and his wife, Vicki, have been dedicated volunteers and donors to the Jo Ann Carter Harrelson Center, Wilmington's campus of humanitarian nonprofits," the release stated. "Their substantial financial contributions and pledges led to the naming of the Vicki Dull Annex – part of the former New Hanover County Jail transformed into office suites for nonprofit organizations."
 
His commitment to higher education is evident through scholarships funded at Cape Fear Community College and Brunswick Community College, according to the release, and his support extends to N.C. State University, the Linville Foundation, and various initiatives benefiting children in Avery County.

"Ken's leadership and influence within the Cape Fear region's building community shine through the creation of the Day in The Country fundraising event.  In its 11th year, this event has become a signature fundraiser, generating over half a million dollars in direct contributions," the release stated. "Ken's involvement in the Harrelson Center's Unlock Hope Capital Campaign and the seeding of contributions for the Center's Endowment further showcase his commitment to long-term stability for humanitarian nonprofits."

Dull founded his company, a prominent commercial construction management, general contracting and design-build firm, in 1992. The company provides matching gifts for numerous nonprofit organizations, and employees are granted one week per year for mission or volunteer leave, the release stated.
 
His involvement in civic and professional boards, including the town of Wrightsville Beach Board of Aldermen, the N.C. State Foundation Board, and the South State Bank Board, "reflects his dedication to the betterment of the region. Notably, much of Ken's philanthropic contributions are given anonymously, underscoring his humility and commitment to making a difference," the release stated.