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"The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research is a vessel made for a regional passage. This passage is characterized by great challenge and even greater possibility. The story of Southside Virginia told by future generations will focus on the regionalism of the people; the new technologies that drove the economy; the entrepreneurs who rebuilt the private sector; the color-, class-, and gender-blind opportunity enjoyed by the workers; the emphasis on education and whole life learning; and the quality of life enjoyed by the residents. The promise of this future comes with challenges that the people of Southside Virginia have boldly committed to by creating this new regional institution. The possibilities of this future are as exciting as the challenges are imposing. It is a passage that must be made."
–Timothy V. Franklin

IALR Senior staff

Jerry Niles, Ph.D. - Interim Executive Director

Jerry Niles, Dean Emeritus at Virginia Tech, has been appointed to serve as Interim Executive Director of IALR effective November 26th, according to Virginia Hall, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Institute (IALR) for Advanced Learning and Research. 

Niles will replace current Executive Director Tim Franklin, who has accepted a post at Penn State University.

The recently retired VT Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences said, when asked about his upcoming role as Interim Executive Director of what has come to be known as a national model for economic transformation, Niles said, “I have followed the emergence of the IALR as it has transformed itself from dreams and aspirations to a highly successful reality. The development of the Institute has been truly remarkable. I am excited about joining the impressive team of faculty and staff and committed members of the community to do what I can to contribute to this innovative community development partnership.”

Robert C. Norfleet - Senior Director for Business and Operations

Robert C. Norfleet, Senior Director for Business Operations, directs the financial, human resources, and facilities functions of IALR.  He also plays a key role in future business developments that will originate from IALR.  Robert most recently served as the Vice President for Business and Finance at Davidson College in Davidson, NC.

John M. Kennedy, Ph.D. - Senior Director of Research and Innovation

John M. Kennedy is the Senior Director of Research and Innovation at IALR.  Kennedy, former Director of the Center for Advanced Engineering Fibers and Films at Clemson University, oversees the research centers at IALR, working closely with the Office of the Vice President of Research at Virginia Tech.  Kennedy will also lead the effort to expand the research enterprise at IALR and work to commercialize technology from IALR into Southside.  Kennedy, who has done extensive research on polymer and metal matrix composites and fibers, has teaching and research experience at the NASA Langley Research Center and Clemson.

Eric N. Sheppard – Director of Finance and Administration

Eric N. Sheppard, Director of Finance andAdministration, is responsible for developing administrative policy, implementing state and university policies relating to finance, developing personnel policies and procedures, managing facility use, and accounting for revenues related to rental space. Eric provides budget, finance, contractual, and administrative leadership for the IALR.

Maurice A. Ferrell – Chief Information Officer

Maurice A. Ferrell, director of advanced networking and technology, has responsibility for developing and managing the information technology infrastructure for the IALR. He also directs the on-site IT staff to support the information technology operations of the IALR.