"The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research builds on the strength of Virginia Tech's research and development and economic development activities. It is creating a vibrant source of innovation in south central Virginia. These programs demonstrate market-based results and ought to be replicated across the country."
--Thomas M. Sullivan, Chief Counsel, Office of Advocacy, Small Business Administration
By Meagan Kendrick - Communications and Public Relations Intern
Special thanks were at hand for those who attended the Summer 2010 Internship Reception sponsored by the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR,) the Danville Regional Foundation (DRF) and the Halifax Regional Health System. Nearly 30 interns from the IALR and DRF attended the reception along with several employers from participating businesses. The attendees enjoyed an afternoon full of casual socializing, food and presentations.
Executive Director of IALR, Dr. Liam Lieghtley opened the ceremony by extending a warm welcome to all participants and thanking them for partaking in such a valuable program. Each intern had the opportunity to put together a digital story in relation to their internship experiences. The videos were compiled and presented during the reception to help inform the audience of how truly beneficial the internships are for student’s future careers. “This experience will be very beneficial to me in the future and was a huge asset as I was filling out my dental school applications,” Intern, Rachel Brinkley said. Both the interns and businesses were recognized for their participation and presented with a certificate. Dr. Julie Brown, IALR’s Director of Education and Outreach concluded the reception by once again thanking all participants for their contributions and encouraging them to remain involved in such a prestigious program.
For the fourth summer in a row, the Education and Outreach department at IALR coordinated the Summer Internship Program. Students who are chosen to participate in the program are placed in positions related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) to work with a local business for eight weeks. The internships are intended to provide students with meaningful, real-world experience and training and networking opportunities while at the same time, affording them paid employment. The main goal of the program is to encourage students to return to Southern Virginia for employment after completing their college education. “Part of the mission of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research is to develop and attract talented individuals to Southern Virginia,” said Amanda Glenn, Program Coordinator. “The Internship Program is designed not only to provide meaningful job experience to interns, but it is also designed to introduce college students to potential employers as well as introduce employers to skilled young professionals."
The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission (TIC) awarded the Education and Outreach department with a grant to subsidize 50 percent of the interns pay which is a substantial benefit to businesses and organizations during the difficult economic times. This summer, 28 college students and recent graduates were able to participate in the program.
Special thanks to all participating interns, businesses, TIC and the Education and Outreach department for helping make this program a huge success!
Photographs by Bobby A. Roach - Communications and Public Relations Intern
