by Mac McLean
Danville Register & Bee

June 22, 2006

DANVILLE, Va. - The Institute for Advanced Learning & Research will receive $12.1 million from the state over the next two years. This amount is a $4.3 million increase from what former Gov. Mark Warner suggested in December for the program.

"It will mean the programs in the building will be as beautiful as the building itself," institute director Tim Franklin said Wednesday.

Franklin said the additional money would be used to hire 17 new faculty members or "entrepreneurial researchers." He expects these people to generate $15 million worth of research projects over the next six to eight years.

"It's a very important day for the institute and the entire region, really," Franklin said, thanking state officials and the region's legislators for their continued support of his program.

Del. Robert Hurt, R-Chatham, issued a press release Tuesday, saying the additional funding showed that state legislators understand the institute's importance for this region and its value as a catalyst for economic development.

Sen. Charles Hawkins, R-Pittsylvania, agreed. "We are laying the foundation for our children and grandchildren."

The General Assembly approved the state's $72 billion budget Tuesday after a debate over transportation funding forced this year's session more than three months into overtime. Under the budget the institute will receive $5.96 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1 and $6.2 million for the next fiscal year.

"When people come from other regions and see the institute, they are amazed at its level of technology and research," said Del. Danny Marshall, R-Danville.

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