The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research celebrated 52 graduating students from two dual-enrollment programs during two events on May 11, recognizing the Class of 2026 from the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET) and the Piedmont Governor’s School for Mathematics, Science and Technology (PGSMST).
Both programs bring high school juniors and seniors to the IALR campus for half-day, college-level instruction with students returning to their home schools in the afternoons. With more than 100 combined students on the IALR campus every day, these two programs provide a powerful model for preparing students across the region for success in college and careers, particularly in STEM fields.
“The success of these students reflects their hard work, as well as the strength of the partnerships that make programs like AET and the Governor’s School possible. Together, we are creating pathways that prepare students for college and successful careers.” Dana Silicki, Director, STEM, Service and Lifelong Learning, IALR
AET prepares students for engineering pathways
The Academy for Engineering and Technology, a partnership between IALR and Danville Community College serving Danville Public Schools and Pittsylvania County Schools, will celebrated its 11th graduating class. This year’s cohort includes 20 seniors, bringing the total number of graduates from IALR-based cohorts to 246.
Through a two-year dual-enrollment model, AET students earn 32 tuition-free college credits while completing advanced coursework in engineering, mathematics and English. The program is designed to give students a clear understanding of engineering as a career path while building the academic and technical foundation needed for success in college-level programs.
“The graduating class of the AET has demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and unwavering dedication throughout the past two years. Through challenging coursework, hands-on projects and collaborative problem-solving experiences, these students have consistently shown perseverance, creativity and a commitment to excellence. The skills they have developed — especially their ability to think critically, adapt and solve complex problems — have prepared them well for the opportunities and challenges ahead. As they continue their chosen academic paths, they are exceptionally well positioned for future success and meaningful contributions in their fields and communities.” – John Hatchett, Coordinator and Engineering Instructor, Academy for Engineering & Technology
Class of 2026 AET graduates
- Madison Barker – Old Dominion University – Civil Engineering
- Hiya Bhatia – University of Virginia – Biomedical Engineering
- Aidan Byrd-Hudgins – Danville Community College – Engineering
- Mariyah Clark – Old Dominion University – Computer Science
- Mason Clark – Virginia Tech – Mechanical Engineering
- Tennessee Groff – Longwood University – Business Administration
- Kayla Hamlett – University of Virginia – Mathematics
- Sadie Holley – Liberty University – Psychology
- Jake Howard – Clemson University – Civil Engineering
- Brice Jones – United States Coast Guard – Interdisciplinary Engineering
- Adnan Khan – University of Virginia – Biomedical Engineering
- Ava Kitchens – Central Virginia Community College – Radiologic Technology
- Nick Longerbeam – Old Dominion University – Environmental Sciences
- Andrew Merricks – Virginia Tech – Chemistry
- Anthony Ruocco – Virginia Commonwealth University – Computer Engineering
- Jaydin Tate – Danville Community College – Engineering
- Aaron Tompkins – Danville Community College – Engineering
- Noah Williams – Danville Community College – Business
- Will Wright – Virginia Commonwealth University – Forensic Science
Graduates from this year’s class are pursuing a range of postsecondary opportunities, with half planning to major in engineering fields. Students are enrolling at institutions such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Old Dominion University and Danville Community College, among others.
The AET Senior Breakfast at IALR brought together students, families and regional leaders to celebrate these achievements and recognize academic honors, including valedictorian Kayla Hamlett and salutatorian Jake Howard.
Governor’s School students recognized for excellence in STEM
IALR also hosted a celebration for 32 PGSMST students who attend classes on the IALR campus. These students represent Danville Public Schools and Pittsylvania County Schools, while other Governor’s School students attend classes at Patrick & Henry Community College.
Like AET, the Governor’s School provides a half-day advanced academic experience, emphasizing research-based project-driven learning in mathematics, science and technology.
“I’m proud to celebrate the rigorous academic achievements of our graduates. They represent the next generation of leaders, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make on the world.” – Tiffiny Gravely, Director, PGSMST
Piedmont Governor’s School graduates hosted at IALR
- Buford Clay Arnn
- Virginia Burton
- Kamari Davis
- Dallas Dietz
- Jackson Dietz
- Avalyn Emerson
- Elise Gatewood
- Sara George
- Kaitlyn Gregory
- Lauren Hogan
- Victor Ingram
- Reese Jenkins
- Shemariah Jones
- Nicholas Kania
- Madelyn Kenton
- Skylar Lucia
- Gavin Maxey
- Elizabeth Newell
- Colin Norris
- Samuel Payne
- Morgan Phillips
- Marco Pineda
- Ava Presley
- Samuel Rodriguez
- Elizabeth Sanchez
- Josiah Saunders
- Akeelah Scott
- Miranda Smallwood
- Victoria Spong
- Anna Stoler
- Mason Wood
- Lorelei Wray
In the PGSMST research class, senior students complete an extensive research project that includes literature reviews over the summer and early fall to guide their data collection, followed by several months of hands-on experimentation with mentor support. They conclude the experience by analyzing their findings and writing scientific papers, culminating in a public symposium at the IALR Conference Center, where students present their methodology, results and lessons learned.
Building a Regional Pipeline of Talent
Together, the Academy for Engineering and Technology and the Piedmont Governor’s School highlight the strength of collaborative partnerships between IALR, Danville Community College and regional school divisions.
By providing early access to college-level instruction, hands-on learning and career exploration, both programs help students graduate with a strong academic foundation, valuable college credits and the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills needed for future success.
The May 11 celebrations recognize not only the accomplishments of these 52 graduates but also the continued impact of programs designed to expand opportunity and strengthen the region’s future workforce.
About IALR
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
