Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has appointed Connie Nyholm to the Board of Trustees for the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) for a returning three-year term. Nyholm previously served a three-year term on the Board of Trustees beginning in 2017.

“I am honored to continue my service on IALR’s Board of Trustees, especially as we build on the vital research, innovation and economic and workforce development initiatives happening.” – Connie Nyholm, IALR Board of Trustees

Nyholm is co-owner and CEO of VIRginia International Raceway (VIR). An entrepreneur with a passion for Virginia, Nyholm has taken VIR from near abandonment to one of North America’s premier road courses. VIR is now recognized for its challenging track, unique motorsport resort amenities, and as a destination for professional and amateur racing events, automotive testing, and team-building activities. Beyond her role at VIR, Nyholm currently serves on the board of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, the Motorsport Hall of Fame of America and as a member and Past President of the Road Racing Industry Council.

“We are delighted to have Connie Nyholm rejoin the Board. Her leadership at VIR has made an indelible impact on the region, establishing it as a premier motorsport destination. Her experience, vision and commitment to revitalizing Southern Virginia will be invaluable as we continue to transform our region.” – IALR Board Chairman Donald Merricks.

IALR is governed by a 15-member board of trustees consisting of leaders of Averett University, Danville Community College and Virginia Tech; a leader of the board of the Future of the Piedmont Foundation; one Danville resident appointed by Danville City Council; one Pittsylvania County resident appointed by the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors; and nine business representatives residing in Southside Virginia, three appointed by the governor, three appointed by the Senate Committee on Rules and three appointed by the speaker of the House of Delegates.

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. The Institute’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.