For nearly two decades, the IALR Foundation has supported local high school seniors through STEM scholarships, awarding nearly $200,000 to help students pursue their passions and take the next step in their educational journey.
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) Foundation advances IALR’s mission to serve as a regional catalyst for economic transformation by securing and stewarding strategic resources. Through targeted partnerships and donor engagement, the Foundation invests in the key divisions that support and expand IALR’s mission: applied research, advanced learning, economic development, manufacturing advancement, and conference services.
By investing in innovation and opportunity, the Foundation ensures IALR’s continued impact in creating a thriving, forward-focused community.
Meet Our
Senior Director, Institutional Advancement
IALR Mission
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The mission will be accomplished through applied research, advanced learning, economic development, manufacturing advancement and conference services.
IALR Vision
To realize Southern Virginia as home to a dynamic economy where all can live and thrive.
Foundation Investment Priorities
Workforce Development & Talent Pipeline
There are more 7,000+ students in the regional manufacturing pipeline. The Foundation invests in training programs, scholarships—including summer camp scholarships—and educational initiatives such as middle school career exploration, internships, externships and Registered Apprenticeship that build a highly skilled workforce and establish IALR as a center of excellence.
Infrastructure & Strategic Growth
The IALR campus spans 300,000+ square feet and seven buildings, as well as multiple greenhouses and controlled environment agriculture facilities. The IALR Foundation secures resources to expand and enhance IALR’s facilities, technology, and research capabilities to support long-term regional advancement.
Programmatic Innovation & Impact
IALR supports 16,000+ STEM learners annually. The Foundation supports a range of programs, including Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) for adult learners and GO TEC for middle school students.
Economic Growth & Business Competitiveness:
IALR and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance supported the announcement of 2,257 new regional jobs. The Foundation supports initiatives that position Virginia as a hub for high-tech industries, attract targeted sector investments and strengthen regional businesses to compete globally.
Military and Veteran Monument Fund
The Navy strongly endorses the display of naval vessels and their artifacts to help preserve and commemorate their histories and to honor the service of their crews. Program Executive Office, Strategic Submarines (PEO SSBN PMS 396) has approved for the IALR to display the sail of the ex-USS BUFFALO (SSN 715) and the rudder of the ex-USS PROVIDENCE (SSN 719). Contributions given will support the reconstruction, placement and ongoing maintenance of this monument.
Foundation Sustainability & Operations
The IALR Foundation is committed to efficient daily operations and leadership initiatives to ensure long-term impact and mission fulfillment.
Foundation Goals
The IALR Foundation’s resource development efforts are strategically aligned with IALR’s mission to drive economic transformation, establish Southern Virginia as a leader in business and workforce development, and foster innovation. By securing and stewarding financial resources, the Foundation supports initiatives that advance IALR’s strategic goals and long-term impact.
- Virginia’s Go-To Partner for Business and Economic Growth: Expand into a leading hub for high-value and high-tech companies, growing sectors and targeted industries for economic development.
- Center of Excellence for Education and Workforce Development: Become the region’s epicenter for training and educating a highly skilled workforce.
- Globally Competitive Business Ecosystem: Advance and connect businesses in the Southern Virginia region to ensure they are globally competitive.
- Collaborative Team Success: Drive cross-divisional collaboration and human capital investments to maximize IALR’s impact.
- Excellence in Board Leadership and Decision Making: Optimize board effectiveness to advance IALR’s mission.
- Strategic Expansion of Applied Research and Culture of Learning: Expand applied research and establish a culture of learning to serve community and business needs aligned with the organizational and physical assets at IALR.
2025 STEM Scholarships
Foundation Supports Regional Students
"“I’m gaining a lot of lab and horticulture experience that I haven’t had the opportunity to get from school. When I return to school I will feel more confident and equipped to find a research career. I’ve also learned to adapt to the corporate lifestyle and professional skills that young…"
John Roark / Two-Time IALR Research Intern
"“We always say we’re accessible, we’re affordable and we’re skilled.” "
Linda Green / IALR, Southern Virginia Regional Alliance
"“I have enjoyed learning about the captivating things IALR carries out while learning invaluable soft skills to prepare for professional situations.""
Ethan Wilkerson / IALR Information Technology Intern
"“My two sons and two nephews had a FANTASTIC camp with all of the staff. All four children were just so excited all week.”"
Amy Scott / Summer Camp Parent
""When recruiting new companies to Southern Virginia, IALR’s ability to provide services and collaboration opportunities is a major selling point.”"
Linda Green / IALR, Southern Virginia Regional Alliance
Your Generosity Can Help Shape the Future of the Southern Virginia Region
Leave a Lasting Legacy: Naming Opportunities
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research believes in honoring those whose generosity helps shape the future of our region. Naming opportunities provide a unique and enduring way to celebrate your commitment to education, innovation, and community transformation.
Whether you’re passionate about student success, cutting-edge research, or regional economic development, your gift can be recognized in a meaningful way that reflects your values and inspires others.
We offer a variety of naming opportunities at different giving levels, including, but not limited to the following:
- Buildings and Facilities
- Classrooms, Labs and Meeting Spaces
- Scholarships and Endowments
- Programs and Initiatives
Recognition and Impact
Named gifts not only provide critical funding, but also create a legacy of leadership. Donors are recognized through:
- Prominent signage
- Digital and printed materials
- Special events and dedications
- Permanent records of giving
Every naming opportunity is tailored to your interests and the needs of the IALR. We would be honored to explore how your generosity can make a lasting mark.
Other Ways to Give
Your generosity can take many forms, and every gift helps us drive progress in our region. If you are looking for meaningful ways to support the IALR Foundation beyond traditional giving, we offer several options that may align with your personal, financial, and charitable investment goals.
Legacy Giving
Leave a lasting legacy by including the Foundation in your estate plans. Whether through a bequest, beneficiary designation or charitable trust, your planned gift ensures your impact endures for generations to come.
Common legacy gifts include:
- A gift in your will or trust
- Designating the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research Foundation as a beneficiary of your retirement account or life insurance policy
- Establishing a charitable remainder trust
A legacy gift can be an inspiring reflection of your values and a powerful investment in our future.
Planned Gifts
Planned giving allows you to make a thoughtful, strategic contribution, often with financial benefits for you and your loved ones. We are happy to work with you and your advisors to structure a gift that aligns with your intentions.
Every donor’s situation is unique. We are here to help you find the giving strategy that works best for you, while making a lasting impact on our work and community.
Matching Gifts
Gifts may be matched by employers to increase their impact. Check with your company to see if a matching gift program is available.
Real Estate Gifts
Real estate can be a powerful way to support our mission while potentially reducing your tax burden. Gifts of property—whether residential, commercial, or undeveloped land—may be used directly or sold to fund priority initiatives.
Your investment supports innovation, economic transformation and education
The IALR Foundation is governed by a board of directors.
The IALR Foundation aligns its funding efforts with IALR’s strategic plan and goals, ensuring high-impact investments directly further IALR’s mission to drive economic transformation.
The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity under the Internal Revenue Code. Your donation to the Foundation is deductible as permitted by law.
Learn How You Can Support the Foundation
