Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), has been named one of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural 40 Under 40 honorees. He was recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Business Appreciation Dinner on May 13.
The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 program celebrates emerging leaders, innovators and changemakers under 40 who live or work in Martinsville-Henry County and are leading, serving or making an impact in the community. Honorees represent some of the region’s brightest talent and are featured in the 2026 edition of Discover MHC Magazine.
“It is an honor and a privilege to receive this award from the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce alongside so many inspiring leaders in our hometown. Serving our region through education and service fuels my passion for uplifting and empowering our communities and ensuring we all have the skills and knowledge to thrive. I am grateful for the support of this community, which makes our collective progress possible.” – Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II, IALR
At IALR, Stanley oversees Wonder Community, a lifelong learning program where members meet curious people, share their passions and talents and learn new things. Frequent workshops provide members the opportunity to learn unique skills, understand topics of interest or explore new places.
Stanley also works extensively with the Dan River Year AmeriCorps program. This IALR initiative has served Southern Virginia for more than a decade by connecting individuals with opportunities to serve in schools, neighborhoods and community organizations. Originally launched as a STEM tutoring initiative, Dan River Year AmeriCorps has evolved into a multi-faceted program focused on STEM and literacy education, youth mental health and community health outreach. Members serve in classrooms, after-school programs, community sites and behavioral health settings, where they support students, lead health workshops and contribute to prevention and outreach efforts.
Through his leadership in Wonder Community and support of the Dan River Year AmeriCorps program, Stanley contributes to IALR’s mission to serve as a regional catalyst for economic transformation by fostering lifelong learning, civic engagement and workforce development.
“Brian’s creativity, innovation and dedication to transformation exemplify excellence, while his supportive nature makes a lasting impact on both colleagues, IALR and the community.” – Dana Silicki, Director, STEM, Service and Lifelong Learning, IALR
About the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40
The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 program recognizes emerging leaders, innovators and changemakers under 40 who live or work in Martinsville-Henry County and are leading, serving or making an impact in the community. Honorees are featured in the annual Discover MHC Magazine and recognized at the Chamber’s Business Appreciation Dinner.
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.
