Mark Gignac serves as the Executive Director of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), where he works to lead economic transformation across the region. Prior to his current role, he served as IALR’s Director of Applied Research. Mr. Gignac has founded, owned and operated businesses within the region over the past 30 years, including medical electronics manufacturer Engineering Design & Sales, Inc. (E.D.S.) and Chartwell Homes LLC. Mr. Gignac has also been actively involved in the community with special interest in economic development. Activities include Danville City Council, Danville Development Council, founding chairman of the board of the Dan River Business Development Center, Southside Rising Venture Capital and the Southern Piedmont Technology Council. Mr. Gignac is a graduate of Virginia Tech and resides in Danville with his wife, Leannah.
Proxy Representative: Dr. Julie Brown
