Inside IALR Podcast: Conference Center Tales – Building an Anniversary Special Series

After 20 years of exceptional service to the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), Leslie Dobbins has announced her retirement from her position as Vice President of the Institute Conference Center, effective Jan. 31, 2024. Dobbins’ commitment to excellence has helped elevate the Institute Conference Center (ICC) to one of Southern Virginia’s most prestigious meeting and event destinations.

 “For over 20 years it has never felt like work because I absolutely love what I do every day. I believe in the mission, and I am beyond grateful to have had this incredible opportunity to work with so many capable and dedicated individuals.”  – Leslie Dobbins, Vice President of the Institute Conference Center, IALR  

Dobbins joined the ICC team in 2003 as Sales and Event Planner before being promoted to General Manager and then Director; she was named Vice President in May 2022. Her hospitality career spans 40 years and includes previous positions as Membership Development Director and Social Director for well-known hospitality organizations in Milwaukee and Louisville. Locally, she has served on the boards of the Danville Science Center, Smart Beginnings, Danville Concert Association and the Garden Club of Danville. Dobbins attended Sweet Briar College and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin. 

 IALR is indebted to Dobbins for numerous accomplishments, some of which include:  

• Leadership and development of an experienced ICC staff who worked by her side for most of her tenure 

• Cultivation of a high-quality food service provider 

• Opening IALR’s on-site café, Megabytes  

• Implementation of a dedicated “on-call” staff who embrace IALR’s mission of economic transformation 

• Leading the ICC team’s creation of a meaningful holiday community service project for 14 years (Decorating the Trees for a Cause, followed by Wreaths for a Cause, raising a total of $157,333 for area non-profits) 

• Managing the $2.8 million renovations of the ICC which began simultaneously with the pandemic 

• Overseeing upgrades to the Charles Hawkins Building high bays 

• Collaborating with Facilities to oversee the construction of the Rapid Launch Facility 

“Leslie’s dedication, attention to detail and commitment to excellence are pertinent factors in the success of the ICC. Her team members continuously strive to support the Conference Center’s function in the same way. During my brief tenure with IALR, I have grown to sincerely appreciate Leslie’s love for the organization, our mission and the community. She will be missed by all, and I wish her the best in future endeavors.” – Dr. John H. Hughes IV, Executive Vice President of Operations for IALR 

 Dobbins’ team also say they will miss their longtime leader. 

“Leslie is a hard-working and fair supervisor. She has held this team together like glue, and we are going to miss her terribly!” – Diana Parrish, Event Planner and Service Operations Coordinator at IALR

“Leslie is a great person to work for, or as she would always say, ‘we work together.’ I could not work for a better person; she is honest, has integrity and you always know she has your back and is very appreciative of the job you do.” – Ellen Bass, Sales and Marketing Manager at IALR 

“I give credit and thanks to the ICC team who have been integral in the growth and success of our department,” said Dobbins. “Professionally and personally, I am indebted to Diana, Ellen and Theresa (Lewis, Information Desk Specialist) for their unwavering dedication and support every step of the way.” 

Dobbins’ position, Vice President of the Institute Conference Center, will be posted on the employment section of the IALR website in the coming days.