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Five IALR Staff Selected for Leadership Southside

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Five IALR Staff Selected for Leadership Southside

Five IALR Staff Selected for Leadership Southside

Five employees of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) have been selected to participate in this year’s cohort of Leadership Southside, a professional development program offered through the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. The program equips emerging and established leaders with the tools, experiences and connections needed to make an impact across Southern Virginia.

The IALR participants are:

  • Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II
  • Jeremiah Williams, Director, Manufacturing Technologies
  • Jessica Hardy, IT Specialist II
  • Joel Nester, ATDM Industry Engagement Coordinator
  • Meredith Gregory, Director, Digital Strategy & Program Management

“I hope to expand my network by connecting with regional and state leaders and learning more about the impactful work they are doing. I am particularly interested in identifying ways to build partnerships that strengthen both my programs and the broader community. Ultimately, I hope this program will help me become a more effective, collaborative leader who can support sustainable growth and create meaningful opportunities for the communities we serve.” – Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II

“I’m looking forward to learning from key leaders across the region and gaining a broader perspective from their experiences and leadership styles. I hope to refine my own leadership skills, become a more effective leader, and continue growing in how I communicate, support, and lead those around me.” – Jeremiah Williams, Director, Manufacturing Technologies

“Through the Leadership Southside program, I am looking forward to gaining skills that help maintain meaningful connections, gaining more self-understanding and confidence, learning enhanced skills for communication with colleagues of all levels, and ultimately, learning how to transition from a non-leadership role into a leadership role in my career’s future.” – Jessica Hardy, IT Specialist II

“I am looking forward to building relationships and making connections in Southern Virginia. This is a great opportunity for me to learn more about myself and give me the opportunity to grow as a professional. I always welcome new ideas and ways of thinking to improve myself as an individual.” – Joel Nester, ATDM Industry Engagement Coordinator

“There is no finish line when it comes to expanding leadership skills. To me, Leadership Southside is a fantastic opportunity to invest time into my leadership ability. The program is also a great networking opportunity within Southern Virginia. Bringing together professionals and leaders from so many organizations in the area fosters connectivity in the region well after the program completes.” – Meredith Gregory, Director, Digital Strategy and Program Management

Now in its 35th year, Leadership Southside is a leadership development program for the business, education, public and nonprofit sectors that aims to connect and build leaders. The cohort meets monthly to explore topics such as the role of a leader, self-management and the management of others, and inspiring others to take action. Several IALR employees have participated in past cohorts.

Participant Biographies

Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II

Stanley oversees the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning program, coordinating, developing and leading workshops to strengthen the region’s workforce and expand lifelong learning programming. He also works extensively with the Dan River Year AmeriCorps program as the site, data and communications coordinator, supporting the program’s data collection and reporting, site partnerships and placements, member training, development and supervision and works to help market and recruit future members.

Jeremiah Williams, Director, Manufacturing Technologies

As Director of Manufacturing Technology, Williams oversees all technical aspects of the Center for Manufacturing Advancement’s (CMA) manufacturing and optimization efforts with a primary focus on subtractive manufacturing, design for additive manufacturing (DFAM), additive manufacturing, and quality. Williams leads and manages the engineering teams while also developing and strengthening partnerships with industry and technology partners to expand the CMA’s capabilities and impact.

Jessica Hardy, IT Specialist II

Hardy works in the IT department as an IT Specialist II. Her main responsibilities include working with helpdesk services, testing and preparing AV equipment for conference events, physical access management and intermediate-level systems administration tasks.

Joel Nester, ATDM Industry Engagement Coordinator

Nester serves as the ATDM Industry Engagement Coordinator, connecting industry partners to a trained talent pipeline. Through collaboration and outreach, he develops partnerships that create employment opportunities for program participants while helping employers meet their training and workforce needs. He is passionate about creating relationships that drive long-term success for both industry and trainees.

Meredith Gregory, Director, Digital Strategy & Program Management

Gregory leads the digital team within Manufacturing Advancement as well as the Program Management Office. In this role, Meredith engages with customers, internal and external, on digital and program management needs, translates this into vision and strategy, and leads execution of both initiatives.

Four IALR Staff Selected for Leadership Southside

Four IALR Staff Selected for Leadership Southside

Four employees of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) have been selected to participate in this year’s cohort of Leadership Southside, a professional development program offered through the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. The program equips emerging and established leaders with the tools, experiences and connections needed to make an impact across Southern Virginia.

The IALR participants are:

  • Dr. Sajeewa Amaradasa, Senior Scientist
  • Daniel Dalton, Graphic & Multi-Media Specialist II
  • Abby Karavanic, Program Assistant, GO TEC®
  • Tim Kruggel, Director of Information Technology Operations

“I’m attending the Leadership Southside program to build meaningful connections with area leaders, gain deeper insight into my leadership style, and sharpen my skills in conflict resolution and effective communication. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on my strengths and weaknesses so that I can grow into a more impactful and self-aware leader.” – Dr. Sajeewa Amaradasa, Senior Scientist

“By participating in the Leadership Southside program, I aim to build greater self-confidence, enhance my communication skills, foster initiative, and differentiate myself from my peers. I want to expand my ability to give back, contribute and mentor. As an advocate for lifelong learning, this program will also help me gain a deeper understanding of my strengths and weaknesses.” – Daniel Dalton, Graphic & Multi-Media Specialist II

“To me, leadership isn’t limited to just a title, it’s about supporting others and moving work and community forward. Even in roles where I’m not formally leading a team, skills like communication, collaboration, and adaptability are essential. Through Leadership Southside, I hope to build on those skills so I can be a stronger teammate and a meaningful community leader.” – Abby Karavanic, Program Assistant, GO TEC®

“After more than 30 years in IT, I know there’s always more to learn about leadership and collaboration. This program provides the tools and reflection needed to help me continue developing as a leader and support my team and organization more effectively.” – Tim Kruggel, Director of Information Technology Operations

Now in its 33rd year, Leadership Southside is a leadership development program for the business, education, public and nonprofit sectors that aims to connect and build leaders. The cohort meets monthly to explore topics such as the role of a leader, self-management and the management of others, and inspiring others to action. Several IALR employees have participated in past cohorts.

Participant Biographies

Dr. Sajeewa Amaradasa, Senior Scientist
Amaradasa conducts research on beneficial plant endophytes to control crop diseases and promote sustainable agriculture. His work includes laboratory, greenhouse and field trials to develop biological alternatives to pesticides.

Daniel Dalton, Graphic & Multi-Media Specialist II
Dalton is responsible for creating high-quality content and supporting the planning and execution of strategic marketing and communications campaigns and projects that support all aspects of IALR. He creates content across multiple platforms, including digital, print and multimedia.

Abby Karavanic, Program Assistant, GO TEC®
Karavanic supports the operations of the Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program, helping coordinate activities that introduce students to future careers. She also assists with program development and community engagement.

Tim Kruggel, Director of Information Technology
Kruggel oversees the technology infrastructure for IALR, ensuring staff, guests and partners have the tools and systems needed for success. He leads IT operations and support across the campus.

Five IALR Employees Complete Regional Leadership Programs

Five IALR Employees Complete Regional Leadership Programs

Five employees from the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) recently completed regional leadership development programs designed to cultivate personal growth, strengthen professional skills and enhance community engagement.

Four of these employees graduated from Leadership Southside, a long-standing leadership development program hosted by the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce. One employee completed the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, a project-based experience focused on leadership effectiveness and community connection.

Leadership Southside Graduates

The following IALR employees recently graduated from Leadership Southside:

  • Caleb Ayers, Communications Content Manager
  • Tracy Fink, Vice President, Institute Conference Center
  • Sherri Dickens, Student Services Manager, Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM)
  • Justin Scarce, Manager, ATDM Industry Engagement

Now in its 33rd year, Leadership Southside helps professionals across the business, education, nonprofit and public sectors build their capacity to lead with empathy and purpose. Through 10 months of interactive sessions, personal assessments and networking opportunities, including a visit to Richmond for Chamber Day at the Capitol, participants gain insight into their personal leadership style and how it affects their ability to influence and collaborate with others.

“Before Leadership Southside, I viewed leadership primarily as a position of authority—someone who sets direction and ensures tasks get done. But through the program, my perception has evolved. I now see leadership as more relational and service-oriented. It’s about influence, empathy and being able to bring people together around a shared vision.” – Sherri Dickens, Student Services Manager, Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM)

“My favorite part of Leadership Southside was getting to connect with so many passionate, driven people from our region. Every session brought a fresh perspective—not just on leadership, but on how we can make a real impact in our community. I walked away with new friendships, valuable insights and a stronger sense of purpose in both my work and community involvement.” – Tracy Fink, Vice President of the IALR Conference Center

“Leadership Southside helped me assess and understand my own workplace tendencies and motivations and gave me the tools to see the motivations and desires of my colleagues.” – Caleb Ayers, Communications Content Manager, IALR

“Leadership Southside helped me understand the value of different leadership styles and how each brings unique strengths to a team. It taught me how to better collaborate by recognizing and adapting to those differences for more effective teamwork and impact.” – Justin Scarce, ATDM Industry Engagement Manager, IALR

The Chamber recognized the Class of 2025 during its Annual Awards Banquet at IALR. With this year’s cohort, more than 600 individuals have completed the program.

Martinsville-Henry County Leadership Program Graduate

In addition to the Leadership Southside participants, Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II with IALR, completed the leadership program offered by the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce. This project-based leadership program is designed to help participants sharpen their leadership vision and effectiveness and discover their personal leadership styles.

Stanley and the other participants designed a mentorship program connecting high school students with industry professionals, which they presented to area leaders, including the Martinsville City Mayor, a Martinsville City Council representative and several of the Chamber’s board members.

“The Leadership program from the Martinsville and Henry County Chamber of Commerce has reshaped how I view myself as a leader by empowering the skills I already possess and introducing me to new methods that I can now share with my current and future teams. This program not only enabled me to connect with individuals whom I would most likely never have met but also created valuable connections that will continue to facilitate the development of programs that engage new partners in Martinsville and Henry County, showing the potential for growth and development.” – Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II, IALR

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 on Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg and the cities of Martinsville and Danville.

Dr. Julie Brown Wins WE Lead Award

Dr. Julie Brown Wins WE Lead Award

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) proudly shares that Dr. Julie Brown, IALR’s Vice President of Advanced Learning, has been awarded the WE Lead Award from the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce. The award was announced during the Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet hosted at the IALR Conference Center on May 30.

The Chamber’s WE Lead program, which stands for Women Empowered, provides access to dynamic programs designed to develop leadership skills and build professional networks for women in business. This prestigious honor celebrates a transformative leader who has shown extraordinary dedication and service to Danville and Pittsylvania County.

Knyla Harris Photography

“I am truly honored and humbled to receive this recognition from WE Lead and the Chamber. As a product of numerous empowered women who have supported and mentored me during my life and professional career, I hope I can pay that forward to the next generation of women leaders.” – Dr. Julie Brown, Vice President, Advanced Learning, IALR

Dr. Brown has led the implementation and sustainability of many visionary programs and initiatives that have significantly impacted Southern Virginia and the entire Commonwealth. She has spearheaded the execution and expansion of the Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program, which is on track to serve 73 schools and reach over 11,000 students annually by the 2025–2026 academic year.

“Julie Brown’s leadership spans sectors, generations and communities. She is a visionary leader who lifts others, creates opportunities and inspires progress. For her impact and her approach to serving her community, Julie is more than deserving of this WE Lead Award.”  – Anne Moore-Sparks, President and CEO, Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Brown has driven the success of the Dan River Year AmeriCorps program, which logged over 16,000 service hours last year as one of Virginia’s largest AmeriCorps service-learning programs. Over 10 years ago, she spearheaded the creation of the annual Career ChoICE Youth Expo, now serving over 4,500 students annually across two locations. Dr. Brown leads a high-caliber team that, just last year, served over 14,500 STEM learners and connected 46 interns and 50 apprentices to regional employers. Her excellence has been recognized with the Danville Hometown Hero Award, a gubernatorial appointment to the Virginia Workforce Board and selection and induction into the Academy of Community Engagement Scholarship.

Brown is a graduate of the Chamber’s Leadership Southside as well as statewide programs like the Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership and Lead Virginia. She serves on numerous boards, including the Center for Early Success, Sovah Health, the West Piedmont Workforce Development Board and the Danville Public Schools Education Foundation. Her commitment to civic engagement extends to her longtime active membership in Riverview Rotary, the Wednesday Club and the Legislative Committee of the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce.

“Dr. Julie Brown is a leader and innovator with a tireless commitment to creating opportunities for others. She brings vision, energy and a deep passion to everything she does. Julie is an incredible asset to IALR and Southern Virginia.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President

Knyla Harris Photography

Linda Green, IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development and Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, received the inaugural WE Lead Award in 2024 and presented Dr. Brown’s award during the 2025 Chamber Annual Awards Banquet.

The WE Lead Award was Dr. Brown’s second award of the night. She and her family also received the Chamber’s Pinnacle Small Business Award for 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Co., which she helped to co-found.

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 on Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg and the cities of Martinsville and Danville.

Linda Hutson Green Wins Inaugural WE Lead Award

Linda Hutson Green Wins Inaugural WE Lead Award

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) proudly announces that Linda Hutson Green, IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development and Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, has been awarded the inaugural WE Lead Award from the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. The award was announced during the Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet hosted at the IALR Conference Center.

The Chamber’s WE Lead program, which stands for Women Empowered, provides access to dynamic programs designed to develop leadership skills and build professional networks for women in business. This prestigious honor celebrates a transformative leader who has shown extraordinary dedication and service to Danville and Pittsylvania County.

“I am deeply honored to receive the inaugural WE Lead Award. This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of the IALR team and our many partners. I appreciate the chance to work with the localities and want to recognize the accomplishments of Matt Rowe, Corrie Bobe, the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County, and the entire Southern Virginia Region. Together, we have made tremendous strides in driving economic transformation, and I am excited about the future and potential for our region.” – Linda Hutson Green, SVRA Exeucitive 

Green’s collaborative efforts with local economic development teams have led to the recruitment of 28 new companies to Southern Virginia and the expansion of 34 existing companies. These efforts have created more than 5,400 jobs and spurred just over $1.7 billion in capital investment across the region. Green currently serves as the 2024 President of the Virginia Economic Developers Association.

“The inaugural WE Lead (Women Empowered) Award was given to a female leader who is transforming our growing region. Green’s body of work and dedication to Danville and Pittsylvania County is unmatched and make her the perfect choice for this award.” – Anne Moore-Sparks, president and CEO of the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce

Green is an integral part of Southern Virginia, bringing a wealth of experience that spans federal, state, and local levels, both in the public and private sectors. Since October 2016, Green has served as IALR’s Vice President of Economic Development as well as the Executive Director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance. In these roles, she leverages the resources of IALR to assist local economic developers in marketing the Southern Virginia region, providing recruitment and retention of industries to create and sustain jobs and ensure the economic vitality of the region. Appointed to the Commonwealth Transportation Board by Governor Youngkin in 2023, Green also serves on the Averett University Board of Trustees. In July 2023, she received the Women in Leadership Award from Virginia Business Magazine.

Green’s distinguished career includes roles as District Director for U.S. Congressman Robert Hurt, Director for Federal Funding and Entrepreneurship for the Center for Innovative Technology, President and CEO of the Dan River Business Development Center, and Quality Engineer for the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. A Certified Quality Engineer, Linda holds a master’s in business administration from Duke University and is a graduate of Averett University and Danville Community College.

2024 Legislative Update – Lunch with Our Legislators

2024 Legislative Update – Lunch with Our Legislators

Join us for the Chamber’s 2024 Legislative Update: Lunch with Legislators event and learn about the recent legislative session from our elected officials. In addition to our elected officials you will hear from Matt Hall with the Office of the Attorney General. We are collecting questions in advance – if you would like to submit a question to any of our legislators, please do so during the registration process or email Crystal Hairston, Director of Operations, at Crystal@dpchamber.org. We will ask as many questions as time permits. This event is open to the public.

  • The Honorable Tammy Mulchi, Virginia State Senate 9th District
  • The Honorable Danny Marshall, Virginia House of Delegates 49th District
  • The Honorable Eric Phillips, Virginia House of Delegates 48th District
  • Matthew Hall, Community Liaison Office, Office of Attorney General

Admission:

  • Chamber members: $40
  • Future members: $50

EVENT AND REGISTRATION DETAILS 

IALR January 2024 Newsletter

IALR January 2024 Newsletter

READ THE FULL NEWSLETTER

The January 20224 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…

Email newsletter registration

Three-part Series on How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Business Coming to Dan River Region

Three-part Series on How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Business Coming to Dan River Region

SMART Seminars Designed Exclusively for Business Owners

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce and the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) are partnering through the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning to offer SMART Seminars. This three-part series is designed exclusively for business owners eager to revolutionize their marketing and social media strategies and tactics.

Participants can register for one, two, or three classes on February 21, 28, and March 6, 2024, to help unlock the limitless potential of ChatGPT and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and leverage these tools for dynamic social media strategies.

“The classes are a direct result from requests of Chamber members in our annual membership survey,“ said Anne Moore-Sparks, president and CEO of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. “Listening to the needs of business and responding with high quality, in-demand programming is a top priority. We are fortunate to have IALR as a partner because of their expertise and reputation in providing exceptional training.”

Online Registration

Class Schedule

Part I – February 21, 2024

Topic: ‘AI Unveiled’: Delve into the fundamentals, demystify AI, and understand how ChatGPT operates. Gain foundational insights into integrating AI seamlessly into your social media repertoire. Embark on this transformative journey and revolutionize your small business’s social media prowess with the power of ChatGPT and AI.

Part II – February 28, 2024

Topic: ‘Crafting Connection’: Explore the art of crafting engaging content that resonates with your audience. Uncover techniques to create compelling and authentic interactions using ChatGPT, transforming your social media presence.

Part III – March 6, 2024

Topic: ‘Mastery & Innovation’: Elevate your expertise as we explore advanced AI strategies. Learn to innovate and adapt, utilizing ChatGPT to stay ahead in the ever-evolving social media landscape.

Brian Stanley, advanced learning program coordinator with IALR, will lead all classes. He serves as a program coordinator for the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning and the Dan River Year AmeriCorps Program. Stanley brings over seven years of experience in youth development and enrichment-based learning programs.

“This collaboration showcases the importance of lifelong learning and why businesses must continue their education to support long-term success,” stated Stanley.

Classes will be held at IALR located at 150 Slayton Avenue from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Space is limited to 30 participants per class. The cost to attend is $10 per class for Chamber members and $15 per class for non-members. Registration and payment are required to attend. Register for one, two, or all three classes at https://bit.ly/2024AIClasses.

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce accelerates business growth by connecting its 560+ members organizations and 22,000 employee members to dynamic resources and networks. The Chamber’s number one goal is to help area businesses of all sizes to grow and prosper.

About the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation through 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 Danville and Martinsville. 

About IALR

Two IALR Employees Participating in Leadership Southside

Two IALR Employees Participating in Leadership Southside

Two employees of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research are participating in this year’s cohort of Leadership Southside – a professional development program offered through the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. Apprenticeship Coordinator II Natori Neal and Justin Owen, CNC Machining Instructor with the ATDM program, are two of the 35 local leaders in this year’s cohort.

“Through the Leadership Southside program, I hope to better understand my strengths and their influence on my leadership style. I am excited for the opportunity to become a better leader, grow personally and professionally, and network with other professionals and leaders across the region.” — Natori Neal, Apprenticeship Coordinator II, Participant in Leadership Southside Program

As Apprenticeship Coordinator, Neal is responsible for employer outreach and developing registered apprenticeship positions in partnership with regional employers and the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry. Neal has several years of experience in workforce development, community and business engagement and human services. Neal holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice from East Carolina University, as well as certificates in crisis intervention and career development.

“I not only want to grow as an instructor, but I also want to grow in my professional career. I see tremendous value in the program as I continue to advance in my career and look forward to discovering what leadership means for me.” — Justin Owen, CNC Machining Instructor, Participant in Leadership Southside Program

Owen is a CNC Machining Instructor with the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program. Before joining the ATDM program in 2020, Owen helped establish and provide instruction for the machining program at the Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center. Owen holds multiple industry certifications, an Associate of Applied Science in Integrated Machining Technology from Danville Community College, and a Bachelor of Applied Science from Averett University.

Now in its 31st year, Leadership Southside is a leadership development program for the business, education, public and nonprofit sectors that aims to connect and build leaders. The cohort will meet once a month, focusing on topics like the role of a leader, self-management and the management of others and inspiring others to action. Several IALR employees have participated in past cohorts.

IALR Shares Partnerships, Progress and Transformation in Annual Report

IALR Shares Partnerships, Progress and Transformation in Annual Report

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has published its 2021-2022 annual report, which highlights innovative and collaborative partnerships across departments that are transforming the economy of Southern Virginia.  

“Significant economic growth has resulted due to robust partnerships across the region. IALR stands ready to serve as Virginia’s go-to partner for education and workforce development, business and economic growth, and a globally competitive business ecosystem.” – IALR President Telly Tucker.

View the Full Report 

One of the pivotal moments of the report period is the creation and adoption of the new IALR Strategic Plan, which will guide IALR’s work and efforts for the next five years. With input from key stakeholders, the plan establishes strategic goals to outline how IALR can best capitalize on its unique strengths to impact the region. 

Just some of the new initiatives and programs launched, announced or expanded during FY 21 and FY 22:  

The Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC™) framework is spreading into schools across the Commonwealth. The GO TEC program is just one component of the newly developed and proven EmPOWER system – an employer-driven model to systematically connect students to careers through career awareness, exposure, and engagement and experience. Future and current members of the workforce, as well as businesses, find joint benefits in problem-solving teamships, apprenticeships, externships and internships, mock interview days and more.  

While striving to promote a diversified economy by serving a variety of industries, much of IALR’s impact in 2021-2022 was in the manufacturing sector. Expanding the existing middle-school-through-college workforce development pipelines, the new Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program is a rapid adult-learner model that prepares talent for jobs in the defense industrial base. ATDM launched in 2020 and is already proving successful and showing what modern public-private partnerships should look like. In addition, IALR partnered with the Commonwealth of Virginia and Danville Regional Foundation to construct the Center for Manufacturing Advancement, a new destination for manufacturers ready to optimize and scale and home to the U.S. Navy’s Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence.  

Through the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Innovation Center, a joint project with Virginia Tech, IALR has established itself as a global leader in the CEA industry. The presence of the innovative research and state-of-the-art equipment are already making an impact on Southern Virginia. Thanks to best-in-class resources, including lab spaces and staff, the Applied Research team provided 30 companies with applied research and testing services like analytical chemistry, polymer testing and more.  

In partnership with the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) and many other economic development organizations, IALR is proud to champion the area while working with local, regional and state partners. In FY 21 and 22, the Southern Virginia region saw $498 million in announced capital investment and 1,288 new jobs. IALR contributed to economic success by serving as a temporary home for growing businesses by providing critical testing services and lab space to innovative companies across industries. The Bridge to Recovery Program connected companies with suppliers and helped businesses become more resilient post-pandemic.  

The Institute Conference Center hosted a variety of events geared toward the growth of industry sectors and Southern Virginia, including trainings and economic development activities. Numerous companies, including anchor and growing employers held successful job fairs, connecting community members with quality employment. An extensive renovation of the main building and a relaunch of Megabytes, IALR’s on-site café, have allowed the Institute Conference Center to provide even better service for the 20,800 guests who visited.  

Business at Breakfast: 2023 Legislative Update

Business at Breakfast: 2023 Legislative Update

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce invites members and future members to hear from the region’s legislators on the 2023 session of the Virginia General Assembly on Wednesday, May 10 from 7:30-9:00 a.m.  The program is part of the Chamber’s regular Business@Breakfast series and will feature Senator Frank Ruff, Delegate Danny Marshall, and Delegate Les Adams who will discuss the recent session and answer questions provided in advance from the membership. The event will be held at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research and include a continental breakfast.

“Our legislators welcome the opportunity to represent and hear from business people,” said Linda Hutson Green, Vice President, Economic Development, IALR and Chair of the Chamber’s legislative committee. “The Chamber looks out for the interests of business by connecting our members to policy makers.”

  • Chamber members: $30
  • Future members: $35

Event and Registration Details 

Chamber of Commerce 2023 Annual Membership Meeting

Chamber of Commerce 2023 Annual Membership Meeting

Annual Membership Meeting to Highlight Chamber Goals for 2023

Keynote Speaker:

Sonya Ravindranath Waddell
Vice President and Economist for Regional and Community Analysis
Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond

Topic: The Richmond Fed has devoted time in the last few years to better understand similarities and differences across the rural and smaller town areas within the region it covers (VA, WV, MD, DC, NC, and SC). Rural and small town areas face many challenges attracting employers and workers, but they also have unique assets to leverage. This presentation will talk about those challenges and opportunities—when possible, with a focus on Danville.   

Remarks by:


                Hunter Byrnes
                  2023 Chair

                  Mike Jones
                  2022 Chair


              Anne Moore-Sparks 
                President & CEO

As we usher in the new year, it’s a great time to learn how the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce has worked for business this past year and what is planned for the upcoming year.

  • Meet your 2023 Board of Directors and Officers.
  • Recognize the outgoing Chair and Board Members.
  • Learn about the Chamber’s direction, preview of programs, and a sneak peak at the new 2023-2026 Strategic Plan, all of which have been shaped by our membership.

A hot breakfast buffet will be served.

Register Now

IALR Wins Chamber Pinnacle Award

IALR Wins Chamber Pinnacle Award

The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce awarded IALR the esteemed Pinnacle Award at the 2021 annual awards ceremony. One of the top honors, it is awarded to a distinguished business or organization that contributes to the economic vitality and quality of life in the region through innovative, ethical business practices, professionalism and strong community involvement. Thanks to groundbreaking applied research, outcomes-based advanced learning, collaborative and strategic economic development, industry-centered advanced manufacturing training, and client-focused conference services, IALR was recognized as one of the region’s leading catalysts of economic transformation.

“I am honored to accept the Pinnacle Award on behalf of IALR’s staff and Board of Trustees,” said IALR Executive Director Mark Gignac. “With the goal of economic transformation at the heart of all programs, services and initiatives, IALR is truly committed to the economic vitality of the region. By working with our like-minded partners, we will continue serving as a leader of innovation, collaboration and transformation.”

Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce Board Chair John Settle (right) presents IALR Executive Director Mark Gignac (left) with the 2021 Chamber Pinnacle Award.