Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Driving Economic Transformation

Group Tour of IALR Campus

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Group Tour of IALR Campus

Group Tour of IALR Campus

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is a regional catalyst for economic transformation. But what does that actually mean? And how do we accomplish this mission?

Join us for a free guided group tour of IALR’s campus to learn more about our impact, see our innovative programs and cutting-edge research, and experience our state-of-the-art facilities.

This one-hour tour will include an overview of what we do and a closer look into our five divisions: Advanced Learning, Applied Research, Manufacturing Advancement, Economic Development, and the Institute Conference Center. We will test out virtual reality welding equipment, observe a demonstration of robotics and automation for manufacturing, work as a scientist in the Plant Endophyte Research Center and see an up-close view of the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program. 

This tour is open to 10 participants, each of whom will receive:

  • An engaging tour of IALR’s facilities, including research labs, workforce development programs, advanced manufacturing initiatives, and more!
  • A “swag” bag with IALR-branded gear.
  • A coupon for a free cookie with the purchase of a meal from Megabytes, IALR’s on-site cafe. 

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Group Tour of IALR Campus

Group Tour of IALR Campus

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is a regional catalyst for economic transformation. But what does that actually mean? And how do we accomplish this mission?

Join us for a free guided group tour of IALR’s campus to learn more about our impact, see our innovative programs and cutting-edge research, and experience our state-of-the-art facilities.

This one-hour tour will include an overview of what we do and a closer look into our five divisions: Advanced Learning, Applied Research, Manufacturing Advancement, Economic Development, and the Institute Conference Center. We will see controlled environment agriculture, robotics and automation, unique workforce development programs, top-tier conferencing facilities, and much more!

This tour is open to 10 participants, each of whom will receive:

  • An engaging tour of IALR’s facilities, including research labs, workforce development programs, advanced manufacturing initiatives, and more!
  • A “swag” bag with IALR-branded gear.
  • A coupon for a free cookie with the purchase of a meal from Megabytes, IALR’s on-site cafe. 

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Group Tour of IALR Campus

Group Tour of IALR Campus

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is a regional catalyst for economic transformation. But what does that actually mean? And how do we accomplish this mission?

Join us for a free guided group tour of IALR’s campus to learn more about our impact, see our innovative programs and cutting-edge research, and experience our state-of-the-art facilities.

This one-hour tour will include an overview of what we do and a closer look into our five divisions: Advanced Learning, Applied Research, Manufacturing Advancement, Economic Development, and the Institute Conference Center. We will see controlled environment agriculture, robotics and automation, unique workforce development programs, top-tier conferencing facilities, and much more!

This tour is open to 10 participants, each of whom will receive:

  • An engaging tour of IALR’s facilities, including research labs, workforce development programs, advanced manufacturing initiatives, and more!
  • A “swag” bag with IALR-branded gear.
  • A coupon for a free cookie with the purchase of a meal from Megabytes, IALR’s on-site cafe.

Register Today

Group Tour of IALR Campus

Group Tour of IALR Campus

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is a regional catalyst for economic transformation. But what does that actually mean? And how do we accomplish this mission?

Join us for a free guided group tour of IALR’s campus to learn more about our impact, see our innovative programs and cutting-edge research, and experience our state-of-the-art facilities.

This one-hour tour will include an overview of what we do and a closer look into our five divisions: Advanced Learning, Applied Research, Manufacturing Advancement, Economic Development, and the Institute Conference Center. We will see controlled environment agriculture, robotics and automation, unique workforce development programs, top-tier conferencing facilities, and much more!

This tour is open to 10 participants, each of whom will receive:

  • An engaging tour of IALR’s facilities, including research labs, workforce development programs, advanced manufacturing initiatives, and more!
  • A “swag” bag with IALR-branded gear.
  • A coupon for a free cookie with the purchase of a meal from Megabytes, IALR’s on-site cafe. 

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Group Tour of IALR Campus

Group Tour of IALR Campus

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is a regional catalyst for economic transformation. But what does that actually mean? And how do we accomplish this mission?

Join us for a free guided group tour of IALR’s campus to learn more about our impact, see our innovative programs and cutting-edge research, and experience our state-of-the-art facilities.

This one-hour tour will include an overview of what we do and a closer look into our five divisions: Advanced Learning, Applied Research, Manufacturing Advancement, Economic Development, and the Institute Conference Center. We will see controlled environment agriculture, robotics and automation, unique workforce development programs, top-tier conferencing facilities, and much more!

This tour is open to 10 participants, each of whom will receive:

  • An engaging tour of IALR’s facilities, including research labs, workforce development programs, advanced manufacturing initiatives, and more!
  • A “swag” bag with IALR-branded gear.
  • A coupon for a free cookie with the purchase of a meal from Megabytes, IALR’s on-site cafe. 

REGISTRATION DETAILS

Group Tour of IALR Campus

Group Tour of IALR Campus

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is a regional catalyst for economic transformation. But what does that actually mean? And how do we accomplish this mission?

Join us for a free guided group tour of IALR’s campus to learn more about our impact, see our innovative programs and cutting-edge research, and experience our state-of-the-art facilities.

This one-hour tour will include an overview of what we do and a closer look into our five divisions: Advanced Learning, Applied Research, Manufacturing Advancement, Economic Development, and the Institute Conference Center. We will see controlled environment agriculture, robotics and automation, unique workforce development programs, top-tier conferencing facilities, and much more!

This tour is open to 10 participants, each of whom will receive:

  • An engaging tour of IALR’s facilities, including research labs, workforce development programs, advanced manufacturing initiatives, and more!
  • A “swag” bag with IALR-branded gear.
  • A coupon for a free cookie with the purchase of a meal from Megabytes, IALR’s on-site cafe. 

REGISTRATION DETAILS

ICC Hosts 1,000+ Guests at God’s Pit Crew Benefit Banquet

ICC Hosts 1,000+ Guests at God’s Pit Crew Benefit Banquet

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) Conference Center recently welcomed over 1,000 guests for God’s Pit Crew’s annual benefit banquet. Spanning three nights, the event highlighted the impactful work of the organization and showcased the IALR Conference Center as Southern Virginia’s premier event venue.

God’s Pit Crew, a Danville-based nonprofit dedicated to providing relief to those affected by natural disasters and crises, chose the IALR Conference Center for its spacious and versatile facilities. This is the 13th year God’s Pit Crew has chosen the IALR Conference Center for its annual benefit banquet.

“It’s always a joy and a pleasure to work with the IALR Conference Center. There’s no other place where we would want to be to do our event. Everyone here works with us so well. It’s such a wonderful facility. The food is amazing. It is just a magnificent facility, and we are so thankful to have this in our community.” – Randy Johnson, God’s Pit Crew Founder

The main banquet took place in the Great Hall, a spacious 8,400 square-foot event venue capable of accommodating large gatherings. God’s Pit Crew brought in many of their own decorations, making the space their own.

The Conference Center staff filled the room with 42 60-inch round tables that could seat eight each, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their dinners and participate in the evening’s activities.

In addition to the Great Hall, God’s Pit Crew utilized the Atrium to welcome guests and sell merchandise. The Atrium provided a welcoming entrance for attendees and a convenient space for fundraising efforts, adding to the event’s overall success.

“Hosting events like the God’s Pit Crew banquet is truly an honor for us. With top-notch customer service, quality catering and flexible spaces, the IALR Conference Center is the ideal venue for memorable events of all types and sizes.” – Tracy Fink, Vice President, IALR Conference Center

Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a community fundraiser or a special celebration, the ICC offers the ideal setting to bring your vision to life. Dynamic spaces like the Great Hall, Atrium, business conference rooms and Auditorium combine with exceptional service and amenities to ensure that every event hosted at the ICC is a success.

Contact us today to request a quote and discover how we can make your next event unforgettable.

Request a Quote

 

Inside IALR Podcast: A New Leader for Southern Virginia’s Premier Conference Center

Inside IALR Podcast: A New Leader for Southern Virginia’s Premier Conference Center

We welcome Tracy Fink, IALR’s new Vice President of the Institute Conference Center (ICC), to the team. Tracy explains how her background and experience have prepared her for this role, what grabbed her attention about this opportunity to work with the ICC and outlines her overarching vision for Southern Virginia’s premier event venue. She also highlights the ICC’s different spaces and capabilities, along with its full-service amenities.

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IALR Welcomes Tracy Fink as Vice President of Institute Conference Center and Operations

IALR Welcomes Tracy Fink as Vice President of Institute Conference Center and Operations

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracy Fink as the Vice President of the Institute Conference Center (ICC) and Operations, effective March 1. With over 20 years of experience in strategic event management, Fink brings a wealth of expertise to her new role.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tracy Fink as the new Vice President of the Institute Conference Center and Operations. Her proven and diverse event management experience, strategic vision and commitment to delivering exceptional events and experiences will undoubtedly drive the continued success of the ICC and further our mission of economic transformation in our region.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President

Fink is an experienced marketing, sales and event leader known for her strategic leadership and dynamic approach to event management. Her track record includes planning corporate and social events with guest counts exceeding 1,000. Her time working in numerous event-oriented roles has left her with a deep knowledge of the planning and logistics that go into creating successful experiences and events.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the Institute Conference Center – one of the premier venues in all of Virginia,” said Fink. “I look forward to leveraging my experience and passion for event management and commitment to excellence to deliver unparalleled service to our clients and guests.”

Fink most recently served as Director of Events and Marketing for Mayfair Hospitality, which oversees several hotels and venues in Winston Salem, N.C. Fink has also worked as a public affairs officer for the U.S. Air Force auxiliary and as an on-air morning show host and sales manager for a Baltimore radio station. Fink has experience in sales, events and marketing across several industries and in different roles. Fink holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Mass Communications from Towson University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbus University. Her commitment to the community includes board positions and membership with such groups as the Forsyth County Hospitality Alliance, the Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership and Junior League.

“Tracy Fink’s extensive experience, community engagement and proven leadership will be invaluable as we continue to elevate the ICC as a leading destination for conferences, meetings and events. We look forward to working together to continue providing exceptional experiences for our clients and guests.” – Dr. John Hughes, Executive Vice President, Operations, IALR

Fink is filling this role after the recent retirement of Leslie Dobbins, who worked with the ICC for more than 20 years.

Located in Southern Virginia, the Institute Conference Center (ICC) is a preeminent destination for conferences, meetings and events. Boasting state-of-the-art facilities and unrivaled services and amenities like catering, technology support and event planning, the ICC offers a versatile and customizable space to accommodate gatherings of all sizes. From intimate board meetings to large-scale conferences, the ICC provides a dynamic environment designed to inspire collaboration, innovation and success. The ICC also oversees IALR’s on-site cafe, Megabytes.

About IALR

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, advanced manufacturing, 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, as well as the cities of Martinsville and Danville.

Modern and Timeless: Inside IALR episode on Institute Conference Center

Modern and Timeless: Inside IALR episode on Institute Conference Center

“I can’t believe this building isn’t brand new. This is timeless.” 

That’s one of the most common sentiments that Vice President of the Institute Conference Center (ICC), Leslie Dobbins, hears from first-time ICC clients. Boasting dynamic, flexible spaces, the ICC can support events of all types and sizes, ranging from a single meeting with a handful of people to a multi-day conference with hundreds of people.

The seventh episode of “Inside IALR” focuses on the Institute Conference Center (ICC) with Leslie Dobbins, Vice President of the ICC. Boasting dynamic, flexible spaces, the ICC can support events of all types and sizes, ranging from a single meeting with a handful of people to a multi-day conference with hundreds of people. Other services included wrap-around support amenities like catering, technology offerings and event planning. While sharing stories from her 20-year career with the ICC, Leslie explains how the Institute Conference Center contributes to IALR’s mission of economic transformation.

Other reasons to listen: 

➡️ Anecdotes from the growth of the Institute Conference Center over the past two decades
➡️ The story of Megabytes Cafe evolving from a cafeteria for employees to a public restaurant
➡️ The ways that the ICC contributes to economic transformation

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IALR Announces New EVP of Operations

IALR Announces New EVP of Operations

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is pleased to announce Dr. John H. Hughes IV as Executive Vice President, Operations, effective June 1. Most recently serving as the Assistant City Manager for Lynchburg, Va., Hughes brings nearly two decades of experience in government operations, administration and service. He will serve as the chief business and operations officer and will report directly to IALR President Telly D. Tucker.  

“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Hughes to the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research team,” said Tucker. “As we continue to position Southern Virginia as a destination where all can live and thrive, I am confident Dr. Hughes’ leadership background, operations experience and creative approach to community building will help us ensure the exceptional quality and operational excellence our communities and employees deserve.” 

Dr. John H. Hughes IV is IALR’s Executive Vice President, Operations, effective June 1

Having previous experience with workforce training, continuing education, human services and more, Hughes is fascinated by IALR’s mission to catalyze regional economic transformation. 

“I am humbled and inspired to join a progressive and innovative organization focused on revolutionizing the economic landscape of Southern Virginia,” Hughes said. “With its state-of-the-art facilities, innovative programs and dynamic people, IALR positively influences Southern Virginia and beyond. I look forward to contributing to that mission of continued, tangible impact.” 

Hughes will serve as the chief business and contractual liaison for IALR operational matters with IALR partners. One of his primary responsibilities will be leading the functions organized within IALR’s business and operations departments, including Communications, Technology, Facilities and the Institute Conference Center as well as Applied Research. Hughes will focus on aligning IALR’s administrative systems, policies, structure and procedures to the organization’s five-year strategic plan. He will also focus on developing leadership in a rapidly growing organization to ensure continuity and sustainability into the future. 

While serving as the Assistant City Manager for Lynchburg, Hughes spearheaded a collaborative, impactful poverty-reduction effort through public-private partnerships, grants, workforce development and soft-skill development, continuing education and job placement programs – all focuses of IALR. Hughes also supervised several departments, including Human Services, the Lynchburg Public Library and Department of Parks and Recreation. Hughes previously worked as a Foster Care Social Worker and Senior Family Services Specialist before spending nearly a decade as the Children’s Services Act Coordinator for the City of Lynchburg.  

A native of Lynchburg, Hughes supported the local community via several volunteer and appointed boards including the Greater Lynchburg Transit Company, Lynchburg Community Policing Advisory Committee, Martin Luther King Jr. Lynchburg Community Council, Hill City Youth Football & Cheerleading, Mary Bethune Academy, Southern Memorial Association (Old City Cemetery), Juvenile Justice Advisory Board, Community Criminal Justice Board, Action for Change Committee, Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and the Central Virginia Continuum of Care.  

Hughes has been active with professional and civic organizations including the Virginia Local Government Management Association, the National Forum for Black Public Administrators and the International City/County Management Association. He is a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. 

Hughes earned a Master of Business Administration in 2009 and obtained his doctorate in education from the University of Lynchburg (formerly known as Lynchburg College) in 2023. Hughes also holds two bachelor’s degrees – one in social science, the other in business administration – from the University of Lynchburg.   

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 Martinsville and Danville. For more information, visit www.ialr.org.