The September 2025 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- New, rare, massive machine installed
- Host your next event at IALR Conference Center
- Watch updates from IALR
- Much more!
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 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
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.
IALR September 2024 Newsletter
The September 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- IALR Supporting Industrial Fermentation
- CMA Achieves ISO Certification
- IALR Interns Make a Real Impact
- Much more!
Four IALR Employees Participating in Leadership Southside
Four employees of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) are participating in this year’s cohort of Leadership Southside – a professional development program offered through the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce. The IALR participants are shown below.
Caleb Ayers, Communications Content Manager, IALR |
Sherri Dickens, Senior Support Specialist, ATDM |
Tracy Fink, Vice President, IALR Conference Center |
Justin Scarce, Manager, ATDM Industry Engagement |
“I am excited to network with other aspiring leaders and gain practical leadership tactics and strategies that will aid me throughout my career. I know this experience will equip me to lead and tell the IALR story.” – Caleb Ayers, Communications Content Manager
“This opportunity will strengthen my leadership skills, deepen my understanding of the region’s challenges and equip me with the tools to contribute more effectively to Southern Virginia’s growth and success.” –Sherri Dickens, ATDM Senior Support Specialist
“As a participant in Leadership Southside, I’m excited to join other emerging leaders in gaining new perspectives, enhancing my leadership skills and building relationships that will strengthen our ability to serve the region. This program is a fantastic opportunity to grow and contribute to the future of our community.” – Tracy Fink, Vice President, IALR Conference Center
“Leadership Southside will allow me to grow my leadership skills and knowledge, and I know this experience will position me to make an even greater impact in my role. I am proud to represent both IALR and ATDM while participating in this program.” – Justin Scarce, Manager, ATDM Industry Engagement
Now in its 32nd 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.
As Communications Content Manager, Ayers works with the PR and Communications team to plan and produce a wide range of content for IALR, including informative webpages, engaging stories, social media posts and a podcast. Ayers has more than five years of experience in communications, public relations and journalism. Ayers holds a bachelor’s degree in Media Arts and Design from James Madison University and is a Certified Digital Marketing Professional.
As ATDM Senior Support Specialist for Student Support, Dickens is responsible for working with students who attend the program, providing them with resources and information about available support services. Dickens has over 20 years of experience in business, finance and the medical field. Dickens holds an IT Systems Management certificate and two associate degrees from Danville Community College and is currently working to obtain her bachelor’s degree in business management from Bellevue University.
As Vice President of the IALR Conference Center, Fink oversees the operations and strategy of the Conference Center, ensuring memorable experiences for all event attendees. Fink has more than 25 years of experience in strategic event management across management, marketing and sales roles. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Mass Communications from Towson University and a Master of Business Administration from Columbus University.
As ATDM Manager of Industry Engagement, Scarce leads engagement efforts to help build existing and future relationships with the defense industrial base, including major shipyards and their supporting supply chain — all served by ATDM. Scarce has a manufacturing background with 15 years of industry experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Liberty University.
IALR October 2023 Newsletter
