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Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Driving Economic Transformation

RISE Summit

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RISE Summit

RISE Summit

Level up your business at the third annual RISE Summit—a favorite event packed with inspiration, skill-building workshops, and high-impact networking. This year, we are leveling up the experience even more! The focus is Innovation in Business, Manufacturing, and Agriculture. Whether you’re in manufacturing, agriculture, or any type of entrepreneur, this is THE EVENT for YOU!

IALR employees serving as session speakers:

Dr. Scott Lowman, Vice President of Applied Research

 

Taurean Russell, Vice President of Information Technology

IALR’s Taurean Russell Named OnCon Top 100 Information Security Professional

IALR’s Taurean Russell Named OnCon Top 100 Information Security Professional

Taurean Russell, Vice President of Information Technology at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), has been named a Top 100 Information Security Professional by OnCon, an organization that recognizes top executives and organizations worldwide.

“IALR operates at the intersection of innovation, research and workforce development with a mix of public and private sector customers and partners, which makes information security especially critical. This recognition reflects the great work happening at IALR and I’m proud to support initiatives that help ensure technology is an enabler, not a barrier, to economic transformation.” – Taurean Russell, Vice President, Information Technology, IALR

The OnCon Top 100 awards celebrate outstanding achievements of information security leaders who demonstrate innovation, exceptional leadership, industry impact and a commitment to advancing their professional communities. Winners are selected through peer and community voting, recognizing individuals who have made a measurable difference within their organizations and across their industries.

Russell joined IALR in October 2024 as the organization’s first vice president of information technology. He brings more than 20 years of specialized experience in information technology operations and cybersecurity, with a career focused on strengthening organizational resiliency and security in highly regulated environments.

“Strong cybersecurity measures simultaneously ensure data protection and enable organizational progress. The work of Russell and the entire Information Technology team ensures that IALR can continue to innovate, collaborate and lead with the assurance that our information and systems are secure.” – Dr. John Hughes, IV, Executive Vice President, Operations, IALR

Before joining IALR, Russell served as deputy chief information officer and chief information security officer at Winston-Salem State University, where he oversaw the university’s IT infrastructure and security programs. In 2023, Cyber Defense Magazine recognized him as one of the Top Global CISOs. His professional background includes leadership roles across healthcare, higher education, manufacturing and the U.S. Army with expertise spanning information security, risk management, IT operations and strategic planning.

Russell holds an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Science in Information Technology from American Military University.

For more information about the OnCon awards and to view the full list of winners, visit onconferences.com/awards.

About OnConferences

OnConferences is a leading organization that connects top professionals across industries through conferences, awards and networking opportunities. Its programs promote collaboration, innovation and thought leadership, fostering growth and development within professional communities worldwide.

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

 

Taurean Russell Named Vice President of Information Technology for IALR

Taurean Russell Named Vice President of Information Technology for IALR

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is pleased to announce the appointment of Taurean Russell as the new Vice President of Information Technology. An accomplished IT professional with a history of strengthening the resiliency and security of organizations in highly regulated industries, Russell joins IALR during a time of significant growth.

“I’m honored to be part of IALR, where I can leverage my experience in IT security and operations to support the region’s growth. My goal is to build a proactive IT culture that promotes innovation while ensuring the highest levels of security and reliability.” – Taurean Russell, Vice President, Information Technology, IALR

Russell’s experience includes serving as Deputy Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at Winston-Salem State University, where he managed the university’s IT infrastructure and security programs. In 2023, Cyber Defense Magazine recognized him as one of the Top Global CISOs. He has held numerous leadership roles across diverse industries, including healthcare, higher education, manufacturing and the U.S. Army. His expertise includes information security, risk management, IT operations and strategic planning.

Russell will contribute to IALR’s growth by maintaining and strengthening cybersecurity standards and improving technology processes for various training and education programs. His responsibilities include ensuring that IT systems and processes support IALR’s strategic goals, implementing robust cybersecurity measures, implementing IT systems and tools and developing IT policies, standards and procedures. His work will focus on building a resilient IT infrastructure that supports applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing training and services, the IALR Conference Center and economic development across Southern Virginia.

“Taurean brings a unique blend of leadership experience across various industries and a deep understanding of IT security and resilience. His expertise will be crucial in supporting IALR’s growth, and we are confident that his contributions will drive innovation and efficiency throughout our organization.” – John H. Hughes, IV, Ed.D., Executive Vice President, Operations, IALR

About IALR

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 primary footprint focuses within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg, along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. The Center for Manufacturing Advancement is part of IALR’s campus and service offerings.