Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Driving Economic Transformation

Categories

500 Attend One Dream 1 Team Event

500 Attend One Dream 1 Team Event

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) campus came alive in February as nearly 500 guests filled the Great Hall and Atrium for the annual One Dream 1 Team event. Organized by the foundation launched by brothers Tremaine, Terrell and Trey Edmunds, local students turned NFL players, the evening celebrated and honored outstanding students from across the Dan River region.

The Edmunds brothers, all graduates of Dan River High School, continued their athletic careers at Virginia Tech before entering the NFL. Terrell Edmunds was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers and currently plays safety for the Los Angeles Chargers. Tremaine Edmunds, drafted by the Buffalo Bills, plays linebacker for the Chicago Bears. Trey Edmunds, a former NFL running back, played for both the New Orleans Saints and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Highlighting the night was the awarding of scholarships to six students, each representing one of the region’s local high schools. In addition to financial support, each recipient received special gifts, including a brand-new laptop and a pair of Jordans.

“IALR is a staple in our community,” noted event organizer Felecia “Cookie” Edmunds, mother of the Edmunds brothers. “It has all of the glam and glitz to enhance any event, and it is a place where folks can comfortably gather to socialize and converse. The staff is engaged and cooperative and are there to serve.”

The event featured excellent catering and showcased the flexibility of the IALR Conference Center’s event spaces, specifically the Great Hall and Atrium. Guests enjoyed entertainment, inspiring presentations, excellent catering and meaningful fellowship throughout the evening.

“We love hosting these community-focused events. It’s wonderful to see our facilities used to celebrate and support local students and families.” – Tracy Fink, Vice President of the IALR Conference Center

Interested in hosting your next event at the IALR Conference Center? Request a quote below.

Four IALR Employees Participating in Leadership Southside

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.

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.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS

LISTEN ON IALR’S SITE

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.