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The Power of Purpose: Reconnecting With What Drives You

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The Power of Purpose: Reconnecting With What Drives You

The Power of Purpose: Reconnecting With What Drives You

Helping participants discover or reconnect with their “why” to drive motivation and achievement.

In a world filled with constant noise, competing priorities, and shifting expectations, many people lose sight of what truly fuels their passion and direction. “The Power of Purpose: Reconnecting With What Drives You” is an inspiring and interactive workshop designed to help participants pause, reflect, and realign with their deeper sense of meaning.

This workshop guides attendees through a thoughtful exploration of personal values, strengths, and life experiences, uncovering the core motivations that shape their goals and everyday choices. Participants will learn how purpose acts as a stabilizing force—giving clarity during uncertainty, increasing resilience in the face of challenges, and reigniting motivation when burnout or distraction takes hold.

Through reflection exercises, group dialogue, and practical tools, this session empowers individuals to:

  • Identify personal values and what truly matters
  • Clarify goals that align with inner purpose
  • Understand how purpose enhances motivation, well-being, and performance
  • Recognize internal and external barriers that disconnect us from our “why”
  • Create a personal purpose statement and actionable steps for living it out

Whether you are entering a new season, preparing for a major transition, or simply want to start the year with intention, this workshop provides the insight, inspiration, and momentum needed to move forward with confidence and meaning.

Presented by Sherlina Thomas, Ph.D., MSW, Assistant Director for Student Support Services – Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR).

Minimum enrollment: 15 | Maximum enrollment: 30

This workshop is hybrid; the Zoom link will be emailed to all registered members. 

Registration closes on January 8th at noon. 

Register

 

 

 

Wheatless Wonders: A Culinary Experience

Wheatless Wonders: A Culinary Experience

Join us as Erika Saunders leads us into the world of gluten-free cooking with a pre-class Italian Charcuterie board with cubed cheese, Italian meats, grapes, olives, dried fruit, and gluten-free crackers. Followed by an Italian salad and pepperoni calzone with a dipping sauce and tiramisu for dessert.

Red wine available – limited to 2 per member.

Presented by Erika Saunders, IT Business and Data Analyst II at the City of Danville.

Registration and payment deadlines are due by 5 pm on November 10th. 

Dinner Cost is $50. You will receive a link to pay for dinner after you register. 

Limited to 16 members.

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Day of the Dead: Celebration of Life after Death!

Day of the Dead: Celebration of Life after Death!

Join us to learn the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a vibrant Mexican holiday that honors life after death. Discover the colorful altars, symbolic offerings, and meaningful rituals that families create to remember and celebrate their loved ones who have passed. Learn about the history, cultural significance, and unique customs that make this holiday so special. Understand why Day of the Dead continues to be cherished in Mexican culture and how it transforms mourning into a joyful celebration of life, memory, and community.

Presented by Edith Overby, – STEM and Literacy Tutor at Schoolfield Elementary School. 

Limited to 20 members.

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Taste of St. Louis Cooking Class

Taste of St. Louis Cooking Class

Take a trip to St. Louis through our Taste of St. Louis cooking class, where we will learn how to create toasted ravioli, Gerber crostinis, a St. Louis-style pizza with a side salad, and finish with a gooey butter cake for dessert!

Featuring a cocktail of Cardinal Cooler Vodka, cranberry juice, Sprite, and bitters (2 drinks per person).

Presented by Chef John Clark, Megabytes Cafe, and Tim Holland, Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) Additive Manufacturing Instructor at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research.

Registration and payment deadlines are due by noon on August 5th.   

Dinner Cost is $50. You will receive a link to pay for dinner after you register. 

Limited to 16 members.

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Backyard BBQ Mastery: Smoked Meats & Classic Sides

Backyard BBQ Mastery: Smoked Meats & Classic Sides

Learn the secrets to perfect smoked brisket, pork butt, ribs, and BBQ chicken in this flavor-packed class. We’ll also whip up German and country potato salads, homemade baked beans, and explore regional BBQ sauces like Kansas City and Carolina styles. Great for BBQ lovers ready to level up their cookout game!

The cost for dinner is $35 and you must have an active Wonder membership. 

Registration and payment deadlines are due June 6th. 

Limited to 16 members. 

Presented by Chef John Clark.

Register

 

 

 

Wonder Community – Deep Listening and Radical Vulnerability, Laugh and Play

Wonder Community – Deep Listening and Radical Vulnerability, Laugh and Play

Deep Listening and Radical Vulnerability, Laugh and Play

The connection between listening and mental wellbeing is profound. New York psychiatrist and co-founder of Narativ, Dr Paul Browde, stresses that the act of deep listening counters the isolation many of us experience. “In a world filled with noise – both literal and metaphorical – many people are starved for the experience of being truly listened to,” he says. This lack of deep listening often leads to loneliness, depression and alienation.

Listening requires vulnerability – not just from the speaker but also from the listener. Brené Brown, social researcher, author and expert on vulnerability, argues that empathy is impossible without deep listening. Empathy, she explains, involves “feeling with people,” which requires setting aside our own thoughts to understand someone else’s emotions.

Brown emphasizes that empathy is not about offering advice or fixing problems but rather about acknowledging another person’s feelings. In her TED Talk, The Power of Vulnerability, she says, “Rarely can a response make something better. What makes something better is connection.” This connection is nurtured through listening with empathy, allowing both the speaker and listener to feel more connected and understood.

Presented by Chad Martin

Registration deadline: 5/22/2025.

A minimum number of 12 participants is required, and a maximum number of participants is 30.

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All Things Etiquette

All Things Etiquette

Dining Etiquette- learning the essentials of table manners and proper utensil usage.

Presented by Yvette Bethel, Owner of All Forks Etiquette Consulting.

Yvette’s Why!

As a foster parent, I’ve had the privilege of caring for children from diverse backgrounds. I noticed a significant gap in their etiquette skills. Many of them had not been exposed to the social norms and manners that are essential to succeed in school settings and social gatherings. I also witnessed adults lacking some of the same skills during this realization. This sparked my passion to become an etiquette consultant. I aim to equip children and adults with the tools they need to build confidence and establish and improve positive relationships. I recognize that the benefits of etiquette extend far beyond childhood. Therefore, through my work as an etiquette consultant, I strive to create inclusive programs that address the needs of both children and adults. The emphasis is on communication, respect, honesty, and cultural awareness. Possession of these skills will create a more courteous and empathetic society, one interaction at a time.

Registration deadline: 4/16/2025.

A minimum number of four participants is required, and a maximum number of participants is 12.

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The Power of Hands-On Learning

The Power of Hands-On Learning

Effective learning blends theoretical instruction with real-world application. At the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), hands-on training is a core principle across diverse programs.

“Theory is important, and it has value. However, my years working in and with educators has taught me that most learners are visual kinesthetic learners, and the most impactful learning tends to be hands-on learning.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President

This approach equips participants with practical skills and boosts their confidence in real job environments. Whether middle school students or seasoned adults, participants walk away with experiences they can immediately apply.

GO TEC: Sparking Early Curiosity

The Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program exposes middle school students to the emerging technologies shaping tomorrow’s industries. Students learn about and, more importantly, get to practice with virtual reality welding tools, desktop CNC mills, different types of robots and much more, offering a direct glimpse into in-demand careers.

“Middle school is the perfect time to spark a lasting interest in STEM. Getting to touch and try these business-relevant technologies shows that advanced concepts and careers are within reach.” – Julie Brown, Ph.D., Vice President of Advanced Learning

Dual-Enrollment Momentum

Dual-enrollment students in the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET)—a collaboration with Danville Community College and the local school divisions—learn concepts in the classroom and apply them immediately. This balance of theory and application strengthens their problem-solving abilities and prepares them for modern challenges.

“We’ve seen impressive results when students can test what they learn right away,” Dr. Brown says. “That combination pushes them to think critically and perform with confidence.”

IALR also houses students in the Piedmont Governor’s School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology. Every year, seniors in this program participate in a senior research project, some seeking support from IALR’s Applied Research division.

ATDM: Accelerated Skills for Adults

Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) equips adult learners with the skills needed to work with Navy suppliers in the Maritime Industrial Base. In just four months, participants build foundational knowledge and participate in hundreds of hours of hands-on practice with actual machinery.

“ATDM bridges the gap between classroom insights and real-world shop floors. Graduates leave ready to excel in high-demand defense manufacturing roles.” – Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement

IMT: Real Manufacturing Responsibilities

In the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, developed with Danville Community College, students face the pressure of meeting manufacturing quotas and deadlines. This setup mirrors the intensity of a true manufacturing environment.

“It’s a simulated manufacturing flow cell,” Wells said. “We put these students in a position to practice how all the pieces they’ve learned come together.”

Intensive Workshops

IALR also hosts shorter programs on topics like Fanuc robotics, precision machining for instructors and industrial fermentation. These workshops blend conceptual lessons with live experimentation in a condensed timeframe.

“Our recent industrial fermentation workshop revealed how hands-on demos deepen understanding. When participants participate in the process, they gain a better understanding.” – Scott Lowman, Ph.D., Vice President of Applied Research, IALR

Lifelong Learning

The journey does not end with a certificate or first job. Through various computer training workshops and the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning, people can refresh their skills or discover new interests at any stage.

IALR’s commitment to lifelong learning and service learning opens pathways for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Why Hands-On Learning Matters

From virtual reality welding in GO TEC® to advanced precision machining in IMT, practical immersion helps learners of all ages gain a deeper understanding. Hands-on learning is particularly beneficial in the STEM fields, as shown by many different studies, including from Purdue University and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. With IALR’s goal of expanding STEM Capacity, this focus on hands-on, practical learning is what drives success. 

“Practical experiences let learners see immediate results,” Tucker says. “When students engage directly, they become more prepared for today’s job market.”

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Culinary 101

Culinary 101

Join the Wonder Community and Megabytes at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) for an immersive culinary experience with Chef John Clark, where you’ll learn to craft the five fundamental mother sauces (Béchamel, Velouté, Espagnole, Tomato, and Hollandaise) and perfect the essential knife cuts. Bring your knives to practice precision cutting techniques and discover how to sharpen and maintain your blades for professional-level results properly. Elevate your kitchen skills with hands-on guidance from our expert chef!

The cost for dinner is $30.

Registration and payment for dinner is due by 3.4.25

Limited to 16 members. 

Presented by Chef John Clark

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Wonder Community – Etching Workshop with New College Institute

Wonder Community – Etching Workshop with New College Institute

Discover the art of glass etching with Wonder Community’s Brian Stanley! Bring a glass item (like a mug or cup), but make sure it’s not Pyrex, acrylic, or plastic!

Partnership with New College Insitute’s Learning is ForEver (LIFE) Program.

Members should use the NCI registration link here to register.

Registration deadline: 3/18/2025.

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Wonder Community – Physical Activity Workshop: Tai Chi

Wonder Community – Physical Activity Workshop: Tai Chi

Join us for an engaging 90-minute workshop filled with practical tips, lively discussions, and a fun physical activity session to wrap things up!

Presented by REACH AmeriCorps

Registration closes on January 16th at 11 PM.

Limited to 20 spots. 

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Cooking up Community: Successful Wonder Workshop

Cooking up Community: Successful Wonder Workshop

A diverse group of 15 recently gathered to make a delicious fall-themed meal while connecting with others in a supportive, fun environment.

The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning offered its fifth cooking class in partnership with Megabytes Café and the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) on Nov. 20. Chef John Clark led participants in preparing a full fall-themed meal: turkey, brussels sprouts with homemade bacon jam, stuffing and cream cheese pumpkin bars.

The event, like previous cooking classes, was fully booked.

“It was amazing to see participants come together, not just to learn new cooking techniques, but to genuinely connect over the joy of creating a meal. Events like this truly embody the spirit of lifelong learning and community building.” – Brian Stanley, IALR Program Coordinator

The Wonder Community, launched in 2022, offers dynamic, hands-on workshops that bring people of all ages and backgrounds together to learn new skills and share their passions. Past workshops have ranged from Cricut crafting to fishing expeditions, and the community welcomes anyone eager to keep learning.

Join the Wonder Community today to explore your passions and connect with others who love learning. Whether it’s casting a fishing line, crafting in the kitchen, or designing intricate projects, there’s something for everyone. The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is part of IALR’s Advanced Learning division and reflects a commitment to service and lifelong learning opportunities. 

Wonder Community – Screen to Tree: 3D Printed Ornaments Part 2

Wonder Community – Screen to Tree: 3D Printed Ornaments Part 2

In part two of the 3D printing class, members will receive their 3D -printed Christmas ornaments and see their Tinkercad designs brought to life. We will watch the 3D printers in action as they print miniature benches, gaining hands-on insights into the printer process and troubleshooting tips.

Hosted by Tim Holland, ATDM Precision Manufacturing Lab Technician; Jacob Taylor, GO TEC Technical & Training Manager and Chris Griffith, GOTEC Training Coordinator (Region 3).

Limited to 16

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Wonder Community – Screen to Tree: 3D Printed Ornaments Part 1

Wonder Community – Screen to Tree: 3D Printed Ornaments Part 1

In this two-part 3D printing class, members will learn the basics of 3D design using Tinkercad, an intuitive tool for creating digital models. Part one introduces members to the essentials of 3D printing technology, exploring how it works and its various applications while guiding them through their first Tinkercad projects to create Christmas ornaments.

Hosted by Tim Holland, ATDM Precision Manufacturing Lab Technician; Jacob Taylor, GO TEC Technical & Training Manager and Chris Griffith, GOTEC Training Coordinator (Region 3).

Limited to 16

Register

Wonder Community – Winter Painting

Wonder Community – Winter Painting

Create a step-by-step painting of a winter-themed painting. 

Presented by Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator.

Registration closes on January 21st at 11 PM. 

Limited to 15 spots. 

Register

Wonder Community – Sublimation Open Lab

Wonder Community – Sublimation Open Lab

Members will be able to use the sublimation printer for an Open Lab workshop.

Members will be responsible for bringing their own blanks (i.e., cups, glasses and shirts).  Heat presses for mugs and shirts will be available. If you need assistance in looking for acceptable, blanks please contact us for more information.

Presented by Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II. 

Limited to 12. 

Register

Bountiful Bites: November Cooking Class

Bountiful Bites: November Cooking Class

Join the Wonder Community and Megabytes at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) as Chef John Clark teaches us how to make turkey, brussels sprouts with homemade bacon jam, stuffing, and cream cheese pumpkin bars.

Cost for dinner is $20.

Registration and payment for dinner is due by 11.13.24

Limited to 18 Spots. 

Register

 

 

 

IALR, a Proven Partner: 2024 Annual Report Highlights

IALR, a Proven Partner: 2024 Annual Report Highlights

“I love that IALR moves at the speed of business. Things happen here fast.” – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is proud to announce the release of its Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2024, covering the period from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. This year was defined by strategic collaboration that drove collective innovation, growth and success across Southern Virginia.

Read the Full Report 

“At IALR, our success is not achieved in isolation but through meaningful collaborations across sectors.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President

Below are some of our valued partners:

  • Commonwealth of Virginia
  • U.S. Navy and U.S. Department of Defense
  • Economic and workforce development organizations
  • Local governments and school divisions across Virginia
  • Community colleges, universities and higher education institutions
  • Local and global businesses and companies
  • AmeriCorps and other service agencies
  • Civic groups and nonprofits
  • Private foundations and funding partners

Here are the key highlights that showcase how our work and partnerships are making a difference.

Career Readiness Starts Early

One of the most significant achievements last year was the expansion of the Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program. Through a network of partnerships involving public schools, higher education and industry leaders, over 6,000 Virginia students received hands-on career introductions. GO TEC continues to inspire students and build dependable talent pipelines for strategic sectors, ensuring our youth are prepared for tomorrow’s careers.

GO TEC curriculum will be taught in 52 middle schools across the Commonwealth of Virginia during the 2024-2025 academic year.

“GO TEC is awesome because it allows students to explore careers and equipment that they would not have access to otherwise.” – Amy Maloskey, GO TEC Teacher, Rural Retreat Middle School, Wythe County

Learn More in the 2024 Annual Report 

Expanding Work-Based Learning Opportunities

The Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program saw remarkable progress, supporting the creation of apprenticeship programs across nontraditional sectors. This year marked the launch of Virginia’s first Registered Apprenticeship programs for EMTs and paramedics. The program’s success demonstrates the importance of partnerships between employers, training providers and community organizations to meet our region’s workforce needs.

In partnership with IALR, the Danville Life Saving Crew – the primary Emergency Medical Services provider for the City of Danville – signed 13 individuals as Virginia’s first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) registered apprentices during an October ceremony.

ExTRA Impact in Numbers:

  • 50 new apprentices hired.
  • 12 new Registered Apprenticeship programs created.
  • Virginia’s first EMT and paramedic Registered Apprenticeship launched.

IALR was also selected to lead the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP) Region 3 Regional Work-Based Learning Collaborative. This initiative develops opportunities for employers and students to connect through work-based learning – and prepares both students and employers for those opportunities.

See Our Collaborative Work in the 2024 Annual Report 

Manufacturing Training Programs

The Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program continues to grow in partnership with the U.S. Navy, rapidly training talent for the defense industry. Approximately 328 students graduated across four cohorts in the 2024 fiscal year. 

By 2025, the ATDM program aims to graduate 800 to 1,000 students annually, solidifying the region’s status as a hub for advanced manufacturing training.

“ATDM’s ability to refine and scale to meet our urgent workforce needs is crucial to building America’s submarine fleet. Together, we’re not just training workers, we’re securing America’s maritime future.” – Erica Logan, Maritime Industrial Base Director for Workforce Development

Additionally, the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, a legacy initiative of IALR and Danville Community College (DCC), remains a cornerstone of our manufacturing training efforts.

See Our Successful Partnerships in the 2024 Annual Report 

Advancing Economic Development in Southern Virginia

In collaboration with local governments, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, our Economic Development team contributed to significant economic progress in the region. Over $212 million in new capital investments and the creation of 253 new jobs were key outcomes this year, providing a solid foundation for future economic growth. IALR also hosted essential events such as the 2023 Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit and the 2024 Workforce Solutions Summit to support long-term development.

“The efforts of the SVRA and the many regional partners should be considered best practices for other communities and regions to follow.” – Edward D. Ober, Grant Management Associates

Discover More Impact in the Annual Report

Advancing Additive Manufacturing

Through a series of strategic initiatives, IALR is advancing additive manufacturing (AM) technology, equipping end users with the skills needed to leverage these capabilities, and driving the growth of additive manufacturing across Southern Virginia. Much of this work is in partnership with the U.S. Navy through the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).

Initiatives in Additive Manufacturing:

By combining training, technology development and partnerships, IALR is making significant strides in establishing Southern Virginia as a leading hub for additive manufacturing.

See More in the 2024 Annual Report 

Collaborative Optimization for Manufacturers

As Virginia’s hub for high-performance manufacturing optimization and advancement, the Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) equips manufacturers to be globally competitive. The CMA at IALR is the destination for innovative manufacturers ready to optimize their operations and scale. With state-of-the-art facilities and technology—including a CNC Machining Innovation Lab, Industry 4.0 Integration Lab and Precision Metrology Lab – the CMA is helping clients and partners optimize operations and scale.

See the Complete Annual Report 

Breakthroughs in Applied Research

IALR’s Applied Research division offers various services in controlled environment agriculture (CEA), analytical chemistry, biotechnology and life sciences. These include conducting contract research, providing chemistry testing services and supporting biotechnology development—all aimed at meeting the needs of industry partners and advancing the scientific community.

“IALR has provided Canon the environment and expertise to grow plants under various stress conditions in an effort to understand how these stresses present themselves in the plants. IALR is unique in this capability.” – Benjamin Welch, Principal Engineer, Canon

View the Full Annual Report

Conference Center Growth

Equipped with state-of-the-art and flexible facilities, the IALR Conference Center experienced impressive growth, hosting over 30,000 guests last year. This increase is a testament to its role as a vital space for collaboration across business, education and community sectors.

“The IALR Conference Center offers a turnkey experience and state-of-the-art technology to deliver a high level of professionalism and engagement. Their staff are accommodating, easy to work with and attentive to the details.” – Stephanie Mann, Center for Early Success

View the Full Annual Report

STEM, Service and Lifelong Learning

IALR’s Advanced Learning team collaborates with numerous partners to increase STEM capacity, promote lifelong learning, and provide regional service-learning opportunities. These initiatives contribute to a better Southern Virginia where all can thrive.

“IALR is an exceptional and long-standing partner to Serve Virginia. The services they provide through their AmeriCorps program, Dan River Year, are impactful and make a real difference in the communities they serve.” – Samantha Lukasiewicz, AmeriCorps Manager

View the Full Annual Report

Growing Campus to Meet Regional Needs

FY 2024 was notable for the growth of IALR’s campus and support services. The number of team members nearly doubled to meet increasing demands, reflecting the strength of the partnerships and the impact IALR has cultivated in Southern Virginia. With new facilities like the Navy’s National Training Center opening in early 2025, IALR is poised to continue driving regional growth and innovation.

“The near doubling of our team and the expansion of our campus highlight the incredible momentum we’ve gained through strategic internal and external collaboration. With new facilities like the Navy’s National Training Center on the horizon, IALR’s IT, Facilities and other support services ensure seamless operations for efficient growth and regional success for years to come.” – John H. Hughes, IV, Ed.D, Executive Vice President, Operations, IALR

View the Full Annual Report

A political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia, IALR is governed by a Board of Trustees. 

“As we review another year of strong financial performance, it’s clear that our partnerships and strategic initiatives deliver real value to the region. Our board remains dedicated to guiding IALR toward continued success, ensuring that every dollar invested helps drive meaningful economic transformation in Southern Virginia.” – Donald W. Merricks, Chairman, IALR Board of Trustees