Telly Tucker, the President of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), is one of 60 participants in the 2025 cohort of Lead Virginia, a prestigious leadership development program.
“Being selected for Lead Virginia is a privilege, and I look forward to using this experience to build social capital and continue supporting Southern Virginia’s success, learning alongside other leaders across the state.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President
Lead Virginia, a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization, operates on the principle of social capital. Each year, it brings together a select group of senior-level professionals committed to advancing Virginia’s future. Through immersive experiences in various regions of the state, participants engage directly with local and state leaders to explore responses to critical issues in the areas of economy, education and health.
The program fosters a network of leaders who transcend professional boundaries to collaborate on solutions for Virginia’s betterment. Throughout the year, participants visit different regions of Virginia, culminating in a session in the Richmond area and graduation. Each session immerses participants in a new region, providing the opportunity to interact directly with local and state leaders to explore unique concerns and potential solutions.
Tucker is among several distinguished leaders from across Southern Virginia who have been selected to participate in the Lead Virginia program. Other regional participants include:
- Dan Hayes, Executive Director, Community Foundation of the Dan River Region
- Cassie Jones, Associate Vice President of University Marketing and Communications, Averett University
- Angelika Matczak, President & CEO, SBA Home NC
- Lauren Mathena, Director of Economic Development & Community Engagement, Mid-Atlantic Broadband Communities Corporation
- Susan McCulloch, Division Director of Housing & Development, City of Danville
- Andrew Palmer, Vice President, The Lester Group Inc.
- Nick Setliff, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, First Piedmont Corporation
Each of these individuals exemplifies a shared commitment to advancing Southern Virginia’s interests and driving meaningful progress for the region.
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.
