Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
Driving Economic Transformation
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From mastering the art of sign language in a virtual classroom one month to casting a line as part of a multi-part fishing expedition the next, the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is a dynamic hub where curiosity knows no age. Whether people are eager to craft intricate designs with a Cricut, whip up culinary delights in the kitchen or delve into the world of coding while building a musical instrument, there is something for everyone.
This community is about learning new skills and encouraging a lifelong love of discovery and growth.
The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is a group that fosters community, knowledge sharing and personal growth through various initiatives and workshops. The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) supports this community-based education platform.
“Lifelong learning isn’t just a hobby; it is a continuous journey of growth and fulfillment.” – Brian Stanley, IALR Program Coordinator II
The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is a lifelong learning program where members meet curious people, share their passions and talents, and learn new things. Several monthly workshops allow members to discover new skills explore new places.
The Wonder Community crosses multiple generations and unites people with varied interests and talents. By welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, ages and experiences, the community strives to create an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and benefit from shared knowledge.
Since Wonder began in 2022, more than 50 workshops have been hosted. These workshops cover six “themes” related to community support and growth. Themes include passion projects, green futures, shifting perspectives, teacher topics, healthy us and lunch and learns.
Below are some recent workshops that members have enjoyed:
The Wonder Community thrives on collaboration. The initiative taps into a rich reservoir of knowledge, expertise and resources through partnerships with local institutions. Some recent collaborations have included a tour of Imagination Lavender Farm with New College Institute, cooking classes with Megabytes Café and a grant writing workshop with the Danville Regional Foundation. These connections amplify the community’s impact, ensuring that programming is relevant, accessible and responsive to community needs.
During a joint event with Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning and the New College Institute. participants explored the Imagination Lavender Farm.
Through such collaborations, the Wonder Community positions individuals and organizations to shape the region’s intellectual and cultural landscape.
“Collaborating with regional partners is vital to fostering lifelong learning, as it brings together diverse perspectives, resources and expertise, creating a more prosperous and inclusive educational experience for all.” – Brian Stanley, Advanced Learning Program Coordinator II
As part of the Advanced Learning division at IALR, the Wonder Community demonstrates IALR’s commitment to promoting lifelong and service learning and connecting people with resources.
Rebecca Wright has been a member of the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning since she attended a painting workshop in June 2023.
“I showed up not knowing HOW much I was getting involved with,” Wright admitted.
What initially seemed like a simple $10 paint class unfolded into a year-long immersion in Wonder’s diverse programming. (The lowest membership tier costs just $10 for unlimited workshops for a year.)
Rebecca Wright, pictured here during a recent Cricut workshop, is one of the most consistent members of the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning.
“I had no idea that I would have access to a year of programming based on signing up for that one event,” she reflected, highlighting the unexpected value of her initial investment.
With its diverse and affordable workshops, the Wonder Community quickly became a cornerstone in Wright’s life. Her favorite experiences have been the Cricut workshops and crafting her own musical instrument using an Arduino kit and Pure Data.
“It’s more than just a community; it’s a place where you can truly explore, learn and thrive.” – Rebecca Wright, Wonder Member
For Wright, joining Wonder Community was more than just attending workshops; it was an opportunity to reenter day-to-day life during a challenging period of health issues and prolonged home confinement.
“I found the group at a time when I was coming out of many health issues and being stuck at home,” she shared candidly. “I look forward to getting out of the house and meeting new people who are also curious to keep learning.”
Whether it’s painting, cooking or learning sign language, Wright finds that Wonder fosters a sense of accomplishment and community spirit.
“In our supportive, judgment-free environment, you can try new things without fear. We laugh together, learn together and support each other in figuring out how to improve for the next time.” – Rebecca Wright, Wonder Community Member
She believes that this collaborative spirit makes Wonder Community such a fulfilling way to grow and learn.
The Wonder Community offers a unique membership process for becoming a supporter. There are two main options: pay a fee or present a workshop.
The Wonder Community hosts an annual three-part fishing series, providing members an opportunity to learn about fishing processes, catch some fish in the river, and participate in a fish fry.
“One of my favorite skills I’ve learned is how to clean a fish. I never thought I would have the stomach to do that. I’ve learned heat-pressing, painting and how to use a cricket. The cooking classes helped me expand my ideas in the kitchen.” – Jessica Hardy, Wonder Community member
The lowest tier costs just $10 (or one workshop presentation) and includes access to all workshops.
Five membership tiers are offered, each corresponding to a monetary value or the option to lead workshops.
In the spirit of “paying it forward,” 60% of each supporter’s payment will be invested directly into the community. Supporters can choose to dedicate this donation to a nonprofit organization of their choice, or to support another individual’s basic Eureka membership.
“If you’re looking for a network of like-minded, curious individuals who are all trying to gain new skills with zero judgment and supporting each other, our members uplift to better one another and better the region as well.” –Brian Stanley, Wonder Community Program Coordinator II
The July 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
The June 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
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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.
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.
The February 20224 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
The January 20224 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
The December edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research’s (IALR) on-site café, Megabytes, has reopened featuring a new menu and online ordering. The café offers unique and healthy options Monday-Friday, including a well-stocked fresh salad bar, pizza and sandwiches. Interesting twists on old favorites include a turkey wrap with avocado and red pepper hummus, or a ham and cheddar croissant with sweet pineapple Dijon. Snacks, including freshly baked cookies, are also available.
In addition to daily items, the café features a hot buffet Tuesday-Thursday offering a rotating menu. Some themes include Taste of Italy, featuring dishes like beef lasagna and chicken carbonara, Taco Tuesday with selections like Chile Verde pork and fajita steak, and a Burger Bar, where diners can design their own burger creation using a variety of toppings and sauces.
The Megabytes hot bar will be open on Tuesdays – Thursdays and will be offering a rotating menu including themed menu items such as Taco Tuesday.
For pick-up orders, new online ordering options are available at www.toasttab.com/megabytes or via the free Toast Takeout mobile application downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.
Megabytes’ new friendly and highly trained staff are eager to welcome and serve their guests. Executive Chef John Clark has been bringing culinary excellence to country clubs and conference centers since he was 27 years old. He recently located with his son to Danville from Taylor Hospitality’s Virginia International Raceway (VIR) property and has been responsible for the food and beverage program at IALR since August 2021. Although he established himself as a creative force on the west coast, he is a native of Virginia, originally hailing from Alexandria. When not in the kitchen, he is a gifted musician who likes to travel, play golf and garden.
Front House Manager Alex Hattwick is a 2014 graduate of Averett University. He has a long history in food service, primarily as a bartender and banquet captain. Hattwick is excited to be back in the Danville area and looks forward to enhancing options and growing the café. He is an avid motorcyclist, gardener, tinkerer and surfer.
Donna Conner, Server/Banquet Server, is a 30-year veteran of the customer service and transportation industries. She takes special pride in getting to know her customers and keeping the restaurant organized and operating smoothly. Like Clark, she comes to Megabytes from Taylor Hospitality’s VIR property.
Megabytes café summer hours (June 1-Sept. 2) are 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Monday-Friday with the hot bar serving patrons Tuesday-Thursday. For more information and to view menus, visit ialr.org/megabytes.
Megabytes Executive Chef John Clark, Server Donna Conner and Front House Manager Alex Hattwick are thrilled with the opportunity to serve guests now that Megabytes has reopened.
