Averett University Collaborates with SCHEV for V-TOP Initiative to Strengthen Talent Pipeline for Employers in Region

The program aims to expand high-quality, paid, and credit-bearing student internships and other work-based learning opportunities in collaboration with Virginia employers.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 9:51pm

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Averett University is collaborating with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) through the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership Initiative (V-TOP) to strengthen the opportunities for students and the talent pipeline for employers in the region. The program comprises institutional grants and a statewide initiative to facilitate the readiness of students, employers, and institutions of higher education to participate in internships and other work-based learning opportunities.

Why it matters

With fewer than half of Virginia's college students completing an internship, the V-TOP initiative is vital for expanding work-based learning and ensuring students graduate with the confidence and experience needed to launch successful careers. The program also aims to strengthen the talent pipeline for Virginia employers.

The details

Averett University was awarded a grant to lead the V-TOP effort in GO Virginia Region 3 in collaboration with other higher education partners. The university hired Victoria McKinnis to oversee the operation and growth of the program. V-TOP is a collaborative effort across the Commonwealth to support economic development and build a talent pipeline to meet business needs.

  • In 2018, the Virginia General Assembly appropriated funding to SCHEV to stimulate public colleges and universities to develop partnerships to provide innovative paid internship opportunities.
  • In 2019, the effort was expanded and enacted into law as the Innovative Internship Fund and Program.
  • In 2020, the program was rebranded as the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP).

The players

Averett University

A university collaborating with SCHEV on the V-TOP initiative to strengthen the talent pipeline for employers in the region.

State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV)

A state agency collaborating with Averett University and other partners on the V-TOP initiative.

Victoria McKinnis

The individual hired by Averett University to oversee the operation and growth of the V-TOP program in GO Virginia Region 3.

Dr. Julie J. Brown

The provost of Averett University who is leading the V-TOP effort in GO Virginia Region 3.

Dr. Alisha Bazemore

The Assistant Director of Innovative Work-Based Learning Initiatives at SCHEV.

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What they’re saying

“Averett University is proud to lead the V-TOP effort in GO Virginia Region 3 in collaboration with our higher education partners. It is imperative that our college students have access to high-quality internships which add relevancy to their academic journeys, ultimately connecting them to employers and the myriad of meaningful career opportunities in southern Virginia.”

— Dr. Julie J. Brown, Averett University Provost

“Averett University's partnership with V-TOP reflects a shared commitment to expanding meaningful internship and work-based learning opportunities for students. Together, we are building stronger pathways that prepare students for meaningful careers and contribute to Virginia's future talent pipeline.”

— Dr. Alisha Bazemore, Assistant Director of Innovative Work-Based Learning Initiatives at SCHEV

What’s next

The Implementation Team, which includes representatives from various higher education institutions and workforce organizations, will continue to meet to oversee the growth and operation of the V-TOP program in GO Virginia Region 3.

The takeaway

The V-TOP initiative is a collaborative effort to expand high-quality, paid internships and work-based learning opportunities for college students in Virginia, helping to strengthen the talent pipeline for employers and ensure graduates are prepared for successful careers.