The purpose of this organization shall be to establish and maintain in Virginia for scientific and educational purposes an association of persons and organizations interested in science and scientific research in all of its branches; to solicit financial and other support; to cooperate with educational institutions, industries, and state agencies in fostering an interest in scientific matters, in promoting scientific investigations and in spreading knowledge of the sciences; to provide a forum for the presentation and discussion of papers on scientific subjects and facilities for their publication; to provide opportunities for the cooperation and fellowship among its members; and generally, in doing these things, to benefit not only its own members, but to promote the civic, agricultural, academic, industrial, and commercial welfare of the people of Virginia.