General Information

In April 1995, Vanderbilt University formalized its supplier diversity initiatives by establishing a Supplier Diversity Program (SDP). The principle mission is to provide equal access to business opportunities at the University for diverse suppliers and to aid departments in meeting federal subcontracting purchasing goals.

The Supplier Diversity Program objectives are:
  1. Create a quality process for all stakeholders - including a plan of action to monitor, achieve, and report business diversity activities.
  2. Develop new, creative and innovative means to utilize small business and specific subcategories of small business including minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, small disadvantaged, hubzone, and small business enterprises.
  3. Establish cost-effective relationships that will ensure that Vanderbilt University and its Medical Center realizes the benefits of competitive pricing and quality products and services.
The Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) is committed to extending business opportunities to small business enterprises of all genders and ethnicities. The policy of the SDP is supported by the Chancellor of Vanderbilt University. Supplier diversity initiatives are managed by Procurement Services. Responsibility for the leadership and management of Vanderbilt´s Supplier Diversity Program is shared between Chuck Nicholas, Maggie Robinson, Michael Jessing, and Sheri DiGiovanna.

Please see our Supplier Site to apply!

What's New

  • 2009 - Business Diversity Fair: April, 2009
    This year´s Business Diversity Fair (BDF) will be held on August 11, 2009 in the Student Life Center, Vanderbilt University campus. This year, Vanderbilt will host our approved diversity suppliers invited by our Sourcing Officers to exhibit. Procurement Services invites all buying responsible personnel of every department, hospital and clinic to attend and establish working relationships with our small business and diverse business community. The Fair will include a fun atmosphere of decorations, music, food, and supplier booths.

    If you are interested in doing business with Vanderbilt University, please visit our Small Business and Diversity Supplier Site and apply here.