Vanderbilt’s Commitment to Nashville
At Vanderbilt University, we believe in the power of community and the importance of learning together and working together. We connect our students, staff, faculty and resources with local community-based organizations to help strengthen Nashville.
By building strong, authentic relationships, we work alongside community leaders to create positive change. We are proud to support local community-based organizations, not only by providing financial resources but also by collaborating to develop programs that meet the needs of the community. Together, we create initiatives that make a real difference, ensuring our efforts are meaningful and responsive to the needs of Nashville.
We invite community members to participate in campus opportunities to contribute and learn with us.
In an effort to build deep and sustained partnerships, we facilitate opportunities for our students, staff and faculty to engage directly with the community, enriching their experiences and contributing to a stronger, more connected city.
Community Impact Spotlight
Vanderbilt serves: Volunteers weave stronger Nashville ties through service
School for Science and Math at Vanderbilt wins Dana Foundation grant for curriculum on smartphones and cognition in teens
Nashville celebrates top educators at Blue Ribbon Teacher Awards
Back to school with PENCIL: Vanderbilt strengthens ties to K–12 education
Among Nashville’s artifacts, School for Science and Math at Vanderbilt students unearth community, history
Vanderbilt collaboration gives Metro students hands-on lessons in quilting, community
‘Food for Thought’ sparks dialogue on culture and culinary identity
Vanderbilt dedicates historical marker honoring legendary Pearl High coach Cornelius Ridley
Empowering youth expression: Vanderbilt and Salama Urban Ministries unveil new collaborative mural
Vanderbilt collaborates with Nashville Public Education Foundation to honor exceptional educators
Our Partnerships with Metro Nashville Public Schools
Vanderbilt is proud to collaborate with MNPS to enhance educational opportunities across the city. From mentorship and tutoring to STEM and arts outreach, we’re committed to supporting student success. Use the map below to explore our partnerships and learn more about the programs making an impact in local schools.
Upcoming Community Events
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February 3
5 - 6 p.m. Langford Auditorium, 2209 Garland Ave Nashville, TN 37232
The Future of Social Media featuring Teddy Soloman, CEO of Fizz
A conversation with Teddy Solomon, CEO and co-founder of the popular social media platform Fizz, discussing the future of social media and how digital forums are shaping campus culture, civic dialogue, and the way students engage with one another.
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February 6
7:30 p.m. Ingram Hall, Vanderbilt University Blair School of Music, 2400 Blakemore Ave., Nashville, TN 37212
Vanderbilt University Orchestra: Mambo!
Experience the Vanderbilt University Orchestra, conducted by Ernesto Estigarribia Mussi, as it makes its 2026 debut. The evening concludes with Leonard Bernstein’s iconic Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, a reimagining of one of Broadway’s most celebrated scores, complete with the unforgettable shout: “Mambo!”
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February 18
6 p.m. Woolworth Theatre, 223 Rep. John Lewis Way N, Nashville, TN 37219
Rev. James M. Lawson, Jr. Memoir Launch Celebration
This celebratory book launch will feature musical performances, dialogue with Rev. Lawson’s son, John Lawson, and the co-author, Emily Yellin. The program will highlight how Lawson’s legacy continues to inform contemporary conversations around justice, nonviolence, and collective action in times of social and political uncertainty.
Explore Vanderbilt’s Public Spaces
Vanderbilt offers a variety of public spaces where the Nashville community can enjoy art, culture, and relaxation. From galleries and performance venues to parks and open areas, these spaces are open for all to explore.
| Vanderbilt University Museum of Art | 1220 21st Ave S, Nashville, TN | vanderbilt.edu/art-museum |
| Blair School of Music Concerts | 2400 Blakemore Ave, Nashville, TN 37212 | blair.vanderbilt.edu/events |
| Dyer Observatory | 1000 Oman Drive Brentwood TN, 37027 | dyer.vanderbilt.edu |
| The Curb Center for Art, Enterprise, and Public Policy | 1801 Edgehill Avenue, Nashville, TN 37212 | vanderbilt.edu/curbcenter |
Vanderbilt’s Impact
Vanderbilt is making a difference in Nashville through our partnerships, volunteer efforts and support for local organizations. Our presence also fuels the region’s economy, generating jobs and driving billions in economic activity each year.
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60+
Nonprofits funded annually by Community Impact Fund
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52
Incoming Nashville Vanderbilt Scholars in the class of 2029
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1,129
Students reached by STEM outreach programs
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826
Adult learners in Davidson County attending Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
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120K
Jobs generated by economic impact in 2024
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$22.13B
Economic activity generated in 2024
Opportunities to Engage
Vanderbilt Staff
Engage in the Local Community
Vanderbilt staff have many opportunities to get involved locally to serve, learn, and share knowledge and expertise to address real-world needs, creating deeper connections between the university and the broader community. Learn how to get involved.
Partners
Working Together for Nashville
Vanderbilt values collaboration with local organizations to create meaningful change in our community. Whether you’re a nonprofit, business or community group, we’re here to work together on initiatives that address shared goals. Learn more about partnership opportunities and how to connect with us.
Community Engagement Resources
Learn more about Vanderbilt’s approach to community engagement and the initiatives that drive our efforts.
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