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 24
4 - 5:30 p.m. Vanderbilt Divinity School, 411 21st Ave S Room 124 Nashville, TN 37212
We Live Here: Community Power and the Struggle for Environmental Justice
This conversation on environmental justice and community-led resistance in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley will feature Sharon Lavigne and Shamyra Lavigne of RISE St. James. They will reflect on grassroots organizing, environmental racism in their community, and the fight for health equity and dignity in the frontline communities.
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March 5
6 p.m. Tennessee Performing Arts Center 505 Deaderick Street Nashville, Tennessee 37243
Dinnertime Discussion: Suffs
Join Vanderbilt, TPAC, and the Nashville Public Library as we discuss the history behind the Broadway touring production of Suffs and learn how the show was brought to life. The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Christin Essin, Vanderbilt University Professor of Theatre History.
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March 11
5 p.m. Vanderbilt University, Special Collections and University Archives, 1101 19th Ave. S.
Nashville's Hidden Heroes: Honoring Rabbi Randall M. Falk
The life and legacy of Rabbi Randall M. Falk, MA’66, DDiv’69, a noted human rights advocate who left a lasting impact on the Nashville community, will be discussed on Wednesday, March 11, at Vanderbilt University.
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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