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
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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November 13
12–1 p.m. Frist Art Museum, 919 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Food for Thought: Avenues to a Great City
Panel discussion highlighting Avenues to a Great City, a collaborative exhibition organized by the Civic Design Center and the Frist Art Museum. This free event includes gallery admission, parking and a boxed lunch.
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November 18
5–6:30 p.m. Owen Graduate School of Management, 401 21st Ave S Nashville, TN
Bridging People and Purpose: Platform Thinking for Nonprofit Leaders
In this candid conversation, a panel of seasoned leaders will explore how nonprofits can adopt “platform thinking” to create mutual value for both sides—while managing power imbalances, avoiding mission drift, and staying rooted in purpose.
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November 20
7 p.m. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory, 1000 Oman Drive Brentwood, TN 37027
Meet the Astronomer with Dr. Jessica Schonhut-Stasik
Dr. Schonhut-Stasik will discuss some of the major observatories atop Mauna Kea in Hawai'i. In addition, she will highlight some of the research and discoveries made with some of the world's premier telescopes.
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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