Vanderbilt University is pleased to announce Tara Hamilton as the new Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Known for her exceptional skills in relationship-building and expertise in fundraising, Hamilton brings a deep commitment to lifelong learning and a vision for OLLI’s future.
Hamilton joins OLLI at Vanderbilt with a distinguished background in nonprofit leadership, having served in pivotal roles at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, Thistle Farms, and previously at Vanderbilt University. Her experience includes securing significant funding, cultivating strong donor relationships, and building strategic partnerships to support a wide range of educational, cultural and social initiatives. Hamilton’s ability to engage and inspire donors has been central to her success in advancing each organization’s mission.
“Tara brings a wonderful blend of energy, warmth and expertise that will enrich the OLLI community,” said Norma Clippard, who is retiring after serving as director of OLLI since 2001. “Her arrival is a cause for celebration, and I am confident she’ll lead with a spirit that both honors our traditions and opens new doors for our learners.”
“Education is a lifelong journey, and OLLI has set the standard for creating an inclusive space where people can continue to learn and grow,” Hamilton said. “I’m thrilled to join this community and look forward to expanding OLLI’s reach and creating even more meaningful experiences for our members.”
A native of Nashville, Hamilton holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a master’s degree in Strategic Fundraising and Philanthropy from Bay Path University. This academic background, combined with hands-on experience, gives her a unique skill set in nonprofit leadership and fundraising strategy. As she steps into her role, Hamilton is focused on OLLI’s continued growth and sustainability, ensuring that it remains a premier educational resource for adults over 50 across Nashville.
Passionate about the power of education and community, Tara is also an active member of various community organizations and is dedicated to mentoring emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector. Known for her commitment to authenticity and integrity, she strives to create meaningful change in both the academic and philanthropic communities.
With Hamilton’s leadership, OLLI at Vanderbilt is poised for an exciting new chapter, building on its tradition of providing enriching educational experiences for Nashville’s lifelong learners.