Local Government Relations Coordinator
Donovan Sheffield serves as the local government relations coordinator at Vanderbilt University. He plays a crucial role in supporting the Local Government Relations team by engaging with elected officials, various Metro departments, community leaders and neighbors on behalf of Vanderbilt. His advocacy focuses on advancing the university’s local priorities and consulting with internal stakeholders on initiatives requiring interaction with local government.
Before joining the Division of Government and Community Relations in 2023, Sheffield spent four years in Vanderbilt University’s Athletic Department. Starting as a Graduate Assistant responsible for Fan and Community Engagement, he later transitioned to the role of Assistant Director of Human Resources. In both capacities, Sheffield continued to lead community engagement activities within Athletics. Notably, he steered the Hoops and Hope initiative, an impactful community collaboration involving multiple Metro municipalities, a Fortune 500 company and over 10 local nonprofit organizations, earning him Vanderbilt’s Community Impact Award.
Sheffield became a Double ’Dore in 2021 after earning his master of education from Vanderbilt’s Peabody College in leadership and organization performance. His educational journey began with a bachelor of science in human and organizational development, minoring in corporate strategy at Vanderbilt. During his undergraduate years, Sheffield interned with commercial real estate development companies, gaining valuable experience in land use policy, zoning and codes in addition to being a member of the Vanderbilt Undergraduate Real Estate Club. He was also recognized on the SEC Academic Honor Roll while competing as a student-athlete on the football team.
Beyond his professional and academic pursuits, Sheffield is actively involved in community service. Since 2016, he has volunteered with Soles 4 Soles and serves the Nashville community as a NFHS certified youth sports coach for football and track and field.