The Business of VU program is accepting applications for its fifth cohort in fall 2021, offering the Vanderbilt community an educational opportunity to learn about the business operations of the university and the higher education landscape.
The program, sponsored by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Finance, launched in fall 2017 and has since welcomed four cohorts of faculty, staff and students. Each cohort participates in interactive and informative sessions discussing the different elements of higher education and how Vanderbilt operates within the higher education landscape.
In preparation of kicking off the fifth cohort this fall, students, faculty and staff may express their interest in participating by applying (link below). Topics planned for the fall include: a higher education overview, VU governance, global impacts on higher education, the economics of Vanderbilt, debt and fundraising, university endowment, peer school comparisons, academic leadership, residential colleges, admissions, financial aid, research and innovation, university communications, state and federal relations, identifying and managing risk, a conversation with the deans, and innovation at Vanderbilt. Applicants are asked to complete readings in advance and attend and actively participate in discussions at each of the nine two-hour sessions.
The course is scheduled for Thursday evenings beginning in late August and running through early December. Depending on fall campus plans, the program may offer hybrid (in-person and virtual) sessions and will provide options in compliance with local, CDC and VU community guidelines.
Applications are due June 7, and participants are notified in late July of their acceptance status. The program cohort is selected to represent a diverse set of campus perspectives and is limited to approximately 35 participants to ensure an engaging experience. Applications are considered based on level of interest, background of experience, and commitment to Vanderbilt University to build a cohort representing the schools and units across campus. Those not selected in this cohort may be considered for a future Business of VU program upon re-application.
Those interested in applying can do so by following this link.
Please direct inquires to BusinessofVU@vanderbilt.edu.