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Sarratt Student Center | Rand Hall

2302 Vanderbilt Place
Nashville, TN 37240

About Sarratt Student Center | Rand Hall

The Sarratt Student Center, a cornerstone of campus life, is named in honor of Charles Madison Sarratt (1888–1978), a legendary figure at Vanderbilt University. His illustrious 62-year career saw him wear many hats, from mathematics professor to Dean of Students, Vice-Chancellor Emeritus, Dean of Alumni, and even Chancellor Pro Tempore for a brief period in 1945. His enduring legacy is commemorated at the center’s original main entrance, where his bust and personal “mission statement” serve as a constant reminder of his profound impact on the university.

The Sarratt Student Center’s architecture is a testament to its rich history, having undergone four distinct phases of construction. Rand Dining Hall, constructed in 1952, stands as the central hub of campus dining, strategically located at the heart of Vanderbilt. In 1974, Sarratt was introduced as two separate buildings—a cinema and art gallery on one side, and the iconic Baseball Glove Lounge and Overcup Oak on the other—connected by an elevated walkway that students would pass under en route to Rand.

In 1986, a $6 million renovation expanded the dining hall and bookstore, ushering in a new era of student engagement. By 2000, Sarratt’s footprint grew even larger with an 18,000-square-foot expansion, introducing the enclosed Promenade and the Skylight on the third floor. Responding to student feedback that the layout was confusing and the lighting uninspiring, the once-separated Rand/Sarratt buildings were eventually unified into the seamless, vibrant structure we know today. Beyond its architectural evolution, the Sarratt Student Center boasts a diverse array of reservable rooms designed to meet the needs of the campus community. From intimate meeting spaces perfect for small group discussions to a theater great for concerts and large performances, this building offers something for every occasion. From its historical beginnings to its modern-day functionality, Sarratt Student Center | Rand Hall continues to be a dynamic, welcoming space for students to connect, learn, and create lasting memories.

Reservable Spaces

Room Type A:

  • Rand 306
  • Sarratt 208

Room Type B:

  • Rand 308
  • Sarratt 189
  • Sarratt 325/327

Room Type C:

  • Rand Lounge 262

Theater:

  • Sarratt 197 Cinema