The Vanderbilt University Community Relations team plays a crucial role in extending the university's reach into the Nashville area, partnering with local communities and organizations to make a tangible difference in our city and region.
Under the leadership of Senior Director Kathleen Fuchs Hritz, the team—including Midori Lockett, Chief Community Impact Officer; Elizabeth Garza Bumpas, Community Impact Officer; and Casey Gymrek, Community Relations Coordinator—supports the community by:
- Providing financial and programmatic support to fuel community initiatives
- Covening stakeholders to create meaningful pathways for community impact
- Leveraging Vanderbilt's resources and expertise to meet local needs
We believe that lasting solutions are achieved through collaboration. Programs like the Community Impact Fund and the Community Engagement Collaboration Fund reflect our role as active partners among local initiatives.
The Community Impact Fund offers financial and in-kind support, focusing on the capacity and impact of nonprofits in line with Vanderbilt's values. We invite local nonprofits to use our new digital application platform for funding requests for both event sponsorship and programmatic funding. The fund has two cycles for fall and spring funding opportunities. Organizations can apply by September 16 for programs occurring between July 1 and December 31.
Additionally, the Community Engagement Collaboration Fund strengthens university-community partnerships by supporting projects that address critical needs through cross-disciplinary collaboration. Vanderbilt faculty and staff are encouraged to apply for funding in partnership with community-based organizations by September 16.
Beyond these efforts, we coordinate the Community Engagement Collaborative—a campus network advancing Vanderbilt's purposeful engagement across Nashville and Middle Tennessee. This group fosters projects that prioritize community input and advance the university's spirit of innovation.
For the latest news from Vanderbilt Community Relations and detailed information on how both campus and community partners can collaborate with our team, visit our website.