Donor Societies

Vanderbilt supporters play a tremendous role in our ability to lead, discover and teach. The university recognizes generous and inspiring donors in a number of ways, including membership in donor societies.

Donors who give $2,500 or more to a single area between July 1 and June 30 gain membership in one of our donor societies.

Donor Society Giving Levels:
Cornelius Vanderbilt $25,000+
Dean's List/Circle $10,000 – $24,999
Benefactor $5,000 – $9,999
Member* $2,500 – $4,999

*Alumni who graduated within the last 10 years are eligible for recognition with an annual gift of $1,000 or more.

For more information on individual donor societies at Vanderbilt:

Blair School of Music
Patrons Society
Contact: Addie Sullivan

College of Arts and Science
College Cabinet
Contact: Jonathan Petty

Divinity School
Schola Prophetarum
Contact: Addie Sullivan

Graduate School
Provost's Circle
Contact: Stephanie Oberhausen

Jean and Alexander Heard Library
Heard Society

Owen Graduate School of Management
Owen Circle
Contact: Kelli Edmond

Peabody College of education and human development
Roundtable Society
Contact: David Chambliss

Provost's Circle
Contact: Office of Annual Giving

School of Engineering
Fred J. Lewis Society
Contact: Teresa Rogers

School of Nursing
Julia Hereford Society
Contact: Chris Cloar

Vanderbilt Law School
Founders Circle
Contact: Scotty Mann

Vanderbilt School of Medicine
John E. Chapman, M.D. Society
Contact: Taylor Wood

Vanderbilt School of Medicine, Basic Sciences
Discovery Circle
Contact: Taylor Wood

Why I Give

“We give to Vanderbilt because of the extraordinary experience it is giving our son. A phenomenal education, outstanding professors, lifelong friendships and a desire to give back to his community. We couldn't ask for more. We look forward to our son being able to give back to Vanderbilt...forever.”

–Immy Mullin, Current Vanderbilt parent

“Vanderbilt gave me so much—an education, friends, work experience, mentors and lifelong memories. Attending Vanderbilt may not have been a reality for me and many of my peers without the generosity of alumni who gave back. I give so others can experience an amazing university that's there to support student development with every resource possible. I give so that Vanderbilt can continue to provide quality education to diverse populations with unique and meaningful perspectives. I give so that Vanderbilt continues to train and develop leaders who will positively impact and shape our world. Vanderbilt gave me so much, now it's my turn.”

–Nick Hall, BS’13

“As the parent of a student who was blessed to attend Vanderbilt, I feel that it is my family's responsibility to give back. I give back for several reasons. First, while attending Vanderbilt, my daughter received a quality education, both in and out of the classroom. Next, it is my hope that by putting something back, someone else will be able to receive the same quality education. Finally, it is my way of saying, ‘thanks’.”

-Leadrester Granger, Parent of Vanderbilt alumna

“I value the education I received at Vanderbilt as both an undergraduate and graduate student. I have always loved my university and have supported it as I could throughout the years. The friendships, the fun at sports events, the sorority activities, and alumni events are a cherished part of my life. Thanks so much!”

-Bonnie Seay, BA’66, MA’80

“The Bass Military Scholars Program brings incredibly talented U.S. military veterans to Vanderbilt where they receive a world-class education and share their values of selfless service, integrity and mission focus with the student body, staff and faculty, and community. Devin personifies the vision of this program: to recognize and reward the distinguished service of veterans, expose the Vanderbilt community to their unique life experiences, and prepare these American patriots for leadership roles in their chosen profession and continued service to American society.”

—Lt. Gen. Gary Cheek, U.S. Army (Retired); Director, Bass Military Scholars Program

“I see this chair as an investment in the ability of engineers to innovate and solve problems. It’s an honor to help advance solutions to some of our society’s greatest challenges.”

— Richard Schroeder, BE’74