Frequently Asked Questions

Why give to the Parents and Grandparents Campaign?

Every gift, regardless of size, matters to Vanderbilt. Tuition dollars cover a portion of the cost of a Vanderbilt education. The University depends on the generosity of alumni, parents, grandparents, foundations, corporations, and friends to help Vanderbilt provide a world class education to the students of today and the leaders of tomorrow.

Why doesn’t Vanderbilt use its endowment to cover the rest of the costs?

The income from Vanderbilt’s endowment is used to defray costs, but this income does not fully cover the difference between tuition income and annual expenses.

How are my unrestricted annual dollars utilized?

Every student is able to benefit from annual support. The School of Engineering is able to use unrestricted funds for Senior Design Seminar, which encourages the different areas of engineering to collaborate to solve real world problems. The College of Arts and Science has used unrestricted dollars to recruit and retain top faculty to Vanderbilt. Annual unrestricted support is a high priority for the Blair School of Music because of the flexibility those funds afford. Unrestricted support has allowed Peabody to be consistently ranked among the top ranked American institutions in their fields of study.

What are my giving options?

To make giving convenient, there are a number of ways for parents and grandparents to make gifts: by credit card, check, transfer of stock or electronic fund transfers. You’ll find more information here.

What is an example of unrestricted giving working for students?

Laboratory and classroom equipment
Library acquisitions
Guest lectureships
Special programs and seminars
And much more….every student benefits from annual support!

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