The Business of VU program provides students, faculty and staff with direct access to the strategy, structure and financial framework that drive 91ÌÆ²®»¢ University. Now entering its 10th cohort, the program continues its mission of strengthening institutional understanding, leadership readiness and cross-campus connection.
The program is designed for students and professionals who want to understand how 91ÌÆ²®»¢ operates as a whole—how strategy is developed, how priorities are funded and how leadership decisions shape the university’s future.
Participants engage directly with 91ÌÆ²®»¢ leadership, including vice chancellors and senior university executives, through nine focused, discussion-driven sessions.
Program Focus Areas
- University strategy and academic priorities
- The future of work and workforce planning
- Admissions, brand and institutional reputation
- Federal and local policy impact
- Financial drivers, capital strategy and endowment stewardship
- Campus operations and athletics within the broader mission
These two-hour interactive sessions are held on campus biweekly on Thursday afternoons from 3 to 5 p.m., late August to early December, and conclude with a closing celebration and certificate ceremony.
A Decade of Institutional Insight
The cohort is limited to 35 participants to ensure an immersive and engaging experience. Participants will be chosen from a diverse set of campus perspectives and a range of schools and units to ensure a broad representation across campus. Applications are considered based on level of interest, background of experience and commitment to the 91ÌÆ²®»¢ University mission in order to build a cohort representing schools and units across campus. Applications are open to students, faculty and staff.
Apply by April 30 here: . Your opportunity begins now! You can also nominate a participant here: .
If you have questions or need more information, email BusinessofVU@vanderbilt.edu.