COMMODORE STATE OF
With Vanderbilt Orthopaedics, you’ll finish strong.
If pain or injury is keeping you out of the action, team up with Vanderbilt Orthopaedics. Our experts in bones, joints and rehabilitation will develop a treatment plan to get you back to form safely and quickly. If you suspect a concussion, Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center provides state-of-theart, comprehensive care. Learn more: VanderbiltOrthopaedics.com.
O R T H O PA E D I C S A N D R E H A B I L I TAT I O N B R ENTWO OD
FRANKLIN
GALLATIN
MT. J ULIET
NASHVILLE
Official Sports Medicine Provider for the Vanderbilt Commodores
S PRING HILL
A WELCOME FROM DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS David Williams The 2016-17 year at Vanderbilt University marked one of the most successful athletic seasons in Commodore history—and things are only getting better on West End. As a supporter of Vanderbilt athletics, you know first-hand what makes us unique. This edition of Commodore Nation—the “State of Commodore Nation” issue—offers a more detailed look at the on- and off-field accomplishments of our athletic programs at Vanderbilt. Our immensely talented student-athletes are among the most driven in the country in their respective sports, but we at Vanderbilt strive to make sure Commodore careers prepare for life beyond sports. Last year Vanderbilt student-athletes combined for a department-wide grade point average of 3.183, the highest cumulative GPA in athletics history. Eleven of Vanderbilt’s 15 athletic programs achieved a GPA of 3.0 or better. Plus, our athletic department led all SEC schools with a 993.6 Academic Progress Rate (APR) as measured by the NCAA. Vanderbilt’s extensive summer internship program remained the most comprehensive of its kind in college sports. In 2017, 85 student-athletes took in real-world work experience with Nashvillebased companies, a unique complement to top-tier athletics and a world-class education. Vanderbilt’s Bridge Program and Pre-Flight Program provided enhanced support for rising freshmen and sophomore student-athletes, preparing them for the rigors of academic and athletic careers as Commodores. Several student-athletes likewise took part in study abroad programs, venturing to the likes of Australia, France and South Africa. Meanwhile, a group of Commodores participated in a service trip to Jamaica in partnership with Soles4Souls, delivering shoes to local schools.
vucommodores.com
Nashville’s history and culture were on display during Vanderbilt’s inaugural Equality Weekend last spring. Our Commodore basketball programs honored 21 Nashville-area civil rights icons with emotional ceremonies at Memorial Gym. In recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the athletic department likewise funded a day trip for studentathletes to Washington, D.C., where they toured the National Museum of African American History and Culture and other iconic monuments. Amid such opportunity, Vanderbilt coaches and student-athletes competed at the highest level in 2016-17. The Commodores won four conference championships, earned a bevy of all-conference and All-America honors— including SEC Player of the Year in women’s tennis’ Astra Sharma—and saw student-athletes selected in the NFL and MLB drafts. Three Vanderbilt programs advanced to the Final Four in their respective sports, and Commodore baseball reached its fourth NCAA Super Regional in five years. Student-athletes such as Vanderbilt women’s basketball’s Kayla Overbeck and baseball’s Patrick Raby suited up for Team USA. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt continued to enhance its athletic programs with state-of-the-art facility upgrades, such as the new $12 million facility for the Dores’ baseball program. Indeed, there has never been a more exciting time to be a Commodore. With your continued passion and support, Vanderbilt will remain at the forefront of the true and unrivaled student-athlete experience in the SEC. Anchor Down,
DAVID WILLIAMS II Vice Chancellor and Athletics Director
COMMODORE NATION
1
On the city’s western border, reared against the sky, Proudly stands our alma mater as the years roll by. Forward! Ever be thy watchword,
conquer and prevail. Hail to thee, our alma mater, Vanderbilt, all hail!
2
September/October 2017
THE TRUE
STUDENT-ATHLETE
4
September/October 2017
993.6 best school APR in SEC
11
th consecutive year with cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
GRADUATES
2017 ATHLETICS
7
teams led conference in APR: football men’s/women’s golf men’s/women’s tennis bowling lacrosse
vucommodores.com
2 7
2017 GRADUATING SENIORS
DORES IN THE CLASSROOM
69 student athletes
90
% of graduating studentathletes earned SEC Academic Honor Roll during VU careers
5
NATIONAL
CHAMPIONSHIPS
CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS
teams with perfect APRs: men’s/women’s golf bowling lacrosse women’s tennis
HIGHEST OVERALL GPA IN
DEPARTMENT HISTORY
2016–17 fall/spring
cumulative GPA
3.183
7
of 15 sports earned Public Recognition Award
(top 10 percent nationally in APR)
11
of Commodores’ 15 athletic programs finished season with team GPA of 3.0 or better
66 1,787 ALL-AMERICA
HONORS
TOTAL WINS
COMMODORE NATION
5
2017 Summer Internships From left to right, Vanderbilt student-athletes Trey Ellis, Nifae Lealao, Harrison Thomas, Khari Blasingame and Bree Horrocks gain important experience through the athletic department’s summer internship program.
REAL-WORLD
EXPERIENCE Kyle Shurmur, Vanderbilt Office of Investments
6
September/October 2017
Vanderbilt continued its student-athlete internship program in the summer of 2017. The program is the most comprehensive of its kind in college athletics, partnering student-athletes with Nashville-based employers for at least 20 hours a week during the summer. In 2017, 85 student-athletes participated in summer internships in the Nashville area.
Rachel Bell, Vanderbilt University Police Department
Lydia Simmons, Martha O’Bryan Center
Ralph Webb, Holiday Inn Myka Dancy, Interfaith Dental
My internship experience with Arrow Music Agency was nothing but positive. I now credit this internship with helping me find out what exactly I want to do following my studentathlete career at Vanderbilt. —Bailey Bowden, women’s swimming Bailey Bowden, Arrow Music Agency
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
7
HONORING
HISTORY CIVIL RIGHTS IN NASHVILLE
8
September/October 2017
Vanderbilt honored 21 of Nashville’s leading civil rights figures during its “Equality Weekend” event in February. In recognition of Black History Month, Commodore men’s and women’s basketball teams donned special uniforms built exclusively for Vanderbilt by Nike. The programs then recognized the local civil rights heroes during basketball games against South Carolina and Ole Miss.
Vanderbilt Equality Weekend: Sights & Sounds
HONOREES George Barrett Mary Frances Berry Hon. Adolpho Birch Jr. Robert Churchwell Godfrey Dillard Coyness Ennix Francis Guess Sen. Thelma Harper Bishop Joseph Johnson Rev. James Lawson Ed Martin Leatrice McKissack Walter Murray Betty Nixon Rosetta Miller-Perry Dorothy Phillips Robert and Gertrude Rempfer John Seigenthaler Kelly Miller Smith Ed Temple Perry Wallace
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
9
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY IN WASHINGTON, D.C. Vanderbilt student-athletes honored a civil rights icon in a unique way earlier this year. For the first time, Vanderbilt’s athletic department sponsored a day trip to Washington, D.C., for 28 studentathletes across a variety of sports in observation of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Student-athletes and Commodore
staff members spent the day touring the National Museum of African American History and Culture, one of the Smithsonian’s newest attractions. The group also took in a guided bus tour of the capital’s other iconic monuments, including the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, before returning to Nashville.
It’s just cool seeing prominent African American figures in things like civil rights, sports and entertainment, and just seeing how big of an impact African Americans have had on the United States. —Simone Charley, Vanderbilt track & field and soccer
10
September/October 2017
JUDGE LEW CONNER, BA’60, JD’63 Vanderbilt bio: Met wife of 57 years, Ashley W. Conner (BA’60), president of ATO, men’s golf (1957–60), Order of the Coif, Vanderbilt Law Review Professional profile: Tenn. Court of Appeals judge, disputes lawyer, president of the Nashville Bar Association and Tune Award recipient, president of the Boys and Girls Club and other community and church leadership roles Items checked off bucket list: Competed in 1996 U.S. Senior Open Golf Championship Lew’s plan for Vanderbilt: The Conners designated part of paid-up insurance proceeds for a golf scholarship, adding to past support for Vanderbilt golf and plan to make additional estate gifts.
PREPARING FUTURE LEADERS Vanderbilt’s Bridge Program and Pre-Flight Program give student-athletes a leg-up on the college experience. Bridge helps incoming freshmen acclimate to an academic-athletic life at Vanderbilt, incorporating instructional sessions on topics like networking and financial management. Bridge participants also enjoyed a diversity bus tour around Nashville with stops at Fisk University, the Islamic Center of Nashville and the Civil Rights Room of the Nashville Public Library. Rising sophomores in Vanderbilt’s PreFlight Program develop business ideas in an entrepreneurial workshop. Student-athletes deliver business pitches to local professionals and receive feedback on their ideas.
n Student-athletes present pitches to local business professionals and former Pre-Flight participants.
Pre-Flight is a great thing for student-athletes, especially because a lot of us with aspirations after sports might be getting into the business field. —Sean McMoore, Vanderbilt football
n Left to right, basketball student-athlete Payton Willis, football student-athlete Jamauri Wakefield and swimming student-athlete Sophie Halper describe their pitch to the Pre-Flight group.
n Bridge Program student-athletes enjoy a stop along the Diversity Bus Tour through Nashville.
Vanderbilt Summer Bridge Program 12
September/October 2017
FROM CHAOS TO COMMUNITY RACE AND SPORTS AT VANDERBILT
Race, Sports and Vanderbilt: 1966–1970, a semester-long exhibition organized by Vanderbilt’s Fine Arts Gallery, debuted in fall 2016 with a panel discussion between vice chancellors David Williams and Dr. George Hill and author and Vanderbilt alum Andrew Maraniss. The exhibition celebrated the 50th anniversary of the arrival of Perry Wallace on Vanderbilt’s campus. Wallace, who broke the color barrier in SEC basketball, was the subject of Maraniss’ New York Times best-seller, Strong Inside. The book also featured Wallace’s African-American freshman teammate, Godfrey Dillard, a recruit from Detroit, and their story was featured in an SEC Network documentary produced by Vanderbilt’s Anchor Down Productions.
n Perry Wallace (No. 25) was a pioneer in the SEC during his Vanderbilt career.
n Vice Chancellor George Hill, Vice Chancellor David Williams, and author Andrew Maraniss host a panel discussion on the impact of Perry Wallace and Godfrey Dillard.
n Godfrey Dillard ventured to Nashville as a highly touted African-American recruit out of Detroit.
Without Perry and Godfrey, I wouldn’t be the athletic director here. —Athletic Director David Williams
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
13
DORES TRAVERSE THE GLOBE Vanderbilt student-athletes became global citizens during the 2016-17 year. Several Commodore programs enjoyed foreign tours to locations such as Costa Rica, Jamaica and the U.S. Virgin Islands, competing against unique teams and embarking on service projects. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt athletics fully funded study abroad programs for 10 student-athletes who ventured to different parts of the globe during the summer. Christa Reed (WBB): France Madison Eaker (Swim): Czech Republic Kaitlyn Fahrner (Soccer): Swiss Alps/Italy Caroline Pietrzyk (Track/XC): Denmark Devon Grisbaum (Track/XC): South Africa Fernanda Contreras (W. Tennis): South Africa Oren Burks (Football): Australia Ean Pfeifer (Football): England Wade Freebeck (Football): England Brenda Cha (Swimming): China
n Junior offensive lineman and economics major Ean Pfeifer takes time during his study abroad to sightsee in England.
n Members of Vanderbilt women’s basketball team enjoy the scenery in Costa Rica.
14
September/October 2017
n Sophomore basketball player Erin Whalen makes a new friend while in Costa Rica.
n Vanderbilt women’s basketball team has a little fun while enjoying a soggy day of rafting in Costa Rica, the Commodores’ first international trip in a decade.
n The Dores spent seven days in Costa Rica with a roster that featured five new players.
n Student-athletes across seven sports joined together for Vanderbilt’s Soles 4 Souls service trip to Jamaica.
We’re setting a trend at Vanderbilt. We’re giving kids an experience that student-athletes generally don’t get at this level. —Athletic Director David Williams
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
15
DORES TRAVERSE THE GLOBE
n Vanderbilt football’s Emmanuel Smith can’t contain his smile while helping a child with new shoes in Jamaica.
n Basketball student-athlete Christa Reed ventured all across Europe as part of her study abroad program.
n Vanderbilt distributed more than 800 shoes to local schools during its Soles4Souls trip to Jamaica.
Vanderbilt knows being a student-athlete extends further than football. David Williams has given us an amazing opportunity with our study abroad programs. —Ean Pfeifer, Vanderbilt football
16
September/October 2017
Soles4Souls Trip To Jamaica
n Lacrosse player Melanie Becker enjoys time with children at a school in Jamaica.
n Djery Baptiste of Vanderbilt basketball readies his snorkeling gear in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
n The Commodores strike a pose on their first international trip under coach Bryce Drew.
n Head coach Stephanie White and assistant Carolyn Peck model a little Costa Rican fashion.
n Women’s basketball played two exhibition games in Costa Rica, a prime opportunity for a new group to gel before Stephanie White’s second season as head coach.
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
17
VANDERBILT MEN’S BASKETBALL 20
SEATING & PARKING th
DI
VI
S
IO
RE
ET
Vanderbilt
ol
Law Scho
19th AVENU E SOUTH
H
H
20th AVENUE SOUTH
ON
ST
LI
EL
ST
UT
RT
CURRY FIELD
Old Gym
N
SO
m
NO
ssa
E
Ki
NU
Centre Garage
E
E AV
er
Dy
Barnard
zon Barbits. Ap
Centre g Buildin
Wilson
AY
E
PL
AC
y
rre
Cu
&
H
Institute for grated Software Intes System
NU
E
M
Neighborhood Government Relations
UT
NU
Kissam Quad
s
im
R
E AC P LCommunity
E AV
y
E AV
T
e
ink
Re
st
SE
rd
ES
E
21
UI
23
W
D EN
NU
wa ng mi He
LO
E AV
TE
E
SO
Baker Building
C RA
DW
ce
Terrace Pla Garage
E
nderbilt Loews Vaaza Pl
OA
ET
BR
RE
ST
NU
S
E AV
YE HA
ADELICIA AVENUE
25
Experience Memorial Magic from the best seats in the house. 24
th
Kirkland
NU
E AV
E AV
th
sions/ Admis ial Aid Financ
Furman
Alumni
E
NO
RT
N
East ichael Carm 1 & 2
H
ALUMN
i
IA
N N TE RK E N PA
Delph
ael West Carmich& 4 3
L
GRAND AVENUE
S BISHOP N COMMO
NPHC ies McGill Sororit amma Delta G
Neely ium Auditor
I LAWN
Calhoun
Old Central
Euclid
21st AVENUE SOUTH
E
NU
National Commodore Club (NCC) members receive priority seating and parking for Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball. Make a gift today to enjoy these benefits for the 2017–18 season. ol Owen Gratd Scho of Mgm
Benson
LI
NU
TO
N
Emergency
A Public B C Parking Disabled D Chaffin
E
Y ROB RO FIELD PURDY
Preston Research
V.A. Medical Center
F
Mayfield Apts
Ingram Cancer Center
CHILDREN'S WAY
Canoe Storage
Outdoor Rec Ctr
South Garage Office Building
Ingram Center for the Performing Arts
Blair School of Music
Hospital & Clinic Business Offices
Godchaux
Peabody Library
Peabody Administration
Medical Arts
APPLETON PLACE
Home Econ
Stambaugh
Wyatt Center
Bldg. D Sutherland
Village At Vanderbilt Apartments Village At Vanderbilt
CAPERS AVENUE
2K 2J 2
CAPER
Village At Vanderbilt Townhouses
3K 3J 3
TH
U
VMG Business Office
BLAKEMO RE AVENUE
Hank Ingram
SOUT H DRIV E
Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
Stallworth Rehab Hospital
H Ce
STUD
Crawford
CHILDREN'S WAY
Psychiatric Hospital at Vanderbilt
Maint
K J
East
West
C
Sei
Dea Commo
Gillette
DIXIE PLACE
SO
$8,000+ $6,000–$7,999 $3,000–$5,999 $250–$2,999
L
North
NUE
S
IELD CLUB F PORTS
West Garage
SU
Stallworth Child Care
Commons Dining Center
Hobbs Lab
AV E
S FIELD
L
Jesup PEABODY E S P L A N A D E Psych
nd
CAPER
3L
East Garage Oxford House
L
2L 2L
Mayborn
Payne
22
TH
Kensington Garage, reserved space Kensington Garage, Levels 1–3 Kensington Garage, Levels 4–7 BLA KEM ORE AVE NUE 25th Avenue Garage
2L
Central Garage
The Vanderbilt Clinic
Children’s Hospital Outpatient
Annual gift UT H 24t h AV E SO
Track Storage
25th AVENUE SOUTH
Parking location
Medical Center East South Tower
L
PIERCE AVENUE
South Garage
EZ N AT C H FIELD
MAGNOLIA CIRCLE
Cohen
V.A. Medical Center
Lewis
Student Recreation Center
3L
Vanderbilt University Hospital
Robinson Research
E
R B I LT VA N D E TRACK
Lecture
Light
2017–18 Priority Men’s Basketball Parking
NG
Molecular Biology
Buttrick
Medical Center East North Tower
180 Edge
1810 Edgehill
A B
MRL
21st AVENUE SOUTH
25th Avenue Garage
MAGNOLIA LAWN
Lot 71
WEDGEW OOD AVENUE
19th AVENU E SOUTH
EL
E AV
3L
MEDICAL CENTER DRIVE
R/ SOCCE SSE LACRO TITION COMPE FIELD
Brownlee O. Currey Jr. Tennis Center
Institute of Imaging Science
HIGHLAND AVENUE
Morgan
Bleachers
N
NATC HEZ TRAC E
H
E AV
UE
ALL FOOTB ICE PRACT FIELD
Medical Center North
Langford Auditorium
24th AVENUE SOUTH
H
Public Disabled Parking
McGugin Center
ALL FOOTB ICE PRACT FIELD
25th AVENUE SOUTH
UT
JESS NEELY DRIVE
Infant Care
Dayani Center
NATC HEZ TRAC E
SO
I LT
Baseball Stadium
CE
1114 19th Avenue
EDGEHILL AVENUE
Bridge
Zerfoss Health Center
MEDICAL CENTER DRIVE
Olin
The Engineering and Science Building
2A 2B 2
University School
HOME
H
E
RB
Stadium
MRB III Bio/Sci
Chapman Quad
Eskind Library
GARLAND AVENUE
University School Garage
CTR LANE
University Club
LOT 71 S HAWKIN FIELD
Godchaux Nursing Annex
Learned Lab
Physics
3 3A 3B Services 1110 Business Dining 19th Avenue Vanderbilt
Frist
Memorial
UT
NU
DE
A PL
McTyeire
E. Bronson Ingram Studio Arts Center
General Library
19th AVENU E SOUTH
Garland
SO
Ave S Annex
Center for Health Services
Keck Fdn FEL Ctr
SCARRITT PLACE
Wesley Place
Kennedy Center
n to ple Sta Community Partnership 401 House 24th
Student Life
Baseball Field House
Science & Engineering
Engineering
E
Music Rehearsal
Y DUDLE FIELD
Stevenson Center
NU
Gym
CE
Featheringill
E AV
Memorial
E PLA
Jacobs
DOR
Math
Chemistry
O MM
23rd AVE SOUTH
E
CO
th
AC
24
E AV
UT
W
Branscomb Quadrangle
s
th
SO
EY
ale
Market
hn
Parmer Field House
on
pt
Lu
ug
28
UE
N VA
DL
A
KIRKLAND PLACE
Vanderbilt Police
DU
PL
Schulman Ctr
111 28th Avenue
Bridge Center
LT
Bryan Building Sc
N VA
BI
CE
Va
PL
R DE
NMR
Vaughn
H
Kensington Garage
Bishop Joseph Johnson Ctr
Power House
Y LIBRAR LAWN
S T E V E N S ON
UT
ON
W
SO
KEN
T SING
RO
H
E
T
Marriott Hotel
Sarratt Student Center
te gia lle s Co trie ist is pt Min
NU
ES
E AV
E NU
Divinity School
Rand
Cole
Ba
E AV
W
D EN
2525 Parking Garage
DE
E
UT
AC
SO
PL
G
SI
E
th
d
est En
2525 W
N
N
FLEMIN YA R D
T
NU
25
KE
N SI
O GT
Tolman
ES
ne sti gu l Au ape St. Ch
E AV
Tarpley
Women’s Center
W
th
C
24
When you join the NCC, you will also receive game day benefits including invitations to pregame events and the opportunity to request postseason tickets.
18th AVENU E SOUTH
18th AVENU E SOUTH
SOUTH STREET
3C 3D 3E
2017–18 Priority Men’s Basketball Season Tickets
1105 18th Ave S
2C 2D 2E Real Estate
Seating location
Office of Initiatives in Education
C
D
VIPPS
18th AVENU E SOUTH
igenthaler Center
VU English Language Center Freedom Forum Parking
E
1207 17th Ave S
1207 17th Ave S Garage
VISITOR
UITES
Hill enter
Pump House an of the ons Residence
17th AVEN UE SOUT H
08 ehill
HORTON AVENUE
DENTS
H G
2I 2H 2G
17th AVENU E SOUTH
.
I
18th AVENU E SOUTH
k m
F F F F
2F 2F 2F
3F 3F 3F
n n n n n n n n n n
2F and 2L, Rows 11–26 3A–3E, Rows 8–12 2F and 2L, Rows 1–10 3A–3E, Rows 1–7 2G–2K, Rows 1–8 2A–2E, Rows 9–14 F and L, Rows 1–11 2A–2E, Rows 1–8 A–E, Rows 8–23 A–E, Rows 1–7
Annual gift
Ticket price
Total price
$50 $50 $100 $100 $100 $100 $250 $500 $1,000 $1,500
$217 $217 $217 $217 $425 $425 $425 $425 $425 $425
$267 $267 $317 $317 $525 $525 $675 $925 $1,425 $1,925
For suite information, please contact the NCC office at (615) 322-4114.
RS AVENUE
3G 3I 3H
CALL: (615) 322-4114 | EMAIL: ncc@vanderbilt.edu | VISIT: NationalCommodoreClub.com
2017 CONFERENCE
CHAMPIONSHIPS WOMEN’S TENNIS
SEC regular season AND tournament champions First regular season SEC title in program history Second SEC tournament title in program history Head Coach Geoff Macdonald: SEC Coach of the Year Astra Sharma: SEC Player of the Year Georgina Sellyn: SEC Scholar Athlete of the Year All SEC First Team: Sydney Campbell, Emily Smith All SEC Second Team: Fernanda Contreras All SEC Freshman Team: Christina Rosca Reached NCAA Final Four
WOMEN’S BOWLING
Southland Bowling League champions
MEN’S GOLF SEC champions
Second Southland Bowling League title in three years
First SEC Championship in program history
Katie Stark: tournament MVP
Scott Limbaugh: program’s first SEC Coach of the Year
Maria Bulanova: named to all-tournament team
John Augenstein: SEC Freshman of the Year
Finished third in NCAA Tournament
Patrick Martin, Matthias Schwab: All-SEC First Team Theo Humphrey: All-SEC Second Team Reached program’s first-ever NCAA Final Four
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
23
BEST OF THE BEST ON WEST END
24
September/October 2017
On the heels of the first SEC championship for men’s golf, head coach Scott Limbaugh earned the program’s first SEC Coach of the Year award and National Coach of the Year by the Golf Coaches Association of the America. Geoff Macdonald garnered his fourth SEC Coach of the Year honor after leading Vanderbilt women’s tennis to the SEC regular-season and tournament titles. Meanwhile, junior Astra Sharma became the tennis program’s second SEC Player of the Year. SEC Coach of the Year Scott Limbaugh (first in program history) Geoff Macdonald (fourth in career)
Simone Charley (T&F) Georgina Sellyn (WT) Emily Smith (WT) Sydney Campbell (WT) Fernanda Contreras (WT)
SEC Player of the Year Astra Sharma (second in program history)
Christina Rosca (WT) Luke Kornet (MBB) Katie Stark (Bowling)
Vanderbilt all-conference honorees in 2016-17 Zach Cunningham (FB)
Julie Blaze (LAX)
Ralph Webb (FB)
Jill Doherty (LAX)
Will Holden (FB)
Jeren Kendall (BSB)
Patrick Martin (MG)
Kyle Wright (BSB)
Matthias Schwab (MG)
Cristina De Zeeuw (WSoc)
John Augenstein (MG)
Grace Jackson (WSoc)
Theo Humphrey (MG)
Kate Sborov (WG)
Erin Whalen (WBB)
Abbey Carlson (WG)
Kayla Overbeck (WBB)
Vikram Chari (MT)
Courtney Clayton (T&F)
Cameron Klinger (MT)
Caleigh Lofstead (T&F)
vucommodores.com
Maria Bulanova (Bowling)
denotes All-Americans
COMMODORE NATION
25
OREN BURKS Tackling the Issues
Oren Burks, a senior linebacker on Vanderbilt’s football team, landed on the cover of the NCAA’s Champions magazine for its summer 2017 issue. The story spotlights Burks’ efforts in confronting issues in today’s society, all while starring as a student-athlete at Vanderbilt. Plus, it sheds light on the Fairfax Station, Virginia, native’s own family history of fighting for equality.
26
September/October 2017
Co-captain of Vanderbilt defense Active team leader in career tackles entering 2017 season President of Vanderbilt Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) Co-founder of Revitalizing, Empowering Vanderbilt’s African-American Male Population (REVAMP) Contributor to campus Project Safe effort Named to 2016 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team® Finalist for 2016 Wooden Citizenship Cup
SIMONE CHARLEY
Vanderbilt track & field and soccer student-athlete Simone Charley continued her remarkable Commodore career in 2016-17. Charley, a native of Hoover, Alabama, and a dual-major in psychology and sociology, garnered First Team Academic All-America honors. She became the first Vanderbilt track & field athlete to land on the Academic All-American first team and the 13th overall in Vanderbilt athletics history. A graduate student in 2017, Charley is also the first female student-athlete to earn All-American and Academic All-American honors in the same year.
vucommodores.com
Consummate Student-Athlete
Among Charley’s other career honors: Three-time All-American in triple jump Broke the Vanderbilt indoor school record in the triple jump (44–5.25) Three-time All-SEC recipient in soccer Three-time All-SEC Academic honor roll First athlete invited to both U.S. Soccer U-23 National Team Camp and NACAC U-23 Track team Made U-23 track team and won silver medal
COMMODORE NATION
27
proud supporter of the Vanderbilt Vanderbilt Commodores Commodores
Stop by your local PPG PAINTS™™ store for the same great PPG Stop by your local PPG PAINTS store for the same great PPG ® PORTER PAINTS ® products you have known and trusted for years! PORTER PAINTS products you have known and trusted for years! To find a store location near you visit ppgpaints.com To find a store location near you visit ppgpaints.com
The PPG Paints brand is available at more than 2,400 company-owned stores and dealers nationwide. The PPG Paints brand is independent available at more than 2,400 company-owned stores and independent dealers nationwide. 28
©2016 PPG Industries, Inc. PPG Paints Logo and PPG Paints Logo & Design are trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
September/October 2017 PPG Porter Paints and Because Every Job Matters are registered trademarks of PPG Architectural Finishes, Inc.
©2016 PPG Industries, Inc. PPG Paints Logo and PPG Paints Logo & Design are trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. PPG Porter Paints and Because Every Job Matters are registered trademarks of PPG Architectural Finishes, Inc.
We believe in the importance of connecting with friends and family. We believe that time spent relaxing is essential to the human spirit. We believe that Golf is for everyone!
Welcome to
Vanderbilt Legends Club Close to work, Close to home,
Immaculately-manicured,
And best of all‌members who share your passion for the Greatest Game ever Played!
Want to Play?
To experience our fine facility please call (615) 791-4842 or visit us at vanderbiltlegendsclub.com vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
29
PESTS STOP CHEERING WHEN WE SHOW UP. Orkin is a proud supporter of the Vanderbilt Commodores. To get protection for your home today, call 615-833-1250.
©2016 Orkin, LLC.
DORES IN THE PROS 2016–17 highlights Damian Jones, a center at Vanderbilt from 2013 to 2016, won the 2017 NBA Championship as a member of the Golden State Warriors Vanderbilt baseball saw eight players selected in the 2017 MLB Draft, including Kyle Wright, the No. 5 overall pick to the Atlanta Braves, and Jeren Kendall, No. 23 to the Los Angeles Dodgers Two Commodores were selected in the 2017 NFL Draft: linebacker Zach Cunningham went No. 57 overall to the Houston Texans followed by offensive lineman Will Holden, a fifthround pick to the Arizona Cardinals
n Following a stellar Vanderbilt career, Dansby Swanson became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 Major League Baseball draft.
n Zach Cunningham led the SEC in tackles and became a consensus All-American in 2016.
n David Price, a native of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, signed a seven-year, $217 million contract with the Boston Red Sox in 2015.
n The Golden State Warriors selected Damian Jones with the 30th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft.
n Tackle Will Holden, now with the Arizona Cardinals, was a three-time All-SEC Academic Honor Roll honoree.
n Vanderbilt basketball alum Wade Baldwin scores for the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies, who made him the 17th overall pick in the 2016 draft.
4
STRENGTHS of the Harpeth Hall Athletic Program 1. State-of-the-art facilities, including a 60,000-square-foot athletic and wellness center. 2. 55 state championships in nine sports and HVAC Inman Trophy seven times. 3. 65% of upper school and 90% of middle school students participate in athletics. 4. Superior coaches with professional and college-level coaching and playing experience.
Harpeth Hall
34
September/October 2017
DREAM BIG. GO FAR. AT HARPETH HALL
Harpeth Hall students are champions on and off the field. 3801 Hobbs Road • Nashville, TN • 615-297-9543 • www.harpethhall.org A college preparatory school for girls in grades 5-12. Financial aid available
Rio Grande Fence Co. is a proud supporter of Vanderbilt Athletics.
vucommodores.com
The Commercial Fence Professionalsâ„¢ COMMODORE NATION
35
ELITE FACILITIES Vanderbilt continued to enhance its world-class facilities during the 2016-17 year. The Commodores’ baseball program nears completion of its new $12 million facility adjacent to Hawkins Field and Memorial Gym. The facility features new batting cages, a fresh weight room, a pro locker room and revamped coaches’ offices. Former Commodore David Price, now a pitcher with the Boston Red Sox, contributed a capstone gift of $2.5 million to the project. Vanderbilt also augmented its athletic department offices in the McGugin Center with updated carpeting and wall graphics, including plaques commemorating All-American and All-SEC Commodores of years past. Vanderbilt enhanced Star Walk with a steel anchor and a wall mount recognizing Vanderbilt’s Anchor Drop honorees.
36
September/October 2017
vucommodores.com
COMMODORE NATION
37
38
September/October 2017
BY THE NUMBERS
Administrative Chancellor: irector of Athletics: D
2017 FINANCIAL REPORT
Nicholas S. Zeppos David Williams II
Editorial Publisher: Vanderbilt University
REVENUE (FY17)
Editor:
Zac Ellis
Designer:
Keith Wood
Assistant Athletic Director/
3%
SEC
7%
Sponsorship
15% University Investment
Andy Boggs Frederick Breedon Larry Leathers Kyle Parkinson Catherine Hilley
Vanderbilt University Student Athletics Mission Statement
Gifts
We prepare student-athletes to become leaders and champions in life by placing the highest values on integrity, character, sportsmanship and victory.
4%
7%
POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to National Commodore Club, 2601 Jess Neely Drive, Nashville, TN 37212.
Endowment
EXPENSES (FY17)
SUBSCRIPTION: To subscribe, contact commodorenation@vanderbilt.edu ADVERTISEMENT: To advertise with Commodore Nation, please contact Vanderbilt IMG Sports & Entertainment Properties Jeff Miller, general manager 615/322-4468; jeff.miller@imgworld.com
11%
Salaries & Fringe
Supplies & Expense
39%
11%
Recruiting, Uniform, Team Travel
7% Other Expense
Plant & Debt includes Summer School
22%
Scholarships
vucommodores.com
Daniel Dubois Steve Green Joe Howell John Russell Anne Rayner Susan Urmy
Contributors:
Tickets
10%
Kyle Parkinson
Photography:
54%
Other Revenue
Communications:
IDS 5%
5%
Game & Guarantee Expense
1%
Vanderbilt University is committed to principles of equal opportunity and affirmative action. Vanderbilt®, Vanderbilt University®, V Oak Leaf Design®, Star V Design® and Anchor Down® are trademarks of The Vanderbilt University. © 2017 Vanderbilt University. All rights reserved. Produced by Vanderbilt University Creative Services and Vanderbilt Printing Services. Printed on paper with 10% post-consumer recycled content, as part of the university’s commitment to environmental stewardship and natural resource protection. This publication is recyclable. Please recycle it.
Band, Cheer, and Travel Admin
COMMODORE NATION
39
Thank you to our guests, associates and community for voting us “Best Hotel.” Thank you to our guests, associates and community for voting us “Best Hotel.”
The city’s The city’s hottest spots, hottest all underspots, all oneunder roof. one roof.
Discover a variety of culinary delights and escape to one of the only full-service spas downtown. Connected to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Discover a variety of culinary delights and escape Museum and adjacent to the Music City Center. to one of the only full-service spas downtown. We’re readytofor you Nashville — like you’ve Connected the Country Music Hallnothing of Fame and ever experienced before. Museum and adjacent to the Music City Center. We’re ready for you Nashville — like nothing you’ve ever experienced before.
You don’t have to move to get that new-home feeling.
Consider a U.S. Bank Home Equity Line of Credit for your next project. With competitive rates and flexible payment options, lasting home improvements could be within reach. Call 800.209.BANK (2265), visit a local branch, or go to usbank.com/dreambig.
Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage and Home Equity products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. Š2016 U.S. Bank. 160083 3/16