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Vanderbilt at 150: See the university over the years

Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, pictured in an undated photo. A shipping and railroad magnet, he was born in 1794 and died in 1877. He helped found Vanderbilt University in Nashville with a $1 million endowment in 1873.

Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, pictured in an undated photo. A shipping and railroad magnet, he was born in 1794 and died in 1877. He helped found Vanderbilt University in Nashville with a $1 million endowment in 1873.

Vanderbilt University

A map of the original Vanderbilt University campus was featured in the school's catalog in 1913.

A map of the original Vanderbilt University campus was featured in the school’s catalog in 1913.

Vanderbilt University

The Old Main building was located at the heart of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. On April 20, 1905, a fire broke out in the building. Students were able to save over 4,000 books as the fire raged.

The Old Main building was located at the heart of Vanderbilt University in Nashville. On April 20, 1905, a fire broke out in the building. Students were able to save over 4,000 books as the fire raged.

Vanderbilt University

This inscription, seen here in a photo taken in the 1920s, is etched beneath the statue of Cornelius Vanderbilt on the Vanderbilt University campus in Nashville.

This inscription, seen here in a photo taken in the 1920s, is etched beneath the statue of Cornelius Vanderbilt on the Vanderbilt University campus in Nashville.

Vanderbilt University

Members of the Vanderbilt University board of trust line up for a procession during a Semi-Centennial event at the Nashville school in 1925.

Members of the Vanderbilt University board of trust line up for a procession during a Semi-Centennial event at the Nashville school in 1925.

Vanderbilt University

Graduating seniors at Vanderbilt University sing hymns during commencement Sunday in Neely Auditorium on June 6, 1948. Diplomas were awarded to 501 students the next morning.

Graduating seniors at Vanderbilt University sing hymns during commencement Sunday in Neely Auditorium on June 6, 1948. Diplomas were awarded to 501 students the next morning.

Eldred Reaney / The Tennessean

Law student Jack Irvin, left, and Charles C. Washburn, member of the class of 1892, chat at Vanderbilt University on Oct. 21, 1950, during the university’s 75th anniversary.

Law student Jack Irvin, left, and Charles C. Washburn, member of the class of 1892, chat at Vanderbilt University on Oct. 21, 1950, during the university’s 75th anniversary.

Bill Preston / The Tennessean

Harold Stirling Vanderbilt, right, vice president of the Vanderbilt University board of trust, discusses plans for the next day's board meeting with Chancellor Harvie Branscomb on Oct. 22, 1953. Vanderbilt is a New York railroad magnate and the great-grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Harold Stirling Vanderbilt, right, vice president of the Vanderbilt University board of trust, discusses plans for the next day’s board meeting with Chancellor Harvie Branscomb on Oct. 22, 1953. Vanderbilt is a New York railroad magnate and the great-grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Bill Preston / The Tennessean

Col. Leland B. Shaw, center, chief of the Third Army inspection team, returns Vanderbilt University ROTC Cadet Bob Laws' rifle during inspection ceremonies at the university on March 30, 1956.

Col. Leland B. Shaw, center, chief of the Third Army inspection team, returns Vanderbilt University ROTC Cadet Bob Laws’ rifle during inspection ceremonies at the university on March 30, 1956.

The Tennessean File

Warren M. Deacon, left, director of Vanderbilt University biology department, and fellow scientist Elsie Quarterman inspect the leaves of a stag horn fern near a new greenhouse that is under construction adjacent to Buttrick Hall on Jan. 4, 1958. The biologists are attempting to keep the department’s rare plants alive until the greenhouse is completed some time in the spring.

Warren M. Deacon, left, director of Vanderbilt University biology department, and fellow scientist Elsie Quarterman inspect the leaves of a stag horn fern near a new greenhouse that is under construction adjacent to Buttrick Hall on Jan. 4, 1958. The biologists are attempting to keep the department’s rare plants alive until the greenhouse is completed some time in the spring.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

A worker from Foster & Creighton Construction Co. uses heavy equipment to break ground on June 8, 1958, for one of the six men’s dormitories being built on Vanderbilt University's campus. The project will cost more than $2 million.

A worker from Foster & Creighton Construction Co. uses heavy equipment to break ground on June 8, 1958, for one of the six men’s dormitories being built on Vanderbilt University’s campus. The project will cost more than $2 million.

Eldred Reaney / The Tennessean

The steel framework for the Benton Chapel on the Vanderbilt University campus near the new divinity school quadrangle is seen here on March 18, 1959. The $1.25 million building, named for the late dean John Keith Benton, is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 1959.

The steel framework for the Benton Chapel on the Vanderbilt University campus near the new divinity school quadrangle is seen here on March 18, 1959. The $1.25 million building, named for the late dean John Keith Benton, is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 1959.

Eldred Reaney / The Tennessean

Construction is nearing completion on Vanderbilt University’s new main entryway at West End Avenue on Sept. 21, 1960. Iron grillwork will adorn the top the brick columns and a circular driveway will be located in front of Kirkland Hall, the school's main administration building.

Construction is nearing completion on Vanderbilt University’s new main entryway at West End Avenue on Sept. 21, 1960. Iron grillwork will adorn the top the brick columns and a circular driveway will be located in front of Kirkland Hall, the school’s main administration building.

Gerald Holly / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University students reach across a fence at Berry Field in Nashville on Nov. 14, 1960, to shake hands with members of the school’s “College Bowl” team, at left, who are returning from their appearance on the TV quiz show in New York. Team members from left are Jon Wilson; alternate Jim Moody; Charles Ryan; Rollin Lasseter; coach Philip Hallie; and Bob Andrews.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

Julie Averbach, left, of Nashville is congratulated by her friend Joe Albree of Jackson before they marched across the floor at Vanderbilt University’s Alumni Memorial Gym on June 4, 1961, to receive their diplomas as graduates from the College of Engineering. They were among 860 graduates.

Julie Averbach, left, of Nashville is congratulated by her friend Joe Albree of Jackson before they marched across the floor at Vanderbilt University’s Alumni Memorial Gym on June 4, 1961, to receive their diplomas as graduates from the College of Engineering. They were among 860 graduates.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University students show their school spirit on Oct. 6, 1961, the day before Vandy's home game against Alabama. From left are Paul Kuhn, Sandy Murray, Ernest Watkins, Sue Baer, Terry Groves, Dianne Castle and Lindy Adams.

Vanderbilt University students show their school spirit on Oct. 6, 1961, the day before Vandy’s home game against Alabama. From left are Paul Kuhn, Sandy Murray, Ernest Watkins, Sue Baer, Terry Groves, Dianne Castle and Lindy Adams.

Joe Rudis / The Tennessean

William C. Finch, dean of Vanderbilt Divinity School, preaches on “Living in an Age of Conformity” during a student worship service in the divinity school’s Benton Chapel on Nov. 12, 1961.

William C. Finch, dean of Vanderbilt Divinity School, preaches on “Living in an Age of Conformity” during a student worship service in the divinity school’s Benton Chapel on Nov. 12, 1961.

Jimmy Ellis / The Tennessean

Three leading members of the Southern Agrarian Movement were reunited at a two-day literary symposium that opened at Vanderbilt University on April 25, 1962. From left, John Donald Wade, Donald Davidson and Allen Tate chat with English professor Arthur Mizener of Cornell University.

Three leading members of the Southern Agrarian Movement were reunited at a two-day literary symposium that opened at Vanderbilt University on April 25, 1962. From left, John Donald Wade, Donald Davidson and Allen Tate chat with English professor Arthur Mizener of Cornell University.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

James A. Jones, right, who delivered the baccalaureate sermon at Vanderbilt University, leads the procession into Neely Auditorium on June 3, 1962.

James A. Jones, right, who delivered the baccalaureate sermon at Vanderbilt University, leads the procession into Neely Auditorium on June 3, 1962.

J.T. Phillips / The Tennessean

Tom West, right, of Louisville, who graduated from Vanderbilt University on June 3, 1962, watches as Camille Thomas, left, of Florence, South Carolina, adjusts her sister Peggy Oms' graduation gown.

Tom West, right, of Louisville, who graduated from Vanderbilt University on June 3, 1962, watches as Camille Thomas, left, of Florence, South Carolina, adjusts her sister Peggy Oms’ graduation gown.

J.T. Phillips / The Tennessean

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., left, speaks with an unidentified Vanderbilt University official on Dec. 28, 1962, in Nashville. King was the keynote speaker at a three-day conference on racial problems, held in Underwood Auditorium at Vanderbilt's Law School campus. It was sponsored by the Fellowship of Southern Churchmen and the Southern Regional Council.

The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., left, speaks with an unidentified Vanderbilt University official on Dec. 28, 1962, in Nashville. King was the keynote speaker at a three-day conference on racial problems, held in Underwood Auditorium at Vanderbilt’s Law School campus. It was sponsored by the Fellowship of Southern Churchmen and the Southern Regional Council.

J.T. Phillips / The Tennessean

New Vanderbilt University Chancellor Alexander Heard and his wife, left, chat with Mr. and Mrs. Harvie Branscomb, the outgoing chancellor, during a reception held at the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity house on Kensington Place in Nashville on Feb. 7, 1963. Heard and Branscomb were both members of the fraternity.

New Vanderbilt University Chancellor Alexander Heard and his wife, left, chat with Mr. and Mrs. Harvie Branscomb, the outgoing chancellor, during a reception held at the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity house on Kensington Place in Nashville on Feb. 7, 1963. Heard and Branscomb were both members of the fraternity.

Joe Rudis / The Tennessean

Mrs. and Mr. William H. Vanderbilt, left, chat with a group of students on the Vanderbilt campus in front of Kirkland Hall on May 17, 1963, seemingly watched over by the statue of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, founder of the university. The Vanderbilts are in town for President John F. Kennedy's upcoming visit to the Nashville school.

Mrs. and Mr. William H. Vanderbilt, left, chat with a group of students on the Vanderbilt campus in front of Kirkland Hall on May 17, 1963, seemingly watched over by the statue of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, founder of the university. The Vanderbilts are in town for President John F. Kennedy’s upcoming visit to the Nashville school.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

President John F. Kennedy stands in his limo as it arrives at Vanderbilt University's Dudley Field on May 18, 1963. Kennedy delivered a speech on human rights and responsibilities before an audience of about 33,000 people at the stadium.

President John F. Kennedy stands in his limo as it arrives at Vanderbilt University’s Dudley Field on May 18, 1963. Kennedy delivered a speech on human rights and responsibilities before an audience of about 33,000 people at the stadium.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University law professor Edward Morgan, left, a former dean at Harvard Law School, congratulates Alexander Heard at a reception following Heard's installation as Vanderbilt's fifth chancellor on Oct. 4, 1963.

Vanderbilt University law professor Edward Morgan, left, a former dean at Harvard Law School, congratulates Alexander Heard at a reception following Heard’s installation as Vanderbilt’s fifth chancellor on Oct. 4, 1963.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

Maria Fletcher, left, Miss American 1962 and a Vanderbilt University sophomore, chats with a friend, Miss America 1964 Donna Axum, at the Tri Delta sorority house on campus on Feb. 24, 1964.

Maria Fletcher, left, Miss American 1962 and a Vanderbilt University sophomore, chats with a friend, Miss America 1964 Donna Axum, at the Tri Delta sorority house on campus on Feb. 24, 1964.

Bill Preston / The Tennessean

Two-year-old Ken Mynatt looks for his aunt Gayle Grant in the line of graduating students entering Vanderbilt University's Neely Auditorium on May 31, 1964. Gayle is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence K. Grant of Atlanta.

Two-year-old Ken Mynatt looks for his aunt Gayle Grant in the line of graduating students entering Vanderbilt University’s Neely Auditorium on May 31, 1964. Gayle is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence K. Grant of Atlanta.

J.T. Phillips / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University physics professor Charles Roos, front, communicates with a $400,000 computer on April 7, 1965. It was provided to him by the U.S. government for his research in high-energy physics. Lab technician John E. Petway is working in the background.

Vanderbilt University physics professor Charles Roos, front, communicates with a $400,000 computer on April 7, 1965. It was provided to him by the U.S. government for his research in high-energy physics. Lab technician John E. Petway is working in the background.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

An aerial photo shows Vanderbilt Univeristy and the Veterans Administration Hospitals on April 29, 1965.

An aerial photo shows Vanderbilt Univeristy and the Veterans Administration Hospitals on April 29, 1965.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

Harold S. Vanderbilt, center, president of the Vanderbilt University board of trust, poses for photos in front of a statue of himself that was unveiled during a ceremony on campus on Nov. 5, 1965.

Harold S. Vanderbilt, center, president of the Vanderbilt University board of trust, poses for photos in front of a statue of himself that was unveiled during a ceremony on campus on Nov. 5, 1965.

Eldred Reaney / The Tennessean

A snow-laden magnolia tree frames a lone student as he strolls across the Vanderbilt University campus on Jan. 22, 1966. It was the season's first major snowfall.

A snow-laden magnolia tree frames a lone student as he strolls across the Vanderbilt University campus on Jan. 22, 1966. It was the season’s first major snowfall.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron R. White sits by an antique pot-bellied stove in the Vanderbilt University law school’s “old court room,

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron R. White sits by an antique pot-bellied stove in the Vanderbilt University law school’s “old court room,” a replica of “a typical Tennessee courtroom” in the early 1800s, on Feb. 8, 1966, With him is John Wade, dean of Vanderbilt’s law school.

Joe Rudis / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University's $4 million Carmichael Towers dormitory, seen here at 24th Avenue South and West End Avenue on Aug. 14, 1966, is scheduled for occupancy by mid-September 1966. The 14-story twin-tower dorm will house 608 male students.

Vanderbilt University’s $4 million Carmichael Towers dormitory, seen here at 24th Avenue South and West End Avenue on Aug. 14, 1966, is scheduled for occupancy by mid-September 1966. The 14-story twin-tower dorm will house 608 male students.

Dale Ernsberger / The Tennessean

First-year students Len Persons, left, of Lufkin, Texas, and Cory Stiles of Houston move their belongings to their dorm at Vanderbilt's Branscomb Quadrangle on Sept. 12, 1967.

First-year students Len Persons, left, of Lufkin, Texas, and Cory Stiles of Houston move their belongings to their dorm at Vanderbilt’s Branscomb Quadrangle on Sept. 12, 1967.

Dale Ernsberger / The Tennessean

Country singer Tex Ritter performs for 1,100 people at Vanderbilt University's Neely Auditorium during a Freshman Forum on Feb. 15, 1968.

Country singer Tex Ritter performs for 1,100 people at Vanderbilt University’s Neely Auditorium during a Freshman Forum on Feb. 15, 1968.

Jimmy Ellis / The Tennessean

The Rev. John Lewis, center, answers questions from students and faculty of Vanderbilt University's divinity school on campus on May 3, 1968. Lewis was leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee until early 1966 when he was ousted in favor of Stokely Carmichael.

The Rev. John Lewis, center, answers questions from students and faculty of Vanderbilt University’s divinity school on campus on May 3, 1968. Lewis was leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee until early 1966 when he was ousted in favor of Stokely Carmichael.

Joe Rudis / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University homecoming queen Junith Smitherman, left, and Emily Jordan, who is Miss Vanderbilt 1969, model two gowns on March 21, 1969, that will be featured in the upcoming Delta Delta Delta sorority bridal fashion show.

Vanderbilt University homecoming queen Junith Smitherman, left, and Emily Jordan, who is Miss Vanderbilt 1969, model two gowns on March 21, 1969, that will be featured in the upcoming Delta Delta Delta sorority bridal fashion show.

Robert Johnson / The Tennessean

Members of the Vanderbilt University class of 1969 march in their processional to the library to receive their diplomas on June 1, 1969. In the background is the statue of Harold S. Vanderbilt, honorary president of the university board of trust.

Members of the Vanderbilt University class of 1969 march in their processional to the library to receive their diplomas on June 1, 1969. In the background is the statue of Harold S. Vanderbilt, honorary president of the university board of trust.

Jack Corn / The Tennessean

Construction continues at the Carmichael Towers West Nos. 3 and 4 dormitories along West End Avenue at Vanderbilt University on Aug. 7, 1969. The Nos. 1 and 2 residence halls at left opened in 1966.

Construction continues at the Carmichael Towers West Nos. 3 and 4 dormitories along West End Avenue at Vanderbilt University on Aug. 7, 1969. The Nos. 1 and 2 residence halls at left opened in 1966.

Robert Johnson / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University students work on a pneumatic polyethylene environmental manipulation on campus on Oct. 28, 1969. The artwork is the brainchild of Vanderbilt teacher-artist Don Davis. More than 20,000 square feet of polyethylene was welded together with irons and inflated with fans.

Vanderbilt University students work on a pneumatic polyethylene environmental manipulation on campus on Oct. 28, 1969. The artwork is the brainchild of Vanderbilt teacher-artist Don Davis. More than 20,000 square feet of polyethylene was welded together with irons and inflated with fans.

Dale Ernsberger / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University professor Earl W. Sutherland Jr., right, and his wife, Claudia, hug after it was confirmed that he had won of the 1971 Nobel Prize for Medicine and Physiology on Oct. 14, 1971. A representative of Radio-Sweden had rigged up a telephone hookup to Stockholm from Sutherland’s den.

Vanderbilt University professor Earl W. Sutherland Jr., right, and his wife, Claudia, hug after it was confirmed that he had won of the 1971 Nobel Prize for Medicine and Physiology on Oct. 14, 1971. A representative of Radio-Sweden had rigged up a telephone hookup to Stockholm from Sutherland’s den.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University students celebrate the arrival of spring at a “hog farm” watermelon feed on the Neely lawn during a Rites of Spring event on April 21, 1972. From left are Gregg Thomas, Steve Greil, Trina Hunt and Nanci Raybin.

Vanderbilt University students celebrate the arrival of spring at a “hog farm” watermelon feed on the Neely lawn during a Rites of Spring event on April 21, 1972. From left are Gregg Thomas, Steve Greil, Trina Hunt and Nanci Raybin.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

Scott Hubbard, an engineer in the Vanderbilt University Physics Department, watches the movement of a 90-foot pendulum he designed on July 18, 1972. The Foucault pendulum, named after the French scientist who invented it in 1851 to prove the Earth rotates on its axis, is suspended from the top of the chemistry building.

Scott Hubbard, an engineer in the Vanderbilt University Physics Department, watches the movement of a 90-foot pendulum he designed on July 18, 1972. The Foucault pendulum, named after the French scientist who invented it in 1851 to prove the Earth rotates on its axis, is suspended from the top of the chemistry building.

Jimmy Ellis / The Tennessean

William H. Vanderbilt, left, great-great-grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, and Vanderbilt University Chancellor Alexander Heard place a wreath of magnolia leaves at the foot of a statue of the commodore on March 17, 1973. The school was celebrating the 100th anniversary. Around 120 of Vanderbilt descendants showed up for the occasion.

William H. Vanderbilt, left, great-great-grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, and Vanderbilt University Chancellor Alexander Heard place a wreath of magnolia leaves at the foot of a statue of the commodore on March 17, 1973. The school was celebrating the 100th anniversary. Around 120 of Vanderbilt descendants showed up for the occasion.

Joe Rudis / The Tennessean

Louise Sharp, a sophomore in contemporary dance at Vanderbilt University, exercises on a ballet barre at the Art House on Nov. 7, 1973. Crash courses in virtually any art medium will soon be offered free to the public at the Art House.

Louise Sharp, a sophomore in contemporary dance at Vanderbilt University, exercises on a ballet barre at the Art House on Nov. 7, 1973. Crash courses in virtually any art medium will soon be offered free to the public at the Art House.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

Principals in the centennial rededication of the cornerstone of Kirkland Hall gather at Vanderbilt University’s campus on April 28, 1974. From left are Bishop Joseph A. Johnson, a trustee; Chancellor Alexander Heard; Carolyn S. Sartor; and Thomas F. Paine Jr. The three with Chancellor Heard are descendants of principals at the 1874 laying of the cornerstone.

Principals in the centennial rededication of the cornerstone of Kirkland Hall gather at Vanderbilt University’s campus on April 28, 1974. From left are Bishop Joseph A. Johnson, a trustee; Chancellor Alexander Heard; Carolyn S. Sartor; and Thomas F. Paine Jr. The three with Chancellor Heard are descendants of principals at the 1874 laying of the cornerstone.

Robert Johnson / The Tennessean

Jazz great Dizzy Gillespie for several thousand people at Vanderbilt University's Alumni Lawn during the Tennessee Jazz Festival on April 9, 1977.

Jazz great Dizzy Gillespie for several thousand people at Vanderbilt University’s Alumni Lawn during the Tennessee Jazz Festival on April 9, 1977.

Bill Welch / The Tennessean

Some 1,722 graduating students are gathered for the start of Vanderbilt University’s 102nd spring commencement exercises at the campus on May 11, 1977.

Some 1,722 graduating students are gathered for the start of Vanderbilt University’s 102nd spring commencement exercises at the campus on May 11, 1977.

Frank Empson / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University freshman Coleen Herbey, left, celebrates with Engineering Science 110 classmate Don Weingartner, right, on Oct. 3, 1979, after proving that they had designed packaging efficient enough to keep a raw egg from breaking in a three-story plunge

Vanderbilt University freshman Coleen Herbey, left, celebrates with Engineering Science 110 classmate Don Weingartner, right, on Oct. 3, 1979, after proving that they had designed packaging efficient enough to keep a raw egg from breaking in a three-story plunge

Robert Johnson / The Tennessean

Kappa Alpha Theta sorority's Laura Jones, sitting on the shoulders of Sigma Chi fraternity's Allen Bostic, celebrates after catching a derby during Vanderbilt University’s “mud chase” on campus on April 10, 1981. Derbies are thrown by Sigma Chis and sorority members scored points for their chapters based on the number of catches they managed.

Kappa Alpha Theta sorority’s Laura Jones, sitting on the shoulders of Sigma Chi fraternity’s Allen Bostic, celebrates after catching a derby during Vanderbilt University’s “mud chase” on campus on April 10, 1981. Derbies are thrown by Sigma Chis and sorority members scored points for their chapters based on the number of catches they managed.

Dianne Milam / The Tennessean

Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, center, is seen before she spoke at the dedication of a new library at Vanderbilt University Law School on Sept. 24, 1982.

Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, center, is seen before she spoke at the dedication of a new library at Vanderbilt University Law School on Sept. 24, 1982.

Ricky Rogers / The Tennessean

New Vanderbilt University Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt, center, enjoys a laugh on Feb. 23, 1983, with former Chancellors Harvie Branscomb, left, and Alexander Heard during a dinner at Cheekwood in Nashville. The gathering kicked off events celebrating the installation of Wyatt as the university's newest chancellor.

New Vanderbilt University Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt, center, enjoys a laugh on Feb. 23, 1983, with former Chancellors Harvie Branscomb, left, and Alexander Heard during a dinner at Cheekwood in Nashville. The gathering kicked off events celebrating the installation of Wyatt as the university’s newest chancellor.

P. Casey Daley / The Tennessean

Roofing workers from Young Sales Corp. repair shutters in the arches of the bell tower at Kirkland Hall on Vanderbilt University's campus on March 16, 1984.

Roofing workers from Young Sales Corp. repair shutters in the arches of the bell tower at Kirkland Hall on Vanderbilt University’s campus on March 16, 1984.

Kathleen Smith / The Tennessean

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Robert Penn Warren, 78, reads selections from his works to nearly 1,000 people in Langford Auditorium at Vanderbilt University on April 10, 1984. Warren, a member of the Fugitives in his days at Vanderbilt, graduated from the school in 1925.

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Robert Penn Warren, 78, reads selections from his works to nearly 1,000 people in Langford Auditorium at Vanderbilt University on April 10, 1984. Warren, a member of the Fugitives in his days at Vanderbilt, graduated from the school in 1925.

Dan Loftin / The Tennessean

The Rev. Jesse Jackson embraces Athan Gibbs Jr. at the conclusion of a presidential campaign rally at Vanderbilt Memorial Gym on April 22, 1984. The 12-yearold recited the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous civil rights speech delivered in Washington, D.C. in 1963. Gibbs, a Glendale Elementary School student, had written his own introduction and conclusion to the recital.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson embraces Athan Gibbs Jr. at the conclusion of a presidential campaign rally at Vanderbilt Memorial Gym on April 22, 1984. The 12-yearold recited the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous civil rights speech delivered in Washington, D.C. in 1963. Gibbs, a Glendale Elementary School student, had written his own introduction and conclusion to the recital.

Callie Shell / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University graduate Neal Callaway enjoys a cool drink with Holly Ann Allen following the school’s commencement ceremonies on May 10, 1985.

Vanderbilt University graduate Neal Callaway enjoys a cool drink with Holly Ann Allen following the school’s commencement ceremonies on May 10, 1985.

Billy Easley / The Tennessean

Dr. Stanley Cohen, a biochemist at Vanderbilt University, talks about the mysteries of cell growth to the media in his fifth floor laboratory at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Oct. 13, 1986. Cohen shared the Nobel Prize in medicine with Dr. Rita Levi-Montalcini of Rome.

Dr. Stanley Cohen, a biochemist at Vanderbilt University, talks about the mysteries of cell growth to the media in his fifth floor laboratory at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center on Oct. 13, 1986. Cohen shared the Nobel Prize in medicine with Dr. Rita Levi-Montalcini of Rome.

Ricky Rogers / The Tennessean

Members of Vanderbilt University's Navy ROTC unit march during their annual Spring Review, held on the lawn of the school's library on April 21, 1988. Rear Adm. Jerry C. Breast, a graduate of Vanderbilt and the ROTC program, was the reviewing officer.

Members of Vanderbilt University’s Navy ROTC unit march during their annual Spring Review, held on the lawn of the school’s library on April 21, 1988. Rear Adm. Jerry C. Breast, a graduate of Vanderbilt and the ROTC program, was the reviewing officer.

Mike DuBose / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University basketball star Will Purdue towers over his classmates during graduation exercises on campus on May 13, 1988.

Vanderbilt University basketball star Will Purdue towers over his classmates during graduation exercises on campus on May 13, 1988.

Robert Johnson / The Tennessean

Former psychedelic drug guru Timothy Leary, center, answers a question during a program called “The '60s Revisited” at Vanderbilt University’s Langford Auditorium on April 4, 1989. With him are Bobby Seale, left, founder of the Black Panther Party, and activist Abbie Hoffman.

Former psychedelic drug guru Timothy Leary, center, answers a question during a program called “The ’60s Revisited” at Vanderbilt University’s Langford Auditorium on April 4, 1989. With him are Bobby Seale, left, founder of the Black Panther Party, and activist Abbie Hoffman.

Callie Shell / The Tennessean

Chinese students at Vanderbilt University on June 6, 1989, are constructing a copy of the “Goddess of Freedom” torch destroyed by Chinese soldiers during the Tiananmen Square protests in Beijing June 4. Lan Ma, second from right, holds the torch while other students make a plaster cast of her arms.

Chinese students at Vanderbilt University on June 6, 1989, are constructing a copy of the “Goddess of Freedom” torch destroyed by Chinese soldiers during the Tiananmen Square protests in Beijing June 4. Lan Ma, second from right, holds the torch while other students make a plaster cast of her arms.

Mike DuBose / The Tennessean

John Seigenthaler, right, chairman emeritus of The Tennessean and chairman of the First Amendment Center, talks about the need to protect the freedoms offered in America during a press conference at Vanderbilt University on Jan. 16, 1992. Vanderbilt Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt, left, and Freedom Forum chairman Allen Neuharth listen as plans to establish a First Amendment Center at Vanderbilt are announced.

John Seigenthaler, right, chairman emeritus of The Tennessean and chairman of the First Amendment Center, talks about the need to protect the freedoms offered in America during a press conference at Vanderbilt University on Jan. 16, 1992. Vanderbilt Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt, left, and Freedom Forum chairman Allen Neuharth listen as plans to establish a First Amendment Center at Vanderbilt are announced.

Rick Musacchio / The Tennessean

Carlos Thomas, center, is joined by fellow football players Derrick Payne, left, and Marcus Wilson as they sing the Alma mater at the end of Vanderbilt University’s commencement exercises on campus on May 8, 1992.

Carlos Thomas, center, is joined by fellow football players Derrick Payne, left, and Marcus Wilson as they sing the Alma mater at the end of Vanderbilt University’s commencement exercises on campus on May 8, 1992.

Freeman Ramsey / The Tennessean

Jonathan Walker, 3, of Searcy, Arkansas, surveys Vanderbilt University’s commencement ceremonies from a window in Tolman Hall on May 7, 1993. His aunt was one of the 2,000 graduates.

Jonathan Walker, 3, of Searcy, Arkansas, surveys Vanderbilt University’s commencement ceremonies from a window in Tolman Hall on May 7, 1993. His aunt was one of the 2,000 graduates.

Rick Musacchio / The Tennessean

Speech, a member of the hip hop group Arrested Development, addresses students at the Johnson Black Cultural Center at Vanderbilt University on Feb. 3, 1995. Speech said all people, whatever their race, can learn from the African-American heritage.

Speech, a member of the hip hop group Arrested Development, addresses students at the Johnson Black Cultural Center at Vanderbilt University on Feb. 3, 1995. Speech said all people, whatever their race, can learn from the African-American heritage.

Freeman Ramsey / The Tennessean

Chiffonda Washington, 26, acknowledges the support of his friends during the processional at Vanderbilt University’s graduation ceremony on campus on May 12, 1995. Washington put himself through school while working as a personal trainer.

Chiffonda Washington, 26, acknowledges the support of his friends during the processional at Vanderbilt University’s graduation ceremony on campus on May 12, 1995. Washington put himself through school while working as a personal trainer.

Delores Delvin / The Tennessean

University of Oklahoma law professor Anita Hill addresses a standing-room-only audience at Vanderbilt University’s Langford Auditorium on Sept. 13, 1995. Hill said that the resignation of U.S. Sen. Bob Packwood following allegations of sexual misconduct has forced her to revisit her own accusations of sexual harassment against Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas four years ago.

University of Oklahoma law professor Anita Hill addresses a standing-room-only audience at Vanderbilt University’s Langford Auditorium on Sept. 13, 1995. Hill said that the resignation of U.S. Sen. Bob Packwood following allegations of sexual misconduct has forced her to revisit her own accusations of sexual harassment against Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas four years ago.

Rex Perry / The Tennessean

Columnist Carl Rowan, center, poses with Vanderbilt University Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt, left, and The Tennessean Chairman Emeritus John Seigenthaler at the Freedom Forum's First Amendment Center at Vanderbilt on March 19, 1997. The syndicated columnist spoke at the center and signed copies of the reissue of his first book, “South of Freedom.”

Columnist Carl Rowan, center, poses with Vanderbilt University Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt, left, and The Tennessean Chairman Emeritus John Seigenthaler at the Freedom Forum’s First Amendment Center at Vanderbilt on March 19, 1997. The syndicated columnist spoke at the center and signed copies of the reissue of his first book, “South of Freedom.”

Nina Long / The Tennessean

Champion boxer Muhammad Ali, center, jokes with Vanderbilt University graduate students and officials at the Owen School of Management on campus on Feb. 20 1998. The graduate students created a website for Ali.

Champion boxer Muhammad Ali, center, jokes with Vanderbilt University graduate students and officials at the Owen School of Management on campus on Feb. 20 1998. The graduate students created a website for Ali.

George Walker IV / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt addresses students and guests, during the spring, commencement his 18th and last address as head of the university, on May 12, 2000.

Vanderbilt University Chancellor Joe B. Wyatt addresses students and guests, during the spring, commencement his 18th and last address as head of the university, on May 12, 2000.

Bill Steber / The Tennesseann

Vanderbilt Chancellor Gordon Gee, center, speaks to an audience the celebrating university's 130th anniversary on March 17, 2003. The deans of Vanderbilt’s 10 colleges and schools lined up behind him near the statue of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Vanderbilt Chancellor Gordon Gee, center, speaks to an audience the celebrating university’s 130th anniversary on March 17, 2003. The deans of Vanderbilt’s 10 colleges and schools lined up behind him near the statue of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt.

Stephanie Bruce / The Tennessean

English major Dean Damuth showed off his patriotism during Vanderbilt's commencement ceremony at Memorial Gym on May 9, 2003.

English major Dean Damuth showed off his patriotism during Vanderbilt’s commencement ceremony at Memorial Gym on May 9, 2003.

Eric Parsons / The Tennessean

Nicholas S. Zeppos, named the interim chancellor, stands outside Kirkland Hall on Vanderbilt University's campus on Aug. 1, 2007.

Nicholas S. Zeppos, named the interim chancellor, stands outside Kirkland Hall on Vanderbilt University’s campus on Aug. 1, 2007.

LaVondia Majors / The Tennessean

Professor Colleen Conway-Welch, left, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing dean, poses for a photo with graduate George Holburn during the School of Nursing's pinning ceremony at Belmont University's Curb Event Center in Nashville on Aug. 5, 2007.

Professor Colleen Conway-Welch, left, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing dean, poses for a photo with graduate George Holburn during the School of Nursing’s pinning ceremony at Belmont University’s Curb Event Center in Nashville on Aug. 5, 2007.

Jeff Adkins, The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos is the first chancellor to come from Vanderbilt since Oliver C. Carmichael in 1937, whose portrait Zeppos stands in front of on March 3, 2008.

Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos is the first chancellor to come from Vanderbilt since Oliver C. Carmichael in 1937, whose portrait Zeppos stands in front of on March 3, 2008.

John Partipilo / The Tennessean

The Rev. James Lawson is moved during the unveiling of his portrait at Benton Chapel on the campus of Vanderbilt University on Nov. 13, 2008.

The Rev. James Lawson is moved during the unveiling of his portrait at Benton Chapel on the campus of Vanderbilt University on Nov. 13, 2008.

Dipti Vaidya / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos is lifted by students before kickoff of the football game against Northwestern at Dudley Stadium on Sept. 4, 2010.

Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos is lifted by students before kickoff of the football game against Northwestern at Dudley Stadium on Sept. 4, 2010.

Jae S. Lee / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt baseball head coach Tim Corbin, left, poses for a picture with Sally Smith during their NCAA championship celebration at Vanderbilt University on June 26, 2014.

Vanderbilt baseball head coach Tim Corbin, left, poses for a picture with Sally Smith during their NCAA championship celebration at Vanderbilt University on June 26, 2014.

George Walker IV / The Tennessean

Participants throw colored powder in the air during the Holi celebration at Vanderbilt University on April 9, 2016. the Hindu festival celebrates the arrival of spring.

Participants throw colored powder in the air during the Holi celebration at Vanderbilt University on April 9, 2016. the Hindu festival celebrates the arrival of spring.

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean

Workers cover up the name outside Confederate Memorial Hall at Vanderbilt University on Aug. 15, 2016. Vanderbilt says will repay an 83-year-old donation, allowing it to remove the name from the residence hall.

Workers cover up the name outside Confederate Memorial Hall at Vanderbilt University on Aug. 15, 2016. Vanderbilt says will repay an 83-year-old donation, allowing it to remove the name from the residence hall.

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean

Construction continues at Vanderbilt University's E. Bronson Ingram College in Nashville, seen here on Jan. 19, 2018. It's on schedule to open in August.

Construction continues at Vanderbilt University’s E. Bronson Ingram College in Nashville, seen here on Jan. 19, 2018. It’s on schedule to open in August.

Lacy Atkins / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University students wave signs during the National School Walkout event in front of the campus library on March 14, 2018. The event marks the one-month anniversary of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

Vanderbilt University students wave signs during the National School Walkout event in front of the campus library on March 14, 2018. The event marks the one-month anniversary of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

Shelley Mays / The Tennessean

Former Vice President Joe Biden, left, speaks with Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos at an event on April 10, 2018.

Former Vice President Joe Biden, left, speaks with Vanderbilt University Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos at an event on April 10, 2018.

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean

Construction cranes for Vanderbilt University's new dorms can be seen in Nashville on April 7, 2019.

Construction cranes for Vanderbilt University’s new dorms can be seen in Nashville on April 7, 2019.

Shelley Mays / The Tennessean

Haley Blankenship's guide dog, Tasha, wears her own cap during Vanderbilt University's graduation on May 10, 2019.

Haley Blankenship’s guide dog, Tasha, wears her own cap during Vanderbilt University’s graduation on May 10, 2019.

Larry McCormack / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University sophomore Jack Daley moves his belongings out of his dorm room in Nashville on March 13, 2020. Daley is placing his belongings to a storage unit and going home to California after Vanderbilt moved classes online and asked students to move off campus because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vanderbilt University sophomore Jack Daley moves his belongings out of his dorm room in Nashville on March 13, 2020. Daley is placing his belongings to a storage unit and going home to California after Vanderbilt moved classes online and asked students to move off campus because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shelley Mays / The Tennessean

New Vanderbilt University Chancellor Daniel Diermeier stands outside Kirkland Hall on the campus in Nashville on June 30, 2020.

New Vanderbilt University Chancellor Daniel Diermeier stands outside Kirkland Hall on the campus in Nashville on June 30, 2020.

Shelley Mays / The Tennessean

Landscape architect James Moore stands in front of the white oak trees on Vanderbilt University campus on Nov. 16, 2021. A group of Vanderbilt students in the collection program has sent out acorns from the trees to be planted around Tennessee.

Landscape architect James Moore stands in front of the white oak trees on Vanderbilt University campus on Nov. 16, 2021. A group of Vanderbilt students in the collection program has sent out acorns from the trees to be planted around Tennessee.

Stephanie Amador / The Tennessean

Jae Kyung Shin, left, asks a question of Ji You Whang during a Korean class at Vanderbilt University on April 8, 2022. Whang moved from Korea to Nashville to teach Korean.

Jae Kyung Shin, left, asks a question of Ji You Whang during a Korean class at Vanderbilt University on April 8, 2022. Whang moved from Korea to Nashville to teach Korean.

George Walker IV / The Tennessean

Vanderbilt University professor Michael Eric Dyson, front left, leads a Zoom discussion with hip-hop artist Megan Thee Stallion during a humanities course, “From Dr. King to Lil Wayne,” on campus on Oct. 24, 2022.

George Walker IV / The Tennessean

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