| When art + science come together, anything is possible
August 2025
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The landscape of higher education has been changing rapidly in recent years—from the disruptions of AI to a loss of public trust to questions about value. Over the past few months, I have been reflecting on why, despite these obstacles, we remain as dedicated as ever to our work in the College of Arts and Science. I believe that our commitment stems from our conviction that what we do has enduring value on a human level. We understand that research on chemical biology is not only an intriguing intellectual exercise but also produces discoveries that can lead to improved treatments for brain disease. We understand that art not only pleases our senses but also leads to deep insights about the world and the human condition. We understand that teaching students not only gives us a sense of personal fulfillment but also produces future leaders who understand context, perspective, and complexity. While we can, and will, adapt to this changing landscape and do our work in new and different ways, what remains unchanged is our resolute dedication to educating students, forging discoveries, and making a positive impact on individuals and society—both today and far into the future.
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My best,
Timothy P. McNamara
Searcy Family Dean of the College of Arts and Science
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For the first time in two decades, the College of Arts and Science has overhauled its general education curriculum. This fall, the innovative A&S College Core is launching, representing years of thoughtful planning and evidence-based design by A&S faculty.
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While summer is a time to relax for some, A&S undergraduate students use the break to participate in interdisciplinary, experiential, hands-on learning through internships, research, and global travel.
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Our new faculty members span 11 departments and programs and join more than 600 faculty colleagues in the College of Arts and Science.
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Tracy Sharpley-Whiting was elected to AAAS for her illuminating scholarship, including her work on the interior lives of historical figures.
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| A&S biologist Gianni Castiglione received a $1.3 million grant from the W.M. Keck Foundation to study birds' longevity and identify safe, effective genetic targets for human aging therapies.
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The New York Times: How the Democrats became the party that brings pencils to a knife fight
Nicole Hemmer (history), quoted.
CNN: Shooters may have mental health problems in common, but that’s not what’s behind violent attacks, experts say
Jonathan Metzl (medicine, health, and society), quoted.
Discover: A wormhole would really look like a sphere, not a hole – here’s why
Robert Scherrer and Alexandru Lupsasca (physics and astronomy), quoted.
The New York Times: The Era of A.I. Propaganda Has Arrived, and America Must Act
Brett Benson (political science), co-authored this opinion piece.
New Scientist: Human milk could help fight infections that endanger pregnancies
Steven Townsend (chemistry), quoted.
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Classes are back in session, and we're thrilled to see so many smiling faces on campus (including the furry ones)! Check out more photos from the first day of classes on Instagram.
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It's your college. Stay connected.
@vuartsci
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Vanderbilt College of Arts and Science 2301 Vanderbilt Place, PMB 406014 | Nashville, TN 37240-6014 US
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"Vanderbilt" and the Vanderbilt logo are registered trademarks and service marks of Vanderbilt University.
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![GO: YOUTUBE A&S College Core video. [Alt: A Common intellecutal experience in undergraduate study]]](https://d31hzlhk6di2h5.cloudfront.net/20250828/49/cd/b9/20/020a6bed5be582c2c89e2834.png "GO: YOUTUBE A&S College Core video. [Alt: A Common intellecutal experience in undergraduate study]]")
