the Wond'ry Annual Report

Each year, we compile major highlights to give an in-depth look at the Wond'ry's achievements. We are thrilled to share our latest annual report, celebrating everything that makes the Wond'ry special. View here.

Advance Movie Screening of Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey

Date: October 19
Time: Doors Open at 4:00 PM
Location: Sarratt Cinema, Vanderbilt
Film Trailer

From Award-Winning Filmmakers Rich Hull (BA’92) & Justin D. Roberts, & Executive Producer Chris Pratt. The film is a moving exploration of the untold stories of military chaplains who have dedicated their lives to serving others, even in the most challenging conditions. Featuring the heroic journey of Emil Kapaun, this story captures both history's profound weight & the immense power of love & sacrifice.

Reserve seat now - limited availability!
Suggested Donation: $25 per person
All proceeds benefit the Wond'ry & Vandy in Hollywood.

Advancing Racial Equity in STEM: Dr. Ebony McGee's Vision for a More Inclusive Innovation Landscape

Despite decades of efforts, racial diversity in STEM remains a challenge. Dr. Ebony O. McGee, a leading voice on race & structural racism in STEM, aims to change this with her NSF-funded project supporting Black and minoritized students in STEM entrepreneurship. Read the full story here.

Nissan-Vanderbilt Project Showcase

Vanderbilt University & Nissan North America came together at the Student Life Center to celebrate a year of collaboration. The Wond'ry & Nissan teams shared their innovative projects —all aimed at meeting future automotive needs. Check out the full post to learn more about the showcase & see the illustrated project brochure!

Thank You for Making TN Maker Fest 2024 a Success!

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the attendees and exhibitors who made the TN Maker Fest 2024 such an incredible event!

The festival was a celebration of creativity & innovation. With over 60 exhibits, ranging from art & candle making to fabrication and robotics, attendees experienced a diverse showcase of interactive exhibits that embodied the maker spirit of TN.

View the 2024 recap video & the photos from the event

Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for next year's date, & if you wish to sponsor this event, you can email tnmakerfest@gmail.com to receive further information.

Intro UX Design Program Kick-Off

The Wond'ry's Introduction to User Experience Design (UXD) program has kicked off, with 32 participants from diverse academic backgrounds. The participants, hailing from various majors, were joined by 5 staff members from across Vanderbilt's campus, all eager to embark on a transformative 10-week UXD journey.

A key highlight of the UXD program is the collaboration with Dr. Alexander Langerman, a renowned surgeon at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC). The participants in the UXD program will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world UXD challenges by enhancing the usability of the GownCard App, gaining hands-on experience in applying UXD principles & methodologies to create innovative solutions that address the needs of end-users.

Upcoming Programs & Events:

'From Campus to Community' October 16 at 3 PM

Discover how Vanderbilt's carbon neutral commitment serves as an economic development tool in Panola County, Mississippi. Engage with our distinguished panel of experts & Vanderbilt leadership, including Joe Azar, Brad Robison, Laura Zapata, Andrea George, Zdravka Tzankova, with introduction from Eric Kopstain, & moderation from Jaclyn Mothupi. Reception to follow in the ESB Atrium.

Biomimicry Workshop:

Oct. 18

Join us for an immersive off-site workshop to examine & explore the wonder of biomimicry in its natural habitat. Learn more.

Makerspace Workshops

We have several new workshops this month. Make sure to take advantage of this free resource! View events.

Intro to Social Innovation:

Nov. 1

Experience hands on learning and expand & become equipped with the necessary tools & skills to drive social change. Learn more.

Innovation

Open Mic: Nov. 13

Aspiring innovators are invited to practice presenting ideas to a panel of experts and mentors. Learn more.

Climate Innovation Accelerator is accepting client applications!

The Climate Innovation Accelerator engages a network of local universities, small businesses, & nonprofits to advance the city’s leadership initiatives toward a climate positive future through a 10-week, no-cost, cohort learning journey. We are currently looking for looking for minority led/owned & operated small businesses & non-profits to sign up as clients

Click here to learn more.

Partner Events:

Human Centered Design Workshop: Oct. 23 | 4:30 - 6 PM

Get a firsthand look at how design thinking principles are applied in real-world scenarios, & don't miss the opportunity to chat with the leaders of the HCD team. Participants are encouraged to bring their laptops for a brainstorming component.

Speakers: Brian Anderson, Sr. Director, HCD Program, Amy Lin, Director, HCD & UX, Cole Mokry, Manager, HCD & UX

Click here to register.

Calling all early-stage female founders!

Feeling frustrated by the stats for female founders? Let’s change the conversation.
Virtual Event: Breaking Barriers: Female Founders and the Emotional Side of Venture Investing
October 22nd - 23, 12 PM - 3 PM EST
Tickets are free w/ code Vanderbilt24.
This event will be recorded.
Register today

Lunch & Learn: Sustainability in Printing on Campus | Oct. 23

Free giveaways and presentations by experts in the sustainability and print industries focused on the ongoing solutions & challenges related to growing the print industry’s sustainability.

The Wond'ry
11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Lunch buffet provided featuring local farms

Challenges and Opportunities:

Nashville Entrepreneur Center Program Info Session | Oct. 16
VentureWell Ecosystem Futures Fellowship | Deadline: Oct. 23
Innovation Catalyst Fund | Deadline: Oct. 31
Innovation Crossroads Cohort | Deadline Nov. 8
Global Student Entrepreneur Awards | Deadline: Jan. 24, 2025

In the News:

At Vanderbilt, we are moving forward ever, & this is your chance to make a meaningful impact! When you donate to the area that matters most to you, including the Wond'ry, you can choose from a limited-edition selection of gifts as a token of Vandy's gratitude.

These exclusive gifts are only available until November 7, so make your donation today at vu.edu/forwardever & join us in empowering the future of our beloved university. Together, we can ensure that Vanderbilt continues to conquer & prevail!