Vanderbilt University Partners for Cultural Enrichment Program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Vanderbilt University and its Residential Colleges launched a new program designed to enhance students’ cultural experiences through literature. The initiative coincided with the Southern Festival of Books, which took place on Oct. 18–19.

Students participated in various festival activities, immersing themselves in Nashville’s literary scene. Through this collaboration, they engaged in integrative learning, deepening their understanding of literature in a dynamic real-world context.

“Residential Colleges’ mission is to support students’ engagement with academics outside of the classroom,” said Melissa Gresalfi, dean of Residential Colleges and Residential Education. “We learn just as much in informal spaces as in formal spaces. The Southern Festival of Books gives students a chance to see how disciplinary learning impacts the ways we interact with and understand the world.”

As part of the Explore Nashville program, students attended festival events and interacted directly with authors through book signings, Q&A sessions, and informal discussions. This engagement helped build connections and foster an appreciation for storytelling.

The program also featured a session led by Professor Hundley, who taught about the relationship between literature and place. His discussion addressed how geography and local culture influence narratives, allowing students to explore how literature reflects the communities that inspire it.

“The English Language Center is dedicated to developing pathways for students to access and participate in university initiatives,” said Susan Barone, director of the English Language Center. “Collaborating with Residential Colleges and Professor Hundley to extend this engagement to the wider Nashville community provided an exciting opportunity for students.”

This partnership highlights Vanderbilt’s commitment to merging academic learning with experiential opportunities, encouraging students to explore Nashville’s rich cultural landscape.