Amy Wolf
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Storyteller. I get the word out about research & experts @VanderbiltU Fmr news producer who gets my fix making videos. Opinions my own amy.wolf@vanderbilt.edu
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Articles by Amy Wolf
SEASON 2, EPISODE 9: Country music’s Black roots with Alice Randall
Alice Randall, Writer in Residence of African American and Diaspora Studies Andrew W. Mellon Chair in the Humanities (Vanderbilt University) The true origins of country music contain a rich multicultural past. On this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Alice Randall, award-winning country music songwriter, New York Times-bestselling novelist, professor of African American and Diaspora Studies and Vanderbilt writer-in-residence, talks with Provost C.
Chancellor Faculty Fellows Success Stories: Leading transformative research centers
Faculty named Chancellor Faculty Fellows often steer pathbreaking research centers because smart and motivated people helping with society’s biggest challenges is an essential part of Vanderbilt’s mission. More than a decade ago, the Office of the Provost launched this boldly supportive program which provides a yearly cohort of Vanderbilt’s top recently tenured faculty with $80,000 over multiple years to fuel their work.
Vanderbilt communities in Nashville and NYC break bread and share ideas at The Longest Table
When Vanderbilt junior Youssoupha Charles joined a group of dinner companions he’d never met before at the inaugural The Longest Table event on Vanderbilt’s Alumni Lawn Oct. 1, he had no idea he’d bond so quickly with a student from Bosnia over a shared love of food from each other’s cultures. Students, faculty and staff share ideas and have healthy discussions across differences at the inaugural The Longest Table event on Alumni Lawn Oct.
NEW FACULTY: New professors share wisdom to future generations
For new students and new professors, life is a journey built on dreams, hard work and experiences that (hopefully) lead to wisdom. Vanderbilt welcomed 83 new faculty to our 12 schools and colleges for the 2026–27 academic year.
NEW FACULTY: New professors share why they chose Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt is known for its robust academic environment and interdisciplinary research collaborations that tackle society’s most pressing issues. At the heart of this are the university’s 1,800+ faculty members, 94 percent of whom hold the highest degrees available in their field. The university welcomed 83 new faculty to our 12 schools and colleges for the 2026–27 academic year. Meet some of these inspiring new faculty and hear the reasons they wanted to join the Vanderbilt community.
Record Family Weekend crowd sees what’s behind “explosion of support” for Vanderbilt
Chancellor Daniel Diermeier told families this weekend that the surge in support for Vanderbilt “is a testament of trust.” Over three days, a record crowd of more than 5,700 parents, grandparents and siblings saw firsthand how that trust is being earned. From a conversation on civil discourse and open debate to a first look at the College of Connected Computing and a last-second Commodores win, Family Weekend 2026, held Sept.
SEASON 2, EPISODE 9: Wisdom from lifelong statesman Lamar Alexander
Lamar Alexander, BA’62, Three-term Tennessee senator, two-term Tennessee governor, U.S. secretary of education, former University of Tennessee president (Vanderbilt University) What is it like to be at the epicenter of American politics through ten presidents?
New Vanderbilt scholarship opens doors for musically, academically talented students
Blair School of Music puts on a choral concert in Ingram Hall. (Vanderbilt University) Vanderbilt University launched a new opportunity for high-achieving music students and scholars with financial need through the newly established Blair Ovation Award. The Blair Ovation Award offers scholarships covering direct costs, including tuition, fees, housing and meals—currently valued at approximately $97,000—to eligible students admitted to the Blair School of Music.
NEW FACULTY: Professors explain what excites them about their transformative research
As part of a top academic and research university, Vanderbilt’s faculty drive pioneering research across disciplines, making real-world impact. The university welcomed 83 new faculty for the 2026–27 academic year. Get to know some of our newest faculty members across our 12 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools—and our pathbreaking centers and institutes—as they explain what excites them about their transformative work and the benefits it can have for society.
SEASON 2, EPISODE 8: Reimagining the creative process with artists and life partners María Magdalena Campos-Pons and Kamaal Malak.
Kamaal Malak and María Magdalena Campos-Pons join Provost C. Cybele Raver on the Quantum Potential podcast. (Vanderbilt University) When a highly esteemed painter, sculptor and performance artist collaborates in work and life with an award-winning musician, music producer and researcher, the end result is a completely reimagined and beautiful creative process.
Chancellor Faculty Fellows Success Stories: See how members are excelling
Behind every major breakthrough is an investment that made it possible. The boldly supportive Chancellor Faculty Fellows program fuels Vanderbilt’s next generation of academic leaders. It was launched more than a decade ago by the Office of the Provost, and it is thriving today. The program provides Vanderbilt’s top recently tenured faculty with $80,000 over multiple years to further their work.
Vanderbilt University–New York City is open!
Jumbotron outside the Nasdaq Stock Exchange showcasing Vanderbilt University–New York City (Vanderbilt University) The lights of New York City glimmered with black and gold this week as Vanderbilt University officially opened its first campus beyond Nashville with the historic launch of Vanderbilt University–New York City, bringing a bold vision for growth to life into the heart of Manhattan.
Serving with Care
At The Moorings, Tana-Dawson also assisted residents through exercise, musical therapy and other tailored activities. But the most meaningful part of her internship was listening to those stories from the past. She was moved by the experiences of one resident who was born in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1931 and lived through World War II.
VANDERBILT’S BOLDEST CHAPTER: Historic fundraising success drives donor impact through Dare to Grow campaign
Kickoff event for the Dare to Grow campaign (Vanderbilt University) Vanderbilt University’s historic Dare to Grow campaign concluded June 30, 2026, with $4.5 billion in donor support—fueled by a record-breaking $757 million raised in the campaign’s final year, a 350 percent increase in annual fundraising performance since 2021, and doubling the previous year’s record. The campaign was Vanderbilt’s most ambitious call for support in its history, and more than 140,000 donors answered.
Empowering dyslexic learners from day one at newly expanded Roberts Academy
“It’s amazing what can happen when students are given an incredible space and supportive community like this to learn.” —Lauren Herrera, parent Students enjoy their classroom in the new Roberts Academy building. (Vanderbilt University) An environment where a child can fall in love with learning is the greatest gift a school can give, especially for kids who juggle additional learning challenges.
Michael Matheny: AI to improve human-centered healthcare for patients, practitioners
Physicians today have access to more patient information and more types of medical devices than ever before, especially with rapidly evolving artificial intelligence in healthcare. Dr. Michael Matheny, professor of medicine and of biomedical informatics and biostatics, is passionate about combining these evolving technologies with a human touch. He’s helping clinicians understand how to better use AI and data models to improve patient care.
YOU’VE GOT TO…Check out ‘must do’ recommendations from students & faculty
Incoming first-year students enjoy a welcome event on the South Patio Lawn. (Vanderbilt University) Ask a Vanderbilt senior what they wish they’d known as a first-year student, and it’s likely you’ll hear that it’s to “say yes” by joining a club, taking a hike, or going to that concert close to campus. Vanderbilt life happens inside and outside the classroom, and here you can dive into an endless lineup of events, campus traditions, community groups, and more adventures than you could imagine.
Tucker Biddlecombe: Creating harmony on The Ingram Commons
Tucker Biddlecombe leads the VU Orchestra and more than a hundred choral voices, including The Vanderbilt Sixteen, Vanderbilt University Singers and Vanderbilt Youth Choirs, during a special performance at Blair School of Music. (Vanderbilt University) Great music is created when unique talents are led and supported by an exceptional conductor. It’s a truth Vanderbilt professor of choral studies and conductor of the Nashville Symphony Chorus Tucker Biddlecombe lives daily.
Season 1 Highlights–Nature’s disease fighters, national security changes, a more personal justice system and more!
In this special episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver revisits some of the episodes that left an impression on listeners and on her. Hear from experts, including chemist Brian Bachmann, principal investigator for the Vanderbilt Laboratory for Biosynthetic Studies, who explains how he’s using nature to pave new avenues for drug discovery.
Dawn O’Connell appointed as Board of Trust secretary
Dawn O’Connell, Secretary to the Vanderbilt Board of Trust (Submitted photo) Dawn O’Connell, BA’94, a senior executive and strategic adviser with extraordinary experience at the highest levels of government and public health leadership, has been selected as secretary to the Vanderbilt Board of Trust. O’Connell served as a principal at Health Security Strategies, advising governments, private equity firms and nonprofit organizations on public health and health security matters.
SUMMER REMIX: How poetry can teach us essential life lessons with Major Jackson
Major Jackson, Gertrude Conaway Vanderbilt Chair in the Humanities, professor of English and director of creative writing with Provost C. Cybele Raver (Vanderbilt University) What can poetry teach us about essential life lessons like paying attention, embracing uncertainty, and finding ways to begin new chapters in our lives?
STEM meets style: Students adapt engineering skills for high fashion, art experience
María Magdalena Campos-Pons led a parade of artists in a poetry caravan at Venice Biennale 2026 wearing a robe created by students in the engineering Wearable Product Design class. (Olivia Forrester) In engineering and in fashion, the key to success is found in human-centered design. These disparate disciplines overlapped in a wonderful way when a group of mostly mechanical engineering students—with little or no sewing experience—took on an extraordinary challenge.
Bradley Malin: Balancing AI, healthcare innovations and patient privacy
Bradley Malin, Accenture Professor of Biomedical Informatics and professor of biostatistics, computer science, and electrical and computer engineering (Vanderbilt University) Altering genetic code is something any sci-fi loving kid has thought about: You can’t have Spiderman or X-Men without genetic engineering.
Vanderbilt mourns the death of economics professor Adugna Olani
Adugna Olani, senior lecturer in economics (Vanderbilt University) The Vanderbilt community is mourning the death of Adugna Olani, senior lecturer in economics, who died June 15, 2026, at the age of 45. Olani was a revered professor and mentor who had been teaching at Vanderbilt since 2018. Olani was born in Arjo, Ethiopia, and worked as a researcher for the National Bank of Ethiopia early in his career.
2026 Chancellor Faculty Fellows Selected
Eleven of Vanderbilt University’s most promising recently tenured faculty have been awarded spots in the 2026 Chancellor Faculty Fellows program. This year’s recipients demonstrate exceptional and innovative scholarly achievement. “These scholars represent the next generation of academic leaders, advancing the bold ideas and transformative research that are strengthening Vanderbilt’s position among the world’s leading research universities,” Chancellor Daniel Diermeier said.
Southern Festival of Books announces initial lineup for 2026
The 38th annual Southern Festival of Books will be Oct. 17-18, 2026. (Submitted poster) Humanities Tennessee, in partnership with Vanderbilt University, announced the initial lineup of award-winning, bestselling authors who will headline the free 38th Annual Southern Festival of Books, taking place Oct. 17–18 at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall, the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee State Library and Archives.
SEASON 2, BONUS EPISODE: Language and its political and social power with associate professor of English Akshya Saxena
We all love to talk. Some like to listen, too. But language is far more than just a tool we use to communicate; it can impact democracy, identity and access. Akshya Saxena, associate professor of English (Vanderbilt University) In this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver talks with Akshya Saxena, associate professor of English at Vanderbilt. Saxena’s work sits at the intersection of literature, media and political thought.
Cheers to the Class of 2026
Graduates of the University of Delaware Class of 2026 celebrate the culmination of their college careers. Commencement speaker Mariah Calagione, co-founder of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, inspires graduates to find connection and community Sometimes, you just have to dance through the rain. Despite the less-than-ideal weather at the University of Delaware’s Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 23, graduates Annie McTaggart and Erin Fitzgerald made the most of the moment.
WATCH: Core Commencement memories with the Class of 2026
You’ve collected the memories, the achievements, the friends that will last a lifetime. You’ve learned so much and challenged yourself; working together in ways you never imagined. You, Class of 2026, are Vanderbilt graduates. And this is only the beginning. Watch this special look at the Class of 2026 becoming Vanderbilt for life.
SEASON 2, BONUS EPISODE: Pursuing happiness and success with bestselling author and scholar Arthur Brooks
Provost Cybele Raver with author, Arthur Brooks, endowed professor in the Department of Medicine, Health and Society (Vanderbilt) What defines happiness? And how does that impact the pursuit of achievement, success and a meaningful life? These are some powerful questions no matter where you are in life. On this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C.
Class of 2026 called to make bold plans and embrace meaningful challenge
“Today you are as free as you will ever be to make big plans, take calculated risks and leave your mark.” – Chancellor Daniel Diermeier Chancellor Daniel Diermeier leads the Commencement ceremony for the Class of 2026. (Vanderbilt University) What does it mean to live a life worthy of a Vanderbilt education?
WATCH: Class of 2026 shares how Vanderbilt’s values have anchored them
The anchors that bring Vanderbilt’s dynamic community together come from a set of core values shared in classrooms, labs, residential communities, athletic fields and beyond. Vanderbilt is anchored in collaboration, support, growth and community. Hear from members of the Class of 2026 as they express how they’ve lived these values and plan to carry them into the future. See highlights from the Class of 2026 Commencement Want to find happiness?
Vanderbilt University honors Class of 2026 Founder’s Medalists
under Founders Medalist recipients at the Graduates Day celebration 2026 in Memorial Gym. (Vanderbilt University) Vanderbilt University recognized the 2026 Founder’s Medalists for their remarkable scholarly dedication and outstanding achievements during the Graduates Day event on May 7 as part of the Commencement celebration. Since 1877, the university has awarded a medal to the student graduating with top honors from each of the university’s schools and colleges.
Bestselling author, happiness researcher Arthur Brooks gives Class of 2026 a special homework assignment
If there’s ever a time to ask yourself the big questions—the questions that go beyond an autofill or a quick internet search—it’s while sitting at the edge of college graduation and on the precipice of possibility. Award-winning author and professor Arthur C. Brooks gives 2026 Graduates Day address at Vanderbilt University. (Vanderbilt) At Graduates Day, thousands of soon-to-be Vanderbilt alumni gathered in Memorial Gymnasium with their families to celebrate this momentous occasion. Arthur C.
Curating identity, bridging cultures
Mun received her master’s degree from the Department of Art History in 2023, and she credits the program’s depth and flexibility with providing a foundation for tackling the challenge, especially with the astute guidance mentorship of Vimalin Rujivacharakul, associate professor of art. “I came to UD because I’d heard such amazing things about the program, especially in American art history,” she said. “The network is strong, and there’s so much overlap with museum professionals.
Class of 2026 student-athletes and students share favorite memories of Vanderbilt
Ask any Vanderbilt student or alum and they’ll tell you it’s impossible to choose just one favorite memory of their Vandy experience. In this special series, members of the Class of 2026 and senior student-athletes opened up their camera rolls and shared nostalgic Vanderbilt memories and what they’ll miss most. Allyria McBride, Class of 2026 (Vanderbilt) “A great Vanderbilt memory for me is the 2024 solar eclipse.
Class of 2026 shares favorite photo memories
Photos often capture moments that become far more precious over time. In this special series, members of the Class of 2026 opened up their camera rolls and shared a favorite Vanderbilt memory they want to keep with them long after Commencement. Imaad Muwahid and Syed Ali, Class of 2026 (Vanderbilt) “An experience I don’t want to forget from Vanderbilt is when we went to the Smoky Mountains my freshman year with my friends. This was a great trip because we went to Dollywood.
SEASON 2, EPISODE 7: Economic power of scarcity with marketing expert Kelly Goldsmith
Kelly Goldsmith, E. Bronson Ingram Chair and Professor of Marketing at the Vanderbilt Owen Graduate School of Management (Vanderbilt) Remember during the COVID-19 pandemic when people were hoarding everything from toilet paper to potato chips? Or when the desire for a “must have” item drives buyers into strategic chaos to make that purchase? That type of psychological panic-buying is the economic power of scarcity. On this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C.
Research bonds: Vanderbilt strengthens partnerships with UK universities
At Vanderbilt, creative and ambitious collaborations through research, innovation and learning are happening around the world, with exciting results. Recent advances have strengthened the university’s long-standing partnerships with the University of Leeds in West Yorkshire, England, and the University of Liverpool.
Hot off the presses
Now landing in mailboxes, the latest University of Delaware Magazine captures an institution in full stride — equal parts legacy and forward motion. The issue opens with a long view. We the Blue Hens traces the University’s roots back to the earliest days of the republic, when education wasn’t just about personal advancement; it was a civic duty. The piece makes a timely argument: that the American experiment still depends on informed citizens — and UD is helping sustain democracy.
Laura Carlson inaugurated as UD’s 29th president
Laura Carlson (left) was formally inaugurated as the University of Delaware’s 29th president in a tradition-filled ceremony on The Green on Friday, April 17. Angela Downin (right), vice president, general counsel and university secretary, carries the University’s mace, a symbol of power and authority that signifies the dignity of an institution.
Tailored for the occasion
It would be easy to mistake the blazer’s blue and gold appliqué for little flowers. But look closer, and their shape — and meaning — reveal something deeper. The two-inch-wide laser-cut sneakers stitched into the design speak to University of Delaware President Laura Carlson’s passion for running. The dress beneath reflects her knitting hobby.
Before you apply, find your “why”: Advice from graduate, professional students
Working toward a master’s degree or doctorate is a life decision that requires purpose, passion and commitment. For those considering a path to an advanced degree, advice from those who have been through it helps. We asked graduate and professional students in the Class of 2026 what advice they would give to someone considering working toward a graduate degree.
Choral connections
Stephanie Gilmour, a junior majoring in mechanical engineering with minors in mathematics and computer engineering, said that being one of the few members who does not study music is an extra challenge. “Working with seasoned musicians quickly forced me into becoming one myself in order to retain my position in the choir,” she said.
Chancellor’s Cup awarded to Professor Dan Morgan
Professor Dan Morgan is surprised in his class with the 2026 Chancellor’s Cup. (Vanderbilt University) Dan Morgan, principal senior lecturer in earth and environmental sciences, received the 2026 Chancellor’s Cup for his enthusiastic dedication to undergraduate and graduate students through immersion research, mentoring and support over almost two decades at Vanderbilt. Morgan received a surprise visit on April 7 when Chancellor Daniel Diermeier and Provost C.
SEASON 2, EPISODE 6: Reconnecting a divided democracy with philosopher Robert Talisse
Robert B. Talisse, W. Alton Jones Professor of Philosophy, with Provost Cybele Raver during Quantum Potential Podcast (Vanderbilt University) Right now in our country, political polarization and divisive anger between parties make some feel that our democracy is breaking. How can democratic societies endure—and even flourish—amid deep and persistent disagreement? On this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C. Cybele Raver talks with Robert B. Talisse, W.
Finding the person I want to be: Heartfelt reflections from graduate and professional students
Choosing to pursue a graduate degree is a life-changing endeavor—professionally and personally. In honor of Graduate & Professional Student Appreciation Week, we asked graduate and professional students to share what they’ve learned about themselves and the person they’ve become while at Vanderbilt. Jon Bergamo, MBA candidate, Owen Graduate School of Management (Submitted photo) “I think I could write a novel about this, but in short, I learned to own and embrace my authentic self.
How I want to better the world: Graduate, professional students share inspirations and goals
Putting in the immense effort to work toward a master’s degree or doctorate requires passion, dedication and drive. In honor of Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week, we talked with students from our graduate schools about what in their field inspires them and how they want to use their Vanderbilt education to make things better in our communities, our country and our world.
SEASON 2, EPISODE 5: Life Through a Unique Lens-Mariah Kramer on how everyday stories become breakthroughs in documentary film
What makes a true story more compelling than fiction? Documentary films have the ability to shine a light on real-life experiences, issues and people in unique and creative ways. They pull viewers in by showing a slice of life through a specific perspective. Mariah Kramer, documentary filmmaker, senior lecturer and director of undergraduate studies in cinema and media arts (Vanderbilt University) In this episode of the Quantum Potential podcast, Provost C.
Shan Meltzer: Studying the science of touch
Gentle caress, searing burn, jolting shock, shivering goosebumps. Shan Meltzer, assistant professor of pharmacology, member of Vanderbilt Brain Institute and Center for Computational Systems Biology (Vanderbilt University) All these are possible with the elemental power of touch. Touch is critical to brain development and cognition. But how does our brain connect with the body’s largest sensory organ—skin?
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