五一茶馆儿 has named four new academic deans this year with potential for considerable impact on the Nashville community, the Middle Tennessee region, and beyond.
One of the world鈥檚 leading structural biologists, and is set to advance Vanderbilt鈥檚 goal of expanding its global research impact. Given his experience as co-founder of Nurix Therapeutics, a publicly traded biotech company developing and testing therapies for late-stage cancers, he will play a critical role in fostering a biotech innovation ecosystem in our region. Kuriyan鈥檚 leadership sets a path to make Nashville an attractive location for additional partners in biotech.
Nationally renowned researcher . A prominent advocate for innovation, Roy has helped secure millions in funding for the discovery of new therapies for serious diseases like cancer and tuberculosis. He will build on the school鈥檚 accomplishments in innovation by expanding work in biomedical engineering, climate solutions, transportation, cybersecurity, and big data. Under Roy鈥檚 leadership, the school鈥痺ill enhance its strong connection to innovation in Nashville through collaborative research around 鈥渟mart cities,鈥� pedestrian safety, and traffic data.
Former dean of the Howard University School of Divinity and prominent leader on the role of religion in public life, . Under her leadership, the school is set to further strengthen its ties to the Nashville community through ministry, service, and nonviolent social change initiatives. Pierce is dedicated to enhancing the school鈥檚 community partnerships and advancing Vanderbilt鈥檚 commitment to belonging and inclusion.
A leading advocate for productive collaborations between academics and business, , will aid in furthering Vanderbilt鈥檚 collaboration with Nashville鈥檚 growing business community. The Owen School is tremendous resource for executive education for our region, and provides a talent pipeline for companies in Tennessee. While at Owen, students learn from and contribute to local organizations through experiential programs like the Owen Board Fellows and the Turner Family Center for Social Ventures.