Holland N. Mctyeire: A Very Brief History Of Vanderbilt University

The historical development of higher education institutions has led to several classifications of universities. Beginning with the creation of Harvard University in 1636, colleges and universities used specific missions and visions to establish priorities. In an attempt to stay true to these missions, higher education institutions have branched off into various types of universities with a narrowed focus for their students. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University is a private research university whose mission is to “bring out the best in humanity-pushing new ideas into the frontiers of discovery, challenging the limits of what is possible and working diligently in the service of others (Webbk, 1970).” This paper will explore

A relative of Vanderbilt by marriage, Methodist Bishop Holland N. McTyeire was admired by Vanderbilt for his passion of creating a university in the south with a mission of creating ties across the country (“History of Vanderbilt University”, 1970). McTyeire pursued the project of building a university with support from the Vanderbilt family. He chose the site for the campus and supervised the construction of a number of the buildings. McTyeire was even involved in selecting faculty, creating policies, and defining the curriculum (“History of Vanderbilt University”, 1970). Under McTyeire’s influence, Vanderbilt University operated for the first 40 years under guidance from the Methodist Episcopal Church. However, the Vanderbilt Board of Trust severed ties with the church over a dispute in 1914 (“History of Vanderbilt University”, 1970). From the beginning, Vanderbilt offered coursework in the liberal arts and sciences, in addition to partnering with several professional

The university’s seventh chancellor, Gordon Gee, helped the university undergo significant changes. During this time, Vanderbilt University led the nation in the rate of growth in academic research funding and became one of the most selective undergraduate universities in the United States (“History of Vanderbilt University”, 1970). Today, Vanderbilt University operates as a private research institution with nearly 7,000 undergraduate students and approximately 6,200 graduate students (“History of Vanderbilt University”, 1970). Vanderbilt University consistently ranks among the top 15 universities in publications such as U.S. News &N World Report and has achieved status as one of “The World’s Most Innovative Universities” according to Reuters (“History of Vanderbilt University”, 1970). Chapter Three Organization Structure A Board of Trust governs Vanderbilt University and consists of five officers and 32