Vanderbilt Hillel will undergo a large building renovation this spring and summer. To celebrate the start of the construction, Vanderbilt Hillel will host a groundbreaking event at the Schulman Center for Jewish Life on Sunday, February 25th from 4:00-6:00 p.m.
Goldie Shepard, Vanderbilt Hillel’s recent honoree and caterer, is looking forward to the start of construction. “There really are no words for the kitchen project to begin and the excitement I am feeling. It really does take a village and I know the Nashville community will benefit. I am hoping people will join us for a Shabbat dinner. Stay tuned for updates!”
The students at Vanderbilt Hillel are excited for the building construction. “I’m excited for the new building. It should be a nicer, safer place for Jewish students on campus. All my favorite spaces in the building will be improved, so all the things I love about the building future students will continue to enjoy,” says Ethan Sherman, Class of 2024.
Although the plans for the building changes were officially started one year ago, Vanderbilt Hillel has been planning for several years to renovate. “We have been working hard to make this a reality, and we are thrilled to celebrate this important first step,” says Ari Dubin, executive director, Vanderbilt Hillel.
The building changes include a renovation to the newly named “The Goldie Shepard and Sylvia Shepard Vanderbilt Hillel Kitchen” that will include a walk-in refrigerator/freezer, expanded space, and new kitchen equipment, upgraded security with a newly constructed security vestibule with restricted access, ballistic window treatments, and secure fencing at the back of the building, and other general improvements such as new paint/flooring, modern furnishings, renovated office spaces, and a reconstructed back patio.
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