Three leaders with strong ties to Vanderbilt University and its Jewish community will receive the Nimoy-Knight Foundation’s prestigious Live Long and Prosper Tribute Award during a special celebration at Rohr Chabad House on Sept. 18.
The honorees are Vanderbilt Chancellor Daniel Diermeier, Vice Chancellor Darren Reisberg and Rabbi Shlomo Rothstein, director of Rohr Chabad at Vanderbilt. The award, inspired by the legacy of actor Leonard Nimoy, recognizes individuals who exemplify compassion, service, courage, and respect for human dignity.
The foundation recognized Diermeier for his leadership in confronting antisemitism and fostering a campus environment rooted in safety and mutual respect. Reisberg was recognized for his commitment to the well-being of the Vanderbilt community and his efforts to promote inclusion and dignity. Rothstein was recognized for his leadership of Vanderbilt’s Jewish community, his work combating antisemitism, and building relationships across religious and cultural communities.
“What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that the Nimoy-Knight Foundation took notice of what is happening here in Nashville,” Rothstein said. “We are deeply grateful that the foundation has chosen to recognize the work being done by Vanderbilt’s leadership and Chabad to support all students."
Previous recipients of the Live Long and Prosper Tribute Award include Billie Jean King, Neil deGrasse Tyson, George Takei and LeVar Burton.
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