Trish Stapp
New Special Events director believes in making memories
Former Lipscomb University director of events Trish Stapp is Vanderbilt's new director of Medical Center Special Events.
Stapp started at Vanderbilt on April 14, replacing Stephanie Schultz and inheriting a large department on the eighth floor of Medical Center North.
Medical Center Special Events coordinates nearly 400 events each year, with clients including physicians, medical school students and their families, donors and administration officials.
Whether it is commencement, a retirement dinner or a welcome reception, the department's planning efforts are the behind-the-scenes portion of an occasion that will likely stay with the participants for the rest of their lives.
“When the guests of honor leave at the end of the event and say that they've had a wonderful time, it is very rewarding because these are usually key points in someone's life where you are helping them to create a memory,” says Stapp.
Her department oversees important annual events including the annual Canby Robinson Society Dinner, which takes place on the Magnolia Lawn and requires a tent, flooring and air conditioning.
“Our department is a one-stop shop. We can determine the best location, plan the menu and entertainment, send invitations and also take the replies for an event.”
Stapp, who moved to Nashville from St. Louis in 1980 to attend Lipscomb University, most recently worked as Lipscomb's director of events and manager of Allen Arena.
“I was interested in working at Vanderbilt because of its world renowned reputation and many opportunities.”
“The people at Vanderbilt have been so welcoming. Many have gone out of their way to help me learn the ropes and for that I am thankful.”
“This department has an experienced and hard-working staff. They plan first-class events that further Vanderbilt Medical Center's reputation for excellence. I am honored to be part of this team and to help them find ways to constantly improve events and celebrations and better serve our clients.”