VUSM graduation heads to Ryman Auditorium
School of Medicine students will receive their diplomas May 11 at a graduation ceremony inside Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium downtown, marking the first time in VUSM history that the event will not be held on campus.
Graduation has been in Langford Auditorium for many years, but ongoing construction opened the door for a change of venue this year.
Dean Steven Gabbe, M.D., an avid country music fan, said his speech would center on the theme of lessons for a successful career learned from the songs of country music.
“This is an amazing opportunity for our students to be honored on the same stage that saw people like Ernest Tubb, Roy Acuff, Patsy Cline and Hank Williams,” Gabbe said.
“For people who love country music like I do, that is hallowed ground. To be able to stand on that stage just gives me chills. It is called the Mother Church of Country Music.”
A lunch for families, friends, faculty and students will be held in the nearby Renaissance Hotel immediately following graduation.