NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Anchor Impact, the official collective for Vanderbilt Athletics, is excited to announce a series of groundbreaking initiatives, strategic partnerships, and a new board of directors. These moves represent the collective’s continued commitment to creating lasting impact through innovative outreach, collaboration, and engagement across name, image, and likeness (NIL).
Paul Grindstaff, the collective’s general manager notes, “It’s an incredible time to lead Anchor Impact. The excitement surrounding our student-athletes and programs gives us a unique opportunity to bring our donors, communities, and fans closer to the action. Our goal is to sign and retain the nation’s leading student-athletes, and with the unwavering support of our athletic department, our strategic plan is primed for success.”
“I applaud Anchor Impact’s bold energy and share their enthusiasm for the opportunity in front of us,” Vanderbilt vice chancellor for athletics and university affairs and athletic director Candice Storey Lee said. “This is a momentous year for Vanderbilt Athletics. To lead the way in creating a sustainable championship environment and holistic student-athlete experience, we must set the standard for innovation and collaboration—we must always dare to grow. I welcome Anchor Impact’s across-the-board efforts to help us seize this moment, together.”
Momentum and Growth
As the Anchor Impact Collective enters its next growth phase, it continues to gain momentum with a focus on scaling its impact nationwide. By connecting organizations, businesses, and thought leaders, Anchor Impact expands its footprint and amplifies its mission to promote sustainable, positive change across diverse sectors.
New Board of Governors
Anchor Impact is pleased to introduce its newly appointed board of directors. This diverse group of industry leaders, social entrepreneurs, and advocates will bring a wealth of experience and strategic vision to the collective. Their leadership will help Anchor Impact navigate its next chapter, ensuring that the collective’s mission and initiatives remain focused on creating sustainable and scalable impact across the nation.
Click HERE for the official announcement of Anchor Impact Board of Directors press release.
New Marketing Partner: Alluvium Strategies
Anchor Impact is also pleased to announce its new partnership with Alluvium Strategies, a premier marketing and communications agency. Alluvium’s expertise in digital marketing, brand strategy, and campaign management will play a pivotal role in helping Anchor Impact amplify its mission and expand its reach across donors, communities, brands, and corporate sponsors.
Launch of the Anchor Impact Nationwide Series
Anchor Impact is introducing the Anchor Impact Series in a significant new initiative. This nationwide program will connect our student-athletes with distinguished alumni, donors, communities, and fans nationwide. The series will include live events, webinars, and community engagements, all aimed at fostering collaboration and building meaningful relationships within Commodore Nation.
The first Anchor Impact Series is on Jan. 21 in Manhattan Beach, California. Hosted by Chris Krause (Vanderbilt football ’86), the exclusive event offers attendees the opportunity to learn more about the collective and meet Diego Pavia, who recently announced his return to Vanderbilt football in 2025.
Click HERE to RSVP to the event. Space is limited.
Documentary Series: “Open Dores”
In partnership with Alluvium Strategies, Anchor Impact is excited to unveil the upcoming documentary series, Open Dores. This project will dive into the inspiring stories of Vanderbilt student-athletes, coaches, and staff, highlighting their dedication to Vanderbilt, their sports, and their contributions to the community. Through captivating storytelling, Open Dores will emphasize the influence of grassroots movements, leadership, and collaboration, bringing audiences closer to the action.
“The Real Deal” Podcast Launch with Vandy247
In an exciting new collaboration, Anchor Impact has teamed up with Vandy247 to launch a weekly podcast series centered on the stories of our student-athletes and their community involvement. This series will feature interviews with student-athletes, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of who they are beyond the field, and why NIL is an important part of their experience at Vanderbilt.
The Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube and is set to debut on Tuesday, Feb. 4.
B2B Growth and Expansion
With the collective’s continued success, Anchor Impact is seeing significant growth in its business-to-business (B2B) partnerships. This expansion includes collaborations with corporations and organizations that share the collective’s vision of supporting broad-based athletics opportunities. Anchor Impact is proud to work alongside its partners to drive change and leverage business solutions for positive impact.
For more information, please contact Melissa Hammond, director of sales (melissa@vandynil.com).
Looking Ahead
With these exciting new developments, Anchor Impact is poised to make an even greater impact in 2025 and beyond. The collective remains committed to creating more equitable, just, and sustainable NIL opportunities. It is excited to continue collaborating with partners, communities, and individuals who drive positive change.
For more information about Anchor Impact and its initiatives, please contact:
Paul Grindstaff
Anchor Impact Collective General Manager
Email: paul@vandynil.com
Website: www.anchorimpact.com