The School of Medicine Basic Sciences is a remarkable community dedicated to advancing the study of human biology, health, and disease. In addition to the award-winning faculty, postdocs, and students who are at the forefront of our cutting-edge research, a large part of our school’s success can be attributed to our staff.
Join us in recognizing and appreciating our staff members and the hard work they do to ensure exceptional exploration into basic biomedical science that takes place at our school.
We sat down with Sheila Elder to learn more about her and the work she does at Vanderbilt as an administrative officer for SOMBS.
How long have you been working for Vanderbilt?
My career at Vanderbilt began in Nov. 2004 at the medical center. Following the legal separation between the university and the medical center in 2016, I transitioned to the university side and have been working here since.
In my current role supporting SOMBS, I provide financial and administrative leadership for the Warren Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery. My responsibilities include managing post-award research administration, overseeing operational budgets, monitoring spending, reconciling accounts, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies and sponsor requirements. I collaborate with those in leadership positions leadership, principal investigators, and central offices to provide strategic financial guidance, support grant submissions, and facilitate effective stewardship of sponsored and non-sponsored funds. Additionally, I contribute to process improvement efforts, data tracking initiatives, and cross-departmental collaborations to enhance financial transparency and operational efficiency.
What is unique about working for the SOMBS?
One of the things I truly appreciate about working for the SOMBS is the collaborative environment that values both innovation and precision. I enjoy being part of a team that supports world-class research and education, at a place where I can apply my strengths in financial analysis, process improvement, and problem-solving to make meaningful contributions. The dynamic nature of the work, combined with the opportunity to engage with faculty, researchers, and administrative colleagues, allows me to grow professionally while supporting impactful scientific advancement.
What is a project that you are looking forward to in the future?
One project I genuinely look forward to each year is the annual budget process—it’s like the Super Bowl for me. I see it as a key opportunity to bring everything together: strategic planning, collaboration, and problem-solving. Each year, I challenge myself to improve the process, whether that’s through improved forecasting tools, enhanced communication with stakeholders, or refined internal controls. I enjoy working closely with my counterparts throughout the school and the dean’s office to ensure we’re presenting a thoughtful and accurate financial picture that aligns with SOMBS priorities. The collaboration and high-stakes nature of the process energize me and reinforce the value of our work.
What is your favorite memory or project you have completed during your time at the SOMBS?
One of my favorite memories is the transition from our homegrown general ledger system to Oracle. While the shift brought a fair amount of chaos, it also brought out the best in collaboration. It truly felt like we were training for the Olympics—long hours, lots of learning, and constant adjustments. Despite the challenges, there was a real sense of camaraderie and shared purpose across teams. We leaned on each other, adapted together, and ultimately came out stronger and more unified. I look back on that time with fondness—it was a defining moment of teamwork and growth.
Who has had a positive impact on your work?
It’s difficult to name just one colleague who has had a positive impact on my work—because in truth, I’ve been supported by a village. Beverly Conner, chief business officer for the Office of Health Sciences Education at VUMC; Celeste Goldman, finance team lead for SOMBS; Karen Davis, program coordinator for the Center for Structural Biology; Robert Dortch, team lead for research administration POD 2 in SOMBS; Barbara Hill, budget accounting analyst for SOMBS; and Sandra Holtzclaw, senior budget and accounting analyst for SOMBS, have each played a significant role in my professional growth and success at Vanderbilt. Their guidance, encouragement, and examples helped shape the way I work and lead today. I truly wouldn’t be who I am without the collective support and influence of my village.
What professional or personal achievement are you most proud of?
One of the achievements I’m most proud of—both professionally and personally—is my ability to meet people where they are. I make a conscious effort not to paint others with a broad brush, but instead to understand their unique perspectives, experiences, and needs. This approach has helped me build meaningful relationships, foster trust, and contribute to a more collaborative work environment.
What is a fun fact about you?
It has been scientifically proven that I make the best banana pudding in the world. LOL!
What activities to do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy spending quality time with my immediate family and with close friends who have become like family to me. Building and nurturing those relationships brings me joy and helps me stay grounded.
What is your favorite quote?
“Take care to get what you like or you will be forced to like what you get.” – George Bernard Shaw
This quote is a reminder for me to prioritize self-care and intentional decision-making. It encourages me to be proactive in shaping the life I want—rather than passively accepting circumstances that don’t align with my values or well-being.