PHOTOS OF THE WEEK: Valentine’s at Vandy

This week’s photos capture campus life in focus with concerts, strong men’s and women’s basketball performances and meaningful conversations.

George Albu

Lunch-goers sit on the roof of Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge on Valentine’s Day, as photographed Feb. 14, 2026. (Hustler Multimedia/George Albu)

By Shayna Kar, Deputy Photography Editor

Feb 15, 2026

Over the course of the week, concerts at local Nashville venues highlighted Miguel and Jonah Kagen, while major basketball victories at Memorial Gym energized the Vanderbilt community. Students and faculty also gathered for a panel from “Survivor” contestants and the 18th Annual Murray Lecture, creating space for reflection and dialogue.

Miguel rocks the Ryman

Miguel performed at the Ryman Auditorium Feb. 11 with opening act Jean Dawson. The R&B artist delivered a high-energy set featuring songs from his fifth studio album, “Caos,” alongside longtime fan favorites. The crowd remained engaged throughout the night as Miguel moved between new material and earlier hits. He closed the show with “Sure Thing,” drawing a strong audience response and ending the evening on a nostalgic note.

Jonah Kagen at Basement East

Jonah Kagen performed at Basement East Feb. 13, delivering a dynamic set rooted in folk-inspired, guitar-driven storytelling. The singer-songwriter moved between intimate moments and more energetic tracks, showcasing his lyrical focus and stripped-down sound. The close setting of the venue amplified the emotional weight of the performance, keeping the audience singing along throughout the night.

Commodores dominate in key home matchups

No. 5 Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball returned to Memorial Gym Feb. 9 to face the No. 10 Oklahoma Sooners in a highly anticipated matchup. Vanderbilt controlled the game from start to finish with a rapid pace, defeating Oklahoma 102–86 to improve to 23-2 on the season. Just days later, the Commodores welcomed another top-five opponent, taking on No. 4 Texas Longhorns Thursday, Feb. 12. Vanderbilt delivered another commanding performance, securing an 86–70 victory and earning its second win over a top-five team this season.

On Feb. 14, No. 19 Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball faced the Texas A&M Aggies in a pivotal SEC contest at Memorial Gymnasium. The Commodores pulled away for an 82-69 win, improving to 21-4 overall.

Editor’s picks

Alongside concerts and sports, photographers captured a “Survivor” panel, the annual Murray Lecture and scenes on Commons.

About the Contributors

Shayna Kar, Multimedia Director

Shayna Kar (’28) is from Goldens Bridge, New York, and is majoring in neuroscience and medicine, health & society in the College of Arts and Science. In her free time, she enjoys playing the piano, crocheting and watching movies. You can reach her at [email protected].

George Albu, Photography Editor

George Albu (‘27) is majoring in medicine, health and society in the College of Arts and Science. He previously served as Deputy Opinion Editor. When not working for The Hustler, he enjoys watching video essays, exploring Nashville and going to the Rec. He can be reached at [email protected].

Abbie Bobeck, Former Staff Photographer

Abbie Bobeck (’26) is from Washington D.C. and majored in communication studies and child studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and Peabody College. She previously served as Deputy Photography Editor. When she’s not taking photos or writing for the Hustler, you can usually find her searching for new music, trying the best restaurants in Nashville, or cozying up with her current binge-watch. She can be reached at [email protected].

Lucas Zhang, Staff Photographer

Lucas Zhang (‘29) is from Irvine, California, and is planning on majoring in human & organizational development and economics. Outside of the Hustler, Lucas enjoys golfing, cooking and editing photos from the year before.

Royce Yang, Deputy Photography Editor

Royce Yang (‘27) is majoring in political science in the College of Arts and Science while minoring in music performance and legal studies. He can occasionally be observed curating an extensive collection of Bach or attempting to identify helicopters around the Medical Center based on their noise. You can reach him at [email protected].

Rachel Loomis, Staff Photographer

Rachel Loomis (‘28) is from Syracuse, New York, and is double majoring in psychology and human and organizational development. Outside of The Hustler, Rachel enjoys working out, drinking iced coffee and watching sports. She can be reached at [email protected].

Braden Colli, Staff Photographer

Braden Colli (‘28) is from Palos Verdes, California, and is studying film and human and organizational development. When not shooting photos for The Hustler, you can find him on the sidelines shooting highlights at football games or jamming on the piano. You can reach him at [email protected].

Paula Legisima, Staff Writer

Paula Legisima (’28) is from Las Vegas and is majoring in human & organizational development in Peabody College. Besides participating in The Hustler, she loves her involvement in the Momentum Dance Team, and you can find her shopping or eating out with friends. She can be reached at [email protected].

Skyelor DeLoach, Deputy Life Editor

Skyelor DeLoach (‘28) is from McKenzie, Tennessee, and also grew up in Hawaii. She is double majoring in political science and philosophy with a minor in German studies. When not writing for the Hustler, Skyelor enjoys spending time outdoors, watching YouTube videos and trying new restaurants. You can reach her at [email protected].

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