Vanderbilt Bowlers Bohn and Varano Major in Human and Organizational Development

Sydney Bohn and Victoria Varano of the Vanderbilt University bowling team have been recognized for their academic achievements while pursuing degrees in human and organizational development (HOD).

The HOD major is a joint program administered by the Departments of Human and Organizational Development and Leadership, Policy, and Organizations (LPO). The curriculum is designed to prepare students to solve complex social problems within communities and organizations by viewing these issues as part of broader social-ecological systems.

Organizational Analysis and Technical Competencies

The academic framework of the HOD major integrates multiple disciplinary perspectives, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, economics, and organizational studies. This multidisciplinary approach is used to analyze societal issues across various levels, from the individual and group levels to international policy.

Students in the program are required to develop specific core competencies to succeed in people-oriented organizational roles. These include:

• Analytic and critical thinking, with a focus on data-driven analysis and systems thinking to define and solve professional and social problems.
• Oral presentation skills, which emphasize the effective use of technology and media to deliver informative and persuasive presentations.
• Written communication, focusing on a clear, concise, and expository style suitable for professional environments.

The program utilizes active learning methods, including case studies, simulations, field experiences, and team-based projects to apply these analytical tools to real-world organizational challenges.

Academic Recognition and Standards

Victoria Varano, a senior on the 2025-26 bowling roster, has a documented history of academic excellence. On March 15, 2024, while a sophomore, Varano was named to the Conference USA Bowling All-Academic team.

To qualify for the Bowling All-Academic team, nominees must meet strict criteria, including maintaining a minimum 3.2 cumulative grade point average and competing in at least 75 percent of their scheduled matches.

Varano’s previous academic honors include selection for the NTCA All-Academic team, the Southland Bowling League Academic Honor Roll, and the First-Year SEC Academic Honor Roll.

Sydney Bohn, a sophomore on the 2025-26 roster, is also majoring in human and organizational development and has been recognized alongside Varano for academic achievement.