NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a move to accommodate an unexpected surge of incoming students, Tennessee State University is extending its New Student Orientation program by an additional day on July 15. The decision comes after the previous orientation date of July 14 reached full capacity, reflecting the growing appeal among future students preparing for the fall semester.
So far, nearly 500 students and their families have attended NSOs this summer, which were held on May 21, June 9, and June 18.
Dr. Angela Duncan, executive director of Admissions, emphasized the necessity of the additional day. “We had to add another NSO date for July 15th because we are at capacity for our last published date, which was July 14th,” Duncan said. “However, we still have a lot more students who are planning to enroll for the fall semester. We needed another day to properly welcome them to the university, introduce them to the various resources and services that we offer, and allow them to meet with academic advisors to discuss their class schedules and get registered for the fall semester.”
Dr. Bridget Golman, vice president of Student Affairs, echoed the importance of these orientations. “It’s crucial that every student coming to TSU understands what is expected of them and becomes familiar with our university culture as they begin their academic journeys. We want to ensure that they feel supported and equipped to thrive.”
The July 15 orientation will take place in Kean Hall on the main campus, with registration beginning at 8 a.m. The event will include campus tours, program previews, and essential information sessions covering student activities, financial aid, and more.
New students interested in attending the NSO can easily secure their spot by visiting www.tnstate.edu/orientation or https://futuretiger.tnstate.edu.
For more information on admission to TSU, prospective students can also explore www.tnstate.edu/admissions
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Azana Bruce, a student leader and policy advocate, has been appointed the new student trustee on the Tennessee State University Board of Trustees. Her appointment was announced during the Board’s June meeting. Selected by Interim President Dwayne Tucker, Bruce will serve a one-year term as a non-voting member, representing the voice of the student body.
Azana Bruce speaks during her Tennessee Legislative Internship Program, serving as a State Senate intern for Chairman Ed Jackson.
“I am truly honored to be selected as a student trustee,” Bruce said. “It is a privilege. As someone who has developed a passion for civic engagement and public policy, this feels like a dream come true.”
A native of Memphis, Bruce is a senior pursuing a dual Honors degrees in political science and urban studies, with a minor in nonprofit management and leadership. At TSU she has held several leadership positions, including president of the TSU National Pan-Hellenic Council and social action chair for the Alpha Chi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. In those roles, she has led campus-wide civic engagement initiatives and organized programming.
Bruce is currently an intern with the United States House of Representatives in the office of Congressman Steve Cohen, where she assists with legislative research and constituent services.
President Dwayne Tucker congratulated Bruce on her appointment for the 2025–2026 academic year, recognizing her commitment to service and leadership. “Azana has an impressive background, and we are proud to have her represent our student body,” Tucker said. “The student trustee plays a pivotal role in connecting students to the Board of Trustees, and I’m confident she will continue that tradition with excellence.”
Azana Bruce recognized as a 2025 initiate of the Upsilon Sigma Urban Studies Honor Society.
Board Chair Dakasha Winton also welcomed Bruce to the Board. “We’re excited to have Azana bring her talents and leadership to the table as she continues amplifying student voices and contributing to committee strategies,” Winton said.
Bruce said she sees the opportunity to serve as a bridge between students and university leaders. “I’m eager to learn more about our student body and how to best engage and stay connected,” she said. “I want to ensure we’re implementing strategies that reflect the voices and experiences of all students. We’re building a campus that’s for us and by us. A campus we can look back on 10 years from now with pride.” Bruce succeeds Tyler Vazquez, a member of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute, who graduated in May.
For more information on the Tennessee State University Board of Trustees, visit www.tnstate.edu/board.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –With hard hats on and shovels in hand, Tennessee State University leaders, dignitaries, and College of Agriculture faculty broke ground June 26 on the future of agricultural innovation.
TSU leaders, dignitaries, and College of Agriculture students and faculty attend the groundbreaking ceremony for new state-of-the-art facilities featuring advanced labs, classrooms, and research centers.
The historic ceremony is for the construction of new facilities that will support TSU’s Food and Animal Sciences and Environmental Sciences programs, spanning more than 110,000 square feet combined. Scheduled for completion in fall 2026, the development reflects the university’s continued investment in research, student success, and community impact.
CheKenna Fletcher, a Ph.D. candidate in agricultural sciences at TSU, served as the mistress of ceremonies and said the new buildings will have a lasting impact.
CheKenna Fletcher speaks during the groundbreaking ceremony, where she served as the mistress of ceremonies.
“Agriculture is our future, so I am very excited about this coming into fruition,” Fletcher said. “I’m excited for all of the students who will be able to utilize the facilities and their labs. It’ll be an awesome opportunity for us to grow our department, grow more leaders and scholars in the agricultural field, especially in the food and animal sciences.”
Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture, called the groundbreaking a historic moment for the university and the state of Tennessee. “These buildings will offer students hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for real-world careers in agriculture, science, and environmental sustainability,” he said.
Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture.
Approved by the Tennessee State Building Commission in 2023, the facilities will include classrooms, laboratories, research centers, and administrative offices to support the university’s growing academic, research, and extension missions. The project will be located at the corner of Schrader Lane and Dr. Walter S. Davis Boulevard.
TSU Interim President Dwayne Tucker expressed his support for the development, calling it a symbol of momentum for the university. “We are sowing the seeds of innovation and progress,” Tucker said. “This project, which will serve as a hub of education, research, and outreach in the field of agriculture, underscores the state’s continued confidence in our university and the strength of our land-grant mission.”
The complex will include:
Rendering of one of the two new College of Agriculture buildings at Tennessee State University, slated for completion in Fall 2026.
35 faculty offices
23 research labs
17 teaching labs
4 classrooms
A large multipurpose room
Collaborative workspace and support areas
The two buildings will also house future centers of innovation, including the One Health Center, the Precision Agriculture Center, the Soil Health Center, and the Water Management Center. Dozens of dignitaries attended the event, including Senator Bo Watson, Representative Harold Love Jr., and TSU Board of Trustee Dr. Marquita Qualls.
Senator Watson applauded the university’s future and the promise of the project. “TSU will successfully fulfill its mission as a land-grant university and will be a university of choice among the historically Black colleges and universities,” Watson said. “That is our commitment. Let this groundbreaking be a testament to that commitment.”
TSU Interim President Dwayne Tucker expressed his support for the development during the groundbreaking ceremony.
The event also featured remarks and special recognitions from TSU administrators and the university’s design and construction team. Community stakeholders, including the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Tennessee Farm Bureau, and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, also shared remarks, followed by a reception.
This development comes at a pivotal time for the College of Agriculture, which recently restructured into five academic departments to strengthen research and instruction. This new College of Agriculture complex will further enhance this transformation, allowing the college to better serve students, farmers, and communities across Tennessee.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Once a dreamer aiming for a position at the White House, Dwight L. Beard has transformed his aspirations into a legacy of generosity, mentorship, and unwavering support for Tennessee State University, his alma mater. As a testament to his dedication, TSU Athletics will honor Beard with the naming of the Dwight L. Beard Bar-B-Que on Friday, August 29, the weekend of the John A. Merritt Classic, an annual football event focused on celebrating the legacy of the late football coach John A. Merritt, who led the TSU Tigers from 1963 to 1983.
Dr. Mikki Allen, Director of Athletics, presents Dwight Beard with a special Tigers football helmet. (Submitted photo)
Driven by a passion for education and community, Beard’s journey is one that reflects the very essence of TSU’s spirit. He has consistently dedicated his time and resources to ensure that students can achieve their dreams, whether it’s through mentorship or assistance with financial needs.
“It’s a true honor to have the barbecue named after me during such a significant event for our university,” Beard said. “I am deeply appreciative of the recognition, but my greatest joy comes from seeing students thrive and succeed. The future of TSU lies in its students, and I’m committed to doing my part to help them achieve their goals.”
Dwight Beard is a familiar presence on campus and in the community, actively engaging with TSU students to discuss their future and explore ways to help them achieve their goals. (Submitted photo)
Dr. Mikki Allen, director of Athletics at TSU, described Beard’s impact: “Dedicating an annual barbecue in honor of TSU alum Dwight L. Beard during John A. Merritt Classic Weekend is a way to celebrate his enduring impact on Tennessee State University. His legacy embodies the pride and tradition that make the John Merritt Classic so special.”
Beard’s commitment to his alma mater stems from humble beginnings. Born as the youngest of 14 in a rural Tennessee town, he faced numerous challenges before earning his Bachelor of Science from TSU in 1974. Throughout his life, his faith, family values, and drive to uplift others have shaped his journey.
Always dedicated, Dwight Beard collaborates with TSUNAA Nashville Chapter member Annie Kinzer to distribute personal hygiene supplies to students on campus. (Submitted photo)
As a successful businessman, Beard founded Beard Property Maintenance, Inc. in 1983, quickly establishing it as a renowned leader in landscaping services across Middle Tennessee. Yet, it is his volunteer work that truly sets him apart, with serving five terms over 35 years as president of the Nashville Chapter of the TSU Alumni Association, and 17 years on the TSU Foundation Board.
“Dwight has been a constant supporter in every way you can imagine,” noted Debbi Howard, director of Alumni Relations at TSU. “From mentoring students and helping them find their paths, to rolling up his sleeves to support various initiatives, he does it all with heart.”
Dwight Beard joins students on campus for a food distribution. (Submitted photo)
Students like Morgan Palmer, a 2025 business administration graduate, reflect on how Beard’s mentorship has changed their lives. “Mr. Beard was very supportive of my initiative to provide free feminine hygiene products to my peers. He helped when I saw no way forward. His kindness and commitment to student causes are something I’ll always cherish,” Palmer said.
Similarly, senior business major David Nyenwe expressed deep gratitude for Beard’s timely assistance when he faced challenges that could have affected his academic career. “Mr. Beard didn’t know who I was, but he stepped in to help. His genuine concern for our education and future speaks volumes about his character,” Nyenwe said.
TSU interim President Dwayne Tucker, seated in front row with blue vest, along with Dwight Beard and other participants, gather for a photo at the TSUNAA Majestic MidSouth Regional Conference in Knoxville, (Submitted photo)
The Dwight L. Beard Bar-B-Que will be an integral part of the John A. Merritt Classic festivities, where alumni, students, and supporters of TSU will come together to celebrate Beard’s legacy and the futures of students he continues to inspire.
As Beard puts it, “My parents instilled in me a profound respect for education, and I see supporting TSU as a way to honor their legacy. I believe in our students, and it is a joy to be there for them.”
This year’s Classic — taking place on August 30 against North Carolina A&T — promises to be a true celebration of community spirit, pride, and the powerful impact one individual can have on countless lives. Get season tickets for TSU home games at tsutigers.com/tickets .
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – A Tennessee State University student is spending the summer at one of the most prestigious institutions, Harvard Medical School, applying what she’s learned at TSU to cutting-edge biomedical research.
Kyla Hughes in her lab coat during her internship in the Department of Cardiology at Boston Children’s Hospital. (Photo submitted.)
Kyla Hughes, a senior and Dallas native, already has a Massachusetts Institute of Technology internship under her belt as the accolades are continuing to build. The agriculture biotechnology major is undergoing her current paid 10-week internship at Boston Children’s Hospital in the Department of Cardiology, as part of the Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program at Harvard.
“My reaction to getting the internship was very positive,” Hughes said. “I am one of two HBCU students in this program. So being underrepresented in the science field at Harvard, doing the research, is really motivating me.”
She credits her academic preparation to TSU’s College of agriculture and guidance from professors like Dr. Sonali Roy, for equipping her with skills to confidently conduct and present research.
Hughes, who is also a David Scott Farm Bill Scholar, continues to demonstrate how a strong foundation can lead to a profound impact across various disciplines. “Science is translational and cardiology is a new field for me to dive into,” she said. “I’ve learned more about myself as a scientist now and pushing myself intellectually.”
TSU senior Kyla Hughes is spending the summer conducting biomedical research through a Harvard internship at Boston Children’s Hospital. (Photo submitted.)
Associate Dean for Academics and Land-grant Programs Dr. De’Etra Young, said the college is committed to preparing students like Hughes to thrive in competitive environments, contribute to their communities, and lead with purpose. “Through rigorous academic training, hands-on research, and leadership development, we are equipping students to pursue advanced study, enter high-impact careers, and serve as thoughtful, solutions-oriented leaders in agriculture and beyond,” Young said. “Kyla exemplifies the excellence we aim to foster through the David Scott Farm Bill Scholarship and our Dean’s Scholars Undergraduate Research Program. Her internships, along with her campus leadership and service, reflect the breadth of opportunities available to students who are prepared and supported.”
Hughes plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biology or molecular genetics after graduating in 2026.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University welcomed nearly 200 enthusiastic first-time freshmen and transfer students at its third New Student Orientation (NSO) this summer. The exciting event in Kean Hall celebrated the commitment of students set to begin their academic journeys this fall, contributing to an impressive total of nearly 500 who have attended NSO so far.
Dr. Bridget Golman, Vice President of Student Affairs, encourages participants to take full advantage of the resources available to them at NSO. (TSU PR and Communications)
Among those participating in NSO were members of the new cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Accelerated Pathway Program, designed for exceptional students aspiring to pursue medicine or dentistry. Students in this program complete their undergraduate work in three years instead of the traditional four years.
Darius Miller, a biology major from Atlanta, and his mother, Cashmere Miller, praised the prestigious program. “I’m trying to become a dentist, so when I found out about the accelerated program, that’s what I decided I wanted to go for,” Darius said. His mother, Cashmere, echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing how the program aligns perfectly with their goals.
The newest cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Program and their parents participated in the daylong orientation. (TSU PR and Communications)
This year’s orientation is designed to equip students with essential tools for success. Today’s gathering also featured eager participants like Ta’Vontae Flowers from Moline, Illinois, and transfer student Bria Stewart from Nashville, both joined by their supportive parents.
“My older sister lives here, and I thought TSU was a good school,” Flowers reflected on his decision. “I was looking at a lot of other schools, but this seemed like the best fit for me. I have family in the area, and it’s going to be a very good time.” His mother, Sara, shared her pride despite her initial apprehensions about him leaving home, highlighting her confidence in her son’s choice. “I’m excited for him to reach his goals and expand his horizons,” she said.
Ta’Vontae Flowers and his mom Sara came in from Moline, Illinois. He will major in computer science. (TSU PR and Communications)
Stewart, who will major in psychology, echoed a similar sentiment, sharing her deep connection to TSU. “TSU feels like home to me. Growing up around this campus, I learned about its values and opportunities from a young age, and I’m proud to continue my education here.”
Inside the vibrant Kean Hall, set up with tables and displays from various university departments, students were greeted warmly by university officials, student ambassadors, and faculty eager to guide them through their upcoming college experience.
Dr. Bridget Golman, Vice President of Student Affairs, urged students to take full advantage of the resources available at NSO, emphasizing TSU’s commitment to fostering holistic development. “Tennessee State University will be focused on growing you as young professionals,” Dr. Golman stated. “We intentionally create opportunities for social, cultural, emotional, and financial growth. Our mission is to help navigate and break down barriers to your success—because life happens.”
Nearly 200 attended today’s orientation in Kean Hall. (TSU PR and Communications)
The NSO also unveiled innovative resources like the TimelyCare app, providing students with support for a range of needs, from health concerns to homesickness, ensuring a smooth transition as they embark on this new chapter.
With sessions covering vital aspects of college life—such as financial aid, academic advising, and campus tours—the energy in Kean Hall was electric. As the countdown to the fall semester continues, excitement builds among the incoming class for what promises to be an unforgettable year.
TSU’s next orientation is scheduled for July 14. For more information about the New Student Orientation and how to prepare for the upcoming semester, visit www.tnstate.edu/orientation or futuretiger.tnstate.edu.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee State University (TSU) and the State of Tennessee have reached an agreement that will enable the university to utilize $96 million over the next three years, previously allocated for deferred maintenance, to enhance university operations.
The $250 million allocated by the State of Tennessee in April 2022 for capital improvements and infrastructure upgrades is making a difference at TSU. The initial $99 million is actively addressing deferred maintenance. The remaining $151 million is still available for use at TSU. Today, the State agreed to redirect a portion of these funds ($96 million) to support TSU’s operational needs, while the remaining $55 million is designated for key projects, including $33 million for upgrading campus electrical grids and $22 million to finalize funding for the new Food and Animal & Environmental Science buildings in the College of Agriculture.
Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration Commissioner Jim Bryson said, “This agreement provides TSU with the opportunity to solve its financial challenges and regain its legacy as one of our nation’s great, historic institutions of higher education. With this agreement and the current leadership team, TSU is once again on the rise.”
Interim President Dwayne Tucker stated, “I want to thank Comptroller Jason Mumpower, Commissioner Jim Bryson, and all the State legislators who partnered with us to provide a transformational opportunity for TSU. It not only provides crucial cash flow to ensure the university’s financial sustainability but also allows us to invest in enriching the student experience and strengthening our capacity to attract both students and qualified employees.”
Redirecting funding is pivotal in addressing immediate operational needs, allowing TSU to focus on long-term goals while ensuring a stable financial future. The additional investments in infrastructure will create a more robust learning environment, fostering innovation and growth for our students, faculty, and community.
State Comptroller Jason Mumpower remarked, “Investing in education is investing in Tennessee’s future. The State is committed to TSU and is proud to support its legacy that advances workforce development and agricultural innovation. We are encouraged by the progress TSU has made in recent months and remain committed to its long-term success and promising path forward. I signed this agreement because I have confidence in TSU’s current leadership team and their ability to understand and navigate the institution’s challenges.”
Under the newly appointed Board of Trustees and administration this year, TSU is working diligently with third-party State agencies to implement proper processes, reporting, training, and safeguards to strengthen financial oversight and compliance.
Board of Trustees Chair Dakasha Winton added, “The support from the State to reallocate these funds underscores our commitment to providing a top-tier education and the necessary resources to cultivate global leaders. These vital improvements will modernize the campus infrastructure and enhance the college experience for today’s students and for future generations of Tigers.”
About Tennessee State University
Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public land-grant university offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU’s campus spans 500 acres. The university is committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders. Visit tnstate.edu for more details.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, in partnership with the Adult Protective Services of the Tennessee Department of Human Services, hosted the annual CARES (Center on Aging Research and Education Services) Conference June 11-12 at the Avon Williams Campus. The event marked the largest turnout in 15 years, welcoming more than 250 attendees and over a dozen community vendors.
Participants gather at Avon Williams Campus for the annual CARES Conference and welcomed more than 250 attendees in its largest turnout in 15 years and focused on financial exploitation and protecting older Tennesseans.
This year’s theme, “Financial Exploitation: Investigations and the Need for Collaboration,” brought together national experts, frontline professionals, and local leaders committed to protecting older Tennesseans. Vendors included Nashville PBS, the Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer’s Center, and the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services.
Chantelle Smith, a lawyer and consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative, with extensive experience prosecuting civil and criminal elder abuse cases, served as the lead facilitator for the conference. The conference also featured panelists and presenters from across the state, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Ascend Credit Union, and St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital.
Dr. Cara Robinson, chair of TSU’s Department of Social Work and Urban Studies and co-director of CARES, emphasized that the conference not only benefits students in the College of Public Service but also provides vital resources for communities across the state. “Our biggest takeaway is understanding how stakeholders can work together when there’s a suspected case of financial exploitation,” Robinson said.
Dr. Cara Robinson
“Speakers presented real-world cases that showed how institutions collaborate to bring justice for older adults.” She added, “We plan to continue all our efforts through CARES. This is a great opportunity to showcase the impactful work being done at TSU. One of our main goals is to help students learn how to serve, lead, and engage with their communities.”
Dr. Donna Dopwell, also a co-director of CARES, leads the center’s student mentorship efforts. Both Robinson and Dopwell believe the conference gives students a firsthand look at professionals in leadership roles, many of whom are on similar career paths.
Breion ‘ 2’Live Bre’ Dixon volunteered with the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition during the conference.
Several TSU alumni participated in the conference, including Breion Dixon, a 2020 graduate who served as a volunteer for the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition. “I used to be a caregiver for my grandmother,” Dixon said. “It touched my heart to see how underserved communities are getting the resources they need.” Dixon noted the conference as a reflection of the university’s ongoing commitment to service. “TSU has always been a school of resources. When I stepped on campus, I realized it’s more than just education, it’s about community and family. This conference shows that TSU is all about sharing resources and giving back to the community.”
Rita Fleming, a program leader for family and consumer sciences in TSU’s College of Agriculture, also attended the event to explore elder care resources. “This event was eye-opening and very informative,” Fleming said. “I learned how to resolve issues involving financial scams and how to report these situations effectively. TSU hosting this event reflects our commitment to community outreach both in urban and rural areas.”
Rita Fleming attends the CARES conference to explore elder care resources.
The two-day event covered topics such as: Understanding Financial Exploitation, Legal and Investigative Challenges, Prevention and Victim Protection, and Collaborative Action Efforts. This year’s programming centered around real-world case studies that explored the impact of financial exploitation on older victims. Key discussions focused on collaboration between law enforcement and community professionals, strategies to strengthen legal and investigative outcomes, prevention tools, and resources for coordinated local efforts across Tennessee.
As TSU continues to lead in advocacy and education, the CARES Conference remains an example of how the university merges academics with community engagement to address real life issues.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – From the classroom to the basketball court, Tennessee State University junior Peyton Tripp is taking her talents to the NBA. The Memphis, Tennessee native and mass communication major is spending the summer in Salt Lake City as an intern with the Utah Jazz.
Tripp is one of many TSU students seizing internship opportunities this summer to put their classroom knowledge into real-world practice. She is serving on the Utah Jazz People & Culture team as a paid intern for 10 weeks through the NBA HBCU Fellowship Program. Her journey began in June with a two-day immersive onboarding experience at the NBA offices in New York City before she headed to Utah for the remainder of the internship.
Peyton Tripp during her Utah Jazz internship this summer.
“I hope TSU students follow their journeys and recognize that it’s okay to have doubts along the way because I’ve certainly had mine,” Tripp said. “What matters most is giving 100 percent to the path you’re on and staying committed to growing through the process.”
Tripp shared that she is excited to apply her focus in integrated marketing while supporting a variety of People & Culture initiatives, including recruiting, onboarding, and employee training. “I represent those who may feel hard work doesn’t always pay off, and those unsure of their next steps,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to lean on the people around you offering support, because you’re not in it alone.”
She said she was inspired to apply for the fellowship by her peers and their success within TSU’s communications program.
The NBA HBCU Fellowship Program provides career development opportunities in the business of basketball for undergraduate and graduate students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Fellows are selected by NBA teams and the league office to work within a variety of departments, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, IT, social responsibility, and marketing.
Peyton Tripp
TSU communications professor Joshua Little praised Tripp’s internship selection, calling her an exceptional fit for the opportunity.
“Not only is she a leader in the classroom, but she’s also an important figure in the community,” Little said. “She always exceeds expectations. Peyton is determined and seeks out every opportunity and initiative she can.” Little added that the department’s goal is to ensure students gain hands-on experience that leads to full-time careers after graduation.
“We want our students to have real-world opportunities before they leave our campus,” he said. “Having them placed in prestigious positions like this speaks not only to the strength of our programs, but also to the incredible talent and potential our students possess.”
As Tripp continues her internship, she hopes her journey encourages other TSU students to believe in themselves and their potential. “I want this to be a reminder that hard work matters, and that we are worthy of great opportunities,” she said.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The dream of becoming a doctor or dentist is already coming true for more than a dozen students from the first cohort of Tennessee State University’s Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Accelerated Medical and Dental Program. After making history as the inaugural graduating class in 2024, many of these scholars have just completed their first year of professional school, while others are preparing to begin this fall after taking a well-earned gap year.
The journey varies, but their mission is the same: to change the face of medicine by serving communities that need them most. As a qualified high school senior interested in medical or dental school, you can be a part of this pathway, too, by applying to join cohort 5 this fall.
TSU and Belmont University leaders celebrated the creation of accelerated opportunities for gifted students pursuing medical careers. The partnership between Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Program and Belmont’s Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine establishes a seven-year pathway to medical school. Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)
The Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute was launched in 2020 through a partnership between TSU and Meharry Medical College, with a shared goal of increasing the number of underrepresented doctors and dentists in the U.S.
Named in honor of TSU alumnus and renowned heart surgeon Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr., the program offers an accelerated three-year track to a Bachelor of Science degree in biology or chemistry. This also guarantees consideration and pipeline support for qualified students who meet the criteria to enter medical or dental school.
For students like John Kim, the impact has been life changing. Kim, who is a part of cohort 1, just finished his first year at Sidney Kimmel Medical College in Philadelphia with plans to become a primary care physician.
“The only reason I’m in medical school is because of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. program. I would not be here without TSU,” Kim said. “It was an adjustment, getting used to the environmental change, but overall, the journey has been fulfilling. In medical school, some of the classes they taught us are things I already learned at TSU, so it made my first year a bit easier.”
TSU alumnus John Kim at Sidney Kimmel Medical College.
Kim noted that the program created a tangible, motivating experience through mentoring, physician shadowing, and a white coat ceremony. All of which are designed to make the dream of becoming a doctor feel within reach. “For most of us, we don’t have doctors in our family. So, for the program to offer this kind of exposure, it’s a big step. This program at TSU shows that this is doable,” he said.
Samantha Altidort, a Nashville native and fellow cohort 1 graduate, also credits the program for her success. Altidort maintained a 4.0 GPA at TSU and recently completed her first year at Meharry Medical College with the goal of becoming a family medicine physician. “This program has been instrumental on my pathway to medical school,” she said. “When I first applied, what stood out was the financial support, as it allowed me to focus more on academics and less on how I was going to pay for school.”
TSU alumna Samantha Altidort at Meharry Medical College.
Altidort stated that she felt supported every step of the way from TSU faculty, staff, medical mentors, and classmates. “We’ve been encouraged and motivated to keep going, to get that degree, and to enter medical school so we can increase the number of underrepresented individuals in the field of medicine,” she said. From shadowing physicians in local hospitals to hands-on training, Altidort said that the journey was fulfilling and impactful.
The program’s impact has gone beyond individual success stories from TSU alumni. According to Lalita Hodge, program coordinator of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute, the overall graduation rate for biology majors in the College of Life and Physical Sciences increased substantially due to the scholars in the program.
“We are excited that 15 scholars from cohort 1 have been accepted and are now enrolled in medical, dental, or other professional healthcare schools,” said Barbara C. Murrell, chair of the institute. “It is a testament to them conceiving the dream, believing they could succeed, and working hard to achieve their goals of serving in underserved communities.”
Some of the cohort 1 students, like Brooke Majors and McKhia McCrary, will attend St. George’s University School of Medicine this fall on the Caribbean Island of Grenada. Other cohort 1 students, including George Picken IV, Ryla Traylor, Chaun Cheaney, Jaden Knight, and Camille Haskins are currently attending Meharry Medical College together.
TSU alumna Jaden Knight at Meharry Medical College.
The university continues to invest in student success and readiness. TSU offers services and resources to all students, such as the Around-the-Clock Tutoring (AARC), which provides students across campus with seven-day academic support in subjects like biology, chemistry, and math. These additional resources underscore the university’s commitment to building a pipeline of future professionals in all aspects who are academically prepared and well-supported.
The Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute program is also expanding its reach. In 2025, TSU launched a new partnership with Belmont University’s Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine. The collaboration allows qualified students to earn their bachelor’s degree from TSU in just three years and then matriculate into Belmont’s medical program.
With applications open for cohort 5, TSU is calling on the next generation of aspiring doctors and dentists to continue the growing legacy within the program. From academic and financial support to mentorship and hands-on experience, the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute isn’t just a program, it’s an investment for the next generation of medical professionals and beyond.
The application deadline for cohort 5 is June 30, 2025. To learn more or apply, visit www.tnstate.edu/watkins.
