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TSU to honor President Glover at upcoming Salute to Excellence Gala

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Promising to be an evening to remember, Tennessee State University will host the Salute to Excellence Gala to honor President Glenda Glover on Saturday, April 13. The TSU family, Nashville community, and a who’s who list of friends, including national leaders and celebrities, will come together to celebrate President Glover’s leadership and legacy. The event will take place at the Grand Hyatt Nashville to commemorate her 12 years of dedicated service to her alma mater.

Grant Winrow

“This is a way for us to say farewell, but not goodbye,” said Grant Winrow, who is the co-chair of the ticketed gala event. “This is a celebration of praise to thank our fearless leader who embodies the true meaning of our motto, ‘think, work, serve,’ as the university’s president.”

Winrow said the celebration of Dr. Glover’s legacy exemplifies her leadership, ‘taking TSU to unimaginable heights.’

“Dr. Glover is a national figure who will continue to embody the TSU Tiger spirit. As her special assistant, I’d like to express my gratitude, as it has been quite an honor and a tremendous journey that I will cherish for a lifetime.”

The event will consist of a reception followed by dinner and a program hosted by TV and media personality Star Jones alongside comedian and radio personality Rickey Smiley. The evening will be a celebration of excellence, with a performance by the TSU’s Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands, fondly called AOB.

Madison Scott

TSU senior and head drum major Joshua Knox said he looks forward to being a part of the gala tribute to Dr. Glover.

He noted how special it is due to Glover’s involvement in their Grammy-winning journey, include being on the first song on the album. “As a band, we deeply appreciate all the support, words of encouragement, and her influence to open doors for us,” Knox said. “Her presence during our crucial moments, like our Rose Bowl performance in California, or our Juneteenth performance at the White House in Washington D.C. last summer, meant a lot to us.”

Joshua Knox

Madison Scott, a sophomore who is the co-captain of the Sophisticated Ladies, said with over a decade of leadership at TSU, Dr. Glover’s farewell will be one to remember.

“It’s significant to celebrate her to this magnitude because she definitely had a big impact on what TSU is today,” Scott said. “I know that she truly cares about the students and TSU as a whole. Dr. Glover is a president who listens and empathizes with the students, and I’ll forever appreciate that.”

Sammy Freeman, a criminal justice major, added that President Glover had been an inspiration to him, being from the same hometown of Memphis.  “President Glover showed me I could achieve whatever I set my mind to do,” Freeman said.

Sammy Freeman

“I recall her talking to a group of us, as freshmen, telling us that is does not matter where you start. It is the preparation and where you finish that matters most. She has done everything a president was supposed to do.”

SGA president Derrell Taylor remarked how the president’s leadership inspired him and other students as well.

“Dr. Glover’s unwavering dedication to our student body has left an indelible mark on our university’s history,” Taylor said. “As the first female president of our university, Dr. Glover has led by example and accomplished many milestones throughout her journey, paving the way to inspire future generations of leaders.

Derrell Taylor

On behalf of the student body, we are truly grateful for Dr. Glover’s commitment to advancing and advocating for TSU.”

President Glover decade-long accomplishments include consecutive years of record enrollment, successfully navigating the institution through the pandemic, record $100 million-plus in research awards, doubling the TSU endowment to $100 million, several new buildings, including a new residence hall, and securing $250 million from the State of Tennessee, the largest one-time appropriation from a state to an HBCU.

Dean Barbara Murrell

 “This is our way of saying thank you, Dr. Glover, for a job well done for an ever-lasting legacy,” stated Barbara Murrell, who is the co-chair of the event. “We wish her the very best in her future endeavors, hoping that the journey ahead will be filled with success and fulfillment as she embarks on the next chapter of her life.”

For more information regarding the Salute to Excellence Gala and to purchase tickets, visit www.tnstate.edu/salute/.

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Student Advisor Nick Horton to join TSU Sports Hall of Fame

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University freshmen advisor Nick Horton is headed to the TSU Sports Hall of Fame. On April 12, Horton will join 24 other former athletes for the special recognition. The 2024 TSU induction class includes NBA star Robert Covington, former NFL star Dominique Rogers-Cromatie, and the late legendary Tigerbelle Mamie Rallins, who will be honored posthumously. Horton is being celebrated for his outstanding track career and continued contributions to his alma mater.

Nick Horton receives a block in his honor at the Olympic Statue on campus in recognition of his becoming  TSU’s first Male Athlete of the Year in 2004. (Submitted photo)

“I am overjoyed, happy, and I think it is well deserved, but also humbled,” Horton said. “When I came to TSU, all I wanted to do was run. But to know that I will be mentioned in the same room with esteemed athletes and coaches is truly a remarkable honor.”

Horton graduated from TSU in 2004, as a decorated member of the Flying Tigers men’s track team. The Milwaukee native ran the 200-meter and 400-meter dashes and served as team captain in his junior and senior years. His accolades consist of 10 gold medals as an OVC champion, Athlete of the Week, Male Track Athlete of the Year, and representation in national and regional competitions. In 2021, he was inducted into the Dominican High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his achievement in track and field.

Horton’s dedication to mentoring students and guiding them toward success exemplifies his commitment to serving his university and community, something that is celebrated by his freshmen students and colleagues.

Nick Horton talks to incoming freshman and public health major Jaden Snider, about selecting the appropriate classes for her first semester. (Submitted photo)

“Mr. Horton was very kind and very helpful in advising me to take the right classes for my freshman semester,” said Jaden Snider, a public health major from Detroit. “From how he interacted with me, I am not surprised that he is being honored this way. He is a good mentor.”

Olympic gold medalist Chandra Cheeseborough, who is TSU track and field head coach and HOF inductee, praised Horton’s accomplishments, calling him a valuable asset to the university.

“I signed Nick to TSU as a student athlete, and he came to do great things. He was an outstanding athlete in the conference, and I am proud to see him return to contribute to our university’s legacy of success.”

Nick Horton specialized in the 200-meter and 400-meter dash as a Flying Tiger. (Submitted Photo)

Isabelle Langham, executive director of the Office of Student Success, commended Horton’s success, saying, “We are proud of Nick and celebrate this deserving honor. Nick is not only a decorated athlete but an exceptional advisor who cares deeply about students and TSU. I’m lucky to have been an undergraduate student on the yard during his tenure with TSU athletics and privileged to see him come back home and continue an undeniable legacy of service and excellence. We salute him and all the honorees.”

Former TSU Men’s Track Coach Kelly Carter recalled that Horton had the skills, upon meeting the freshman, and predicted he would excel in the sport.  “I thought he was going to be really good. I knew once he got the training that he needed, with his attitude and the way he carried himself, I just knew he was going to be great.”

The TSU Hall of Fame induction ceremony on April 12 is at the Grand Hyatt on Broadway, in downtown Nashville, and is a part of the 2024 Coming Home Celebration.

PROFILE PHOTO
Nick Horton still holds records at Eastern Illinois Lantz Fieldhouse set in 2004, where he represented TSU in the NCAA Mideast Regional Championship. (Submitted photo)

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TSU Pres. Glenda Glover, Senator Raphael Warnock headline Spring Commencement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University proudly announces that United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock and President Glenda Glover will be taking the stage as the keynote speakers for the 2024 Spring Commencement ceremonies. Senator Warnock will address graduate school students on Friday, May 3 at the Gentry Center Complex. The event will start at 5 p.m.

Senator Warnock, who is also an HBCU graduate, holds an undergraduate degree from Morehouse College and a master’s and PhD from Union Theological Seminary. The senator represents the State of Georgia and serves as Senior Pastor at historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Ebenezer is the noted church of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Warnock is the youngest pastor selected to serve in that leadership role and has done so for over 16 years.

Senator Warnock was elected to the United States Senate in January 2021. Currently, he serves on the Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee; Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee; Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, as well as the Special Committee on Aging.

“We are pleased to welcome Senator Raphael Warnock to TSU,” said TSU President Glover. “Senator Warnock’s dedication to public service, commitment to social justice, and inspiring journey will undoubtedly resonate with our graduate school students. We look forward to an uplifting and memorable commencement ceremony with him.”

On Saturday, May 4, President Glover will deliver the keynote address, during the undergraduate ceremony, at Hale Stadium which begins at 8 a.m. It will mark her final commencement as president, a culmination of nearly 12 years of service to her alma mater.

“This momentous occasion holds a deep personal significance for me, as it symbolizes years of hard work and dedication from our incredible students,” commented Glover. “Students and faculty have often approached me about being the commencement speaker, and I believe this is the ideal time. It will be a privilege to stand before them in this capacity, sharing words of wisdom, inspiration, and encouragement as they celebrate this significant milestone that highlights the transformative power of education.”

George Pickens IV is graduating a year early, with a 3.9 GPA, and will earn a biology degree as a part of the inaugural class of the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Scholars. He recalled how President Glover recruited him to the accelerated medical program.

“President Glover was just so welcoming, heartwarming, and hospitable,” he said of their first meeting. “That is a big reason why I even decided to come to TSU. We’ve had a personal connection in which she has guided me throughout this journey. I wish Dr. Glover farewell, congratulations, and the best wishes for her future endeavors.”

The Florida native will attend medical school following graduation. “I’m extremely excited, but it’s also a bit bittersweet because my years at TSU have been some of the best years of my life,” Pickens added. “Just being able to connect with a plethora of like-minded individuals and the experiences I’ve had in this tight-knit community, it’s something I will definitely miss.” 

Kayla Jenkins, the senior class president, will obtain a degree in criminal justice next month when she walks across the stage. The Nashville native said she eagerly anticipates the president’s remarks. “I had the opportunity to work alongside Dr. Glover on several occasions and witnessed her great leadership and dedication to the university firsthand. I look forward to her speech at graduation, that will close this chapter and set the stage for new beginnings.” Jenkins added that her aspirations are rooted in securing a position at the juvenile justice center in Nashville. “I am excited about what the future has in store for me,” Jenkins said as she reflected on her journey.

“My time at TSU has been nothing short of transformative.”

TSUs commencement will include 552 undergraduate students and 197 graduate students. TSU hopes graduates will make it “TSU for Two” and consider pursuing a second degree. University officials encourage graduates to arrive one hour before the ceremony due to parking. While masks are not required, everyone is asked to exercise caution.

TSU spring commencement will also be live streamed from the University’s YouTube channel at www.tnstate.edu/livestream .

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Celebrating 60 years of excellence at the 2024 Spring Honors Convocation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University proudly hosted its 12th Annual University-wide Honors Convocation, recognizing nearly 3,000 students for their outstanding academic achievements and overall success. The event, themed “Timeless Achievements,” commemorated 60 years of honors excellence and showcased the remarkable accomplishments of thousands of TSU students.

President Glenda Glover

“For six decades, the TSU Honors College has invested in the good ground of top students who have distinguished themselves through scholarship, research, service, and academic excellence,” said Dr. Coreen Jackson, the Dean of the Honors College. “Indeed, the world itself has been the grateful beneficiary of the seeds of honors planted right here at Tennessee State University.”

The Honors Convocation celebrated distinguished undergraduates from all University disciplines, including 834 current Honors College members. This year, 149 Honors seniors were recognized, with eight of them achieving the President’s List status, students who maintained a 4.0 grade point average throughout their time at TSU.

The Honors Convocation celebrated distinguished undergraduates from all University disciplines, including 834 current Honors College members.

President Glenda Glover was presented  with the inaugural speaker award during the event, in memory of her legacy. President Glover was a member of the Honors Program, as a student, and lead the transition of the program to become the Honors College. This was her final convocation as president.

“This Honors Convocation is more than a personal recognition, but it is a challenge to soar because you are called to a great responsibility,” Glover said. “You are called to high expectations.”

This year’s convocation was also the last for the first cohort of Dr. Levi Watkins Jr.,scholars as the students will be graduating this spring.

TSU seniors and biology majors John Kim, left, and Jaden Knight.

TSU seniors and biology majors Jaden Knight and John Kim, who are a part of the inaugural class, were proud to participate in their final honors convocation of their collegiate journey and closing it out with fellow cohorts. “I am a first-generation college student and will be the first to become a doctor,” Knight said. He left the convocation with a 4.0 GPA and some advice to the next Dr. Levi Watkins cohort scholars. “Lean on your fellow cohort members,” he said. “They’ll become your family, so definitely take advantage of that.”

“And leverage the networking opportunities that this program gives you,” Kim added, who will also become the first doctor in his family as well.

The 60th convocation was also a celebration of academic excellence for the students’ families, many of whom drove hours to witness.

Kennedy Cason, left, and her mother Missy Cason .

Missy Cason drove more than four hours to see her freshman daughter, Kennedy Cason, complete one of her first collegiate milestones. Cason, a freshman with a 3.75 GPA studying biology, said it felt great to be recognized. “It’s very good that Tennessee State takes the time out to acknowledge students like us who work hard and put their education first.”

Cason’s mother, Missy, said she wouldn’t have missed this moment for anything. “She’s doing well, and I’m proud of her,” Cason said about Kennedy. “We don’t know a student’s background, we don’t know where they come from, and to honor and recognize these students and let them know that they’re doing such a good job is a push they probably needed.”

TSU honored Attorney James Clayborne Jr., as the distinguished guest speaker for the Honors Convocation. He is a TSU alumnus with a degree in political science and serves on the TSU Foundation Board of Directors. As the Founding Partner of the only African American certified minority-owned law firm between Chicago and Kansas City, he brought over two decades of experience in municipal law, product liability, commercial litigation, personal injury, and class actions.

Attorney James Clayborne Jr.

Clayborne Jr.’s speech was about experiencing positive energy, putting forth faith over fear, and conquering life with a great attitude. “Don’t be too afraid to take the first step,” he told the students.

“When you wake up in the morning, it’s your opportunity with the right attitude and faith to begin to write the script on how your movie and your life will end.”

He talked about being hopeful in fulfilling those dreams and associating with the right individuals to succeed. “TSU, may success follow you throughout your life and may you have the right attitude and courage to do what’s right.”

For more information on the TSU Honors College, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/honors/ .

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Tennessee State University receives $4.95 million IGNITE federal investment

By Greg Nasif

“Godmother of HBCUs” Welcomes Infrastructure Investments She Fought for in Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (D, NC-12), Founder and Co-Chair of the bipartisan HBCU Caucus, celebrated a federal investment of nearly five million dollars into Tennessee State University as part of the federal Institutional grants for the New Infrastructure, Technology, and Education for HBCU Excellence (IGNITE) Act she led and passed in the 2023 Omnibus Budget bill. 

The investment of $4,946,573 will go into repairing infrastructure backlogs on campus. At TSU, some of the funds are slated to support a new biomedical research center. 

“Tennessee State University is pleased to receive this funding and appreciates the efforts of Congresswoman Alma Adams and her commitment to our university, our students, and all HBCUs,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.

“Congresswoman Adams has been a longstanding champion for HBCUs from starting the HBCU Caucus to her continuous advocacy for our institutions by securing millions of dollars in much needed funding.”

“Hard work to pass infrastructure funding for our HBCUs is finally turning legislation on paper into brick and mortar results,” said Rep. Adams. “This nearly $5M IGNITE grant for Tennessee State University, long overdue, will pay off immediately for their students, and in the long run with a new biomedical research center that saves lives. With a fully supportive White House, I will keep working to secure more funding to close the backlog of needed repairs on HBCU campuses where so many young people of color are building their futures.” 

Dr. Quincy Quick, Associate Vice President of Research and Sponsored Programs and Chief Research Officer expressed much appreciation for Congresswoman Adams efforts.

“As an R2 Carnegie designated research institution, this funding will considerably assist Tennessee State University in our pursuit to achieve an R1 research designation, the highest research education classification bestowed by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education,” Dr. Quick said. “This funding will support the establishment of the Center of Biomedical Sciences, and significantly enhance our biomedical sciences and behavioral research capacity.”

Rep. Adams has advocated for a fuller version of the IGNITE Act to address the vast backlog of infrastructure repairs and investments HBCUs seek to rebuild their campuses and stay competitive with the many land-grant universities which Black students were forbidden from attending for up to a century or more. 

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TSU hosts successful ‘Ag Week’ celebration

By Charlie Morrison 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – During the week of March 11- 16, Tennessee State University put its own spin on national ‘Ag Week’ with a six-day long celebration highlighting student life in the College of Agriculture. Activities included battery recycling, trivia, therapy animals, and an electric car show, along with guest speakers, tours, discussions, and catered lunches. As evidenced by the smiling faces, laughter, and rounds of applause that permeated the event, it was well-received by hundreds of TSU students.

A TSU student, left, speaks with Dr. Kaushalya Amarasekare during day 2 of the week long celebration highlighting student life in the College of Agriculture.

The event coincided with national Ag Week, which kicked off on March 18 across the country. Students, faculty members, and College administrators came out in droves each day, marking the first Ag Week post Covid-19.

“We like to take a moment each year to celebrate who we are as an academic community,” College of Agriculture Dean Dr. Chandra Reddy said.

“We think happy students are productive students, I believe it’s important to create an environment of joy around our community, and that’s what we tried to do with Ag Week 2024.”

The Departments of Agriculture Science and Engineering and Food and Animal Sciences shared the first day of Ag Week 2024. This included a showcase in which faculty presented their vision for the department’s future, before shifting gears to a Food and Animal Sciences Department trivia competition. The first day closed out with a build-your-own ice cream sundae event featuring therapy animals, several hayride tours of the TSU Agricultural Research and Education Center farms.

Dean Reddy, left, with Jules Smith, a Kroger representative, following Smith’s video presentation on crafting formal business pitches during the College of Agriculture’s Ag Week.

Day two of Ag Week 2024 was dedicated to the newly established Agribusiness Department and “Agribusiness Day” at the Farrell-Westbrook Building Auditorium featuring a video presentation on the art of making formal business pitches, a presentation from a Kroger representative, followed by presentations and discussions on the topic led by TSU Ag undergraduates Kerrington Howard and Omari Mason.

The Department of Environmental Science took over day three of the celebration with a battery recycling event preceding the annual TSU Ag Student Appreciation Day cookout held Wednesday offering free barbecue and an electric vehicle car show.

TSU Ag’s Human Sciences Department celebration was kicked off with a student recognition breakfast in Humphries Hall, followed by a lunch with Human Sciences program students and faculty where they created homemade pizzas, and a custom tote bag and hat creation event sponsored by the TSU Fashion Society.

The Department of Environmental Science hosted a day during Ag week that featured an electric car show on campus.

TSU Ag then held annual awards luncheon the next day, recognizing standout students, faculty members, and staff at the College of Agriculture over the past calendar year in categories such as Outstanding Young Researcher, Outstanding Extension Agent, and Outstanding Teaching Faculty.

 “The College of Agriculture is one big family where we share in hard work, camaraderie, and school spirit,” said Dr. De’Etra Young, associate dean of Academics and Land-grant Programs.

“Ag Week is really just about celebrating that family, having some fun, and sharing some laughs with that family. It is a moment each year when the academic side of things takes a back seat to the community aspect of the College, when we chat, we eat, we do activities all in the name of growing that sense of family, that sense of community here at TSU Ag.”

The week-long event rounded out with the College’s annual Awards Luncheon on Friday and the “Ag Alumni and Friends Day” event on Saturday. Students got the opportunity to network with agriculture alumni.

Dr. Young added that TSU’s Ag Week was a significant contribution to community building for the College of Agriculture and the university.

To learn more about the college of Agriculture, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/agriculture/

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Dr. Jason Smith receives OVC Outstanding Faculty Award

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Ask students in Tennessee State University’s Human Performance and Sports Sciences (HPSS) about Dr. Jason Smith and all will have the same response. Dr. Smith is known for his dedication, leadership, mentorship, and open-door policy.

These are just some of the reasons he received one of the 2024 Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Outstanding Faculty – Commitment to Student Success Awards.

Smith’s honor was announced at the 2024 OVC Basketball Championship

“As professors, we all devote a considerable amount of time to ensure our students’ success,” Smith said. “This award makes me feel proud of the time I dedicated, knowing it contributed meaningfully to the success of our students.”

The award recognizes educators who have significantly contributed to their institutions through student impact, university and curriculum development, and community involvement.

“Dr. Jason Smith is more than a great faculty member; he’s a great man,” said Calen Johnson, a senior majoring in Human Performance and Sport Sciences at TSU.

Johnson and fellow students shared the impact they believe Dr. Smith, who also serves as the Department Chair of the HPSS program, has had on students. One of those students is TSU junior Maya Grady, a Student Athletic Trainer with the University’s football team.

Calen Johnson

“Dr. Smith has such a family presence about him,” Grady said. “It flows from the head of the department all the way down to every single professor within our department. His energy is top-tier, and he captures every classroom or meeting he’s in with his vulnerability and compassion.”

Approximately 480 students are enrolled in HPSS program, with one-fourth of them being student athletes. Smith emphasized the strong rapport between student athletes, coaches, and the entire department.

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Robbie Melton commended Dr. Smith’s constant drive for innovation in the classroom.

Maya Grady interned with the NHL Nashville Predators last semester at Bridgestone arena.

“This award also highlights his strong leadership within the department, leading key initiatives to update the curriculum and create new learning opportunities,” Melton said.

“Most importantly, it celebrates his role as an exceptional mentor to students, making time to provide guidance both within and outside of class. His door is always open for students seeking advice or support. This award is a well-deserved recognition for the immense impact he has made through his teaching, mentorship, and leadership.”

HPSS students have had numerous hands-on opportunities with national sports organizations here in Nashville. These initiatives include collaborations with the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, the NHL’s Nashville Predators, the minor league baseball team Nashville Sounds, and more. All have resulted in internship and employment opportunities for TSU students.
“If we can fill that gap and build that bridge to get our students into their aspiring career field, that is our ultimate goal. That’s what gives me great pleasure,” Smith said.

Smith and other faculty members from across the athletic conference were announced at the 2024 OVC Basketball Championship. Smith’s dedication to his students’ success and his contributions to the HPSS program highlights the impact educators can have beyond the classrooms at TSU.

To learn more about TSUs Human Performance and Sport Sciences program, visit www.tnstate.edu/hpss/.

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TSU Aviation Program receives $500,000 grant from FAA

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University aviation program is expected to reach new heights with a recent $500,000 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The grant will be used to enhance the TSU aviation program by attracting and training students for careers not only as pilots but aviation maintenance technicians with hands-on experience and more.

Dr. Ivan Mosley, Chair of the Department of Applied and Industrial Technology expressed his excitement for the impact this grant will have on students. Mosely is the principal investigator (PI) for the grant.

TSU administrators and engineering faculty joins FAA representatives who presented a $500,000 maintenance grant to TSUs aviation program. (Courtesy of Tennessee State University)

“This will impact our students for the overall profession of aviation networking which includes but not limited to maintenance, airport management, air traffic controller, and more,” Mosley said. “So, this particular grant is exposing them to the maintenance portion of the networking.”

The FAA maintenance grant represents a significant milestone for TSU. Dr. Mosley said that even if students don’t pursue a four-year degree, they can receive a certification through the program, providing an affordable and accessible route to network not only in Nashville and surrounding states, but throughout the United States and abroad.

“This grant will attract people to aviation and give them hands-on experience for those who want to pursue it.”

TSU administrators and engineering faculty joined FAA representatives for the check presentation during their visit to TSU. This included Dr. Mosley, alongside Dr. Lin Li, Interim Dean of the College of Engineering, Dr. Quincy Quick, Associate Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs, Dr. Carlos D. Beane, Co-PI and Aviation Assistant Professor, Dr. Catherine Armwood-Gordon, Engineering Associate Professor, and Dr. Curtis Johnson, Chief of Staff to the President.

Dr. Lin Li stated that the College of Engineering is very excited about this FAA workforce grant. “Through this grant, we will develop comprehensive education initiatives to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application, with a focus on increasing underrepresented and minority students within the aviation maintenance workforce,” Li said.

The initiative includes recruitment, instruction by experienced aviation instructors, development of aviation maintenance courses, academic career counseling and more.

“The grant will support up to 20 students to receive FAA scholarships to pursue their degree study toward aviation maintenance,” Dr. Li said.

“It will attract future students for the aviation management program in the AIT department. State-of-the-art equipment will be provided through the grant, increasing the training capacity of TSU in aviation maintenance technical training.”

In addition to the academic benefits, the program will host the High Flight Academy starting June 1, offering underrepresented students ages 16 -18 a chance to get certified as pilots.

With this grant effort, TSU is set to play a critical l role in shaping a skilled and underrepresented workforce in aviation maintenance, contributing to the industry’s growth while ensuring aircraft safety and reliability.

To learn more about TSUs aviation program, visit www.tnstate.edu/ait/aviationflight.aspx

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TSU’s Honors College to celebrate 60 years of academic excellence at upcoming convocation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University proudly announces its 12th Annual University-wide Honors Convocation, honoring nearly 3,000 students for their outstanding academic achievements success.

The event, themed “Timeless Achievements,” commemorates 60 years of honors excellence, showcasing the remarkable accomplishments of thousands of TSU students.

On March 19, the Honors Convocation will celebrate distinguished undergraduates from all University disciplines. Top graduating Honors seniors, outstanding members of honor societies, Dean’s List students, and President’s List students with cumulative grade point averages of 4.0 will be recognized during the ceremony.

TSU is honored to welcome Attorney James Clayborne Jr., as the distinguished guest speaker for the Honors Convocation. He is a TSU alumnus with a degree in political science and serves on the TSU Foundation Board of Directors.

As the Founding Partner of the only African American certified minority-owned law firm between Chicago and Kansas City, he brings over two decades of experience in municipal law, product liability, commercial litigation, personal injury, and class actions. His extensive background also includes serving as corporate counsel for the City of East St. Louis and expertise in governmental and diversity consulting.

Among the convocation honorees are 834 current Honors College members, representing majors from all eight colleges within the university, including the Dr. Levi Watkins Institute Scholars. To be admitted, students must apply to the Honors College and earn a cumulative GPA of 3.4. This year, 149 Honors seniors will be recognized, with eight of them achieving the President’s List status, which are students who have maintained a 4.0 grade point average throughout their time at TSU.

The event will be a celebration of academic excellence, featuring performances by the Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands and the University Choir.

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Motivational speaker ignites triumph over adversity for TSU students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Cassandra Brown covers herself with a ‘coat of gratitude’ every morning after surviving a shooting incident in 2021. As a result, the Memphis native was left partially paralyzed. The life-altering tragedy took place just a week before Brown was to return for her junior year at Tennessee State University. Despite the challenges, she returned to study agricultural business this past fall with guidance from TSU’s Office of Disability Services (ODS).

Fast forward to a recent campus event that Brown says was a pivotal moment in her journey. The event was sponsored by ODS and featured motivational speaker Timothy Alexander.

TSU student Cassandra Brown, left, and motivational speaker Timothy Alexander, takes a photo together shortly after Alexanders speech at TSU.

“Where you come from doesn’t predict the person you will become,” Brown said with high emotions. “And after hearing speech his, I knew I wasn’t alone.”

Alexander and the TSU student share a similar story. Alexander had hopes of a career in the NFL, until a car accident that initially left him paralyzed from the neck down at 17 years old. But he didn’t give up on himself. He emerged as a beacon of hope, becoming an inspirational speaker and author. He dedicated his life to inspiring others with his story of resilience and triumph over adversity.

“From adversity to achievement,” Alexander, a Birmingham Alabama native, shared his heartwarming story.  Once ranked the #8 best high school football player in Alabama, he defied the odds.

“My education, my experience, my research put me in roles that I never thought I would be in,” Alexander said.

Timothy Alexander, right, interacts with students after telling an inspiring story about his journey that led him to becoming a motivational speaker.

“You don’t need it to be easy. You just need it to be possible,” he told the crowd.

Alexander graduated from Wallace State Community College and went on to receive a master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). In 2017, he stood up and walked independently at UAB for the first time since his paralysis in 2006.

“I was the first paraplegia in D1 history to ever receive a full ride for football and I never touched the field. I never made a play.”

The car wreck also caused a traumatic brain injury that demanded a journey of relearning how to walk and think.

“Never forget where you come from but be reminded of how far you’re going.”

Dozens of athletes in attendance resonated with Alexander’s story. Louise Ratiu, a TSU tennis player from Liege, Belgium, said she appreciated the underlying message of Alexander’s speech.

TSU Tennis players Louise Ratiu, left, and Sydni Lollar express gratitude for Alexander’s inspiring story and resilient mindset, regardless of any setbacks.

“I really liked the way he underlined that no matter how hard life gets, anything is possible if you are willing to do what is necessary to get there,” Ratiu said. “And I think it’s something really important mostly as athletes to keep fighting no matter how hard it gets.”

Dr. Anita McGaha, the director of the Office of Disability Services (ODS) said the office was proud to collaborate with the Academic Career Pathways and Partnerships office, directed by Dr. Antoinette Duke, to bring Alexander’s motivational narrative to TSU.

“His motivational narrative struck a chord with both our students and our staff on a profound level,” McGaha said.

“There are no limits to what a person can accomplish. Alexander reminded everyone in attendance that, ‘it’s not what you go through but what you grow through.'”

Dr. Anita McGaha, left, Timothy Alexander, center, and Dr. Antoinette Duke.

Alexander’s message served as a universal lesson for all TSU students, regardless of their abilities.

“It’s you, that can make a difference,” he said.

“If you want to measure what life is going to bring you, you’ve got to measure it by what you gave. Good measure.”

During his speech Alexander expressed his appreciation for his first visit to TSU and the university’s motto, “Think Work Serve,” and how it resonates with his journey. As he concluded, he was extended an invitation to apply for a doctoral program by interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, Dr. Robbie Melton.