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Empowering Futures: Brandon Graham’s Journey in Education and Advocacy Benefits other HBCU Students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service)– Tennessee State University’s newly conferred Doctor of Education Brandon Graham is a dedicated advocate and entrepreneur who is making significant strides through his Our HBCUs Matter Foundation. This vital organization promotes educational and economic mobility within the HBCU ecosystem, impacting hundreds of students, educators, and alumni across the nation.


Students wearing Graham’s My HBCU Matters clothing brand.

In 2015, Graham founded the My HBCU Matters clothing brand while transitioning from a full-time high school educator to an entrepreneur. This initiative arose from his experience managing the Youth Business Institute Program through the TJX Company Corporation, which supports college students facing financial hardship to complete their degrees. He created the brand to generate funds for essential student needs like dorm setup and tuition. However, the journey was not without challenges.

“I had to develop systems to understand and address the factors contributing to student drop-out rates while building brand awareness,” he recalls.

The foundation now includes the My HBCU Matters Scholar Academy, which provides essential support and mentorship, while the National Institute of HBCU Success leads in research and policy advocacy. Graham emphasizes the need for robust recruitment and retention strategies at HBCUs, stating, “Effective support systems are crucial to building strong academic services and ensuring students see clear pathways from education to economic opportunities.”

Originally from Atlanta, Graham was named Teacher of the Year from TJX Company in 2015. Inspired by the motto “Be Crazy Enough to Believe You Can,” he embraces a philosophy that emphasizes self-confidence and intentional growth, which he says, has shaped his journey as an educator and activist, particularly in efforts to uplift underserved communities.

“I firmly believe our communities are worth investing in, and our students deserve not only to dream but to thrive,” he explains.

Newly conferred doctoral student and the founder of Our HBCUs Matter Foundation, Brandon Graham.

Graham plans to relocate to Washington, D.C., to continue to grow and expand the Our HBCUs Matter Foundation, and the My HBCU Matters company through the Scholar Academy programs. He will also begin law school at the University of the District of Columbia, with the mission of becoming an attorney committed to dismantling systemic discrimination and inequities in educational access.

“My new (doctoral) degree has equipped me to lead transformative change at the intersection of education, policy, and law,” he shares.

He intends to maintain strong partnerships across the region, continuing collaboration in both D.C. and Atlanta. Brandon aims to serve as an advocate and collaborator with HBCUs, supporting institutional advancement, student success, and strategic innovation. He plans to remain engaged in higher education through teaching, research, and leadership while continuing to grow as an entrepreneur.

“I have seen first-hand how critical it is to push for sustainable investments and accountability,” he reflects. Building independent funding streams and strategic partnerships has become essential for ensuring HBCUs can thrive regardless of political changes.

Graham says the future success of HBCUs hinges on deep investments in student support models. “We must prioritize retention, academic interventions, and career readiness to prepare students for competitive job markets,” he asserts, adding that through fostering environments that promote academic excellence and preserving the cultural significance of HBCUs, Brandon believes these institutions can continue to empower future generations.

Learn more about the Our HBCUs Matter Foundation, Inc at www.ourhbcusmatter.org

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TSU’s New Students Orientation Welcomes Incoming Tigers to the Land of Golden Sunshine

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a celebration of new beginnings, Tennessee State University is set to roll out the welcome mat for nearly 950 first-time freshmen and transfer students during the New Student Orientation (NSO). Taking place over four days—May 21, June 9, June 18, and July 14—the new Tigers will immerse themselves in TSU’s unique campus culture, all while basking in the warmth of the “Land of Golden Sunshine.”

The NSO, designed to ease the transition for incoming students and their families, will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the Kean Hall on the main campus. Attendees can look forward to a wealth of experiences, including campus tours, program previews, and information sessions covering everything from student activities to financial aid.

“Our New Student Orientation is more than just an introduction; it’s an essential step in helping students begin their journey at Tennessee State University,” said Dr. Angela Duncan, executive director of enrollment services. “This is the time where students and families can really connect with the university community and find their place in this vibrant environment. They’ll interact with current students who serve as ambassadors, meet with academic advisors, and gain valuable insights into campus resources, ensuring they are well-equipped for their first day of classes in the fall.”

Hundreds of students and family members attend a recent new student orientation in Kean Hall on the main campus.

Echoing her sentiments, Dr. Erica Lewis, director of student engagement, said, “NSO is all about building community. Students will not only get essential information to navigate their first semester but also make lasting connections with their peers and university staff. It’s our official welcoming of the new class, and we are excited to support them as they embark on this transformative journey.”

With sessions tailored to majors, students will have opportunities to engage with faculty and delve into various academic programs. Parents, too, are encouraged to engage and establish connections, creating their own support network while preparing their children for academic success.

Registration for the NSO is simple. New students interested in attending can visit www.tnstate.edu/orientation for more information or visit https://futuretiger.tnstate.edu to secure their spot and confirm their assigned orientation date. 

As the countdown begins to the fall semester, TSU looks forward to filling the campus with the spirit and energy of these incoming Tigers—a fresh chapter in the Land of Golden Sunshine.

For more information on admission to TSU, please visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions.

About Tennessee State University 

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu. 

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TSU Honors New Generation of Leaders at Spring Commencement Celebration

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (TSU News Service)– In a celebration steeped in legacy and hope, Tennessee State University held its spring commencement ceremonies on May 2 and 3, honoring more than 800 graduate and undergraduate students at the Gentry Center Complex on the main campus.

The Speakers: Interim President Dwayne Tucker, who delivered the graduate commencement address, presents plaques to Chrishonda O’Quinn and Tyler Vazquez as he congratulates them on their co-keynote addresses at the undergraduate ceremony. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The ceremonies commenced Friday evening for graduate students with a heartfelt address from Interim President Dwayne Tucker, a proud TSU alumnus from the Class of 1980. In his keynote speech, Tucker urged the students to embrace their roles as future leaders.

“You are the next generation of creators, builders, doctors, and scholars,” Tucker said. “Today represents your transition into leadership. Time is evidence of your commitment—use it wisely.” He reinforced the university’s motto, “Think, Work, Serve,” challenging graduates to give back to their communities as they step into their professional endeavors.

Kaya Johnson, who received her bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, says her journey at TSU was incredible. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

The undergraduate ceremony followed on Saturday morning, where student leaders Chrishonda O’Quinn and Tyler Vazquez delivered speeches that resonated deeply with their peers. O’Quinn, the president of the Student Government Association and a graduate in business administration with a focus on marketing, inspired her classmates with words of empowerment. “We are not just students—we are innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders. Today, we step into a world that needs our voices and visions,” she declared. “Every late-night studying and every challenge we faced has prepared us for this moment.”

Tyler Vazquez, who received his degree in molecular biology and is set to continue his studies in medical school, echoed O’Quinn’s sentiments. “Today is more than just a ceremony; it’s a testimony of our perseverance,” said Vazquez, the student trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees. “We made it through uncertainty and doubt, and now we are ready to lift others as we climb.” Vazquez’s message highlighted the shared experiences that bind the graduates together as they forge ahead, ready to make their mark on the world.

President Dwayne Tucker presents the degree of the late Darik Cody to his mother, Verneshia and her brother Antwan. Darik, an architectural engineering major, passed before the completion his studies. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Adding to the inspiring atmosphere, Kaya Johnson, an agricultural science graduate and aspiring veterinarian, reflected on her journey at TSU. “My experience at TSU was incredible. I learned so much and built so many memories. It was tough at times, but every moment was worth it. The quality of education I received here has prepared me for my next steps, and I’m eager to return for graduate school to further my journey in veterinary medicine,” she said.

Among the poignant moments of the ceremony, TSU posthumously conferred the degree of Darik Cody to his family. Cody, an architectural engineering major from Jackson, Mississippi, was remembered fondly by his mother, Verneshia, and her brother, Antwan, as a beacon of perseverance who tragically passed before the completion of his studies.

Additionally,100-year-old Ellie Jewell Davis, now Dr. Ellie J. Dahmer, who was not present, was honored with a reissued Home Economics degree she received in 1947 at the then Tennessee A&I College. She lost her original diploma in a house fire set by the Ku Klux Klan.

As the ceremonies wrapped up, graduates left the stage with not only their diplomas in hand but also a renewed dedication to shaping the future through thought, work, and service.

About Tennessee State University 

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu. 

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TSU Cheerleaders Make History with Top 5 Ranking  at National Championship

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s cheerleaders are celebrating a historic achievement after securing 5th place in the Intermediate All-Girl Division I category at the 2025 National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) and National Dance Alliance (NDA) College Nationals.

The team competed against nearly 30 universities from across the country, achieving their highest national ranking to date.

TSU’s cheer team celebrates its best-ever finish at the NCA College Nationals in Daytona Beach.

The NCA College Nationals is a prestigious collegiate cheerleading competition held from April 10 to12 in Daytona Beach, Florida, attracting hundreds of teams annually from across the country. This year marked TSU Cheer’s fourth appearance at the national competition and their most successful yet.

TSU Head Cheer Coach Dwight Pope said he was overwhelmed with pride about the team’s growth and determination. “We set the vision, we went to competition, and we’re very proud,” Pope said. “Speaking from a Tennessee State University standpoint, I’m truly speechless as this is the highest we’ve ranked ever.”

In previous years, TSU competed in the Intermediate Small Co-ed Division I category. The move to an all-girl division this season was a shift that Pope said reflects the team’s evolution in both size and strength.

“This strategic transition marks a new era for TSU Cheer, as the team continues to grow in size, skill, and spirit,” he said. “This season is about elevation in energy, execution, and excellence. We’ve been building our legacy for the past three seasons, and this year, we stepped into our power as an all-girl team with something to prove.”

TSU Cheerleaders before earning 5th place in the Intermediate All-Girl Division I at the 2025 NCA College Nationals.

Kyla Keeylen, a graduating senior and cheer team leader, said the team practiced nearly every day in preparation for their big moment. “It was just a great feeling to go out there and have a really good performance,” Keeylen said. “And just to hear our name be called in the top five, it was amazing.” 

Keeylen also noted the team was the only HBCU to place in the top five of their division. As she prepares to graduate this May, she said she’s excited to support her teammates as they continuebuilding on this momentum next season.

Samantha Strickland, a TSU junior who served as co-captain for NCA Nationals, couldn’t agree more regarding the university success and efforts.

“HBCUs can and will compete with anyone,” Strickland said. “Going on the floor and showcasing our team and hitting our routine, it was an amazing feeling. This has been a history-making year, and I look forward to our progress next season.”

After returning to campus, the cheerleaders were welcomed home with a surprise reception hosted by TSU faculty and staff. The event included food, drinks, and gifts to celebrate their national success and recognize their dedication as student athletes.

TSU cheerleaders received a surprise welcome from faculty and staff with food, drinks, and gifts to celebrate their national success.

Dr. Bridgett Golman, vice president for Student Affairs, presented the team with tokens of appreciation and praised their commitment.

“You all are true athletes,” Golman said. “I truly appreciate you all. It’s not just about the performance. You all are managing a class schedule, a social life, in the midst of practices. I want you to know that we see you and that we appreciate you.”

Golman also commended Coach Pope, noting his nearly 30 years of dedicated leadership of the TSU Cheer program.

With their highest national ranking in history and a growing legacy of excellence, the TSU Cheerleaders are setting the standard for collegiate cheer teams nationwide. As they look ahead to next season, they plan to Bring It On with every intention of bringing the NCA title home.

The Tigers are guided by a committed cheer coaching staff:

  • Head Coach Dwight Pope
  • Justin Loggins, Assistant Coach/Competition
  • Britney Holder, Assistant Coach/Competition
  • Ashley LaBarre, Social Emotional Learning Coach
  • De’Mario Mitchell, Mascot Coordinator

To learn more about the TSU cheerleaders, visit www.tnstate.edu/cheerleaders/.

Alumni, Athletics, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS

TSU Mourns the Loss of Basketball Legend Dr. Dick Barnett

TSU Athletics 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is deeply saddened to share the passing of Dr. Richard “Dick” Barnett, a legendary figure in collegiate and professional basketball and one of our most distinguished alumni. Dr. Barnett passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on October 2, 1936, in Gary, Indiana, Barnett’s basketball journey began at then-Tennessee A&I State College (now TSU), where he led the Tigers to three consecutive NAIA national championships from 1957 to 1959. Under Hall of Fame coach John McLendon, Barnett’s talent earned him three All-America selections and two NAIA Tournament MVP honors, cementing his place among the greats. At the Gentry Center, Barnett’s jersey holds a special place in history as the only jersey ever retired by the university.

Following his collegiate career, Barnett was selected fourth overall in the 1959 NBA Draft by the Syracuse Nationals. He went on to enjoy a 14-year professional career, with notable stints playing for the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks. Famous for his signature “Fall Back Baby” jump shot, Barnett played a key role in helping the Knicks capture NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. His No. 12 jersey was retired by the Knicks in 1990 in recognition of his outstanding contributions.

Off the court, Dr. Barnett was just as impactful. He earned a master’s degree from New York University and a doctorate in education from Fordham University. Passionate about education and mentorship, he taught sports management at St. John’s University and founded Fall Back Baby Productions, using his platform to inspire future generations through writing, speaking, and advocacy.

In 2024, Barnett’s extraordinary career and lifelong dedication to the game were celebrated with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Tennessee State University extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Barnett’s family, friends, and the countless lives he touched. His legacy will forever be a part of TSU’s proud history.

College of Health Sciences, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, GRANTS, Marketing, NEWS, RANKINGS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU’s Honda All-Star Team Earns Best Ranking in Nearly 20 Years

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) team has made history after securing its highest national ranking in nearly 20 years. The team earned the title of national runner-up at the 36th annual HCASC National Tournament, held in Torrance, California, placing second out of 32 HBCUs from across the country.

The competition, sponsored by American Honda Motor Company, is a prestigious academic quiz bowl that celebrates Black excellence, scholarship, and teamwork. As part of their achievement, the TSU team brought home $40,000 in grant funding from Honda. In addition, each student on the team will receive a $1,500 scholarship from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, a partner of the HCASC program.

The team’s coach, Dr. John Miglietta, a professor of political science, described HCASC as a unique competition that unites scholars from HBCUs nationwide and showcases their knowledge. “TSU’s players are very intelligent, work hard, and put in a lot of effort,” Miglietta said. “The students have shown they are well equipped to face challenges and succeed. I’m very proud of our students and wish them all the success in the world.”

Tennessee State University HCASC team during the 36th annual National Tournament in California after receiving their $1,500 scholarship award. From left to right, Aniya Johnson, Kaitlin Skates, Tyler Vazquez, Morgan Gill, and Dr. John Miglietta.

TSU’s team included four dedicated students who has participated in the competition throughout their entire time at the university: Tyler Vazquez (team captain), Morgan Gill, Aniya Johnson, and Kaitlin Skates.

During the tournament, held April 12–16, the team compiled a 5–1 record in division play. TSU competed in the Nannie Burroughs division against Morehouse College, Paul Quinn College, and the University of the District of Columbia. In the playoffs, the team defeated Albany State University and Howard University to advance to the semifinals, where they won against Tuskegee University before falling short against Hampton University in the final round.

Vazquez, a graduating senior, member of the TSU Board of Trustees and Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute cohort two, said this marks TSU’s best performance in the competition in nearly two decades. “This is a bittersweet moment,” Vazquez said, reflecting on his final appearance at HCASC. “This has been an amazing experience. I’m blessed to be here and to represent TSU one last time. I’m excited to see how HCASC will continue to grow at TSU in the future.”

He added that several departments supported the team and helped ensure they were well prepared for the main event.

“I’ve been competing in academic challenge teams since middle school. To have a safe space like this at my HBCU has meant everything to me.”

Morgan Gill, a junior majoring in Urban Studies, said she’s grateful for the networking opportunities and being part of a team that is producing quality, nationally ranked results. “It means a lot to me, just as an HBCU student, to be in an academic space created solely for HBCUs,” Gill said. “Honda has made it clear that this is a space for young, bright talent. Being able to represent ourselves and amplify our voices is powerful especially because it’s something I didn’t often see growing up.”

TSU has participated in the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge since 1990 and has earned more than $260,000 in grant funding from American Honda over the years.

This historic milestone reflects the hard work and academic excellence of TSU students, as well as the university’s continued commitment to cultivating scholars and leaders. Click here to watch the 2025 HCASC competition in full!

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TSU’s Spring Commencement Ceremonies to Feature Inspiring Keynote Speakers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – This year’s spring commencement ceremonies at Tennessee State University will showcase keynote speakers from both the administration and student body. Interim President Dwayne Tucker will address graduates and doctoral candidates during the graduate ceremony on Friday, May 2, at 5 p.m. On Saturday, May 3, at 8 a.m., Chrishonda O’Quinn, president of the Student Government Association, and Tyler Vazquez, student trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, will co-deliver the keynote address for undergraduate students.

President Dwayne Tucker

Both ceremonies will take place in the Gentry Center Complex, with over 800 students set to receive degrees across various disciplines.

Tucker, a 1980 TSU graduate, brings more than 39 years of leadership and executive management experience. His impressive career includes roles as Chief Human Resource Officer, Chief Administrative Officer, and General Manager for Fortune 500 companies. Prior to joining TSU, he served as CEO of Lead Public Schools and has been a prominent community figure in Nashville, co-founding the nonprofit Educate Nashville.

“As we celebrate the achievements of our graduates, I look forward to sharing in this momentous occasion and reinforcing the valuable experiences that have shaped their time at TSU,” said Tucker.

Chrishonda O’Quinn

O’Quinn, the 84th SGA president of TSU, is graduating with a degree in business administration, concentrating in marketing with a minor in mathematics. She has been actively involved on campus, advocating for student engagement and progress. O’Quinn plans to pursue a master’s in public administration, aiming to create impactful changes in public policy.

“The message I want to share is one of hope and inspiration,” said O’Quinn. “I want my peers to know that their hard work at TSU has prepared them for a bright future.”

Vazquez, graduating with a degree in molecular biology and dual minors in philosophy and chemistry, is committed to improving healthcare access for marginalized communities. As a Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute Scholar, he has shown dedication to academic excellence and community service, aiming for a dual MD/Ph.D. program at Meharry Medical College.

Tyler Vazquez

“Legacy is incredibly important,” he said. “We must work together to leave an enduring impact at TSU, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams.”

Both O’Quinn and Vazquez are focused on empowering their fellow students as they transition to the next chapter of their lives.

For more information on Spring commencement, visit www.tnstate.edu/records/commencement/.

About Tennessee State University 

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu. 

Alumni, College of Health Sciences, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU Partners with Nashville Kats to Provide Students Real-World Experience in Professional Sports

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Arena Football One (AF1) and the Nashville Kats have announced an innovative partnership with Tennessee State University’s Human Performance and Sport Sciences (HPSS) department. Led by Ashley Danielle Allen, director of operations for the Kats, the collaboration aims to provide students with valuable hands-on experience in the multifaceted world of professional sports.

Jeff Fisher

Through this partnership, TSU students will be integrated into the Kats organization, engaging with team personnel in various roles ranging from front office operations to game-day execution. Students will get a real-world glimpse into the inner workings of a professional sports franchise, bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application.

“Area Football One and the Nashville Kats are very excited to collaborate with TSU’s Human Performance and Sports Science department to provide real-world opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in the sports industry. We believe in developing the next generation of sports professionals, and this partnership is a great step toward helping those students build valuable skills that will serve them well in their careers. We are committed to impacting the Nashville community,” Jeff Fisher, Owner of the Nashville Kats and President of the Arena Football League. 

Dr. Jason Smith

“Our goal in the Human Performance and Sport Sciences Department is to create an

expectation for students to go from the classroom to a career, ” explains Dr. Jason Smith, Chair of HPSS. “Our exceptionally talented and hard-working students are ready to move beyond theory, and these partnerships offer them the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in professional sports. It’s time to move ‘education’ ahead, and these opportunities are doing just that for our students.” 

Students will gain broad exposure to diverse areas, including:

Ashley Danielle Allen

● Business and Administration: Students will shadow and work alongside management in player personnel decisions, assist scouts in talent evaluation, observe team executives in strategic planning, learn about financial operations, understand human resourcemanagement, and see how legal counsel operates within a sports organization.

● Marketing and Communications: Participants will contribute to marketing campaigns,

A group of HPSS students from TSU join few members of the Kats organization for a photo after a training session at the Kats’ facility. (Submitted photo)

manage media relations, develop social media content, participate in ticket and sponsorship sales, organize community outreach programs, assist with broadcasting and media production and learn to manage and distribute statistical information.

● Game Day Operations: Students will gain experience in event management, facility operations, security protocols, and merchandise management, contributing to the seamless execution of game-day experiences.

● Other Essential Roles: Students will also have opportunities to observe sports analysts in action and learn the intricacies of equipment management.

“This partnership is an incredible experience for our students to gain practical experience in the sports industry. Working alongside AF One and the Nashville Kats will provide them with skills that will prepare them for successful careers,” said Allen, who is also an instructor in HPSS.

The partnership is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the business of professional sports, promoting their professional development and contributing to the growth of the sports industry in Nashville. AF One, The Nashville Kats and TSU’s HPSS Department are committed to making this a long-term collaboration, ensuring that future generations of sports professionals can have the opportunity to learn and grow. 

Learn more about this initiative and more at www.nashvillekats.com.

About Tennessee State University 

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu. 

Alumni, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, RESEARCH, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

TSU’s Dr. Robbie K. Melton Named a 2025 Leading Woman in AI

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a celebration of groundbreaking women reshaping the technological landscape, Tennessee State University’s Dr. Robbie K. Melton has earned her place among the 2025 Leading Women in AI as recognized by The AI SHOW @ ASU+GSV.  Melton is among over 200 extraordinary women recognized for advancing artificial intelligence in education technology, research, and practical applications.

Melton, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, is also vice president for technology and innovation at TSU.

A visionary in mobile technology and education, Melton’s impactful work at TSU is transforming classrooms around the globe and inspiring the next generation of innovators in artificial intelligence. As a global researcher and international consultant on the Internet of Everything (IoE), she has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, integrating smart mobile technology into learning environments worldwide. Her contributions at TSU have led to the establishment of the SMART AI for All Research Center, and marking TSU as a center of innovation, and the first global coding hub for HBCUs through strategic partnerships with leaders like Apple.

TSU President Dwayne Tucker expressed his pride in Melton’s recognition. 

“Dr. Melton’s relentless pursuit of excellence in technology and education is inspiring. Her leadership sets a standard for us all, and this honor reflects not only her remarkable contributions but also the transformative impact of our institution on the future of technology,” Tucker said.

With a remarkable portfolio that includes being a former associate vice chancellor for emerging technologies at the Tennessee Board Regents, and recipient of numerous accolades, including the 2019 USDLA or United States Distance Learning Association Hall of Fame, Melton’s influence extends beyond academia. She currently serves as a UNICEF Teacher Education Technology Trainer in Malawi, empowering educators in regions with limited access to technology.

“I am deeply honored and incredibly excited to be recognized as the 2025 Leading Woman in AI. As a Black woman in technology, this award signifies not only personal achievement, but also a powerful symbol of representation and possibility,” said Melton. “This recognition serves as a beacon for young women, especially young Black women, to see what is possible. It is my hope that this inspires the next generation to dream boldly and lead with confidence in shaping the future of technology.”

Dr. Robert O. Hassell, senior executive director of the immersive technology division at TSU and a longtime protégé of Dr. Melton, spoke passionately about her legacy. “Her innovative mind and extensive vision have transformed educational practices and created opportunities for countless students. Dr. Melton is a rare leader whose impact will resonate long into the future.”

Dr. Melton and her fellow honorees were recently celebrated at the Arizona State University and Global Silicon Valley Summit in San Diego.  

For more information about the TSU SMART Center, visit www.ai-tnstatesmartcenter.org.

About Tennessee State University 

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu. 

College of Business, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU College of Business Students Outperform S&P 500 in TVA Investment Challenge

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University College of Business students have demonstrated their exceptional financial skills by excelling in the TVA Investment Challenge for the third consecutive year. An opportunity for students to manage a real $500,000 stock portfolio. This year, TSU’s 2024 team not only outperformed the S&P 500, a key market benchmark, but also surpassed the performance of other participating universities by a significant margin.

College of Business students present their 2024 portfolio analysis during the 2025 TVA Investment Challenge Conference in Nashville.

The TVA Investment Challenge Conference, held in Nashville April 3–4, showcased these outstanding results. The portfolio was managed by teams of 13 TSU students across the Spring and Fall 2024 semesters. The Spring 2025 team, composed of six students, was tasked with analyzing and presenting the 2024 performance. With a rotating team structure each semester, TSU’s continued success is a testament to the strength of its academic preparation and the dedication of both current and former student analysts.

These efforts highlight the growing strength of TSU’s College of Business as the TSU team achieved a 29.29 percent return on their portfolio, surpassing the S&P 500 by 4.27 percent. They also outperformed the average return of the 27 participating universities by 6.56 percent, placing TSU among the top eight teams in the challenge. The students increased the TVA investment portfolio by more than $200,000, bringing its total value to over $700,000 by the end of December 2024.

Paige Chuma

Paige Chuma, a junior from Atlanta double majoring in economics and finance, as well as psychology, shared her experience. “I was able to network with students and business professionals and also see how far this can go,” Chuma said. “It was humbling and inspiring. This is why I’m here, and I’m proud that our HBCU has the chance to participate in this opportunity.”

She emphasized how important it is for HBCUs and their economics and finance students to be part of these initiatives.

The experience allowed students to network with industry professionals, learn from executives, and gain valuable insights into the world of finance and investment.

Austin Thomas

Austin Thomas, a senior from Nashville majoring in economics and finance highlighted how the experience helped him gain valuable skills for his future career. “We were able to invest real money, make buy and sell decisions in real time, and practice our strategies. This is a great opportunity for students to gain real-world experience,” Thomas said. “It’s important for us to not only represent our HBCU but also people of color.”

The TVA Investment Challenge allowed students from universities in the Tennessee Valley region to manage portfolios and make strategic investment decisions. The students actively manage TVA funds by designing long-term investment strategies, placing trades, maintaining compliance with investment guidelines, and presenting performance reports to TVA. Teams are responsible for conducting financial research, making investment choices, and managing risk.

Dr. Anis Mnif and Dr. Selma Izadi, center, guide TSU students through portfolio analysis at Avon Williams Off Campus Instructional Site.

Dr. Selma Izadi, an assistant finance professor and faculty advisor for TSU’s TVA challenge team played a pivotal role in guiding the students through the financial modeling, analysis, and portfolio construction.

“Managing a real-money portfolio provides an invaluable opportunity for our students, empowering them to become the next generation of financial leaders at TSU,” Dr. Izadi said. “It’s an excellent reflection of the high-level skills and knowledge our students are gaining, and it showcases the strength of our Economics and Finance Department. Congratulations to all students whose contributions made this success possible.”

Interim Chair and Assistant Professor of Finance Dr. Anis Mnif praised the team’s achievement, noting that it serves as a testament to the rigorous education and mentorship that TSU students receive.

Tennessee State University 2024 Investment Challenge Performance Award.

“Consistently outperforming market benchmarks is no small feat,” Mnif said. “Our students are not only competing—they are leading. This success underscores the excellence and leadership that TSU represents in the field of business and finance.”

The conference was also a chance for students to share their investment strategies and portfolio results with teams from other universities.

“It was so cool to see presenters and executives who had participated in the TVA Challenge years ago,” Chuma said as she reflected on the event. “It’s inspiring to be part of something so impactful, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead.”

With this achievement, the College of Business continues to prepare its students for successful careers in finance, economics, and beyond. It further solidifies the college’s reputation as a leading institution for developing the next generation of finance professionals.

To learn more about the College of Business, visit www.tnstate.edu/business.