By Marc Gunter
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When Dr. Andrea Ringer walks into a classroom at Tennessee State University, the energy is instantly different. Her history courses aren’t just about dates and documents they’re living discussions where students connect their experiences to America’s ongoing story. That vibrant approach to teaching, paired with her compassion for students, recently earned Ringer the Ohio Valley Conference’s Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award.
For Ringer, who joined the faculty at TSU in 2018 as an associate professor of history, the recognition highlights what she values most: building relationships that help students discover their own voices.
“This award is such an honor,” Ringer said. “Student-athletes bring so much to the classroom community, and I always feel so fortunate when they join my classes. I also keep telling people that I’m considering this my first NCAA sports trophy.”
Her enthusiasm for teaching runs through every class she leads. Whether it’s American History or The African Diaspora, she takes pride in working with students across all majors — especially sophomores who are just beginning to connect academic knowledge to real-world understanding. By emphasizing dialogue and inclusivity, she ensures each student feels seen and heard.
“I love teaching general education courses,” Ringer explained. “We get every major in our classes, and they all bring unique knowledge to our discussions.”
That inclusive spirit has made Ringer a favorite among TSU student-athletes, who often find in her courses an environment where intellectual curiosity meets empathy. Her teaching style blends creativity and rigor, encouraging students to think critically about history in ways that directly relate to modern social issues.
Dr. Erik Schmeller, TSU’s interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, said Ringer’s impact has been evident since her first semester.
“I was delighted to learn that Dr. Ringer was recognized by the OVC and our student-athletes for her outstanding teaching,” Schmeller said. “When she first offered her America Behind Bars course, I sat in on several sessions. It was one of the most creative and compelling history courses I had seen in years, particularly for the way she integrated service-learning.”
That combination — imaginative curriculum design and a deep empathy for students — is what defines Ringer’s teaching. Her work consistently bridges scholarship with service, allowing students to understand history not just as a subject, but as a tool for engagement and change. Schmeller added that Ringer’s scholarship covers “a wide range of timely topics” and contributes meaningfully to TSU’s mission.
Beyond academics, Ringer’s authenticity resonates with students navigating college life. Whether they’re balancing classes with athletics or exploring their identities through history, her classroom becomes a space where students can bring their full selves. That’s the kind of environment the OVC seeks to honor with this award — one built on respect, curiosity, and commitment to student success.
As Ringer reflects on her achievement, she sees the award not just as recognition of her work, but as a celebration of the students who make teaching worthwhile. “Every class reminds me how fortunate I am,” she said. “The students inspire me as much as I hope to inspire them.”
Featured Photo: Dr. Erik Schmeller, left, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, congratulates Dr. Andrea Ringer upon receiving the OVC Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award. (Submitted photo)
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.
