NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University paid tribute to military service members and their families during its annual Veterans Day observance on Wednesday, Nov. 11, culminating in the ribbon-cutting and dedication of a new Military Friendly Space on the main campus.
The observance began in the Forum, where U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Kelly of TSU’s Air Force ROTC Detachment 790 delivered opening remarks, followed by the presentation of colors by Detachment 790 cadets. TSU President Dwayne Tucker welcomed attendees, and retired U.S. Army Maj. Cynthia Howell, assistant vice president for risk and financial compliance, introduced the occasion.
“Our veterans embody the very values of Tennessee State University’s motto, ‘Think. Work. Serve.,’” Tucker said. “They answered the call to serve our nation, sacrificing and putting service before self. We are grateful for their courage and commitment, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that our veterans and military-connected students feel supported, respected and at home at TSU. Honoring those who served is not just a Veterans Day commitment; it is a responsibility we carry every day.”
U.S. Army Retired Col. Harold E. Turks Jr., director of Parking and Traffic Services, served as the keynote speaker, urging students and faculty to carry the military ethos of selfless service into their daily lives.
“Veterans Day is about more than recognizing those who served. It is about honoring the men and women who made extraordinary sacrifices, left their families and careers behind, and defended the freedoms we enjoy every day,” said Turks, a TSU alumnus. “To our veterans, your service matters, your stories matter and your example matters. You remind us that leadership is not always loud. Sometimes it means putting the team ahead of yourself, doing the work others may not want to do and standing in difficult circumstances and simply saying, ‘I got it.’”
The ceremony also featured remarks from Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Erik Schmeller, who recognized veterans across all military branches in attendance, as well as retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Phyllis Hayes, and Dr. Angela Bryant, dean of student engagement, whose office oversees veterans’ affairs at the university.
Following the program, campus leaders and guests gathered in the Floyd-Payne Campus Center to dedicate the new Military Friendly Space. Designed to honor TSU’s military-connected community, the lounge provides a welcoming environment for students to study, connect and recharge.
“As a military family, we understand the importance of having a space where veterans feel welcomed, supported and comfortable,” said Dr. Bridgett Golman, vice president of Student Affairs and dean of students. “My husband used a veterans lounge as his safe haven while pursuing his postgraduate degree, so I know firsthand how meaningful a space like this can be. We are grateful to the individuals and offices, including our Title III Office, whose funding and support helped make this space possible.”
As a Certified Vet Campus and home to AFROTC Detachment 790, TSU continues to expand resources for military-affiliated scholars. Seniors Jason Fudge, a business administration major, and his sister, Ashley Fudge, a studio art major – both Army National Guard veterans – welcomed the addition.
“I think this space will benefit everyone, not just veterans,” Jason said. “It gives everyone a place to step away from the hustle and bustle of campus and recharge.”
Ashley agreed, noting the space offers a much-needed sanctuary between classes. “It’s a place where you can come between classes or at the end of the day, take a break and feel comfortable,” she said.
The Veterans Day activities concluded with a a reception in the Commuter Lounge.
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.