All posts by Emmanuel Freeman

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

Rose Bowl-bound AOB receives rousing send-off from community as members depart for California

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University community gathered in front of the Performing Arts Center in the early hours Tuesday morning to celebrate as the Aristocrat of Bands prepared to depart for the Tournament of Roses in California. 

President Glenda Glover arrives at the Performing Arts Center in the early hours Tuesday morning to personally bid band members farewell as they board buses for the airport. She flew out to California the next morning to join the students. (photo by Andre Bean)

President Glenda Glover, dressed in TSU blue and white, led a large group of cheering university officials, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and fans in a send-off celebration for the nearly 250 band members as they boarded buses for the airport on their way to the 133rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, on Jan. 1. 

“This is one of the most exciting moments for us and especially in the lives of these students to be able to represent the university at the Rose Bowl,” said Glover, who flew out the next morning to join the students.  

“This is so special to represent TSU, the state of Tennessee, and HBCUs. That is just phenomenal. They worked so hard for this. They have earned the right to show the world who they are. So, we are just proud of them.” 

AOB members board the plane at Nashville International Airport for their flight to California. (Photo by Andre Bean)

Sandra Hunt, president of the Nashville chapter of the TSU National Alumni Association, added: “This is extremely exciting for us as alums from across the nation. Not only that many of us will be glued to the TV watching with pride and cheering, but many will be there in Pasadena.” 

The send-off was organized by alumni, staff, students and individuals who provided various support to help make the trip possible. TSU alum and State Rep. Harold Love, Jr., Director of Alumni Relations Debbi Howard; Miss TSU Mallory Moore, TSU Chief of Staff, Dr. Curtis Johnson; and Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Frank Stevenson were among those at the send-off. 

“We’ve always gotten tremendous support from President Glover, the university, alumni, the community and the fans, so this is just another example of that support,” Director of Bands, Dr. Reginald McDonald, said.

Director of Bands, Dr Reginald McDonald, left, gives band members a final pep talk as they prepare to depart for their California trip. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“”It’s a great feeling that our supporters came out and showed us love before we set out for California,” added Tiara Thomas, student trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, who plays the French horn in the band.

The AOB, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, is one of only four university bands nationwide invited to participate in the Rose Bowl Parade this year. TSU is also the only band from a historically black college or university (HBCU) that will be performing.  

President Glover and Band Director McDonald talk to the media, as other TSU officials and supporters watch. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Termed the “West Coast swing,” the AOB’s California visit also includes performances at Bandfest, a two-day exclusive field show for marching bands selected to participate in the Rose Bowl Parade; Disneyland Park; the California African American Museum; as well as a half-time show for the Los Angeles Lakers in the Staples Center.  

Travion Crutcher, head drum major of the AOB, said he is looking forward to performing in the Rose Bowl, but also “experiencing Hollywood from up close.” 

Band members celebrate as they prepare to leave for the 133rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“I am looking forward to experiencing in person what I see on TV shows and movies,” said Crutcher, a senior electrical engineering major from Huntsville, Alabama. “I am looking forward to embracing the culture in that part of the US.”

California is home to one of the largest concentrations of TSU alumni. Many are expected to attend the Rose Bowl Parade, while others, including fans from across the nation, are flying in to cheer for their “beloved AOB.”

Featured photo by Andre Bean
Dozens of OAB supporters, including students, staff, alumni and fans gather by a busload of band members to say good bye as the students prepare for the early morning ride to the airport, on their way to the Tournament of Roses in California.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Nearly 1,000 children benefit in Toys for Tots distribution at Tennessee State University

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is making sure children in the area have something to cheer about, as the holiday season takes hold. On Saturday, Dec. 18, nearly 500 parents walked away with at least two toys each for their children during a Toys for Tots distribution organized by TSU and Simply United Together, a nonprofit that coordinates the pickup of donated toys. 

A volunteer helps Diamond Johnson, right, pick out toys for her children. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Organizers said nearly 1,000 children were served with thousands of toys of different sizes and shapes for boys and girls up to age 12. Volunteers, including TSU students, staff, alumni, and representatives from area charitable organizations and churches, helped with the distribution in Kean Hall on the main campus. 

Diamond Johnson, a Nashville parent with five kids, was among those picking up toys. 

“With prices going up and things getting harder, it feels good to know that there are people who care to help out for people in need,” Johnson said. “I am thankful to Toys for Tots for making sure my children will have gifts for Christmas.” 

Marvin Poole and his wife, Laura, also received toys for their four kids. They said with the pandemic, loss of income, and prices going up, they didn’t know where to turn for gifts. 

Marvin Poole, right, a father of four children, says this is the first time his family has solicited for toys for their kids. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

“It’s been a hard year for everybody. We’ve never done anything like this before as a family,” said Marvin.  “To have someone there in times of need, this is just a blessing and we are very thankful.” 

Since 2018, TSU has partnered with Simply United Together, and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots to distribute toys on the TSU main campus. 

Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. William Hytche, coordinator of the Toys for Tots program for TSU, said the university is thankful for the continued partnership with Simply United Together to serve needy families during the holiday. 

TSU student volunteers participate in the toy distribution in Kean Hall. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

“It is an important service that I think we do as a community,” said Hytche. “TSU is in the community, so we like to serve the community whenever we get the opportunity. We have had this partnership with Simply United for over three years and it has worked very well. It is unfortunate that we are in this pandemic but we are doing everything we can to minimize the spread.” 

Benetta M. Sears, the local director of Simply United Together Foundation, said she is thankful that TSU has continued to be a site to serve families, especially during this “very critical time.” 

“Tennessee State University is very positive. This is a community school also, and the people here are more willing and ready to serve the Nashville community, and we are thankful to continue our partnership,” she said. 

Sears said she hopes the parents who participated will one day encourage their children to attend TSU. 

For more information on Toys for Tots at TSU, call Dr. William Hytche at 615-963-5069.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.

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

TSU’s AOB celebrates 75 years with trip to Tournament of Roses, receives major Hollywood endorsement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year with an invitation to the 133rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, on Jan 1, 2022.

The Aristocrat of Bands enter campus as they participate in the 2021 Homecoming parade on Jefferson Street. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

The band, the only one from a historically black college or university (HBCU) marching in the parade this year, was one of only four university bands selected nationwide last year to participate in the Tournament of Roses, but the parade was cancelled due to the pandemic.

This year’s reissued invitation comes with the endorsement of Emmy and Peabody Awards-winning actor and director Levar Burton, the 2022 grand marshal of the Rose Bowl Parade. Also known as an educator and lifelong children’s literacy advocate, Burton – with followers in the hundreds of thousands – endorsed TSU and the AOB on his Twitter page. 

Dr. Reginald McDonald, Director of Bands

“Help the Aristocrats get to Pasadena and the Tournament of Roses Parade,” @levarburton tweeted. 

Termed the “West Coast swing,” the AOB’s California visit is also packed with other exciting activities. Before the parade on New Year’s Day, the AOB will take part in Bandfest, a two-day exclusive field show for marching bands selected to participate in the parade, to showcase their musicianship and unique talents. Performances at Disney Land, the California African American Museum, as well as a half-time show for the Los Angeles Lakers in the Staple Center, are also planned.  

And band members and students are exuberant.

Levar Burton, Parade of Roses Grand Marshal, endorses the Aristocrat of Bands. (Submitted Photo)

“I am definitely excited to have this opportunity after waiting for a year,” says Tiara Thomas, student trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, who plays the French horn in the band. She says the visit will be a major exposure for the university. 

“I am very thrilled to be a part. We have a number of things lined up just for people out in California who have not seen us or do not even know where Tennessee State is,” she says. “So, to be able to make this trip with most of my friends, I am really excited and very grateful.” 

Travion Crutcher, head drum major of the AOB, who will be going to California for the first time, says he is looking forward to performing in the Rose Bowl, but also “experiencing Hollywood from up close.”

Tiara Thomas says the West Coast visit will be a major exposure for TSU. (Submitted photo)

“I am looking forward to experiencing in person what I see on TV shows and movies,” says Crutcher, a senior electrical engineering major from Huntsville, Alabama. “I am looking forward to embracing the culture in that part of the US.” 

Dr. Reginald McDonald, TSU’s director of bands, lamented the last-minute cancellation of the California visit last year, but is excited about the return, which he says aligns well with the 75th year of the existence of the AOB. 

“Like everybody else, I was extremely disappointed with us not being able to do the parade last year because of the pandemic, but at the same time I understood,” says McDonald, who announced “75 Years of Excellence” as the theme for the AOB’s anniversary.  

“In a perfect sense, us getting the opportunity to do it (the parade) this year actually aligns well with this very significant year of the AOB. This is the 75th year of the existence of the Tennessee State University AOB. The capstone performance of the anniversary will be the Tournament of Roses on January 1,” McDonald says, calling the appearance at the Rose Bowl a major recruitment tool.
 

AOB Lead Drum Major Travion Crutcher is looking forward to the Hollywood experience. (Submitted Photo)

About the invitation to perform for the Lakers, McDonald says while it is a challenge, it will be fun. “Whether it is the NFL, NBA or NHL, we have done it before.” 

Dr. Robert B. Miller, president and chairman of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, who visited TSU in 2020 to officially invite the AOB, returned to TSU recently to reaffirm the university’s invitation for the 2022 parade. 

“Only the best of the best are invited and the Aristocrat of Bands is one of them,” Miller said in 2020 when he first presented the band with the official tournament flag and invitation, at a ceremony in the Gentry Center Complex.

The band’s last practice, before leaving for their break and subsequently California, is Friday, Dec. 17.

For more information on the TSU Aristocrat of Bands, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/aristocratofbands/ 

Featured Photo Courtesy of DeShun Smith
TSU President Glenda Glover, along with university and band officials, receive the official Tournament of Roses flag during the halftime show of the 2021 Homecoming game at Nissan Stadium. From left, are Band Member Jordan Hampton; TSU Associate Vice President and Chief of Staff, Dr. Curtis Johnson; President Glover; President and Chairman of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Dr. Robert B. Miller; Director of Bands Dr. Reginald McDonald; and Band Member Rameek Nelson.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

COVID-19 Omicron variant poses ‘great concern,’ TSU public health expert says

NASHVILLE, TENN. (TSU News Service) – A Tennessee State University public health expert calls the COVID-19 omicron variant “one of great concern,” and is applauding the U.S. government’s quick response in imposing travel restrictions on people coming in from southern African, where the variant was first detected. The Biden administration is going even further by requiring all Americans entering the U.S. to be tested. 

Dr. Wendelyn Inman

Dr. Wendelyn Inman, an infectious disease expert and professor and director of the public health program in the College of Health Sciences, says she does not see the need for a shutdown or lockdown, but calls the measures “another layer of protection for the general public until we have a full understanding of the virus.” 

“It could be two or three weeks before we fully know how the new COVID-19 variant is transmitted between people and if it can cause more severe illness than other mutations of the virus,” says Inman, previously the chief of epidemiology for the State of Tennessee. “What we do know is that the symptoms are milder for healthy people and those that are immunized.” 

As of Friday, the U.S. had reported the omicron variant in five states. Minnesota, Colorado, New York and Hawaii confirmed new cases of the variant on Thursday. The first case was reported Wednesday in California. The infected person, a resident of San Francisco, had just returned from a trip to South Africa. 

With the virus already detected in over 25 countries, the U.S. government and other countries are restricting travel in the hope of keeping the virus from spreading. And, Inman and other scientists are urging the public to continue to adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation to get immunized, continue to wear masks, social distance, and wash hands. 

So far, the COVID-19 vaccines have proved to be highly effective in preventing hospitalization and death, with people who are unvaccinated 10 times more likely to be hospitalized if infected. And vaccine-makers are optimistic the current vaccines authorized for use in the U.S. will provide protection against omicron, too. 

“If you are immunized, it is not going to send you to the hospital or to the morgue,” says Inman, who worries that there are still vaccine skeptics in Tennessee, especially Middle Tennessee. “I am more concerned for people in areas where larger numbers of unimmunized people are working, living, and playing. Most people don’t grasp the concept until a family member or somebody they know dies. No one has to die before we take it seriously.” 

According to the CDC, more than 60 percent of Tennessee residents are fully vaccinated. 

At TSU, the university reports a high vaccination percentage among employees and students. More than 70 percent of full-time faculty and staff, as well as hundreds of students are vaccinated. As of Nov. 8, TSU officials say 74.5 percent, or roughly 920 faculty and staff, have had both vaccination shots. More than 2,300 students have presented proof of vaccination. 

“Tennessee State University has worked diligently to keep infections to a minimum,” says Dr. Curtis Johnson, TSU’s associate vice president and chief of staff. “We continue to enforce the guidelines we have in place to protect the health and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff, along with our visitors. We are grateful for the cooperation we have received from the TSU family. It is encouraging to see the results of our efforts, and it benefits our communities greatly.” 

For more information on TSU’s COVID-19 protocol, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/nanobio/COVID19.aspx 

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.

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

Top graduate, single mother motivated by striving to be the best for her young son

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When Dana Bonner received her degree at Tennessee State University’s Fall Commencement on Nov. 20, among those in the crowd cheering her on was her 3 1/2-year-old son, Aspen.

Graduating with a 4.0 GPA, Dana Bonner received her bachelor’s degree in psychology. (Submitted photo)

“It’s been a tough journey, caring for him while trying to keep a job, and balancing that with classwork,” said Bonner, an honor student who graduated with a 4.0 grade point average. “But as hard as it has been the goal has always been to do whatever it takes to complete my degree and try to secure a better future for us.” 

And Bonner is doing just that, building a future by trying to be at the top of her class. The Seattle native was among nearly 700 undergraduate and graduate students who received degrees at TSU’s graduation ceremony. Bonner got her bachelor’s degree in psychology. She plans to return to TSU to pursue her graduate degree. Her career goal is to become a sports psychologist. 

A transfer student, Bonner came to TSU in her sophomore year from Nashville State Community College, where she had majored in physical therapy. The demand of a physical therapy study was too overwhelming and prevented her from giving the necessary care and attention to Aspen whom she had had since her freshman year. Coming to TSU, she switched to psychology, and says that’s the best decision she made. 

“I started my college career with a young child, and I have been a single mother all the way,” she said. “So, I had to learn how to navigate between being a good student and being a mother to my child. Being a single mother is hard enough, and to put school on top of it, and then you throw in having to work is extremely tough.” 

While coping has been tough, Bonner said she is thankful for family support. Nine years ago, mom, dad and sisters moved to Nashville. That transition has helped with raising Aspen. 

“Thankfully, I did have their help, but a lot of time I felt like it was my responsibility to take care of my child. Although I had their help, I tried to take on as much as I could,” she said. 

This balancing act and remaining a top student have not gone unnoticed by Bonner’s professors, who see the young mother as an example of “sheer determination to succeed no matter the odds.” 

Dr. Keisa Kelly, professor and chair of the Department of Psychology, said Bonner’s determination is no surprise. 

“When Dana transferred to TSU, she immediately stood out to me as someone with a purpose,” said Kelly. “With the support of a loving family, Dana overcame difficult challenges as a young adult, and entered TSU with the determination to use her intellect, empathy, resilience, and psychology degree to help others. I am so thrilled to learn that Dana intends to stay with the TSU psychology department to earn her Master’s in Psychology, and it is my hope that she will also complete her doctorate in our APA-accredited Ph.D. program in counseling psychology.” 

Despite her mounting responsibilities, Bonner maintains a full college life, including extracurricular activities. This past year, she was selected for the Scholarly Trainees Acquiring Research Skills program at the University of Tennessee, serving as a research assistant in their psychology department and participating in professional develop opportunities. She is a member of Golden Key International Honor Society, and Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society. She coaches high school and club volleyball and is a youth leader in her church. 

“I want my son to know that everything that we have now, I worked so hard so we could have this life, so we could enjoy the things that I know we are going to have,” she said. “I want my child to know what it is like to work hard. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. There is a lot of humility in working hard.”

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.

EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, RESEARCH, Research and Sponsored Programs, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

TSU, UCOR partnership to spur engineering students’ interest in environmental management

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has entered a partnership with UCOR, a leading cleanup contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Reservation, to spur student interest in environmental management opportunities. The goal is to help build a pipeline of qualified candidates for ongoing environmental management work at Oak Ridge and DOE facilities elsewhere.  

President Glenda Glover receives a check for $25,000 from officials of UCOR to help fund education and training for engineers. In the photo are, from left, Ken Rueter, UCOR President and CEO; Dr. Glover; Sonya Johnson, UCOR Communications, Community, Diversity, and Workforce Development Programs Manager; and Joe Aylor, UCOR Chief of Staff. (Photo by DeShun Smith)

On Nov. 10, UCOR presented TSU with a $25,000 donation to help fund education and training for engineers.  Earlier in the week, representatives from UCOR spoke to students in TSU’s College of Engineering and gave them an overview on Oak Ridge’s environmental management program and career opportunities at UCOR.  

“Tennessee State University is grateful to UCOR for this new partnership, and for their generous donation to our College of Engineering,” TSU President Glenda Glover said.  “Our students will have access to Oak Ridge environmental management experts and opportunities for internships and career growth in this exciting field.”  

Dr. Glover added that through the partnership, UCOR will be connected with TSU’s diverse population of talented students who are involved in cutting-edge research and are taught to be problem solvers and critical thinkers.  

Norel McAdoo, a senior civil engineering major, attended the UCOR presentation at TSU. (Submitted photo)

Ken Rueter, UCOR president and CEO, said, “These partnership agreements continue to enhance our outreach efforts and expanding employment opportunities in environmental cleanup at nuclear facilities like the Y-12 National Nuclear Complex and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. HBCUs are a rich resource for qualified professionals in engineering, environmental science and other disciplines we depend on for mission success.”

Under a Memorandum of Understanding between UCOR and TSU, the partners will work together to identify research, training, and education opportunities and to promote internships and mentoring that enrich the educational experiences of participating students.   

Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, dean of the TSU College of Engineering, called the partnership “a great investment” in the university’s environmental engineering program.  

“This partnership will help support students with experience, engage our faculty through research, and facilitate career pathways for our graduates to Oak Ridge and DOE operations,” Hargrove said.  

Norel McAdoo, a senior civil engineering major, is one of the students who attended the UCOR presentation at TSU. 

“I think this a great opportunity for our engineering program,” said McAdoo, of Little Rock, Arkansas. “During their (UCOR) workshop they gave us ideas for potential projects that we can do at the College of Engineering. I also feel they will be a great resource to help students solidify what they want to do after they graduate.”  

For more information on TSU’s College of Engineering, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/engineering/moreaboutus.aspx 

FEATURED PHOTO
TSU President Glenda Glover, right, along with university representatives, holds discussion with UCOR officials in her office. Pictured are Ken Rueter, UCOR President and CEO, left; Dr. Glover; Joe Aylor, UCOR Chief of Staff; Iris Ramey, TSU’s Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations; and John Barfield, Director of Engagement and Visibility for Research and Sponsored Programs. (Photo by DeShun Smith)

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.

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

Congresswoman Nikema Williams to deliver TSU’s fall commencement address Nov. 20

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – U.S. Congresswoman Nikema Williams (D-Ga.) will be the commencement speaker when Tennessee State University holds its fall graduation ceremony on Nov. 20. More than 700 undergraduate and graduate students will receive degrees in various disciplines.

The commencement will be held in hybrid format with the live ceremony in the Gentry Complex, where U.S. Rep. Williams will address the graduates. University officials say COVID-19 guidelines will be followed, including the wearing of masks, social distancing, as well as encouraging all adults to be fully vaccinated. Additionally, each student will receive only five invitations for family members and friends, to avoid overcrowding.

“Giving the current challenging condition brought on by the pandemic, we are taking every precaution to ensure that the ceremony is conducted safely,” says Dr. Curtis Johnson, associate vice president and chair of the graduation committee.  “We are limiting the facility capacity to between 60-70 percent, and encouraging family members and invited guests to sit together.”

TSU reportedly has one of the lowest virus infection rates and one of the highest vaccination rates when compared to other Tennessee universities.

Williams, who represents Georgia’s 5th congressional district in the House of Representation, is in her first term and serves as president of the freshman class of the 117th Congress. A former state senator, union member, and special needs educator, Williams has been a fierce advocate for social justice, women and families throughout her political and professional career.

The lawmaker “always centers” the voices of the marginalized and how “women and people of color continue to fight for racial and social justice in our country.” In Congress, she serves on the House Financial Services, and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees, as well as the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress. She has membership in several caucuses, including the Congressional Black Caucus, Democratic Women’s Caucus, Congressional Progressive Caucus, Voting Rights Caucus, LBGTQ+ Equality Caucus, and the HBCU Caucus.

Congresswoman Williams has been recognized as one of Georgia Trend magazine’s 100 Most Influential Georgians, Forty under Forty, Power 30 Under 30, Outstanding Atlanta, and Who’s Who in Black Atlanta. Born in Columbus, Georgia, Williams attended Talladega College where she was initiated into Chi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

The commencement, to begin at 9 a.m., will be live streamed for those who cannot attend in person. The stream link will be announced later. For more information on Fall Commencement, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/records/commencement/

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.

EVENTS, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Crowning of new Mr. and Miss Tennessee State University continues Homecoming tradition

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – After a virtual event last year due to the pandemic, the Mister and Miss TSU coronation returned live Wednesday with the crowning of the new Tennessee State University king and queen. Mark Timothy Davis, Jr., and Mallory Rian Moore were invested during an elaborate ceremony in Kean Hall, as part of the 2021 Homecoming festivities. 

President Glenda Glover congratulates the new Mr. TSU Mr. Mark Davis, and Miss TSU Mallory More. (Photo by Daniel Adkins)

Hundreds of people — including parents, relatives, friends, and fellow students — packed a jubilant Kean Hall to witness the coronation of the two students and their court. 

TSU President Glenda Glover congratulated the new king and queen after giving them the oath of office. Frank Stevenson, associate vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students, followed the president. He charged the two students to take their roles seriously. 

“It is my pleasure to charge the new king and queen and this royal court with the expectations of this office,” Stevenson said. “You must lead with integrity and help enhance student experiences in the Land of Golden Sunshine. You are charged as the first historic pandemic transition from quarantine to excellence as king and queen. You must always act with love and respect for each other.” 

Miss TSU 2021-22 Mallory Moore is a senior health sciences major from Birmingham, Alabama. (Photo by Daniel Adkins)

 Davis, a senior mass communications major from Cincinnati, plans to help male students develop into men with good character traits that others can emulate. With a five-point plan focused on sexual assault awareness, mental health, campus engagement, creating a definition of what a man is, and embracing your difference, Davis’ goal is to change the stereotypical view people have of “our young males” because of the way many carry themselves. 

“We must try to change the way the world looks at our students, especially the black males, and TSU is doing a very good job in that area,” says Davis.

The new Mister TSU Mark T. Davis, Jr. is a senior majoring in mass communications. He is from Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Daniel Adkins)

After graduation, Davis plans to pursue a master’s degree in psychology. His career goals are to become a director of student activities at TSU, and ultimately manage artists, and be the CEO of his own record label. 

Moore, who becomes the 92nd Miss TSU, is from Birmingham, Alabama. She is a senior health sciences major. She wants to use her position to implement a program built around mentorship and providing opportunities for fellow students.  

Escorting Little Miss TSU Aset Dolorne Seaton-Terry is Little Mister TSU Connor Alexander Bean. Aset is the daughter of Antonio and Aleshia Seaton-Terry. Connor is the son of Dr. Andre Bean and Dr. Keisha Bean. (Photo by Daniel Adkins)

“I want to do a mentorship initiative because I know for me coming in as a freshman, I didn’t have that and it made things a lot difficult for me,” says Moore. “I don’t want other students to face those difficulties. So, I want to create this program for the freshmen, and I am including the sophomores because the sophomore class didn’t get one because they were home due to the pandemic.”  

In addition to being Miss TSU, Moore is active in many campus organizations and programs. For two years, she served on the university’s cheerleading team. She is a member of the TSU choir, and the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success. She was initiated into Chi Psi chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity Incorporated, Alpha Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, and Order of Omega National Honor Society for Greek Leaders. Moore’s career goal is to become an occupational therapist. 

Members of the new Royal Court:

Mister Senior – Shaun Anderson
Miss Senior – Destiny Pennington 


Mister Junior – Tre’veon Hayes
Miss Junior – Sa’Mariah Harding 


Mister Sophomore – Alex Brooks
Miss Sophomore – Anasia Strickland 


Mister Freshman – Gary Richardson
Miss Freshman – Brookly Gordon 

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.

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

TSU Students, officials bury COVID-19 pandemic in time capsule, to be unearthed in 2041

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – A TSU-inscribed face mask, a letter from the university president, and a Homecoming banner were among items recently laid to rest in a time capsule to remind those who open it 20 years from now of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

President Glover, Associate VP Frank Stevenson and student leaders bury the time capsule on the main campus. From left, are Mr. TSU Mark T. Davis, Jr.; Miss TSU Mallory Moore; SGA VP Jevaria Jefferson; SGA President Derrick Sanders; Dr. Glover; Tiara Thomas, Student Trustee; and Stevenson. (Photo by Andre Bean)

President Glenda Glover, along with student leaders and university officials, buried the time capsule during a lively, socially-distanced ceremony on the main campus on Oct. 26. It will be unearthed in 2041. Tiara Thomas, Student Trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, conceived the idea for the capsule. She said it will tell future students about what it was like to live during COVID-19. 

“The time capsule is to make sure people know and have our firsthand account of how we dealt with this moment,” said Thomas, to a loud cheer from the crowd, including the Aristocrat of Bands, that provided entertainment. Her presentation was in the form of a letter to fellow students summarizing the events of the time. 

President Glover places an envelope in the time capsule containing a letter, a mask and an AKA pouch. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“There are going to be so many people writing history books, making documentaries, but we want to leave something that tells our story, to make sure it is as true and accurate as possible,” Thomas added. “We have been through so much and so many stories to be told from so many angles, and I just want to make sure we capitalize on that moment because, indeed, we are history makers.” 

Like many students at the ceremony, Terrian Jefferson and Kershaun Barksdale agreed with Thomas.

Tiara Thomas, Student Trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, conceived the idea for the time capsule. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“This means a lot to me because future students can actually see what we dealt with in today’s time,” said Jefferson, a junior health sciences major from Memphis, Tennessee. “And for even those of us here today, this will remind us that this really did happen.” 

Barksdale, a psychology major from Holly Springs, Mississippi, added: “I feel like this burial is necessary because it puts us in a unique position to be able to accurately tell the story of what took place during this time.” 

Besides the mask and students’ messages, the time capsule contains a banner from the AOB, an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. pouch from Dr. Glover, who is also international president of the sorority, press releases, news articles, and memorabilia from the Black Lives Matter Movement, among others. Tuesday’s event also marked TSU’s weeklong 2021 Homecoming, which kicked off Sunday with a gospel explosion. 

AOB Drum Major Travion Crutcher places a banner from the marching band in the time capsule. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Frank Stevenson, associate vice president of Student Affairs and dean of students, thanked President Glover for her leadership, Thomas for her foresight in conceiving the idea for the time capsule, and the campus family for their support. 

“As we bury this time capsule, let’s celebrate the brilliant leadership of President Glover during this pandemic; she was very intentional, and she required that out of all of her staff,” Stevenson said. “During the pandemic, we were left in the care of 2,200 students who stayed on our campus. We were the frontline workers. While other personnel were working from home, we had to be intentional about our presence. From our police department, health services to our residence hall staff, we were here, and we did it and we are excited to make this moment.”   

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

TSU President Glenda Glover nominated for 2021 inclusive leader award

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – TSU President Glenda Glover is a nominee for the GlobalMindED 2021Inclusive Leader Awards. Glover is among leaders from across 15 industry sectors nominated for this year’s awards. Winners will be announced virtually on Nov. 3.

President Glenda Glover

The awards recognize the “most inclusive” leaders in key industries for their innovations and bold actions to promote access and equity for women, people of color, and underrepresented populations in their recruiting, development, and in their pipeline strategies from education to employment.

“I am delighted and honored to be nominated for this prestigious award, along with other distinguished leaders who are impacting our world in very positive ways,” Dr. Glover said. “GlobalMindED’s work to close the equity gap by creating a capable, diverse talent pipeline with programs for students from the least resourced background is highly commendable.”

According to its webpage, GlobalMindED serves low-income students, returning adults seeking badges/credentials, First Gen to college and inclusive leaders who teach them, work with them and hire them. The organization’s goal is to reach 25,000,000 First Gen college students, graduates, those who work with them and those who want to hire them algorithmically connected to role models, mentors, internships and jobs. 

Students and the general public are invited to attend the awards ceremony on Nov. 3, beginning at 5 p.m. Central/6 p.m. Eastern. To attend you must register at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wcSRBKoARb-5d75rLrp8yw

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with 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.