All posts by Emmanuel Freeman

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TSU anticipates hundreds of new students following first freshman orientation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Nearly 150 first-time freshmen recently attended orientation to learn more about the “Land of Golden Sunshine.” The May 19 orientation was the first of several sessions Tennessee State University will hold to introduce new, incoming, and transfer students to campus academics and life at the university.  Financial aid information, career development opportunities, student activities, disability services, and student conduct were among some of the areas available to provide information to students and their parents.

President Glenda Glover welcomes students and families to the first of several new student orientations in Kean Hall. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

“Welcome to Tennessee State University. I am glad you have chosen TSU for your college careers,” TSU President Glenda Glover told the gathering in Kean Hall on the main campus. “You join students and alumni who have gone on to be trail blazers. I was here at TSU and sat in these same seats in which you are sitting today. My charge to you is to be diligent, pursue excellence, be your best and do your best. You will enjoy being a student here, you will study, you will learn, you will excel. We will help you to be the best and to be successful.”

Rheagan Reid, from Charlotte, North Carolina, who plans to major in biology, and Elijah Ware, a commercial music major from Nashville, and their parents, were among the first who arrived for the orientation. They were moved by the president’s message.

Reagan Reid, with her father, Nate, left, and mom Cheyenne, right, said she was drawn to TSU because of the school’s family atmosphere. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“She made me feel very comfortable,” said Reid, a graduating senior from Merancas Middle College High School in Huntersville, North Carolina, who said she was drawn to TSU because of its “family” atmosphere. “The first time I visited TSU I immediately fell in love with the school. I love their programs. I am ready to leave home and TSU is where I want to be.”

For Ware, he is coming to TSU on a full ride scholarship and plans to be a part of the university’s Air Force ROTC program. He was enlisted in the program in 2022 and will be going to basic training on May 31.

Elijah Ware, who’s coming to TSU as part of the Air Force ROTC program, gets advice on course selection from Terrance Felker, Academic Enrichment Programs Coordinator and Advisor. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“I have always heard about this school. I come to homecoming and always enjoy myself and I am looking forward to what I can learn here to prepare me for my future,” said Ware. “Before I got my scholarship to come to TSU, they (Air Force) came to my school and talked to me about the military. So, I enlisted, and I have been going to the training since. I want to know all I can about the military while I am here TSU and see where that takes me.”

Terrance Izzard, associate vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Success, said orientation is intended to give students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with available resources, individuals, departments, programs, and activities that will help them in their college careers. On stage with him were individuals representing Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, First-Year Experience, and Admissions and Recruitment, among others.

Terrance Izzard, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, and scholarship coordinators, left, discuss funding opportunities with students and parents. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

“TSU is a family,” he said. “I want you to be very attentive. While you are here today, the people you see here today are the people who will help you along your journey while you are at TSU. So, when it comes to your classrooms, faculty members or anything that deals with your programs of study, even unto graduation, these are the people who will guide you. You will get to build relationship. It’s all about building relationships.”

Following a joint and then separate student and parent assemblies in Kean Hall, the two groups were escorted by student ambassadors on tours across campus, culminating with an “AMA (Ask Me Anything) Session” in various locations, where individuals received one-on-one interactions with academic advisors, deans, program leaders to get answers to questions that they may not have had the time to address in the group sessions.”

Isabelle Langham, Director of Advisement and Student Transition, speaks to a new freshman and her mother during a one-on-one meeting at the AMA session in the Health Sciences Building. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Among many key areas of concern at the AMA was academic advising – making sure students make the right decision when it came to course selection. Officials said before Friday’s orientation, a lot of proactive efforts had been made to prepare students to be ready by the start of class. For instance, since early April, the Office of Student Success has been hosting in-person and virtual sessions with parents and students to get them better prepared.

“And so, the nature of our (AMA) meeting today was to give feedback, allow parents and students to ask questions, answer some of those questions that may not be clear from those virtual sessions,” said Isabelle Langham, director of Advisement and Student Transitions. “Today’s efforts were easier because of the proactive efforts we have made. I think that we are definitely headed in the right direction in making sure that they (students) are ready before Day 1.”

Undradge Jamison, an incoming architectural engineering major, says he plans to engage in competitive gaming at TSU. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Another major attraction at Friday’s AMA session was a display by the university’s award-winning Academic eSports and Smart Technology Center,  which set up video games and robotics for gamers and other enthusiasts, in the new Health Sciences Building, to the excitement of visiting students and parents.

“This is super exciting,” said Undradge Jamison, an incoming architectural engineering major, from Stewart Creek High School in Smyrna, Tennessee. “I have not gamed competitively in the past, but I think TSU is giving me the chance to do just that.”

Few visiting parents and new students test their skills at virtual reality gaming, at the eSports display. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

In November, a program developed by the university using 5G technology to recruit and retain underserved students in the STEM field, won first place in the inaugural T-Mobile “Unconventional” Awards for innovation in customer experience, in Nevada, Las Vegas. 

The next orientation, for transfer students, is scheduled for May 26, also kicking off in Kean Hall.

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U.S. lawmaker urges TSU graduates to help protect democracy and give back

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – United States Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, the man who led the congressional investigation into the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, told Tennessee State University graduate school candidates to be aware of forces that are trying to change the course of democracy in the country by twisting facts and reality to suit their personal agendas.

President Glenda Glover and U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson lead the procession at the spring graduate commencement in the Gentry Center Complex. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Before Congressman Thompson’s address in the Howard C. Gentry Complex, TSU President Glenda Glover congratulated the graduates, parents, relatives, and friends for their support. 

“I applaud you for having reached this milestone,” said Glover. “Today is only a steppingstone. We thank you. We salute you.”

 Thompson, a civil rights champion, who represents Mississippi’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, was the keynote speaker at TSU’s graduate commencement. 

 Now serving his 15th term in Congress, Thompson reminded the graduates to make the best of their education and remember to give back to their institution to ensure its continued growth and success.

More than 200 graduate students received advance degrees in various disciplines. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

 “So, for this institution and other historically black colleges and universities to survive in these turbulent times, you are going to have to support it,” he said. “Some of you will become doctors, lawyers, or whatever, but unless you understand what you are faced with right now and what you need to do in this country it is all for naught, because if graduates don’t come back and help, these institutions are in trouble.”

Marque Griggs, who received his Ph.D. in psychology, took Thompson’s message to heart.

Marque Griggs, who received his Ph.D. in psychology, says there are no shortcuts in working for equality. (Photo by Ramona Whitworth)

 “The Hon. Bennie Thompson spoke truth to power and did not mince words,” said Griggs, of Fort Valley, Georgia. “He reminded me of the work in my respective field that I do and must continue to do. There are no shortcuts in working for equality and equity for HBCUs and minority spaces.”

 Gwendolyn Berry, a two-time Olympian, who received her master’s degree in public health, referred to Thompson as a “good fighter.” The St. Louis, Missouri, native is an American track and field athlete who specializes in the hammer throw. Her mark of 77.78 meter on June 8, 2018, ranks her #7 on the all-time list. She also holds the world record in the weight throw with a mark of 25.60-meter set in March 2017. 

 Friday was her first time marching in a graduation ceremony. From high school to college, her athletic commitment each time has not permitted to take part in previous ceremonies.

Gwendolyn Berry referred to Congressman Thompson as a “good fighter.” Photo by Ramona Whitworth)

“This is my first time marching, and I am excited that my family is here with me,” Berry said.

 “Congressman Thompson is about a good fight and that is what he demonstrated in his speech. Although people don’t want to hear it, but it is always going to prevail because the people always prevail.”

 For two years, Thompson led a bipartisan committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the facts, circumstances, and causes of the attack, and to ensure that it never occurs again.

 “In that work, we outlined the dangerous symptoms that we have in this country when people tell things that are not true and repeated it often enough to sometime people believe that it is true,” Thompson told the graduates. “Some people even say what you saw on January 6th really didn’t happen. By obtaining your advance degrees, I compliment you on making sure that you understand the realities of what’s happening in our country.”

Following his address, President Glover conferred the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters on Rep. Thompson. More than 200 graduates received advance degrees in various disciplines.

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TSU’s Oprah Winfrey inspires students with powerful commencement address

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Oprah! Oprah! Oprah! That was the deafening chant that permeated the 12,000-seat Hale Stadium on Saturday, as Oprah Winfrey, Tennessee State University’s most famous alumnus made her triumphant return to her alma mater as the spring undergraduate commencement speaker. The throng of exciting fans poured onto the field trying to touch, get a glimpse of Winfrey or take selfies with the former student who has gone onto to gain fame as a global media leader, philanthropist, producer, actress and author. Oprah’s speech later did not disappoint either, as many jubilant graduates, parents, alumni, and others spoke about being inspired by one of the most respected and admired figures in the world.

Lauren Graves, who graduated with honors, carries the banner for her college at the spring undergraduate commencement. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

TSU President Glenda Glover, at end of Winfrey’s speech, conferred on her the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, as a mark of respect and honor from her university.

“Oprah is really here at my graduation, wow! This is the most exciting moment of my life,” said Lauren Graves, of Louisville, Kentucky, who received her degree in social work. “I think it is awesome to be able to see someone as successful as Oprah come back and celebrate and inspire the next generation of successful individuals. It was an honor to be able to see her today, and to know that I am part of an alumni that include her.”

Kenneth Rolle II, outgoing president of the Student Government Association and urban studies major, couldn’t hold his excitement.

Kenneth Rolle II says he is inspired by Oprah’s accomplishment and can’t wait to follow in her footstep. (photo by Aaron Grayson)

“I am motivated and inspired,” he said. “Dr. Winfrey just gave a great motivational speech about moving forward and how not to let obstacles get in our way. She gave her testimony about the obstacles she faced at TSU and how she was able to overcome them. I am very blessed to be able to follow in her footstep being a TSU alum. I can’t wait to have similar impact on the world post-graduation.”

“This has been a long time coming and to top it with Oprah, is mind blowing,” added Jada Carter, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who received her degree in accounting. “I am very excited. This feels so unreal. I love to see Oprah. She is very influential. I really look up to her. She is a very phenomenal individual. She gave an outstanding commencement speech.”

Jada Carter’s parents, mother Viola, left, and dad Henry, say bringing back Oprah as their daughter’s graduation speaker was an added motivation. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Jada’s parents, father Henry, and mom Viola, made the long trek from Milwaukee to see their daughter walk across the stage, but knowing that Oprah would be the speaker was an extra motivation, they said.

“Tennessee State has been an incredible opportunity for our daughter and bringing back Oprah as the speaker for ger graduation, is incredible and awesome,” said Viola Carter. “It is amazing that she shows the students how many opportunities are available to them. This lets our children know the greatness that they can become.”

Regina Rogers says she will apply Oprah’s speech to her life. (photo by Aaron Grayson)

“Oprah’s commencement speech was inspiring and one that will help guide us to our next level of life,” added Regina Rogers, of Nashville. She earned her degree in arts and science. “I really love her speech. I am going to take her speech and apply it to my life from here on.”

More than 600 undergraduates received degrees in various disciplines. Watch the commencement ceremony from on the TSU YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/live/vJEbMmyKG5U?feature=share.

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Promise of new jobs, Oprah Winfrey perfect ending for TSU’s spring graduates

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When Darius Boyd dons his cap and gown at TSU’s spring commencement on Saturday, he will receive his bachelor’s degree in business information systems with an extra level of hope and satisfaction. That’s because Boyd will hear inspiring words from TSU’s most famous alumnus, Oprah Winfrey, and have a job waiting on him once he crosses the stage. His early employment is also an indication of the bright jobs market many experts predict for 2023 college graduates. 

Darius Boyd is expected to receive a starting salary of about $90,000 as a business analyst at Bank of America.

“I am very excited to have a job waiting for me right out of college,” says Boyd, who has been hired as a business analyst in the technology department at Bank of America. “I am excited and blessed to have the opportunity to have the skill set to work at a company such as Band of America, and to have Ms. Oprah Winfrey as my commencement speaker to end my college career at TSU is mind-blowing.”  

Boyd is not alone with a job waiting and excitement as he awaits the ceremony. He is one of six yet to receive their degrees out of the spring graduating class who have already been hired by BOA in high-paying positions, with salaries ranging from $75,000-$95,000 and a guaranteed $10,000 signing bonus each. But that’s not all. Many others from the class of 2023, from internships, co-ops to fulltime employment, have jobs lined up. 

Jackson Tyler Houston received his job offer as a consultant at CGI at the end of his internship.

Jackson Tyler Houston, of Brentwood, Tennessee, who will receive his bachelor’s degree in computer science, has a job offer waiting for him at CGI (Consultants in Management and Information Technology), one of the largest IT and business consulting firms in the world. He’s being hired as a consultant. 

“It is fantastic leaving college with a send-off from the one and only Oprah Winfrey and having a job lined,” says Houston.  “I can’t wait to hear her messages, but to have a job already was a huge relief off my shoulders going into my final semester and not have to worry about finding an employment.” 

Houston, who interned with CGI up to his senior year of college, received an offer after he finished the program and credits TSU for the early employment. 

Angela Davis, Assistant Director of the Career Development Center, says the center uses different platforms to connect students with employers. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

“I must thank TSU and my professors who gave me the opportunity to pursue the job in the first place,” he says.

While many analysts see a booming jobs market for 2023 college graduates, at TSU, students credit their success to rigorous classroom and field training, passionate professors, and a Career Development Center that is focused on preparing and exposing students to available opportunities. 

Angela Davis, assistant director of the CDC, says in addition to career fairs, training and other events, the department utilizes different job search platforms such as Handshake to connect employers with students. 

“We cover topics such as resume preparation, creating a brand, preparing for the interview, soft skills in the workplace, how to navigate a career fair, as well as opportunities that are available within those companies,” says Davis.  

Jada Carter, who is receiving her degree in accounting, will work with Bank of America as an enterprise risk credit analyst.

“We also hold Table-Top sessions throughout the semester.  Each event provides students the opportunity to engage with employers for employment opportunities.” 

Overall, TSU students graduating this year are in a good mix when it comes to hiring. A study published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers shows that employers are looking to hire more 2023 graduates than in 2022. Another NAEC survey released just recently, shows that undergraduates are receiving an average of 1.14 job offers before graduation. 

“This has been a long four years, but with a very exciting ending,” says Jada Carter, also eluding Winfrey and secured employment.

“I am ready to get out in the world and represent TSU because they have done a lot for me,” adds Carter. The Milwaukee native is also going to work for BOA as an enterprise risk credit analyst. 

“The Career Development Center has been very helpful. I have worked very closely with them in the last four years. This helped me to build professional relationships with recruiters and business partners. I’m leaving TSU on the right track, with a job and the best commencement speaker you could hope for, and a fellow TSU graduate.” 

Carter, and Boyd of Memphis, Tennessee, will be assigned at the BOA headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina. They will be among more than 800 undergraduate and graduate students who will receive degrees at the 2023 spring commencement. 

Spring 2023 commencement 

Tennessee State University alumna Oprah Winfrey is coming home to headline TSU’s Spring Commencement as the keynote speaker for the undergraduate Commencement on Saturday, May 6 at 8 a.m. CDT, in Hale Stadium. Due to demand, security and safety protocols, this is a ticketed event. The undergraduate ceremony will be moved to the Gentry Center Complex in case of rain. United States Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Miss-Second District, will address graduate students at an indoor ceremony on Friday, May 5 at 5 p.m. CDT, in the Gentry Center. Both commencement ceremonies will be live streamed from the TSU YouTube Channel, www.tnstate.edu/livestream. 


For more information on TSU 2023 Spring Commencement and full bios on Ms. Winfrey and Congressman Thompson, visit www.tnstate.edu/commencement.

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TSU’s New Direction Choir kicks off busy year with sight on winning top gospel competition

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University New Direction Gospel Choir is gearing up for another exciting and eventful itinerary filled with performances and competitions. With a reputation as one of the world’s leading gospel choirs, the group is already in high spirits and eagerly preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead. 

State Rep. Torrey Harris (D-District 19), left, reads a proclamation from the Tennessee General Assembly to New Direction in recognition of the group’s outstanding contribution to the arts. Receiving the proclamation are New Direction President Kendrick Noel, right, and Director Justin Butler. (Photo by John Cooper)

Last week, the award-winning choir capped off an eventful April with its Annual Spring Concert at the Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church in Nashville. Gospel great Kevin Davidson, of the contemporary gospel choir Kevin Davidson and the Voices, was the host of the packed evening of fellowship, singing, and entertainment. It featured the sensational Josh Bracy and Power Anointed.

On April 5, New Direction kicked off the month with an appearance at the Mr. Crimson Pageant on campus, sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta, where the choir sang its version of “My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord.” That event followed the group’s participation in the Good Friday Service on April 7 at Bridgestone Arena, featuring Christian music star Chris Tomlin.

Kevin Davidson, of the contemporary gospel choir Kevin Davidson and the Voices, was the guest host for the evening. (Photo by John Cooper)

“This is just the tip of the iceberg,” says Justin Butler, director of New Direction, about the series of events and performances leading up to this year’s How Sweet the Sound Choir Competition in Atlanta on June 3, where the group hopes to take the top prize since its first runner-up appearance in 2013.

“We are super, super excited about being there and representing Tennessee State University,” says Butler. “Hopefully, we can walk away with the first-place prize. We believe we are going to win. This year we are looking to do one better and come home with that prize.”

Tenor Reginald McCollum, a senior who has been with the choir since his sophomore year, is just as optimistic about TSU’s chances at the competition. “It is very exciting to know we are actually going to be competing in How Sweet the Sound,” says the psychology major from New York. “To be able to go against so many wonderful choirs is a challenge we are ready for because we put in the time, we are very dedicated to our work and to our craft and what we sing.”

The sensational Josh Bracy and Power Anointed was the featured choir at the concert. (Photo by JohnCooper)

Considered as one of America’s top gospel choir competitions, How Sweet the Sound features large and small choirs, solo performances, spoken word, and dance. TSU will go against some big-name groups in the large choir category, including Anthony Sutton and Fresh Wind from Raleigh, North Carolina, and Nashville Community Gospel Choir. Featured guests will include Hezekiah Walker, J.J. Hairston, Tamela Mann, and Donald Lawrence.

Now in its 26th year, New Direction Gospel Choir is comprised mainly of TSU students and university staff as advisers, serving as a platform for students from all disciplines who are interested in improving their choral and musical talent. The group has been distinguished as an “outstanding group among gospel choirs” around the country and the world, with awards and other recognitions.

In 2011, the group won first place in the Fourth Annual National Black Collegiate Alumni Hall of Fame Gospel Choir Competition in Atlanta. Four years later, in 2015, New Direction was voted the “Nation’s Best Gospel Choir” at the National College Choir Explosion in Louisville, Kentucky. In 2018, they spent 31 days touring and performing in different cities across Europe, including an appearance in the Vatican, where they met and performed for the Pope. The following year, the choir was featured on BET’s hit show “Sunday Best,” a reality television gospel music singing competition series.

Terrance Izzard, an adviser with the group and TSU’s Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, describes the New Direction Gospel Choir as a phenomenal group of performers who serve as university ambassadors. 

“Through their talent and dedication, they help us recruit and retain the best and brightest students from across the country,” says Izzard.  “They deserve all the accolades and recognitions. They work very hard, put in the time, and are always striving to be the best. This year, I have no doubt that they could walk away with the top prize at How Sweet the Sound.”

“To be a part of this group is still like a dream, and I cherish every moment I have been a part of them,” adds McCollum, who graduates this May. “People know you everywhere, no matter where you go, they know who you are and how you sound. I love this choir because it is such a unique group. I will miss them.”

For those interested in learning more about New Direction or how to become a member, inquiries can be sent to [email protected].

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Hundreds of Students TSU bound following Spring Preview Day


NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Spring Preview Day 2023 was a blast! Tennessee State University’s premier open house for prospective students this year brought together nearly 2,000 high school seniors and juniors and their families from across the nation to view and get information about the university’s offerings and programs. At the packed, all-day event in Kean Hall on Saturday, the visitors interacted with academic and financial aid advisors, as well as deans and chairs, who set up displays and exhibits from their various colleges and departments. Current student leaders were also on hand to tell the prospective newcomers about the benefit of a TSU education.

TSU President Glenda Glover welcomes students and their families to Spring Preview Day 2023 in Kean Hall. (Photo by John Cooper)

Amari Johnson, a senior with a 4.32 grade point average from Greenwood High Schools in Greenwood, Mississippi; and Undradge Jamison, from Stewart Creek High School in Smyrna, Tennessee, were among the first to check out the displays in Kean Hall and have made up their minds. They are coming to TSU. Johnson is interested in biology with a pre-med focus, while Jamison wants to major in architectural engineering.

“I love dancing. So, when I was younger, I followed the (TSU) Sophisticated Ladies,” said Johnson, who has set her eyes on the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute, a pathway program with Meharry Medical College for students interested in medicine and dentistry.

Amari Johnson, middle, came to Spring Preview Day with her mom, Tamnral Johnson, left, and dad, Cary Weaver. (Photo by John Cooper)

“Over the years I found out a lot of things about the school and its programs, and Ms. (Barbara) Murrell reached out to me about the institute, since I was interested in becoming a surgeon and majoring in biology.” Johnson will not be dancing at TSU.

For Jamison, who has a 4.0 GPA, coming to TSU fulfills a dream. He wants to follow in the footsteps of his family. His father, mother and several aunts and uncles came to TSU. His older brother, a sophomore, is a member of the Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands.

Undradge Jamison, left, is fulfilling a dream to attend TSU. His mom, Kinya Jamison, and a long line of relatives came to TSU. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

“This school has a great impact on my family. Besides, they have a great engineering program,” said Jamison. “My mind is made up. This is where I want to be.”

Earlier at the kickoff ceremony for Spring Preview Day, TSU President Glenda Glover, greeted participants and reminded prospective students about the outstanding programs at the university.

“Welcome to Tennessee State University,” President Glover said. “As you decide to become official TSU Tigers, know that this is the right place to start your journey toward success. We have great academic programs; we are the home to the two-time Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands. We have outstanding athletics programs and student life. As a TSU alum myself, I am committed to your success. We have people who will care for you while you are here. At TSU, you will meet great friends, faculty, and you will grow to become great scholars.”

Prospective students talk to academic advisors about future course selection, at Spring Preview. (photo by John Cooper)

Terrance Izzard, associate vice president of Enrollment Management and Student Success, added that Spring Preview Day is intended to give prospective Tigers and their parents a chance to experience for themselves what makes TSU the place to be.

“Today you get the fantastic opportunity to see a showcase of our remarkable programs, resources and services that make our university truly exceptional,” Izzard said. “Like President Glover said, you will meet outstanding faculty members, and advisors who will tell you about our offerings, scholarships, other programs, and the benefit of a TSU education. You will meet and talk with current students about their own journeys, campus culture and the learning environment that has helped them to be successful.”

Terrance Izzard, left, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, welcomes the Ward family, who just relocated to Nashville from New York. Pictured are: Karina (mom), Kaitlyn (coming to major in biology), Keith Jr. (brother), Kai (sister, and Keith Sr. (dad). Photo by John Cooper)

Keith Ward and his wife Karina, of New York, who recently moved their family to Nashville, like TSU and think the university is a “good fit” for their daughter Kaitlyn, who wants to major in biology.

“We are very excited for her and the choice she has made to come to TSU,” Keith said. Kaitlyn, an academic standout from West Creek High School in New York, who wants to be a physician assistant, is also interested in the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute.

Brenda Collier, left, from the College of Health Sciences, talks to Maryn Mitchell and her family about kinesiology, her intended major. From right are Monet Mitchell, mom; Maryn; Mycah Mitchell, brother; and David Mitchell, dad. (Photo by John Cooper)

“In all of my choices for college, Tennessee State is the best choice for me,” Kaitlyn said. “It is close to home, and it is affordable.”

According to organizers, this year’s participants in Spring Preview Day came from more than 15 states, with some from as far as California, Illinois, and Michigan.

Registration for summer and fall classes are in full swing at TSU. Registration began March 28 and will continue through April 29 for summer classes, while registration for fall classes will continue through August 19. Online, students are asked to register for classes at MyTSU, by visiting tnstate.edu/register.

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Mrs. Universe Juanita Brown Ingram receives royal welcome on return to alma mater 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – It is always special when former TSU students return to campus, but for Juanita Brown Ingram, that moment on Wednesday was extra special. The red carpet was laid out, as TSU officials, student leaders and community officials were on hand, to welcome the reigning Mrs. Universe, a 1999 graduate and former member of the Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands. Ingram, the first African American woman to wear the coveted crown, was on campus for Tea Time, “A Conversation with Mrs. Universe,” organized by the Offices of Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations. 

Three former Miss TSUs returned to campus to help welcome Mrs. Universe. From left, are Mallory Moore, Miss TSU ’21/’22; Barbara Murrell, Miss TSU ’59/’60; reigning Miss TSU Sa’Mariah Harding; Mrs. Universe Juanita Brown Ingram; and Chandra Norman Lipscomb, Miss TSU ’79/’80. (Photo to AaronGrayson)

“It is exciting and an honor to be back to where it all began,” Ingram said at the event in Elliott Hall.  The former TSU honor student has gone on to world-wide fame as an attorney, author, actress, and award-winning TV producer. In addition to the Mrs. Universe crown, Ingram is the first African American woman to compete and win the titles of Mrs. Indiana United States in 2007, Ms. World International 2012, Mrs. UK Universe 2013, Mrs. Great Britain World 2011, and Mrs. UK International 2014. 

“A Conversation with Mrs. Universe” was organized by the Offices of Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations. Cristal Powell Roach, Assistant Dean of Student Activities and Leadership, left, Miss TSU Sa’Mariah Harding, and Debbi Howard, Director of Alumni Relations, welcome Mrs. Universe. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The Tea Time, a “A Conversation with Mrs. Universe,” moderated by Miss TSU, Sa’Mariah Harding, gave Ingram the opportunity to share with TSU students what being a Mrs. Universe has meant to her, and how TSU helped to shape her future. In the audience were three former Miss TSUs, organizations and class queens, as well as Jordan Smith, the current Miss Fisk University. 

“I love the time that I was here.  I always said my experience at TSU is the reason why I am who I am today,” Ingram said, adding that being a member of AOB gave her an extra motivation for success. “I marched all four years in the band here. It thought me discipline, gave me tenacity, and the ability to overcome obstacles and to not shrink to a challenge. So, I think whether it was passing the bar or being Mrs. Universe, it really gave me the foundation to be who I am today.” 

Members of Women of Empowerment Inc., welcome Mrs. Universe Juanita Brown Ingram. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Cristal Powell Roach, assistant dean of Student Activities and Leadership, said bringing Mrs. Universe to TSU was an effort to inspire “our students” about the endless possibilities as they go after their own dreams, careers, and future goals. 

“She is an attorney, she is an executive producer, so she’s done a plethora of things. That’s remarkable,” Roach said. “So, we just wanted the young girls to know what she does and who she is. She is the first African American Mrs. Universe, so that’s huge.  So, we just wanted to create the opportunity.” 

Queens and representations of other campus organizations also participated in the welcoming ceremony for Mrs. University. In the back, standing, is Jeffrey Thomas, of the Office of Alumni Relations, the visionary behind ‘Queen & Co.” (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Debbi Howard, director of Alumni Relations, said “A conversation with Mrs. Universe,” was part of “Alumni Talks: ‘Queen & Co,’” a quarterly speaker series, where they bring in alumni to share success stories with students. 

“We acknowledge all of our former queens, and the visiting Miss Fisk University for accepting our invitation to be here today,” Howard said. 

Barbara Murrell, Miss TSU ‘59/’60; Chandra Norman Lipscomb, Miss TSU ‘79/’80; and Mallory Moore, Miss TSU ‘21/’22 were among former TSU queens who welcomed Mrs. Universe. Joining them was Aliyah Holmes, executive vice president of the Student Government Association, who made a special presentation to Ingram. 

Ingram earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from TSU. She and her family currently live in Singapore. 

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Former TSU official discusses new book on TSU history, career and urges students, alumni to protect university’s legacy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Discussing his experience during the merger of Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee, a former TSU administrator said April 5 that the historically black university’s continued existence will greatly depend on the strength of its students and alumni. Dr George A. Pruitt, former vice president of Student Affairs, has written a book, “From Protest to President: A Social Justice Journey through the Emergence of Adult Education and the Birth of Distance Learning,” that discusses the merger and his career, including his time at TSU.  He was the guest speaker at a forum on campus, themed, “Prevailing Against All Odds: Sustaining and Preserving TSU’s Rich History.”

Dr. George A. Pruitt is President Emeritus of Thomas Edison State University, where he served for more than 35 years as president. (Photo By Aaron Grayson)

Pruitt, who went on to have a distinguished career in higher education, is president emeritus of Thomas Edison State University. He served as the institution’s president for over 35 years.  

“I have a request of you,” Pruitt said to students in the Cox/Lewis Theater in the TSU Performing Arts Center. “I have been carrying this institution’s torch for a long time. Fred Humphries (former president) carried the torch. Others carried it and they are old and many have retired, and I want this university to still be here. And that’s only going to happen if you all build up that courage to continue the fight. I mean the students, and I absolutely need the alumni.”

Pruitt said, “The state of Tennessee has never, ever cared about Tennessee State University. It only did what it had to because of politics and the law, and you have a lot to say about what the politics and the law is now and will be.”

Chrishonda O’Quinn

Chrishonda O’Quinn, and junior marketing major, and sophomore Teleah Allen, a mass communications major, were among students who listened to Pruitt’s presentation. They accepted his challenge and called on fellow students to unite in moving their institution forward.

“I believe he (Pruitt) is completely correct. As students we need to step up. Being a current student here, I have noted that we are not on one accord like students and faculty were back then,” said O’Quinn, of Chicago. “We need to engage, but before reaching that point, we must fix the culture. When something goes wrong, the first place some of us go is to the media. We need to engage our leaders instead.”

Allen added that Pruitt was very inspiring. “Being here since I was a freshman, I have seen a lot of change, but we need to do more to help our institution grow. Many institutions don’t want to see us succeed. Like he said, it is left with us to make that change,” said Allen, of Little Rock, Arkansas.

Teleah Allen

Following Pruitt’s keynote address, organizers hosted a panel discussion, including former and current TSU professors and staff who were at the institution during the merger. They included Sterling Adams, retired special assistant to Dr. Humphries and professor of mathematics; Barbara Murrell, former vice president and current chair of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute; Dr. Al-Haji Amiri Yasin Al-Hadid, retired chair of the African Studies Department at TSU; and Dr. Pruitt.

Dr. Takema Winston, chair of the TSU Department of Communications, and organizing chair of the forum, said bringing Dr. Pruitt as a keynote speaker was part of her goal as chair to help preserve TSU’s rich history by sharing the various experiences of longtime faculty and administrators, to sustain the university’s legacy.

“After recent conversations with Dr. George A. Pruitt regarding his book that talks about his time in leadership at TSU, I believed that this was a great story to share with our students,” Winston said. 

Many former and current TSU administrators and faculty attended the forum with Dr. George A. Pruitt. From left are Barbara Murrell, former Vice President and currently Chairperson of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute; Dr. Jacqueline Mitchell, Professor and Director of Interdisciplinary Studies; Dr.  Learotha Williams, Professor of African American and Public History; Dr. Pruitt; Dr. Tameka Winston, Chair of the Department of Communications; Dr. Al-Haji Amiri Yasin Al-Hadid, retired Chair of the African Studies Department; and TSU alumna Sandra Hunt. (Photo by Eric Franzen)

Professor of African American and Public History, Dr. Learotha Williams, who moderated the panel discussion, said Pruitt’s presentation provided a “first-hand” account of one of the most important moments in TSU’s history, “where we were fighting for identity, and to retain our status” as a historically black college.

Also speaking were Sandra Hunt, representing the TSU National Alumni Association; Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts; and Dr. Jacqueline Mitchell, professor and director of interdisciplinary studies.

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Hollywood superstar Nia Long to highlight TSU’s Women of Legend and Merit Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Hollywood superstar and multiple-award winning actress Nia Long will be the featured guest at this year’s Tennessee State University Women of Legend and Merit Awards on Tuesday, April 11. The annual awards ceremony recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of women in the community.

This year’s honorees, in various categories, are Dr. Cherae M. Farmer-Dixon, Dean of School of Dentistry at Meharry Medical College – Medicine; Dr. LaDonna Boyd, President/CEO R.H. Boyd – Media; Dr. Laquita Stribling, Vice President, Tennessee Manufacturing and logistics – Business; Patricia Malone Smith, Director of Corporate Relations, Urban League of Middle Tennessee – Community Service; Janet Rachel, President, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Metropolitan Nashville Chapter – Leadership; Laura Fitzgerald Cooper, Attorney and Freelance Writer – Education; and Jennifer Bell, Associate Athletic Director, Tennessee State University – Athletics.

Long will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her body of work.

A single mother of two sons, who is noted for many movie and television roles, Long has lit up the big screen in numerous films, including The Best Man Holiday, Friday, Made in America, Momma’s House, and Boyz n the Hood. She also stared in Third Watch, for which she won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series. An earlier notable role includes Long’s portrayal of Will Smith’s girlfriend and fiancée Beulah “Lisa” Wilkes on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. In 2022, Long starred in the Peacock miniseries The Best Man: Final Chapter, reprising her role from the previous film.

For more information on the Women of Legend and Merit Awards, or how to purchase tickets for the event, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/legendandmerit/

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TSU reports over $70 million in research funding, impacts childcare, global food security and more

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Early childcare for Tennessee families and global food security are among the top areas Tennessee State University is focusing on as the University reports continued record growth in research funding. TSU’s external research funding is just over $70.2 million with four months remaining in the 2022-2023 submission cycle. To date, the University’s Center of Excellence for Learning Sciences and the College of Agriculture have received the largest single awards totaling $28.9 million.

“TSU’s continued high research output and funded awards are a true testament to the hard work and commitment of our faculty and staff, especially as we also focus our attention on moving from an R2 to R1, the highest research designation, under the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Learning,” says TSU President Glenda Glover.

The TSU Center of Excellence for Learning Sciences is using grants to fund childcare and family support programs in Tennessee.

“A crucial cornerstone of an institution’s success is measured through its research and just as important is how that research will benefit our communities.” 

For its work with children and families, the TSU Center of Excellence for Learning Sciences received a total $18,958, 417 in federal and state funding. The Center is using the grants to fund childcare and family support programs in Tennessee.  Of that amount, nearly $5.3 million came from the Administration for Children and Families, Office of Head Start (ACF/OHS) to support Head Start and two Early Head Start-Child Care Partnership programs; and just under $13.7 million came from the Tennessee Department of Human Services (HHS/TDHS) to support the Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance and Tennessee Family Child Care Network. 

President Glenda Glover


The funding will provide services to 256 children and families and employ approximately 115 staff needed across the state. 

“The Center is proud of the work we do to support children, families, and professionals within the early childhood community,” says COELS’ director Dr. Kimberly Smith.  “We remain focused on educating and uplifting the early childhood workforce in Tennessee and we remain committed to improving the lives of the families we serve.”  

In the College of Agriculture, researchers are using a $10 million capacity building grant from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) to support 57 different projects in agricultural education, agricultural business, biotechnology, food science, animal science, environmental science, renewable energy, and human health and nutrition. Two of the major projects will conduct research to enhance nutritional security and environmental quality. 

Dr. Chandra Reddy

Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the college and principal investigator of the capacity building grant, says the objective is to find solutions to challenges in global food security, enhancing the environmental quality, and nutritional security. 

“The other important goal of these projects is the diverse workforce development,” Reddy says.  “We are creating new knowledge and graduating diverse background students both at undergraduate and graduate levels.  We also share the research findings with public through our statewide extension programs to improve their productivity and quality of life.” 

CheKenna Fletcher is a first-year Ph.D. student in agricultural sciences with a concentration in food and animal sciences. Her research focus is on the extraction, isolation, characterization, and application of novel materials in health-promoting food products. She is ecstatic about the amount of funds the university is attracting for research. 

“TSU provides students and even professors with various opportunities to conduct research in a variety of fields with global interest,” says Fletcher, of Lebanon, Tennessee. “There are so many conferences, symposiums, and more one can attend to present his/her research, worldwide.” 

CheKenna Fletcher

In the first half of this fiscal year, TSU research proposals garnered more than $68.8 million in external sponsored research funding and now stands at $70.2 million, which is on pace to surpass the record $70.7 million received in 2021. That record-setting year for the University was one of the highest among all HBCUs. The new funding report is a major boost for the University in its continued planning to receive the “R1” research designation.  An R1 designation would mean more doctoral programs, research initiatives and funding for students and the university.  

Associate Vice President of Research and Sponsored Programs Dr. Quincy Quick, who is leading the R1 designation effort, says the goal is double the total amount of grants received. He believes TSU faculty and staff can ultimately reach the $140 million award mark.

Dr. Quincy Quick 

“Our recent historic research productivity and achievement over the last two fiscal years is a consequence of our outstanding and dedicated faculty and staff and their commitment to conducting and performing innovative and transformative high-level research,” says Quick. “Our faculty and staff are enthusiastically engaged in our mission for the highest status as we work collegially and diligently to become the fourth R1 designated institution in the state of Tennessee.” 

Here are some of the other top awards received in 2022-23: 

  • Dr. Andrea Tyler – Title III, $10,254,498 (Department of Education) 
  • Dr. Quincy Quick – RSP, $5,000,000 (Department of Energy) 
  • Dr. Karla Addesso – College of Agriculture, $2,479,982 (USDA) 
  • Dr. Melanie Cantu – College of Agriculture, $2,016,694 (USDA) 
  • Dr. Rebecca Selove – RSP, $1,772,784 (National Institutes of Health) 
  • Dr. Deo Chimba – College of Engineering, $1,611,168 (Dept. of Transportation) 
  • Dr. Margaret Whalen – RSP, $1,255,618 (National Institutes of Health) 
  • Dr. Roy Sonali – College of Agriculture, $1,158,373 (USDA) 
  • Dr. Jianwei Li, College of Agriculture, $1,118,709 (USDA) 
  • Dr. D’Etra Young – College of Agriculture, $1,000,000 (USDA) 
  • Dr. Robbie Melton – Academic Affairs, $1,000,000 (Apple/Hewlett Packard) 
  • Dr. Catherine Armwood – College of Engineering, $1,000,000 (NSF) 
  • Dr. Dafeng Hui – College of Life & Physical Sciences, $1,000,000 (NSF) 
  • Dr. Lin Li – College of Engineering, $1,000,000 – (NSF) 
  • Dr. Hongwei Si – College of Agriculture, $1,000,000 (USDA/NSF) 
  • Dr. Richard Mu – RSP, $1,000,000 (NSF)