NASHVILLE,
Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Tennessee State
University is providing a free screening of an award-winning documentary about
the threats to honeybees and other pollinators.
The film, called “The Pollinators,” will be shown on
Wednesday, November 6, at 6:30 p.m. in The Forum auditorium in TSU’s
Floyd-Payne Campus Center. TSU is one of four college campuses across the state
selected to show the film.
“The Pollinators” follows migratory beekeepers and
their truckloads of honeybees around the United States and sheds light on some
of the threats to the bees’ survival, such as pesticides and other chemicals,
according to a synopsis of the film.
The
filmmakers talk to farmers, scientists, chefs and academics along the way to
give a broad perspective about the problem, what it means to food security, and
how to improve it.
“More
than anything, this film is about awareness,” says Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of
TSU’s College of Agriculture. “The reality is, we’re losing the bees, and we
have to find ways to save them.”
“The Pollinators”
has been selected by 25 national and international film festivals and has been
honored as “Best Documentary” at seven of them.
Following the film on Wednesday, there will be a
panel discussion and Q&A. The panel will include several TSU Ag officials,
as well as representatives from the Nashville Area Beekeepers Association.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Tennessee State
University is partnering with Apple, Inc. to teach middle and high school girls
how to code, as well as consider careers in STEM.
Youth from ages 8 to 18 will get an opportunity to experience coding at a free camp Nov. 2, 9 and 16 in TSU’s Farrell Westbrook Complex (The Barn) on the main campus. Parents are asked to have their children at each event by 9 a.m. Lunch will also be provided.
In July, TSU launched HBCU C2 “Everyone Can Code and Create,” a national initiative supported by Apple, which seeks to bring coding experiences to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and underserved communities. The initiative is part of TSU’s newly established National Center for Smart Technology Innovations, created through the HBCU C2 Presidential Academy.
The girls coding camp is an extension of the initiative.
“We want to empower young girls to code and create, and
understand their capabilities of being an innovator in the field of STEM,” says
Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s
dean of Graduate and Professional Studies and program director for the coding
initiative.
Dr. Veronica Johnson is president of the Metro Nashville Chapter
of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., which is partnering with
TSU and Apple. She says black women and girls are “vastly underrepresented” in
science, technology, engineering and mathematics, as well as performing arts.
“By exposing STEAM projects at an early age, it could help
increase their chances of exploring these fields, as they pursue academic
degrees and seek future career opportunities,” says Johnson. “Having access to
develop needed skill sets to survive in the 21st digital landscape
will be critical to the economic impact of the future of black communities.”
Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, dean of TSU’s College of Engineering,
says the camp is also beneficial to the participants’ parents, or guardians.
“The program also informs parents and adults about
the digital world of information technology, and how as individuals you can
take control of your learning and knowledge based on your own needs and career
goals,” says Hargrove. “The ability to manage information and make data-driven
decisions will continue to be a major skill for today and tomorrow’s
workforce”
During the girls coding camp, Melton says participants will move around to different stations where they will learn basic coding principles, and “actually code drones and robots to move and function.”
Eleven-year-old Evangeline Davis-Ramos of New York has participated in a similar coding camp, and says she’s glad to see Tennessee State providing such an opportunity for girls her age and older.
“I believe the girls coding camp will be very beneficial,” says Davis-Ramos. “I like building things, and coding helps take ideas I imagine and make them real.”
Melton says the HBCU C2 initiative puts TSU on the forefront of embracing STEM, and she credits the university’s partnership with Apple with being key to its success.
Dr. Robbie Melton works with students at “Everyone Can Code and Create” initiative for youth in July. (TSU Media Relations)
TSU has
been charged with strengthening the collaboration by offering the company’s
coding curriculum to new audiences. That
expansion also includes providing TSU alums the opportunity to learn the
fundamentals of app design and app development for free.
“Apple provides an approach to introduce
coding and creativity in a nonthreatening manner,” says Melton. “You have
children coding. You have seniors coding, and the fact that we have over a
thousand people from high school to senior citizens wanting to code and create
is phenomenal.”
Also in July, TSU launched the first community
“Everyone Can Code and Create” initiative for youth on its Avon Williams
Campus. The initiative is also part of the National Center for Smart Technology
Innovations.
For more information about the girls coding camp, contact [email protected], or call 615-963-7269.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE,
Tenn. (TSU
News Service) –
Tennessee State University health
sciences students and public health experts are doing their part to bring
awareness to the vaping problem that’s sweeping the nation.
Dr. Wendelyn Inman
Students majoring in cardio respiratory care offered free screenings on campus Oct. 23 and talked about the dangers of vaping and use of tobacco, which health experts say can lead to cardiovascular disease.
The screenings and awareness are expected to continue monthly, on campus and in the community.
“I have friends that vape, and I tell them how horrible it is for them,” says Koheen Babily, a junior from Nashville who plans to be a respiratory therapist. “It’s bad for the lungs. I see 16-year-olds vaping, and they don’t realize the damage they’re doing that will affect them when they’re older.”
According to the Tennessee Department of Health, two Tennesseans have died from a vaping-related lung illness. So far, the state has had more than 50 reports of vaping-associated respiratory illness. Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control reports 33 people have died from vap- ing-related lung illnesses.
TSU
experts say one way to address the problem is through regulation.
“Regulation
is the key to oftentimes controlling the severity of the problem,” says Dr.
Wendelyn Inman, associate professor and interim MPH program director at
Tennessee State. “When we’re looking at vaping, we’re looking at safety issues
of the mechanisms of the vaping machinery.”
Student Di’Andre Carter, a senior majoring in cardio respiratory care, screens a patient. (Photo by Lucas Johnson, TSU Media Relations)
Brenda
Batts, assistant professor and director of clinical education at TSU,
agrees.
“The
concern has always been that it’s not regulated, it’s never been regulated, so
a lot of times people don’t know what chemicals are actually in the liquids
that they’re inhaling,” says Batts.
The
screenings provided by Batts and her students include checking for
hypertension, a cardiovascular problem.
“Vaping
can cause damage to the lungs, which in turn damages the heart, which leads to
hypertension and heart failure,” adds Batts.
E-cigarettes
vaporize a flavored liquid rather than burning tobacco. With every inhalation,
a sensor triggers a vaporizer to heat a small amount of liquid flavoring. The
liquid turns to vapor and is drawn into the user’s mouth.
KaBria Kirkham, a junior majoring in cardio
respiratory care, recently wrote an article on vaping. She says it’s important
to educate people so that they understand the components of vaping and the harm
certain additives can cause.
“It’s important to know what’s in it,” says Kirkham,
of Springfield, Illinois. “They shouldn’t be able to sell vaping pins
anywhere until they find out exactly what it is that’s harming people.”
Assistant Professor Brenda Batts talks to a student. (Photo by Lucas Johnson, TSU Media Relations)
The
CDC has not identified a cause of the illnesses, though it says 78 percent of
patients reported using THC-containing products in the three months before
their symptoms developed.
The
agency has advised people to stop vaping products that contain THC oil and
other additives like Vitamin E acetate, which has been repeatedly connected to
the illness outbreak.
At
least seven states have banned vaping. The Tennessee Medical Association says
it supports a ban of the vaping products, but would prefer policies that
require more extensive examination of what’s causing the vaping illnesses and deaths.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Renowned cancer specialist Dr. Edith Peterson Mitchell was the keynote speaker at Tennessee State University’s second annual Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Lecture Series on Oct. 17.
Peterson is a TSU alumna and member of the university’s Board of Trustees. The event was held during Homecoming week in the Robert N. Murrell Forum on the main campus.
Student Government Association President Katelyn Thompson recognized special guests and Malcolm Finally, inaugural president of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Society, introduced Mitchell, who discussed a number of issues with the audience.
They included the decline in cancer mortality rates, the impact of Medicare on cancer disparities, and how specific cancers uniquely affect minority communities.
TSU President Glenda Glover (right) with Guest Lecturer and TSU Board of Trustee Member Edith Peterson Mitchell (left), and Student Government Association President Katelyn Thompson (center) after the Second Annual Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Lecture. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
Mitchell also encouraged students to consider careers in health care.
“Blacks in this country make up 3.9
percent of all physicians in this country, and yet in 2013 the census showed
that blacks in this country made up 15 percent of the United States
population,” said Mitchell, a retired Air Force brigadier
general.
The lecture series, a component of the Dr.
Levi Watkins, Jr., Institute, was established to honor Watkins, a 1966 alumnus
of TSU and the first African-American to be accepted into and graduate from the
Vanderbilt School of Medicine. It features prominent speakers who address areas
in health care and STEM to prepare students for the medical field. The late
Watkins is known worldwide for being the first surgeon to successfully implant
an automatic heart defibrillator in a human patient.
“I tell my
students and residents all the time, ‘Don’t forget to look through the rearview
mirror and make sure you know what is behind you,’ and we know that Dr. Levi Watkins
was there in that rearview mirror for us to get information and be inspired by
his work,” she said.
TSU President Glenda Glover and Guest Lecturer and TSU Board of Trustee Member Edith Peterson Mitchell join administrators and special guests for a photo after the unveiling of a display case located on the second floor of the Floyd-Payne Campus Center designed in honor of Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
TSU President Glenda Glover welcomed the
crowd and explained the purpose of the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., Institute.
“He provided a balm that would heal the hearts of men and women. It’s a balm that will ensure the longevity of lives of men and women,” said Glover. “So he came forth with that balm from Tennessee State University, and now he has passed that on to students for the students to see and understand the value of having a scientific education.”
Dr. Lonnie Sharpe,
director of the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., Institute, presided over the program
which concluded with the induction of new students into the Dr. Levi Watkins,
Jr. Society, an organization comprised of students who aspire to attend medical
school.
“It was a wonderful experience to have a board of trustee member as our guest lecturer,” Sharpe said. “Based upon my input from the students, they enjoyed her talk, and they are all excited about the additional collaboration that may be occurring with her as part of a research proposal that we are partnering with her on right now.”
Denias Smith, a junior biology major and vice-president of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Society, shared a brief presentation portraying Watkins, which he delivered prior to the unveiling of a display case designed in Watkin’s honor. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
Following the program,
the university unveiled a display case on the second floor of the Floyd-Campus
Center dedicated to preserving Watkin’s legacy. Prior to the unveiling, Denias
Smith, a junior biology major and vice-president of the society, gave a brief
presentation, portraying Watkins.
The display includes a portrait of Watkins drawn by TSU Alumnus Brandon Van Leer, a life-size manikin clothed in Watkins medical attire, an automatic heart defibrillator and a video showcasing Watkins when he became the first surgeon to successfully implant the device in 1980.
Students inducted into the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Society include Jayvonna Gambrell, president, a sophomore biology major; Mariel Liggin, secretary, a junior biology major; and Gelanni Jones, a sophomore biology major.
Students take pledge while being inducted into the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Society. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
Other students inducted into the society include Janelle Ariosa, a senior biology major; Kalkidan Bekele, a freshman biology major; Autumn Brunson, a junior biology major; Ashli Earl, a junior biology major; Kristen Wardlow, a freshman; Lauren Graves, a freshman biology major, Larry McNary II, a junior biology major, Mohamed Mohamed, a sophomore chemistry major, Habiba Mwechiwa, a junior biology major, Alanis Onwu, a junior agricultural science major; and Tyree Pitts, a junior biology major.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) –
Thousands of people participated in Tennessee State University’s 2019
Homecoming activities, including the annual parade leading up to the big game.
The Tigers’ 26-24 victory
over the Austin Peay Governors on Saturday, Oct. 19, was a fitting end to
weeklong events that started on Oct. 13 with the Robert N. Murrell Oratorical
Contest.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, TSU President Glenda Glover, TSU alum and State Sen. Brenda Gilmore (far left), and State Rep. Harold Love Jr. (far left), also a TSU alum, at Homecoming game. (TSU Media Relations)
The highlight of the day
leading up to the Saturday afternoon game was the parade, which featured former
TSU football player Christion Abercrombie. He was selected as the Special
Presidential Grand Marshal. It was the Atlanta native’s first Homecoming
weekend after suffering a life-altering head injury during a 2018 football game
against Vanderbilt University.
Earl Jones, a 1973 graduate
of TSU, was among the many people who lined Jefferson Street in north Nashville
to see the parade that started on 14th and Jefferson and ended at 33rd
and John Merritt Boulevard.
Jones, who brought his wife
and two great-granddaughters, says he hopes the little girls will continue the
legacy and attend TSU.
“That’s what it’s all about,
carrying on tradition,” said Jones.
Before the game, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee got things started with the coin toss. He was joined by State Sen. Brenda Gilmore and State Rep. Harold Love , Jr., both TSU alums.
Then early in the game, there
was a somewhat solemn moment when a brief
period of silence was held for TSU student Rickey Scott, who authorities say
died from a gunshot wound.
SGA leaders on Homecoming parade float. (TSU Media Relations)
Besides Abercrombie, other
grand marshals were: Ola Hudson, retired teacher and administrator with the Metro
Nashville Public Schools; Obie McKenzie, senior relationship manager for top
investment firm BlackRock; and Donald Whitehead, retired journalist and
broadcaster.
The honorees were: Samuel Abernathy, retired
assistant professor and assistant track and field coach with renowned
Tigerbelle coach Ed. Temple; Howard Gentry, Criminal Court Clerk for Davidson
County and former TSU director of athletics; and Edna Overall, former TSU
women’s basketball coach.
Another major highlight of TSU’s homecoming was the Annual Scholarship Gala, TSU’s signature fundraising event, which took place on Friday, Oct. 18, at the Music City Center. This year, the gala welcomed back comedian Jonathan Slocumb as the master of ceremony.
“The Scholarship Gala is a wonderful opportunity for Tennessee State University to enhance meaningful relationships with alumni, loyal friends and community partners on behalf of our student scholars,” Gala chairs Iris Ramey, Cassandra Griggs and Seanne Wilson said in a statement. “The Gala provides the critical funds necessary to meet the significant need for student scholarships, as well as ensure students have access to relevant academic programs that prepare them for an innovative and global marketplace.”
Other Homecoming activities this year included the Coronation of Mr. TSU and Miss TSU; the Breakfast of Champions, the Charles Campbell Fish Fry, and the National Pan-Hellenic Step Show.
TSU’s world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands performs during halftime of Homecoming game. (TSU 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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –Tennessee State University held it’s Founder’s Day Convocation on Oct. 15 in Kean Hall.
TSU
President Glenda Glover, accompanied by keynote speaker Nashville General Chief
Executive Officer, Dr. Joseph Webb, led a procession of faculty, student
leaders and administrators to mark the university’s 107th birthday.
President Glenda Glover presents 2018 Founders’ Day speaker Dr. Joseph Webb with a plaque at the ceremony in Kean Hall. (Photo by Emanuel O. Roland II)
The University Wind Ensemble, led by Dr.
Reginald McDonald, offered selections to a
cheering audience, following presentation of colors by the Air Force ROTC Color
Guard.
“We honor our founders, and we celebrate
our excellence,”
Glover said, as she reflected on the significance
of the university’s contributions. “It is my esteemed pleasure to be here on
this founders day.”
Miss TSU, Jada Crisp, and Mr. TSU, Damyr Moore, shared a brief history of TSU, followed by a musical selection from the University Choir.
In his keynote address, Webb reminisced
about his days as a student at TSU.
Miss TSU Jada Crisp, joined by Mr. TSU Damyr Moore, gives the university history at the Founders’ Day program. (Photo by Michael McLendon, TSU Media Relations)
“For me this is truly a homecoming because I am back in what we used to call ‘Kean’s Little Garden,’” Webb said. “They call it Kean Hall now, but we had a lot of experiences here as an athlete. As a basketball player, I had two goals in mind: one was on this end, and one was on that end.”
He reminded the students, faculty and
alumni that as members of the TSU family, they are part of a proud legacy.
“TSU, founded in 1912, has a rich history of producing public service and great leaders. It is still that beacon of hope where many aspire to gain a better life with the motto of ‘Think.Work.Serve,’ and a charge of ‘Enter to learn, and go forth to serve.’” he said.
The University Wind Ensemble, led by Dr. Reginald McDonald, offer a selection at Founder’s Day Convocation. (Photo by Michael McLendon, TSU Media Relations)
Webb, who joined Nashville General Hospital in 2015, has more than 25 years of experience managing for–profit and not-for-profit healthcare organizations. He obtained his doctorate of science in health services administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and holds a bachelor of science and master of science in health and physical education from TSU.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE,
Tenn.(TSU News Service)
– Tennessee State University kicked off this year’s Homecoming with the 32nd annual
Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest on Sunday.
The event, which was free and open to the
public, was held in the Floyd-Payne Campus Center on the main campus. Cash
prizes of $1,200, $800 and $500 were awarded respectively for first, second,
and third place winners in freshman and upperclassman divisions.
TSU President Glenda Glover (2nd from right) with contest chairperson Dr. Jacqueline Mitchell (far left) with freshman winners Akyra McDougal, Janae Williams and Ter’niciah James; and Mrs. Robert Murrell (far right). (Photo by Lalita Hodge, TSU Media Relations)
There
were 26 participants this year. The freshman winners were: Akyra O. McDougal, 1st place; Janae Williams, 2nd place; and Ter’niciah L. James, 3rd place. In the upperclassman division, Sarah Sulewski
claimed 1st place; Ashanti
Holland, 2nd; Trey Gibson, 3rd; and Sydni
Daniels received a $200 bookstore gift certificate for 4thplace.
Before the
contest, TSU President Glenda Glover thanked the students for their participation,
and lauded their courage and
talent.
“What better way to
start Homecoming than to have our magnificent students display their talents,”
said Dr. Glover. “I’m proud of each participant for sharing in this event, and
for the fortitude and determination to play such a significant role today.”
The contest, established in 1988, is named in honor of the late Robert N. Murrell, a longtime administrator and dean of men at TSU. It encourages students to develop skills in research, writing and oratory.
“I’m most grateful to all of you who played a part in making this happen, and for all of you who are here today,” said Ms. Barbara Murrell, whose late husband the event honors.
In
1993, the TSU Homecoming Committee incorporated the oratorical contest into the
official Homecoming schedule of activities, and established the Homecoming
theme as the theme for the contest. This year’s theme is: “Unleash the Pride of
the Tiger!”
Following the oratorical contest, TSU’s
Homecoming events continued with the Gospel Explosion in Kean Hall gymnasium.
The concert, which was also free, featured hit artists Kirk Franklin, James
Fortune, and Koryn Hawthorn. TSU alum and gospel legend Dr. Bobby Jones
received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Other Homecoming highlights throughout the
week include the Coronation of Mr. and Miss TSU, Oct. 16; Ralph Boston Golf
Tournament, Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Symposium, and Homecoming Concert, Oct. 17;
and the Greek Step Show and the Charles Campbell Fish Fry, Oct. 18.
On Friday evening, TSU has planned a
stellar Scholarship Gala at the Music City Center. This year, the Gala welcomes
back comedian Jonathan Slocumb as the master of ceremony. Special entertainment
will be provided by Melvin Crispell III, the ninth-season winner of BET’s Sunday Best. Proceeds from ticket sales
and sponsorships are used to provide financial assistance to students.
Homecoming
will conclude Oct. 19 with the Homecoming Parade from 14th and
Jefferson Street to 33rd and John Merritt Boulevard, and the
big football matchup between the Tigers and the Austin Peay Governors at Nissan
Stadium.
Note: In featured photo, TSU President Glenda Glover (4th from left) with contest chairperson Dr. Jacqueline Mitchell (far left) with upperclassman winners Sara Sulewski, Trey Gibson, Ashanti Holland and Sydni Daniels; and Mrs. Murrell (far right). (Photo by Lalita Hodge, TSU Media Relations)
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University world famous marching band has done it again. Just in time for homecoming, The Undefeated has named the TSU Aristocrat of Bands the Best HBCU marching band in America.
Ranked No. 4 in the September poll, AOB moved slightly ahead of North Carolina A&T State University to take the title, with top finishes in all categories, including No. 1 in drum major.
This is the third ESPN/The Undefeated HBCU Ranking this season. Bands are evaluated based on musicality, drill and design, percussion, auxiliary crops and drum majors. The rankings are conducted by two six-person panels consisting of current and retired band directors from HBCUs, as well as choreographers.
The AOB is not new to national or international recognition.
They have performed at the White House, at NFL games, and appeared at events
and performed with many other big stars.
During the recent NFL Draft in Nashville, the AOB thrilled fans
with a performance on ESPN’s “First Take.” Percussionists from the band performed
in the Rose Bowl Parade. The AOB performed with country music legend Keith
Urban, and performed at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.
Lizzo, a rising star topping the charts, gave a shout out to the band recently after they performed a dynamic medley including her hit song “Truth Hurts” at TSU’s game against Mississippi Valley State on Aug. 31, and delivered a repeat performance at the National Battle of the Bands in Houston, Lizzo’s hometown.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – The second annual
Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Lecture Series will take place on Oct. 17 during
Tennessee State University’s Homecoming week.
Dr. Edith Peterson Mitchell
This year’s featured speaker is Dr. Edith Peterson Mitchell, a TSU alumna and member of the university’s Board of Trustees. She is also a renowned cancer specialist, and retired Air Force brigadier general.
The lecture is scheduled for 2 p.m. in the Robert N. Murrell
Forum in the university’s Floyd-Payne Campus Center.
The
lecture series, a component of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr., Institute, was
established to honor Watkins, a 1966 alumnus of TSU and the first
African-American to be accepted into and graduate from the Vanderbilt School of
Medicine. It features prominent speakers who address areas in health care and
STEM to prepare students for the medical field.
In
addition to the lecture series, the Institute also consists of a pre-med
society and an endowed scholarship.
The late
Watkins is known worldwide for being the first surgeon to successfully implant
an automatic heart defibrillator in a human patient at John Hopkins Hospital.
Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr.
Dr.
Watkins was also a pioneer in civil rights at Hopkins. He fought to diversify
the medical staff and student ranks at the hospital. His legacy of recruiting
and mentoring minority students helped to change the landscape of the medical
profession.
Watkins
retired from Hopkins in 2013, dedicating 43 years of service to helping others.
He passed away on April 11, 2015.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – During a visit to Tennessee State University on Monday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue lauded the land-grant institution’s innovative research, and challenged students to “invest in yourselves.”
Perdue toured the College of Agriculture and gave a
presentation to Ag students in the Farrell Westbrook Complex on the main
campus.
U.S. Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue, TSU President Glenda Glover, and College of Ag Dean Chandra Reddy. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
Following the presentation, the College gave Perdue a gift,
and TSU President Glenda Glover thanked him for visiting TSU and for his
support.
“We’re pleased to have you on our campus, and in our
corner,” said Dr. Glover. “We’re so appreciative of all you’ve done for 1890s;
you’ve taken land grants to heart.”
Including Tennessee State, the 1890 land-grant system
consists of 19 universities.
In his discussion, Perdue emphasized the importance of such institutions, and encouraged students to take advantage of what they offer. He also challenged them to “stand, “ be “steadfast,” and “persevere.”
“As you stand, as you’re steadfast to your vision, and
persevere for the next cause, I know that you’ll be successful,” said Perdue,
who also took questions from the students.
“TSU has invested in you, USDA (U.S. Department of
Agriculture) has invested in you, now I want you to invest in yourselves. You
are provided an opportunity that many people in this life do not get.”
Emmanuel Wallace, a sophomore from Memphis majoring in
agricultural sciences, was inspired by what Perdue said.
Perdue receives gift from College of Ag student. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
“I learned to definitely stay steadfast, be confident in
what you’re doing, and continue to strive for excellence,” said Wallace.
Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of TSU’s College of Agriculture,
said the U.S. Department of Agriculture is very supportive of the university, so
he’s pleased that the department’s top official visited TSU.
“This is awesome, because USDA supports a number of USDA
scholars for us, as well as research and extension facilities at TSU,” said
Reddy. “This is an opportunity for the Secretary to see firsthand how we are
stewarding those resources they are providing.”
During his visit, Perdue noted TSU’s research in hemp, food
safety, as well as its New Farmer Academy, the only one of its kind in
Tennessee.
“You’ve got major research here,” said Perdue. “The research
dollars … are being well-utilized.”
Kristin Day is among numerous TSU students who have
benefitted from USDA. The junior from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, received a
full-ride with an 1890 land-grant scholarship, which also guarantees an
internship with a federal agency.
Before Perdue’s visit, Day, who is majoring in agricultural
sciences with a concentration in agribusiness, said she looked forward to
seeing him again. She said she first met Perdue last month during a visit to
Washington, D.C.
“It’s an honor that he’s coming to TSU, and he wants to sit
down with us and have an intimate discussion,” said Day, who hopes to one day
work with USDA.
Perdue takes questions from students. (Photo by Erynne Davis, TSU Media Relations)
Last year, USDA awarded more than $2 million in teaching,
research and extension capacity building grants to seven TSU professors in the
College of Ag.
The College was also awarded a $450,000 grant from the
USDA’s Agricultural Food and Research Initiative. It’s being used to pursue an
integrated approach to mitigate antimicrobial resistance in cattle and poultry,
and help establish stewardship programs for small and medium-sized ranchers.
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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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.
