NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has received $284,000 from the TN Department of Intellectual Developmental Disabilities (DIDD), becoming the first public institution in Middle Tennessee and HBCU in the nation to offer the program.
A check presentation took place Tuesday morning as DIDD commissioner Brad Turner and his team joined TSU President Glenda Glover, Dr. Anita McGaha, TSU director of disability services, Rep. Harold Love Jr., Senator Brenda Gilmore and staff for the historic event.
Dr. Anita McGaha, TSU director of disability services, says the TigerEDGE Program will help students succeed. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
TSU’s grant will be spread over two years to create TigerEDGE (Educate, Develop, and Grow for Employability) a non-degree certificate program for students ages 18-26.
“We are fulfilling our mission to provide a college education and experience to a population that is often overlooked and underserved,” said President Glover. “We are indeed proud. We will work to change the lives of the program participants and their families.”
Commissioner Turner, who stated that he is a parent of a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), said it is an honor to present the grant to TSU. “It speaks value about the importance you see in students with disabilities and creating a brighter future for them,” he said.
“Once again Tennessee State is leading the charge … inclusive education is the key for all,” said Rep. Harold Love Jr. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
Turner said being able to tell students that there is a public institution suitable for their education is the beginning of something great. “There are schools that you can go to that believe you have every right to have a 4-year college degree if that is what you want to do. And TSU is once again, leading that in higher education.”
Dr. McGaha said the program is currently targeting enrollment of eight students for the Fall semester. The unique program will provide the students with a residential and academic ambassador on campus, and mentors to assist the selected students.
“We all want to see our students, our children to succeed in life and we believe that this program is a tool to provide that,” Dr. McGaha said.
President Glenda Glover speaking with Andy Kidd, Deputy Commissioner of Fiscal and Administrative Services. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
TSU is among four higher education institutions to receive the Tennessee Believes grant from DIDD, which is a program that provides funding to colleges to create or expand post-secondary opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
For more information about the TigerEDGE Program or how to apply, contact Dr. McGaha at [email protected].
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – “To know that she will forever be a part of my TSU history, and to be inducted as an official member of the Tiger family was a tremendous honor to witness.” That statement sums up how Derrick Sanders felt Saturday after hearing Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic and powerful commencement address at Hale Stadium on the main Tennessee State University campus. The Vice President told graduates to seize the opportunities afforded them to “shape the future of our country.”
Students flock to Vice President Kamala Harris’ side in jubilation to get selfies, as she enters Hale Stadium accompanied by President Glenda Glover. (Submitted Photo)
“Vice President Harris accepted not only the honorary doctorate degree but she accepted the love, worth and fellowship of this great institution,” added Sanders, outgoing president of the Student Government Association, who received his bachelor’s degree in English.
Sanders was not alone in his praise of the vice president’s visit and speech. From the rousing cheers that greeted her as the motorcade entered Hale Stadium, to her inspirational speech, and receiving an honorary degree, sentiments about the vice president have reverberated across the TSU family, graduates, and their families. All are still taking in the historic moment where they got to hear and see the vice president of the United States up close on their campus.
Derrick Sanders, of Cincinnati, Ohio, celebrates after receiving his bachelor’s degree in English. (Submitted Photo)
Sanders’ mother, Marlene Sanders, who came from Cincinnati, Ohio, to see her son receive his degree from the vice president, described the moment as life changing.
“I was really proud of what Vice President Harris and Dr. Glover did together – two Black women with one goal,” said the proud mother. “I appreciated that she stayed through unforeseen circumstances and took pictures with each graduate. Her words were receptive, appreciative, and encouraging.”
Vice President Kamala Harris congratulates Student Trustee Tiara Thomas after receiving her degree in political science. (Submitted Photo)
Tiara Thomas, of Olive Branch, Mississippi, whose parents were also in the audience to see her receive her degree in political science, added, “Having Vice President Harris as the keynote speaker was an incredible way to end my undergraduate experience. Her speech gave me chills as I was able to sit on stage with her and see my future possibilities in her.”
Frederick Parson, a TSU alum and Tiara Thomas’ father, said the vice president’s speech was genuine, relatable, and appropriate.
Tiara Thomas’ family traveled from Olive Branch, Mississippi, to celebrate her graduation from Tennessee State University. (Submitted Photo)
“It not only inspired the graduates but also those in the audience, like my two youngest daughters who look like she does. Kudos to the VP for sharing a special moment in time with us that we won’t forget,” Parson said.
The vice president’s visit to deliver the commencement address at TSU was historic, as it was her first at any university since taking over the second highest office in the land. Citing current domestic and global affairs, Harris reminded members of the Class of 2022 that they are “graduating in an unsettled world” but were equipped to be the change agents needed to make it better for all people.
That note struck a chord with Matthew C. Benton, of Atlanta, who received his bachelor’s degree in business administration.
It was all jubilation Saturday as students celebrated their graduation. (Submitted Photo)
“The speech was as inspirational and empowering as I imagined it would be, and was exactly what I needed to hear,” Benton said. “I’m thankful to have had a university President like Dr. Glover with the right connections and friendships to bring Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, to our campus to give the keynote address. I’m forever grateful to President Glenda Glover. My commencement day is a very special part of TSU history, thank you President Glover.”
Jacqueline Payne was also in the audience to see her son, Emmanuel Wallace, receive his degree in agribusiness.
“I was extremely proud to see my son along with his peers graduating, and seeing Kamala made me really feel Black Excellence in its rawest form,” Payne said. Her son, Emmanuel Wallace, agreed.
Emmanuel Wallace’s mother, Jacqueline Payne, was in the audience to see her son receive his degree in agribusiness. (Subitted Photo)
“Graduating among such a successful and ambitious class is very empowering,” Wallace said. “Having the first black female vice president of the United States deliver our commencement speech while encouraging us to be the change in the world was exceedingly inspirational.”
Jodyn White-Rowell, whose family members traveled from Delaware, Georgia, and Florida to see her receive her bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, said she was inspired.
Jodyn White-Rowell, who received her degree in agricultual science, celebrates with her mother Kimberly White-Rowell. (Submitted Photo)
“Seeing Vice President Kamala Harris, someone who pushes boundaries and inspires others to chase their dreams, come to speak to us encourages me to continue to follow my dreams and push boundaries that are set in front of me,” she said.
Jodyn’s mother, Kimberly White-Rowell, added, “We were so excited to see our daughter and the other graduates walk across the stage. We were also so inspired by President Glover and the commencement speech from VP Kamala Harris who spoke to the heart of all the students, calling the next generation of change agents to the world stage. I can’t wait to see what they all become as educated graduates of TSU.”
You can view the 2022 Spring Undergraduate Commencement on the TSU YouTube channel by visiting tnstate.edu.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Vice President Kamala Harris wasn’t the only thing that made students and family cheer and applaud on Saturday, May 7 during the Tennessee State University Spring Undergraduate Commencement. Without a doubt, Vice President Harris was the main attraction as the crowd roared with excitement as she arrived at Hale stadium. The audience hung on every word of her dynamic and historic commencement address. However, the second loudest cheers were for the TSU Vintagers as University President Glenda Glover announced their $300,000 donation for student scholarships. With the gift, the group’s contribution to the institution has totaled more than $2.8 million since July 2019.
Each Spring Commencement, as part of their week-long events, Vintagers dress in caps and gowns and join the ceremony to relive their graduation day. (Submitted photo)
“We thank you for your generosity and commitment to continue to think of TSU often, to work for TUS’s continued growth and development, and to serve TSU for many more years to come,” said TSU President Glover.
On commencement eve, TSU Vintagers – a group of individuals who graduated from the institution 40 years or more ago – presented President Glover with the $300,000 check for scholarships and other University needs.
Barbara Murrell, of the class of 1960, was among those who presented the check to President Glover. She said Vintagers are glad to return to the “Land of Golden Sunshine” each year to demonstrate their support of the institution and students through scholarships. She hailed President Glover for the choice of Vice President Kama Harris as the commencement speaker.
President Glenda Glover presents a special award to Dr, Katie Kinnard White, member of the Class of 1952, as the oldest living Vintager. Dr, White is 90 years old. (Submitted photo)
“It was a glorious and historic day at TSU as Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States of America, congratulated and empowered graduates with a message of reality, high expectations, possibilities and hope,” said Murrell, who was a senior administrator at the university for many years.
Following the vice president’s address, the Golden Vintagers, highlighting 50 years of service to TSU since graduating, were next on the program to cross the stage. Each received a certificate of appreciation.
Newly inducted Vintager Ronald Ashley, class agent for the class of 1980, said planned activities for the past years were put off because of the pandemic, but considering the well-planned events culminating with the appearance of the Vice President, “it was well worth the wait.”
“To come back to TSU face-to-face with the members of all the other classes, the energy that we all felt and the love for the school and being able to see and hear what other alums have done within their class as far as their financial donation, was just overwhelming,” Ashley said. “I was just filled with emotion and joy yesterday as we sat in Hale Stadium and witnessed the vice president of the United States of America come to our campus, our stage to address the graduates as well as the Tennessee State family. That was truly special.”
Vintager Class Agents present donations from their individual groups, (Submitted photo)
The Vintagers’ donations and other charitable gifts to the university are managed by the TSU Foundation to support literary, scientific, educational, scholarship, charitable and development purposes and goals at the university.
Dr. Grandville Sawyer, an alumnus and coordinator of alumni affairs, came up with the name Vintagers in 1962, on the 50th anniversary of the university. The program is now in its 70th year. Each spring commencement, members return and hold different functions. On graduation day, they dress in caps and gowns and join the ceremony to relive their graduation day. They also induct new members, as well as celebrate those entering their “golden” years (70, 71, 72) of graduation. This year’s newly inducted members are from the classes of ’80, ’81, and ’82.
This year, a key highlight of the Vintagers’ events was the celebration of the oldest living member, Dr. Katie Kinnard White, member of the class of 1952, who is 90 years old.
Debbi Howard, Director of Alumni Relations, welcomes Vintagers to their annual class reunion ceremony, (Submitted Photo)
Debbi Howard, director of Alumni Relations, said Vintagers reunions offer a rich tradition of reconnecting classmates with their alma mater, as well as reflecting on the tremendous impact TSU has made on their life.
“We are glad that this reunion, like all of those in the past, gave you the opportunity to rekindle many lifelong friendships, as well as reminisce on the people, places and events that made your experience at TSU so memorable,” Howard said. She thanked her staff, alumni and volunteers who helped to make the Vintagers’ week successful.
You can view the 2022 Spring Undergraduate Commencement, including the Golden Vintagers ceremony on the TSU YouTube channel by visiting tnstate.edu.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – “I’m now a Tiger!”
Vice President Kamala Harris cheered as she received an honorary doctorate degree in humane letters from Tennessee State University after addressing nearly 600 undergraduates at the Spring 2022 commencement ceremony.
As an official member of the TSU Alumni Family, Vice President Kamala Harris joins President Glenda Glover, and University officials for the University Alma Mater song to end a historic commencement day. (Photo submitted)
Harris was hooded by TSU President Dr. Glenda Glover as the crowd looked on, including University trustees, cabinet members and mayors John Cooper of Nashville and Randall Woodfin of Birmingham, AL.
The historic moment took place Saturday at TSU’s Hale Stadium shortly after Harris addressed the graduates with a heartfelt commencement speech, marking this as her first address at a University and HBCU as Vice President of the United States.
Graduate Matthew Benton, who now has a degree in business administration, said that the historic event was as inspirational as he imagined.
“I’m thankful to have had a university President like Dr. Glover with the right connections and friendships to bring Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, to our campus to give the keynote address.”
Tennessee State University graduate Matthew Benton after receiving a degree in business administration . (Photo submitted)
As a fellow HBCU graduate of Howard University, Harris gave the students a chance to mirror the person they can one day become. The Vice President celebrated the 2022 graduates’ through their trials, mentioning the challenges of obtaining a degree through the COVID-19 pandemic, fundamental principles, and racial inequalities.
Harris stated that the graduates are more than just a class of 2022 but graduates that the United States need in the near future.
“I look at this unsettled world, and yes I see the challenges, but I am here to tell you, I also see the opportunities. The opportunities for your leadership. The future of our country and our world will be shaped by you.”
The dark skies looming over Hale stadium didn’t stop Harris’ words of encouragement to shine through as she spoke value to more than one thousand attendees.
“You are fueled by self-determination,” she said. “Students from all over the world come here because they have big dreams.”
About 15-mintues into her speech, Harris’ shared a story regarding the first time she flew on the vice-presidential helicopter.
She looked out the window as the helicopter circled over her alma mater and saw her 17-year-old self again toting books around campus. “At a place just like this,” she smiled.
“That reinforced that I can be anything. Do anything. Even if it had never been done before,” she said as the crowd cheered.
“Like you, and full of hope and full of dreams with a future full of possibility. I stand before you today as the Vice President of America and as a proud graduate of an HBCU to say, there is no limit to your capacity of greatness.”
Vice President Kamala Harris smiles with TSU student on stage during historic Spring 2022 commencement day. (Photo submitted)
Harris reassured the graduates who will embark on a new journey, that their time at TSU has unlocked unimaginable opportunities.
“There is no barrier you cannot break,” she said, noting that the graduate’s perspective and experience will make the United States a stronger country. She mentioned that there will be a time that the graduates will walk into a room where no one else may look like them.
“And at that moment you must remember, you are not in that room alone. Always know that you carried the voices of everyone here and those upon the shoulders you stand,” Harris comforted the students.
A little piece of advice to the graduates from Harris: Be true to yourself.
Tennessee State University graduate Derrick Sanders Jr., after receiving a degree English. (Photo submitted)
Graduate Derrick Sanders, Jr., who now has a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in English, said that Harris telling the students to live in the moment, is what resonated with him most.
“To know now that she will forever be a part of my TSU history, and to be inducted as an official member of the Tiger Family was a tremendous honor to witness.”
As Harris is the first woman, and first person of color as Vice President of the United States, she closed out her commencement speech with a phrase her late-mother always told her.
Kamala, you may be the first to do many things … make sure you are not the last.
“I have been many first in my lifetime and as I look out at all of you today, I know I will not be the last,” Harris told the TSU graduates.
“Your country is so proud of you.” “May God bless you and may God bless America.”
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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University officials will award honorary degrees to two music industry artists and producers at the university’s 2022 spring graduate commencement on Friday, May 6.
Dallas Austin is a Grammy award-winning producer and 2019 inductee into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. (Photo submitted)
Dallas Austin, Grammy award-winning producer, is a 2019 inductee into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He has over 50 Billboard Hot 100 records to his credit and a multitude of awards. Austin also has produced a pair of successful movies based on his own experiences growing up in Georgia —the 2002 “Drumline” and 2006 “ATL.”
Sir the Baptist is a multi-disciplinary Christian American artist, two-time Grammy award-nominated writer, producer, BET Award nominee and winner of BMI 2021 Songwriter of the Year.
He called receiving an honorary degree his greatest accomplishment of all time.
Sir Williams James Baptist is a multi-disciplinary Christian American artist, two-time Grammy award-nominated writer, and winner of BMI 2021 Songwriter of the Year. (Photo submitted)
“To know that TSU appreciates my hard work as far as my career and Dallas’ career, we’re overwhelmed,” Sir the Baptist said. “I think it is amazing. You work your entire life, and you may not feel like you’re as collegiate as the students who earn it, so you don’t quite feel like you deserve it,” he said, noting how humble and appreciative he is for the opportunity.
Sir the Baptist said his mother, and Austin’s mother, are both proud of this milestone. “No matter what song we worked on, no matter how big it got, our parents wanted us to graduate.”
Austin landed his first placement with “Cover Girl” for Princess & Starbreeze in 1987. From “Unpretty” and “Cool” to “Mowtownphilly” and “FourFiveSeconds,” Austin went on to craft hits for the likes of Another Bad Creation, Boyz II Men, TLC, Madonna, Gwen Stefani, and most recently Cedric Gervais, Kodie Shane and Klondie Blonde.
“Regardless of what it is, I want to create things that resonate with people and bring positivity,” Austin said. “Creating music, film, and art is the best way for me to help others and really do some good.”
Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Frank Stevenson, who is also chair of the honorary degree committee, stated that having these two as honorees is a once in a lifetime opportunity for TSU.
“Both are in the music industry with an amazing array of acclaims and accomplishments in that space.” Stevenson said.
The Director and Assistant Director of TSU’s Aristocrat of Bands (AOB) Dr. Reginald McDonald and Dr. Larry Jenkins, couldn’t agree more.
Jenkins stated that Sir the Baptist and Austin has been connecting with AOB this semester through the Artist and Residency Program to provide new outlets for the students.
McDonald and Jenkins both stated that Austin and Sir the Baptist are not only influential to the band, but also to HBCU culture.
“I see their connection (with TSU) being a forever connection,” Jenkins said. “I think this collaboration propels TSU into some new spaces. The sets of eyes that will be on TSU will be amazing.”
McDonald stated that the two being awarded at the commencement, along with having future networking opportunities will be monumental for TSU.
“It is almost like that next level of recognition,” McDonald said. “This is (a) huge, remarkable experience for our kids.”
The ceremony will take place in the Gentry Center Complex located on the main campus at 5 p.m., and will be livestreamed at www.tnstate.edu/livestream.
The event will follow COVID-19 guidelines and face mask are recommended. Hand sanitizer and mask will be provided.
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 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) – Four Tennessee State University College of Agriculture students will be $25,000 richer in scholarship aid, thanks to Kroger.
President Glenda Glover speaks with Sonya Hostetler, President of Kroger Nashville Division at the check presentation ceremony. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)
The University and the retail giant will establish the Kroger Scholarship and Student Success Fund at TSU in support of first-year students pursuing degrees intending to promote careers in the agricultural and food industry and workforce development.
The grocer is awarding TSU $100,000.
As the donation will introduce TSU students to career opportunities Sonya Hostetler, the grocer’s Nashville Division President, she said looks forward to a future with the University.
“This investment reinforces Kroger’s commitment to build up the communities we serve,” Hostetler said. “We are proud to partner with TSU to support these students and ultimately, our future workforce.”
Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean of the College of agriculture, speaks with Shantavia Webb, Kroger Human Resource Leader. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)
The check presentation took place in the Agriculture Biotechnology building with Kroger executives who joined President Glenda Glover, Dean and Director of Research/Administrator of Extension Chandra Reddy and TSU staff.
President Glover stated that $25,000 to start an education at TSU is a phenomenal investment for the students and the grocer.
“It plants the seed for success for our students,” Glover said. “It’s not what you do for TSU, but what you do for the board of community,” she told the Kroger executives.
During the presentation a Farm Bill scholarship recipient, TSU freshman Dacia Ringo, mentioned how grateful she is for scholarship opportunities as such.
“I know that this scholarship is going to help a lot of people like myself. Without that scholarship I wouldn’t be in school,” Ringo said.
“Thank you to everyone who made this opportunity possible.”
President Glenda Glover shares a moment with TSU freshman Dacia Ringo who is a Farm Bill scholarship recipient. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)
The colleges’ Director of Marketing and Communications Roderick Reed contacted Kroger regarding the funding opportunity and stated that he looks forward to working closely with the grocer to strengthen their relationship with TSU.
Dr. De’Etra Young, Associate Dean for Academics and Land-Grant Programs, said the donation will be beneficial to the lives of four deserving students who are seeking a career in agriculture.
“We receive inquires all the time from students seeking assistance. So this would change the impact for four students that are interested in pursuing agriculture,” Young said.
She stated that the selected students will work closely with faculty, staff and Kroger while receiving mentorship opportunities.
Over the course of 4-years throughout the undergraduate program, four selected scholars will receive up to $25,000 based on their financial needs, totaling in $100,000 in direct scholar’s aid. This is Kroger’s first donation to TSU, Young said, but she has hopes that this will become an annual gesture with additional industry partners.
“I think the college has been doing great, innovative work. So for us to receive initial recognition just confirms the work that we are doing.”
Rodrick Reed, Director of marketing and communications and De’Etra Young, Associate Dean for Academics and Land-Grant Programs De’Etra Young at Kroger check presentation. (Photo by Janiece Pigg)
Young stated that the college has a dean’s scholarship program that supports undergraduate research and internship opportunities, a program that currently has more than 40 students. While the College of Agriculture receives grant awards often, TSUAg obtained 68 competitive grants, totaling in almost $24 million last year. TSUAg was the top external funding award recipient at TSU.
In 2019 the college was awarded $100,000 from SunTrust now Truist fund agriculture education for four students, receiving $25,000 each.
Prior to, TSU was awarded $450,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for food safety research in 2018.
First-year agriculture students will be able to apply for the scholarship in Fall 2022. Eligible students must be selected through an application process that evaluates merit thresholds and relevant majors, according to Dean Chandra Reddy. Continuation of student funding will be subject to satisfactory academic progress in the field of study and any scholarship program restrictions that may apply.
Additionally, scholarship funds may be made available to assist the students with educational support such as tutoring or to ensure academic success.
For more information regarding the upcoming scholarship opportunity, internships, and or other financial opportunities, contact Dr. De’Etra Young at (615) 963-5123 or email [email protected].
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 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) – Vice President Kamala Harris will headline Tennessee State University’s 2022 Spring Commencement in May. Vice President Harris will deliver the keynote address for the undergraduate Commencement on Saturday, May 7 at 9 a.m. CDT in Hale Stadium. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin will address graduate students at an indoor ceremony on Friday, May 6 at 5 p.m. CDT in the Gentry Center Complex. University officials say nearly 900 students will receive degrees in various disciplines.
“We are excited to have the Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris and Mayor Randall Woodfin of Birmingham, two trailblazers and history makers, deliver the keynote address for our commencement ceremonies,” says TSU President Glenda Glover.
“Commencement marks a major milestone in our students’ lives, but to have the Vice President of the United States as your guest speaker makes this moment even more special for our students and their families. I believe they will also appreciate the fact that both Vice President Harris and Mayor Woodfin are HBCU graduates, a testament to the caliber of students TSU and other HBCUs produce. The TSU family looks forward to both ceremonies and featured speakers.”
Both ceremonies will follow COVID-19 guidelines. For more information on Spring Commencement 2022, visit www.tnstate.edu/commencement. President Glenda Glover will be available for interviews via Zoom or by phone. Contact the TSU Media Relations Office to schedule a time.
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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Two years ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Covid-19 a pandemic and the former president issued a National Emergency leading to stay-at-home orders around the world. Since then, health care professionals like Dr. Nancy Wolfe-Sidberry have been on the front-line fighting to save lives while trying not to lose their own.
Dr. Sidberry in yearbook headshot photo with sorority sisters
“Watching patients overcome illnesses is always inspiring,” says Sidberry. “But Covid was a nightmare. I lost so many patients.”
Sidberry is a Family Medical Doctor at Brentwood Family Care Center and is affiliated with Ascension Saint Thomas Hospitals (Midtown and West) as well as TriStar Centennial Medical Center. As a primary care physician, she is trained to care for children and families and has been in practice for nearly 40 years.
“I’ve wanted to be a doctor since the age of two,” says Sidberry who followed in her family’s footsteps and attended Tennessee State University. After graduating with a Bachelor’s in 1974 and a Master’s in 1976, she went on to receive her M.D. from Meharry Medical College School of Medicine in 1985.
Dr. Sidberry pictured with her sorority sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha on the campus of TSU
“My entire family attended TSU, so it was the only college I knew,” she says while adding that her alma mater’s motto: Think. Work. Serve. inspires her to think about what she wants, work to achieve it, and do her best.
With the mental and emotional challenges that have led to burnout for many health care providers in the last two years, giving her best is what has sustained Sidberry. She was among the age population that was at risk, but that has not stopped her from educating and caring for patients.
“I find peace by going to work every day and doing the best that I can do,” she says. “I get discouraged, but I must keep going. I just put one foot in front of the other and keep going. My self-care is helping others.”
While she doesn’t recall who inspired her to become a doctor, she says she never wanted anything else. Her advice to students is to choose their own path.
“Each of us has to choose our path, and I hope that each person chooses what’s right,” says Sidberry. “Just do the right thing for yourself and no one else.”
In addition to offering comprehensive medical care for her patients, she is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Sidberry is a woman of few words and a big heart. “I don’t like being in the spotlight,” she says candidly. “I just love practicing medicine and living a quiet life.
TSU proudly salutes alumna Dr. Nancy Wolfe-Sidberry during National Minority Health Month.
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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU New Service) – It’s officials! Tennessee State University Student Government Association has a new group of officers for the 2022-2023 academic year. The new student leadership, including a Mister TSU and a Miss TSU, was announced Friday during an elaborate ceremony on the main campus after a week of campaigning. It was the first in-person campaigning and election since the pandemic.
Kenneth Rolle II, SGA President
TSU President Glenda Glover, along with staff from the Office of Student Affairs, congratulated the new officers when the election results were announced.
Kenneth Role II, a senior urban studies major from Orlando, Florida, was elected president, while Aliyah Holmes, a sophomore double major in political science and criminal justice from Houston, was elected vice president.
Aliyah Holmes, SGA Vice President
Sa’Mariah Harding, a rising senior majoring in mathematics and secondary education from Indianapolis, was elected the 93rd Miss TSU. Tre’Veon Hayes, the new Mister TSU, will escort her. Hayes, a rising senior majoring in elementary education, is from Memphis, Tennessee.
Frank Stevenson, associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students, described the new officers as a “dynamic group” of student leaders.
“They were each very strategic in sharing their platforms during the campaign,” Stevenson said. “Student leadership at TSU is not accidental but very intentional, and this group proves that in practice.”
Sa’Mariah Harding, Miss TSU
Rolle, who becomes the 82nd executive president of the SGA, said his goal is “to get students’ concerns at the forefront of the agenda.”
“My goal is to make sure student concerns are heard and something is done about them, especially when it comes to financial aid, student housing, and the rest.,” Rolle said.
Harding, the new Miss TSU, who ran on the theme “The Louder the Prouder the Tiger Family,” said her goal is “to get every woman on campus feel as a queen.”
Tre’Veon Hayes, Mister TSU
“I want to make sure that every woman feels good about themselves every day when they wake up,” Harding said. “I want to make sure they are proud about who they are, and loud and proud about being a TSU Tiger.”
Dr. Andre Bean, assistant dean of Student Engagement and Leadership, said he’s confident the new group of SGA leadership has a strong agenda to move the student body in a very positive direction.
“I am excited about this group of students and I am looking forward to what they have to bring to the table,” Bean said.
Following is the list of the Royal Court and other members of the SGA:
Mister Senior – Irwin Todd
Miss Senior – Zion Bonds
Mister Junior – Timothy Brewer
Miss Junior – Victoria McCrae
Mister Sophomore – Cotton Chandler
Miss sophomore – Zaria Hobbs
Representatives-At-Large
Michael Darden
Tanya McNeal
Kyra Tucker
Dajah Robinson
Keyanna Canady
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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University Debate and Forensics Team is number 1 among HBCUs in the nation. At the recent 5th Annual HBCU National Speech and Debate Competition at Prairie View A&M University, TSU walked away with 10 national titles, 50 total awards and the overall tournament championship, making them the top HBCU in the country for the third consecutive year.
TSU’s Debate and Forensics Team members, from left (sitting): Aliyah Holmes, Marshaun Adams, Akyra McDougal, Sanae Chestnut, Ashlynn Freeman, Mark Twyman, Deja Thomas, Ayana Nichole, Chase Garrett and Maya McClary. Back row (standing): Mariah Brown, De’Traelyn Hubbard, Elizabeth Ward, Dwight DeBerry and DezNeshia Glasper. (Submitted photo)
“I started three years ago not winning at any tournament and now to being a three-time national champion is phenomenal,” said team captain Maya McClary, a senior mass communications major from Orlando, Florida. “My experience on the team has been life changing. Forensics has taught me to use my speech as an outlet to express myself. I would not change anything or anyone on this team.”
Ashlynn Freeman, a sophomore and first-year member of the team, said this championship is special because it gave her a voice she didn’t have before.
Maya McClary, Team Captain
“As a young African American woman, I feel constantly that I have no voice in the world because I am shown not to be heard,” said Freeman, an agricultural science major from Kansas City, Kansas. “With the platform that speech and debate give me, I’m being heard.”
This year, the tournament returned to in-person, after going virtual the last two years due to the pandemic. Other institutions participating in the tournament April 1-3 included Howard University, Texas Southern University and North Carolina A&T.
Prof. Sean Allen, director of forensics in the TSU Department of Communications, is the coach of the TSU debate team. He attributes the success of the group to the “hard work” of the students and to the support of the communications department.
Ashlynn Freeman, First-Year Team Member
“This win was a group effort,” said Allen, who has been with the program at the university for the last six years. “This couldn’t have been achieved without the support from the communications department and university competitions like the Robert N Murrell Oratorical Competition, where I recruit top talent.”
Dr. Jacqueline W. Mitchell, professor and chair of the Oratorical competition, congratulated the team for their championship, and thanked Prof. Allen for his commitment.
Prof. Sean Allen, Team Coach
“The TSU Forensics Team, #1 nationally ranked, consistently outranks competing HBCUs year after year under the coaching of Professor Sean Allen,” said Mitchell, who also chairs the Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest. “Because of this national reputation which we’ve held for several years, we attract annually the top high school debaters across the nation to our freshman class. They all want to be a part of a top-seeded winning team, which TSU provides at the highest level.”
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.
