Category Archives: College of Education

Alumni, College of Agriculture, College of Education, College of Health Sciences, College of Liberal Arts, EVENTS, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, Marketing, NEWS, RESEARCH, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Leaders, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU Shines at HBCU Day at the Capitol

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University was among the state’s HBCUs represented recently at the Day at the Capitol. The annual event brings together students, faculty, and supporters from Tennessee’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities to engage with state legislators, highlighting the achievements and needs of these institutions. TSU’s presence raised awareness of the contributions of HBCUs, advocate for supportive funding and policies, and helps to strengthen the relationship between these institutions and state lawmakers.

TSU student Chandler Hollis, right, presents State Representative David Hawk with a TSU gift bag during HBCU Day at the Capitol.

Nearly 40 TSU representatives attended the event On Feb. 18, including interim President Dwayne Tucker, students from the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. program, the Student Government Association, Honors College, and more. Students distributed gift bags to all House representatives and senators, each containing TSU gear along with flower bulbs from the College of Agriculture.

Chandler Hollis, a junior biology major and a Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., scholar, shared his thoughts on representing TSU at the Capitol. “I got the chance to sit down and speak with representatives,” Hollis said. “My HBCU… we’re good enough, and I have been afforded the opportunity to be here at the Capitol for a reason. We’re not here just because—we’re here because we are a prestigious school, and I take pride in Tennessee State University.”

From left to right, TSU students Linzee Nelson, Chrishonda O’Quinn, and Erin Armstrong.

Chrishonda O’Quinn, SGA president, highlighted the importance of the experience, saying, “This was my first time participating in HBCU Day at the Capitol. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to represent our university and showcase its achievements while advocating for support from legislators. It’s a chance to network and promote us as students pursuing degrees and building successful careers. This experience can open doors to new opportunities beyond our time at the university.”

In addition to providing networking opportunities, the event highlighted TSU’s research and academic offerings. A major attraction was “Blue,” TSU’s robotic dog, which greeted lawmakers and drew attention to the display by the TSU SMART . The Center promotes digital literacy, inspiring smart connected innovations, and equipping students with essential technology skills for the digital workforce.

Dr. Robert O’Keefe Hassell, center, joins fellow Smart Center faculty and staff to showcase TSU’s robot dog, ‘Blue.’

Dr. Robert O’Keefe Hassell, executive director of TSU’s SMART Center, highlighted the center’s role in showcasing TSU’s innovative programs. “TSU is home to so many amazing things, and the SMART Center is one of those things,” he said. “We’re excited to be here to spread new innovations and technology, along with the amazing programs we offer at the TSU SMART Center.”

From left to right: Roderick Reed, Director of Marketing and Communications in Agriculture; House Representative Harold Love Jr.; and Lobbyist Leah Dupree Love.

Leah Dupree Love, a 2005 TSU alumna and a lobbyist with the Ingram Group, also underscored the day’s impact. “When we are educating Tennesseans, we are educating them to go out and prosper in all 95 counties,” Love said. “I wanted to make sure that this day was a success because HBCUs matter. These efforts are so important to TSU students and I hope students go back to campus rejuvenated.”

Darryl Thompson, Special Advisor to the president for External Relations, Infrastructure, and Major Projects, emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with lawmakers. “We were not here to erase the past but to build off the past and create a much brighter future,” Thompson said. “This visit is to ensure that students remain at the center of all decisions and that those decisions are best for the future of Tennessee State.”

HBCU Day at the Capitol not only allowed TSU to advocate for its needs but also reinforced its role as a future-ready institution, dedicated to advancing educational equity and creating opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader community.

Alumni, College of Education, EVENTS, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Nashville Entrepreneur Dr. Turner Nashe Jr. Inspires TSU Graduates to Forge Their Own Paths at Fall Commencement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dr. Turner Nashe Jr., a prominent entrepreneur and national technology leader, addressed nearly 600 graduates at Tennessee State University’s fall commencement ceremony held Dec. 7. Family and loved ones filled the Gentry Center Complex to be a part of the milestone event.  As the keynote speaker, Nashe urged students to take ownership of their futures with the education they have received.

Dr. Turner Nashe, Jr., delivers the keynote address at the Fall Commencement Ceremony in the Gentry Center Complex. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“Life’s journey is unpredictable. My own path is a testament to that,” Nashe said. “Not everyone around you will see your potential, but that’s okay. What matters is your belief in yourself. With faith, focus, and resilience, you can turn the darkest days into your brightest moments.”

Nashe, the founder and president of Innertainment Delivery System and a board member at Sonata, holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from TSU. He recounted overcoming skepticism from others, including his father, who believed college was not for him. “I had a choice: follow someone else’s dream or create my own. I chose to define my own success.”

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson, left, and Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, present a plaque to Dr. Turner Nashe, Jr., following his commencement address. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Before Nashe’s speech, TSU Interim President Dr. Ronald A. Johnson, emphasized resilience and family support, remarking on the significance of the graduates’ accomplishments. “Your journey has reached a milestone today. Remember, no educational endeavor is worthwhile unless it strengthens you and your community,” said Johnson, who presided over his first commencement as president.

Nashe offered graduates five keys to success as they continue their journey. He told them: “Apply your degree to innovation, live below your means because being debt-free is freedom, run your own race and stop comparing your journey to others, keep fresh eyes to spot opportunities, and execute your ideas as true success comes from action. You possess the power to transform your life and others’ lives. Define your purpose and use your education to make a difference in the world.”

Sandra Walker achieves her dream of earning her college degree after an 11-year journey. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The ceremony celebrated a diverse group of graduates, including Sandra Walker, who received her bachelor’s degree in business administration. After an 11-year journey, juggling work and family, Walker expressed gratitude for TSU’s supportive environment. “This journey has taught me to use my education to make an impact on the world.”

Toby Gallant fulfills a promise to his late grandmother by earning his college degree after dropping out 38 years ago, six credits shy of completing his college work. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Toby Gallant, who returned to TSU after 38 years to complete his degree, shared his personal triumph. “I made a promise to my late mother that I would walk across this stage. It feels amazing to fulfill that promise,” said Gallant, reflecting on the significance of his achievement.

Patrick Granberry, a TSU employee, earned his doctorate in educational leadership, marking his third degree from TSU. “TSU has been a huge part of my life; I met my wife here and found my passion. I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” Granberry stated.

Provost Robbie Melton congratulates Patrick Granberry, a TSU employee, after he received his doctorate in educational leadership, his third degree from TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Beyond their academic achievements, graduates were told to be proud of their TSU lineage because of the vital role the university plays in the broader Tennessee community.  The university’s impact to the City of Nashville community is well over $500 million annually, and serves over 586,107 residents across 63 counties, through the College of Agriculture’s extension program. This engagement is providing valuable resources, education, and outreach to improve the local agricultural landscape and quality of life.

As the graduates embark on their next chapters, the messages shared today resonate with the promise and potential each individual holds. TSU congratulates its graduates and wishes them success in all their future endeavors.

Alumni, College of Education, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

TSU Doctoral Student DeeAnne Miree Wins 2024 National Distinguished Principals Award for Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – DeeAnne Miree, a dedicated doctoral student at Tennessee State University and the principal of Nashville’s Cambridge Early Learning Center, has been honored as the 2024 winner of the National Distinguished Principals Award for Tennessee. This prestigious award, presented by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), recognizes exemplary leadership among elementary and middle school principals nationwide, emphasizing their commitment to student achievement, character development, and fostering a positive school climate.

April Knight, right, President of NAESP, presents the National Distinguished Principals Award to DeeAnne Miree at the ceremony in Washington, D.C. (Submitted photo)

With over 27 years of experience in education, Miree has served as the principal of Cambridge Early Learning Center for the past nine years. During her tenure, she has made significant strides in enhancing academic performance, positioning Cambridge as one of only four Pre-K schools within the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools system. 

“I see this award as the pinnacle of my career. While no one does this work for accolades, it is gratifying to be recognized,” Miree said. “My focus has always been on celebrating my teachers and acknowledging the incredible work they do. This award reflects not just my efforts, but the dedication of my entire staff and the remarkable growth of our students.”

DeeAnne Miree will receive her doctorate in Educational Leadership from TSU next fall. (Submitted photo)

In the nomination process, Miree was required to provide data highlighting student growth, including social and emotional learning developments. She expressed pride in possibly being the first principal of a Pre-K school in the state to receive this recognition, emphasizing the importance of supporting students for future success.

A proud three-time alumna of TSU, Miree holds bachelor’s, master’s, and education specialist degrees from the College of Education. She is expected to receive her doctorate in Educational Leadership next fall. “TSU has been my foundation. The education and support I received there were unparalleled, shaping the educator I am today,” she said.

Dr. Janet Finch, Dean of the College of Education, praised DeeAnne Miree for her commitment to academic excellence. (TSU photo)

Dr. Janet Finch, Dean of the College of Education at TSU, commended Miree’s achievement, stating, “As exemplified by Ms. Miree, TSU graduates embody our commitment to academic excellence and social justice, working to ensure quality education for all students and a positive impact on society.”

Miree’s advisor, Dr. Kimanj Gundi, professor in the College of Education, praised her exceptional capabilities, noting, “DeeAnne exceeds expectations with her strong organizational skills and her passion for education. Her leadership qualities are remarkable, and we take great pride in her accomplishments.”

In addition to her role as principal, Miree also serves as president of the Tennessee Principal’s Association. Coming from a family of educators, her commitment to teaching and leadership is deeply rooted. Her achievements illustrate TSU’s vital role in training and supporting effective educators in Tennessee and beyond.

For more information on TSU’s College of Education, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/coe/.

Alumni, College of Education, EVENTS, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, Graduation, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU student will walk stage to receive doctorate after ‘medical miracle’ 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Pearl McKnight assumed she’d continue her educational journey in a wheelchair after a 2010 diagnosis of Cryptococcal Meningitis, that left her paralyzed from the waist down on her right side. Fast forward thirteen years later, in what McKnight calls a medical miracle, she won’t require her wheelchair for Tennessee State University’s upcoming commencement ceremony. The 59-year-old mother and wife will proudly walk across the stage to receive her doctorate degree in educational leadership.

Throughout this journey, Pearl McKnight’s spouse, Kenneth, has supported her by driving her to school and waiting in the hallways during her classes.

“God has me here for a reason,” the Murfreesboro, Tennessee, native said.

“I got my masters in a wheelchair so I figured that was going to be what a degree would be like for the rest of my life. So, it means so much to me to be able to walk across the stage.”

McKnight will join nearly 700 students for TSU’s Fall Commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 9, at 9 a.m. in the Gentry Center Complex. Award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor Don Lemon will deliver the keynote address. McKnight believed the transformative experience fueled her determination to reach graduation and receive her degree on stage without using a wheelchair.

“I have a mission to complete,” she said. 

“This assures that what I went through was for a reason. To have a better understanding, to make a change in someone’s life.”

McKnight anticipates putting her doctorate degree to use in a position at a school or university that advocates for disabled students. Her goal will be to ensure they receive the necessary accommodations for their academic journey.

Dr. Pearl McKnight

“I can affirm that the playing field is not level for disabled students,” McKnight said. “I will feel a profound sense of purpose if I can draw upon my experiences and pay it forward.”

The sudden illness and eventual diagnosis set McKnight on a decade-long journey to get her doctoral degree from TSU. She earned two master’s degrees prior to enrolling at TSU and recalled that her health took a turn while she was pursuing her first master’s degree in criminal justice at MTSU. She received her education specialist degree two years later, then began her journey toward her doctorate at TSU.

“My journey has been very long to get this degree,” McKnight said.

Overtime, McKnight had several surgeries and was on more than a dozen daily medications for other health reasons. In 2017, McKnight underwent surgery for a cyst removal in her esophagus. The procedure would have a profound impact on her life.

She remembered whispering right before the surgery, “God, I’m in your hands.”

Dr. Anita McGaha

And upon waking up, she felt her legs. After over six years in a wheelchair, she was able to stand up and walk, all while recovering from the procedure. Prior to her esophagus surgery, she was taking insulin four times a day, a fentanyl patch, and many more medications by mouth.

“I came off of 14 daily medications, and I started walking,” McKnight said. “For me to have a total body transformation, it was a medical miracle.”

Throughout this journey, McKnight’s husband of 42 years, Kenneth, supported her by driving her to school and waiting in the hallways during her classes. Kenneth McKnight reflected on his wife’s dedication to education. 

“I just want to reflect on her dedication and perseverance, I knew that she wasn’t going to stop until she got it (her degree),” he said.

He said he couldn’t put into words how he felt when McKnight started walking after six years.  

“It was a wonderful feeling because we never thought she was going to be able to walk again. When she did, it was a miracle.” Kenneth noted that he and the rest the family look forward to watching her walk across the stage on Saturday.

Kenneth and Pearl McKnight on vacation.

 “She has been an example to me and many others,” he said. “I know she is going to do great things and be a success.”

Dr. Anita McGaha, Director of the Office of Disability Services (ODS) at TSU, credits McKnight’s spirit and relentless pursuit of her dream that helped her reach this milestone.

“Ms. Pearl McKnight story serves as a source of motivation and inspiration for other students on campus who may be challenged with adversities but continue to be committed in their quest for academic achievement,” McGaha said.

The ODS provides reasonable accommodations to registered students, which include academic and housing services. According to the latest data for fall 2023, the office is providing support for over 100 students with disabilities both in the classroom and the residence halls.

“I can’t wait to have the pleasure to witness her walk across the stage and be hooded. Congratulations in advance to Dr. Pearl McKnight! We are proud of you.”

TSU fall commencement will also be live streamed from the University’s YouTube channel at www.tnstate.edu/livestream.

Alumni, College of Education, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU alumni take the lead in shaping young minds as educators, while filling shortage

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For Tennessee State University alumna Sa’Mariah Harding, teaching isn’t just about the subject at hand but molding the minds of future leaders. Harding graduated from TSU in spring 2023 and serves as a 9th and 10th-grade honors geometry teacher.

“I always knew I wanted to teach high school math,” said the former Miss TSU, Harding, who currently works as an educator at Valor College Prep in Nashville.

Sa’Mariah Harding graduated from TSU in spring 2023 and serves as a 9th and 10th-grade honors geometry teacher at Valor College Prep.

Amid the ongoing nationwide teacher shortage, Tennessee State University continues to produce and nurture the next generation of educators who College of Education faculty believe will shape generations to come.

“TSU definitely prepared me for this,” Harding said, emphasizing the university’s role in shaping her as an educator who can empower and mentor students. As an African American woman and an HBCU graduate, Harding emphasized the importance of mirroring the community.

“In the classroom, proper representation matters,” she added.

Dr. Janet Finch, the Dean of the College of Education, said she anticipates producing even more quality educators throughout the country as TSU continues its reputation as a leading HBCU in producing educators, including teachers, counselors, and executive educators.

Quamane Graham

“I want to make sure we have people that assimilate the world,” Finch said. “We have established great partnerships with school districts across the State, so we can support them in identifying well-qualified teachers.”

Quamane Graham, a junior from Florida studying at TSU, plans to teach high school biology in Nashville after college. Graham was accepted into the Teacher Education Certification program this summer and will be able to teach grades 7-12 post-graduation. 

“I want to show young Black males that you can go to college and be a teacher,” he said. “That it is achievable to do so.” Graham said he is grateful for the tools provided within the College of Education that prepared him up for success.

“I would not be in the Teacher Education program if it wasn’t for the Global Student Success Lab,” he said, which is located on TSU’s main campus. “The staff worked day and night with me to make sure I had the resources to pass my Praxis test. They were very resourceful.”

Dr. Janet Finch

The global lab is an academic center geared toward encouraging interested students to become educators and provides additional support in the areas of education and psychology.

Dean Finch also highlighted the impact TSU education graduates are having “in our own backyard.” Historically, this is particularly true for metro Nashville and the State, where over 50% of district leaders across Tennessee are TSU education graduates. 

Dr. Adrienne Battles, the director of Metro Nashville Public Schools, is a TSU alumna who Finch taught. She also highlighted Dr. Shanna L. Jackson, the first Black female president of Nashville State Community College, being a TSU alumna. Both Dr. Battles and Jackson graduated from the Educational Leadership program in the College of Education.

Dr. Rhonda Stewart, who is the global student success lab director, said the environment is a supportive academic center geared toward welcoming interested students with open arms and providing additional support in the education and psychology field.

In 2022 , Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona visited TSU and praised the University for its pipeline to the classroom teacher’s initiative to help eliminate the shortage. Tennessee State Certification data shows that 325 students graduated from TSU’s college of education, between 2019 to 2022, and of that total, 87% are currently employed in their field, throughout schools in Tennessee.

In 2020-21, there were 155 TSU graduates who finished their teacher training. Out of that number, 137 are still working as teachers, approximately 88%. According to Dr. Rajah Smart, assistant dean and director of the college’s assessment and accreditation program, there was a slight increase for 2021-2022. Dr. Smart reports that of the 118 students who finished their teacher training, 89% are currently teaching.  

Sa’Mariah Harding teaches a student honors geometry at Valor College Prep.

A recent report by the Tennessee State Board of Education further revealed how TSU graduates are impacting Tennessee classrooms. It found that nearly all the teachers who graduated from TSU and started teaching in 2020, have a second-year retention rate of 96%.

Dr. Finch stated that the nationwide teacher crisis is real, but TSU’s College of Education is committed to addressing the crisis by continuing to produce quality educators dedicated to changing world through the TSU motto think, work, serve.