Category Archives: College of Liberal Arts

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TSU student lands NBA summer internship with Utah Jazz

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – From the classroom to the basketball court, Tennessee State University junior Peyton Tripp is taking her talents to the NBA. The Memphis, Tennessee native and mass communication major is spending the summer in Salt Lake City as an intern with the Utah Jazz.

Tripp is one of many TSU students seizing internship opportunities this summer to put their classroom knowledge into real-world practice. She is serving on the Utah Jazz People & Culture team as a paid intern for 10 weeks through the NBA HBCU Fellowship Program. Her journey began in June with a two-day immersive onboarding experience at the NBA offices in New York City before she headed to Utah for the remainder of the internship.

Peyton Tripp during her Utah Jazz internship this summer.

“I hope TSU students follow their journeys and recognize that it’s okay to have doubts along the way because I’ve certainly had mine,” Tripp said. “What matters most is giving 100 percent to the path you’re on and staying committed to growing through the process.”

Tripp shared that she is excited to apply her focus in integrated marketing while supporting a variety of People & Culture initiatives, including recruiting, onboarding, and employee training. “I represent those who may feel hard work doesn’t always pay off, and those unsure of their next steps,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to lean on the people around you offering support, because you’re not in it alone.”

She said she was inspired to apply for the fellowship by her peers and their success within TSU’s communications program.

The NBA HBCU Fellowship Program provides career development opportunities in the business of basketball for undergraduate and graduate students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Fellows are selected by NBA teams and the league office to work within a variety of departments, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, IT, social responsibility, and marketing.

Peyton Tripp

TSU communications professor Joshua Little praised Tripp’s internship selection, calling her an exceptional fit for the opportunity.

“Not only is she a leader in the classroom, but she’s also an important figure in the community,” Little said. “She always exceeds expectations. Peyton is determined and seeks out every opportunity and initiative she can.” Little added that the department’s goal is to ensure students gain hands-on experience that leads to full-time careers after graduation.

“We want our students to have real-world opportunities before they leave our campus,” he said. “Having them placed in prestigious positions like this speaks not only to the strength of our programs, but also to the incredible talent and potential our students possess.”

As Tripp continues her internship, she hopes her journey encourages other TSU students to believe in themselves and their potential. “I want this to be a reminder that hard work matters, and that we are worthy of great opportunities,” she said.

For more information on the fellowship, visit www.nbafoundation.nba.com/hbcu-fellowship.

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AOB Ends Year on High Note with Historic Coco Jones Performance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Room 164 of the Tennessee State University band hall was filled with pure, organic harmonies and an energy that couldn’t be replicated. More than 230 members of the Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands (AOB) fed off the vibe of R&B star and actress Coco Jones. Together, they created a historic and unforgettable moment.

Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands smile and play their instruments mid-performance in the band room for R&B star and actress Coco Jones. (Photo courtesy of Faith Miniard)

As a surprise, the AOB delivered a soulful rendition of Jones’ Grammy-winning hit ICU, moving her to tears. For TSU students like Adren Gilmore, who hosted the event, it was a dream come true. It was a powerful, end of semester performance no one expected.

The visit was part of Universal Music Group’s °1824 Behind the Business, a live-streamed educational series on Twitch sponsored by Discover. The initiative focuses on connecting artists and brands through storytelling. During her appearance, Jones opened up about her journey from Disney’s Let It Shine to becoming a platinum-selling artist, her upcoming debut album tour, and more.

Gilmore, a sophomore commercial music major and aspiring R&B artist, served as host for the event, which was presented by AOB.

“You could tell that Coco really loved the way the audience of the band was reacting to her, but the band also really loved the way Coco was reacting to them,” Gilmore said. “There was so much joy in the room, so much positive energy. Hosting this event and talking to Coco Jones was absolutely amazing.”

Professor Larry Jenkins, left, TSU student Adren Gilmore, center, and R&B star Coco Jones, who holds a framed copy of the sheet music of a special AOB arrangement. (Photo courtesy of Faith Miniard)

Since the livestream, portions of the hour-long event have received more than 2 million views on social media platforms, bringing even more national attention to the world-renowned band. “It shows that my HBCU is committed to giving people opportunities to learn and be seen,” Gilmore continued. “My HBCU putting on an event of this magnitude shows a commitment to blessing us with opportunities and experiences.”

Hailey Russell, a TSU senior who plays the piccolo for AOB, echoed those sentiments. She said the event was the perfect way to close out her final AOB performance before graduating this May.

“I loved every minute of the experience,” Russell said, adding that it was surreal to host someone she grew up watching on Disney Channel. “I was excited to host Coco Jones because growing up, seeing a Black woman on Disney Channel all the time gave me a better insight into life. It was a great representation and made me even more invested in her career journey.”

AOB member Hailey Russell before hitting the stage at the 2023 Country Music Association Fest (CMA), in downtown Nashville as the opening act.

Russell, a biology major with aspirations of becoming an OBGYN, said she connected deeply with hearing Jones perform a few of her favorite songs and listening to the advice the decorated artist shared with students.

“If it can be anybody, why not you?” Jones told the room. “I had this big version of myself as a kid. You only get one life, so you might as well live it and believe that you deserve everything that you desire.”

This year’s appearance marked Jones’ second visit to TSU. In 2023, the Def Jam artist was a guest speaker at a music business accelerator program.

Jones’ return was made possible through collaboration between AOB and Universal Music Group.

AOB Assistant Director and music professor Larry Jenkins, said the experience was powerful not just for the band, but for everyone who tuned in around the world.

Coco Jones and AOB member sings her Grammy Award winning hit ‘ICU” together during the Behind the Business, live-streamed event at TSU. (Photo courtesy of Faith Miniard)

“This is something we’ve dreamed of,” Jenkins said. “This shows that we have something special here at the AOB. Our students are special, and we have the kind of energy that you feel the moment you walk into the band room. The students are the core of that. When you let the music come alive with what you feel, it’s a beautiful thing.”

To close the show, AOB performed their heartfelt rendition of ICU, arranged by Professor Jenkins. Jones was then presented with a copy of the sheet music, a gift meant to commemorate the moment and the bond shared between her and the band.

As a child star who turned her dreams into reality, Jones left students with a final reminder:

“Your first intuition of what you should be doing and who you want to be that’s what you have to go with,” Jones said. “Keep in mind, in your core, who you started out being, and who you truly want to be. As you get there, you will see trends that come and go. People come and go. Don’t let anyone get you off track from what you want and who you really want to be.”

Click here to check out clips of AOB rendition for Coco Jones here.  

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TSU Alumna Brandy Tate Breaks Barriers as ESPN Director, Brings First Take to TSU

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  As one of the few Black female directors at ESPN, Tennessee State University alumna Brandy Tate brings her vision, creativity, and leadership from behind the camera to the forefront.

A key figure in directing what ESPN audiences see on air every day, the 2002 TSU graduate has made her mark in the male-dominated world of sports media.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Tate stands out as a trailblazer. She is one of the few women directing content at ESPN, having led major programs such as NFL Live, Tom Brady: Inside the Arena, the College Football Championship, and First Take, including its HBCU On the Road tour.

Brandy Tate, right, directs alongside Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Tate played a pivotal role in bringing First Take to TSU’s campus for Homecoming 2024, a historic moment that showcased TSU on a national stage. Her dedication continues to amplify the visibility and impact of HBCUs.

“We’re creating something unprecedented,” Tate said, referring to the opportunity to bring First Take to TSU—an event that drew hundreds of TSU supporters on campus and nearly 350,000 viewers on ESPN.

 “That’s the impact I want to have. I want to keep HBCUs alive and vibrant,” she said.

Tate, a mother of one, said that the collaboration between First Take and TSU was a significant milestone in her career. It was not only an opportunity to bring the show to campus but also to hire students as part of the production crew for the day, providing them with hands-on experience and exposure on national television.

Brandy Tate, left, with former Pittsburgh Steelers safety and current ESPN analyst Ryan Clark at the Emmys Awards.

 She credited her time at TSU, where she majored in radio and TV production, with instilling in her the qualities of adaptability and perseverance.

“With these opportunities, we can hire women and provide them with a meaningful place in this industry. That’s why I love what I do,” she said. “TSU has taught me so much, and my time at the university was truly invaluable.”

Prior to becoming a director at ESPN, Tate was a radio director in Louisiana. She later became an associate director for ESPN, working her way up over seven years to earn her current position.

Her impact in sports broadcasting is further recognized with a feature in Essence Magazine’s The Women’s Playbook, solidifying her role as a leader in the field. Tate also served as Co-Leader of P.U.L.S.E., an ESPN Employee Resource Group dedicated to the development and support of African American employees within the company.

“Women are built differently. We’re essential in every space because we bring a unique perspective,” Tate said. “I may be one of the first, but I won’t be the last. We must be intentional about hiring more women.”

For Tate, the best part about Women’s History Month is celebrating the contributions and sense of community among women. “I know sports are often seen as a ‘male-driven league,’ but women are essential. We bring a unique and valuable perspective to everything we do,” she said.

Tate’s journey represents progress for women in sports media, an industry where Black women remain underrepresented in leadership roles. But for her, breaking barriers is just the beginning.

“You’re going to hear a lot of no’s, but don’t ever stop,” she said.

From TSU to ESPN, Tate continues to open those doors, not just for herself, but for the next generation of women in sports media.

Click here to see how Tate prepared First Take and secured TSU’s place on the show’s HBCU tour.

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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.

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TSU named ‘a top’ Commercial Music Program again by Billboard, will hold inaugural career fair 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For the second consecutive year, Tennessee State University has been recognized by Billboard Magazine as one of the 2024 Top Music Business Schools. TSU’s commercial music program, within the university’s music department, joins over 25 internationally acclaimed music business programs in receiving this prestigious recognition.

TSU commercial music program continues to distinguish itself as the oldest accredited program of its kind at an HBCU. TSU’s Nashville location, combined with faculty who are active in the industry, gives students unique, hands-on learning experiences. The October issue of Billboard highlights TSU’s commitment to current industry trends, its low faculty-to-student ratio, and its emphasis on industry site visits, guest speakers, and internship opportunities. 

Dr. Mark Crawford

Dr. Mark Crawford, music professor and coordinator of the commercial music program said this recognition speaks to the quality and consistency of the program. “Receiving this accolade two years in a row shows our students are actively engaged in internships, placements, and other vital experiences,” he said.

Building on this momentum, TSU’s commercial music program will host its first-ever music industry career fair on November 15. Offering students a networking platform, the career fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. This event will connect students and faculty with nearly 30 established companies, including UMG, Concord, Live Nation, SESAC, Nashville Symphony, Sweetwater, Endeavor and more.

While TSU holds successful career fairs each semester, Crawford recognized the need for an event specifically tailored to students pursuing careers in music and entertainment. “This career fair is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce directly,” Crawford said. The goal is to build a pipeline for students by connecting them with leading organizations, from record labels to talent agencies, PROs, financial management firms and more.

With over 25 years of partnerships and hands-on learning opportunities, TSU’s commercial music program has continually supported student success. Through connections with industry leaders like Wasserman Media Group and the PROPEL Center, an innovative hub for HBCU students developed in collaboration with Apple, TSU has built a robust network for students. Another aspect of the commercial music program is the music business accelerator program, a three-week Maymester course that collaborates with leading organizations and nonprofits.

For the past three years, TSU has collaborated with the Black Music Action Coalition to provide students with real-world experiences alongside companies like Apple Music, Live Nation, and Atlantic Records. The upcoming career fair aims to build on decades of commercial music efforts by providing students the opportunity to network directly with even more industry leaders.

Billboard selects top music business schools based on industry recommendations, alumni data, and nearly a decade of reporting. TSU’s consecutive recognition adds to its milestones as the university prepares the next generation of music industry leaders.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, expressed gratitude for the program’s achievements. “Our program celebrated its 25th anniversary last year and continues to prepare students for success,” she said. “This event will provide a networking opportunity to ensure that TSU continues producing prepared students to work in industry.”

Check out Billboard’s latest issue recognizing TSU at www.billboard.com/pro/top-music-business-schools-2024-list/.

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TSU Transfer students to benefit from new transcript technology

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has a new automated system that will significantly reduce wait time for students eager to know about their accepted credit hours. University officials say Parchment Raptor allows students to receive news about their credit evaluations within minutes, compared to waiting days. This will benefit transfer students and those who take college courses while still in high school.

TSU is the first public institution in the State to use the cutting-edge transcript processing software. The Registrar Office launched the Parchment Raptor on August 5.

Click here to watch Dr. Deams discuss the Parchment Raptor launch:

“We are excited to announce the launch of this new feature that automates the collection, data extraction, and integration of transcripts into Student Information Systems,” said Dr. Verontae Deams, TSU’s Associate Vice President and University Registrar.

“This collaboration with Parchment Raptor not only enhances efficiency and accuracy but also significantly reduces processing time, providing a seamless and improved experience for students and academic advisors alike.”

Cameron Felker

Previously, the process of receiving and evaluating transcripts could take anywhere from several hours to days. Now, with the automation powered by artificial intelligence, that timeframe has been decreased to just two minutes. Upon submission of their transcript, students receive an automated message notifying them that their transcript has been evaluated, along with the option to review their course credits through their DegreeWorks or MyTSU account.

Transfer students like Cameron Felker, a music major from Chicago, and Sheldon McMillan, a supply chain management major from Atlanta, are excited about the new system, despite having experienced the longer waiting periods themselves.

Felker, who transferred from the University of Memphis, recalls waiting nearly a month for an update on his transcript. “I would check almost two to three times a week to see if it came across,” he said. “With this automated system, it will make it way easier for students.”

McMillan had a similar experience, saying he waited over a month for answers regarding his credits from an online program. “I am glad that students coming after me will not have to deal with the same delays that I experienced.”

Prior to partnering with Parchment, TSU processed and managed transcripts manually, often times labor-intensive based on the number of credits and institutions that students had previously attended.

For more information on records and registration or to learn more about the Office of the Registrar, visit TSU Records and Registration.

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Tyler Perry Studios selects TSU student for internship

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tyler Perry Studios (TPS) just announced their second cohort of talented interns selected nationwide, and one of their hand-picked interns is a familiar face in the Big Blue community.

Briana Thomas, a mass communication student at Tennessee State University, was selected as one of 14 TPS Dreamers Intern Class of 2024 out of over 1,000 applicants. Thomas, of San Diego, California, is a rising senior with dreams of becoming an independent filmmaker. She just started the 6-week paid internship based in Atlanta, Georgia, working in deliverables, where she is responsible for delivering the movie or show episode for distribution.

“I was super excited when I was selected as I knew this was a great opportunity to learn and gain experience,” Thomas said. “It feels great to represent TSU and showcase the character, integrity, and work ethic instilled in me.”

Thomas noted that she found out about the opportunity in April and applied right away as she hopes to learn the ins and outs of production and how a studio is run day-to-day.

During her internship, Thomas is gaining work experience and networking opportunities to meet professionals who are available as mentors and industry contacts. Thomas said she is excited to contribute to one of the largest film production studios in the United States and is grateful that her university prepared her for this very moment.

“The whole mass communications department at Tennessee State University has prepared me for this opportunity,” she said, showing gratitude to her TSU professor and mentor who wrote her letter of recommendation.

Erik Werner, TSU’s Director of the Center for Media Arts and Production, said the department does its best to provide students with the skill set that will land them internship opportunities of this magnitude. Werner stated that he is proud of Thomas’ success so far and “feels great knowing that I helped.”

“Networks and studios will be fighting to hire her,” Werner said about Thomas’ drive and work ethic. “That’s how good she is and how good she is going to be.”

He noted that Thomas knew exactly what she wanted throughout her collegiate years for her career and has put in the effort to obtain any of her goals.

“It’s one thing to learn the basic skills but it’s another to turn around and learn the advanced skills and be adaptable,” Werner said. “To be able to adapt and roll with it is a huge ability that not everyone has.”

TPS Dreamers program allows interns like Thomas to receive first-hand knowledge of working for a multi-faceted entertainment company.

As Thomas continues her journey at Tyler Perry Studios, she looks forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained from this internship to her future career in filmmaking, aiming to tell compelling stories from diverse narratives, she said. Supported by her mentors and the foundation built at TSU, Thomas is excited about making a significant impact in the film and entertainment industry.

To learn more about the College of Liberal Arts, visit www.tnstate.edu/cla/.

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TSU professor designs Black History Month jersey for NHL Nashville Predators

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When the Nashville Predators entered Bridgestone Arena this week to observe Black History Month, the NHL team wore a jersey designed by a Tennessee State University professor. Kaleena Sales, department chair and associate professor of art and design, revealed her design at the Predators Black History Celebration game on Wednesday, Jan. 31. Sales says the design offers a duality that bridges historical and contemporary Black culture.

I’m excited and honored to have the opportunity to represent TSU and Nashville as a Black designer,” Sales said.

A look at the front design for the Predators jerseys and T-shirts for the Black History Celebration game at Bridgestone Arena. (Photo submitted)

“To be celebrated professionally in such a public way means something to me. It speaks to the growth that we’ve had, and it honors what Black History Month celebration should really be about.”

This is the second consecutive year the Predators have chosen a TSU professor to design cultural jerseys and T-shirts for hockey players and fans, honoring Black History Month (BHM). The jerseys and T-shirts, designed by Sales and co-created with Predators graphic designer Tayshaun Hassell, were worn by players upon their arrival at the arena prior to game time. These items will be signed and auctioned off through the Nashville Predators’ Foundation at a later date.

Amy Bratten, the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Nashville Predators, said the organization anticipated showcasing the artistry in honor of the historical celebration.

“It is such a gift to have Kaleena Sales contribute to our Black History Celebration,” Bratten said.

“What Kaleena Sales and Preds Graphic Designer, Tayshaun Hassell, created is educational and dynamic. Our players and staff were excited to showcase the artwork on January 31. We’re excited to have the logo displayed all over Smashville!”

The black and gold jerseys and T-shirts, according to Sales, feature custom lively West African patterns symbolizing purity, wisdom, love, harmony, and more. The unique design was also showcased on lanyards distributed to the first 5,000 fans in attendance.

“The symbols were designed by the Akan people from Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana during the early 1800s and have a rich and beautiful history,” explained Sales.

“The geometric pattern used alongside the Adinkra symbols is meant to represent the vibrancy of contemporary Black culture.” 

Sales noted that the designs aim to honor the past by connecting it to the present. With over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer, Sales expressed the significance of this opportunity, emphasizing its importance not only for herself but also for the community she represents.

“This exposure is expected to bring increased visibility to TSU and the surrounding HBCUs.”

The Predator’s annual Black History celebration night recognized all four of Nashville’s HBCUs, featuring a battle of the bands with three local high schools, and included the National Anthem and in-game performances by Africa-American musical artists.

In 2023, the Nashville Predators selected Eric Jackson, TSU assistant professor of graphic design, to create the players jersey designs worn during the Black History Celebration game day warm-ups. Jackson expressed his appreciation for the continuous partnership between the organization and TSU, highlighting the ongoing acknowledgment of Black creatives.

“We are service providers, and we are mostly behind the scenes, so it’s great to be acknowledged,” Jackson said.

As a hockey fan, Jackson is especially excited about this year’s annual celebration, coinciding with TSU being the first HBCU to offer men’s ice hockey at the collegiate level. TSU hockey is set to commence its inaugural season this fall.

Dr. Samantha Morgan Curtis, dean of TSU’s College of Liberal Arts, said the selection of two of her professors speaks to the quality of the University’s art programs.

“We are grateful that the Predators recognize the brilliance of our faculty,” added Morgan-Curtis.

“The College of Liberal Arts is excited about the Predators partnership and all the possibilities it affords our students and faculty. This project specifically highlights the quality of our graphic design program. We are thankful to the hockey team for this opportunity.”

Morgan Curtis also shared that TSU will be the first HBCU to host the upcoming State of Black Design Conference in March, another testament to the program and faculty.

To learn more about the Predators Black History celebration and to purchase Professor’s Sales custom design T-shirt, click here.

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TSU finalizing fall commencement, graduates to include former NFL star Rodgers-Cromartie 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – This morning hundreds of Tennessee State University students participated in rehearsal in preparation for Saturday’s commencement ceremony. One of those graduates was former NFL 2-time Pro Bowler and AFC Champion Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. The TSU standout will receive a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the College of Liberal Arts. Rodgers-Cromartie started his collegiate career as a cornerback for the TSU Tigers and was a first round draft pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2008.

Rodgers-Cromartie joins the class of 2023 for TSU fall commencement Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 9 a.m. in the Gentry Center Complex. Nearly 700 students will walk the stage to receive their degrees during the ceremony. This year’s speaker is award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor Don Lemon. Lemon anchored the long-running CNN primetime program, Don Lemon Tonight as well as CNN This Morning.

Commencement will include 328 undergraduate students and 324 graduate students. TSU is hoping graduates will make it “TSU for Two” and consider pursuing a second degree, from the institution, after graduation. The School of Graduate Studies held “Donuts and Degrees” during commencement rehearsal to talk with interested students. The recruitment initiative could help students who are still undecided about life after graduation. 

University officials encourage graduates to arrive one hour before the ceremony due to parking. While masks are not required, this is flu season and everyone is asked to exercise caution.

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

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TSU Alumnus has film premiere on Disney+

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For Tennessee State University alumnus Spencer Glover, it all started in an edit bay, in room 108 of the Performing Arts Center. It was the perfect campus space to be creative and bring his ideas to life. Now, Glover is reaping the benefits of his hard work, after pitching a 12-slide presentation to studio giant Disney that was adapted into a film.

From left to right: Van-Maurice Glover, Kariss Forte, Melissa Forte, Mercedes Glover, Stephanie Rakers on red carpet for Black Belts Premiere.

Titled “Black Belts,” the 20-minute movie premiered on Disney+ in September.  

“I was really excited and grateful for the opportunity,” Glover recalled the moment he received the call back after interviewing to direct the film.

“I was ready to dive in and get to work and was excited at the idea that on the other end of it, I would be a better and more confident director.”

The film explores the relationship between a Black father and son set against the backdrop of martial arts. Glover shared, beyond the Kung Fu and action, the film dives deeper into the conversation around masculinity.

“When people watch the film, I hope they see this moment between a Black father and son, being openly emotional with each other.”

Glover graduated from TSU with a degree in mass communications in 2012, and is also a former member of the Aristocrat of Bands.

Reflecting on his time at TSU, Glover emphasized, “TSU is so important to the foundation of my skills.”

He credited the university for providing an environment where he felt both safe and free to express himself creatively.

Spencer Glover in undergraduate school at TSU in the TV station during a musical showcase that he created called, ‘Next in Line’

“TSU was super vital to my life, career, and development as an artist.”

His former TSU instructors Joseph Richie, associate professor of Communications, and Melissa Forte, who was an assistant professor at the time, praised the filmmaker for his success.

Richie described Glover as one of the program’s pioneers, highlighting his drive and dedication.

“None of us are surprised that he’s doing very well now. He was extremely driven, active and took the program seriously. That’s why we’re here. To see students like Spencer’s success, this is the payoff for a professor.”

Forte noted Glover’s humility and diligence.

“Spencer is very humble and kind.  I think that served him very well at TSU,” Forte said.

The film Black Belts explores the relationship between a Black father and son set against the backdrop of martial arts. Beyond the Kung Fu and action, the film dives deeper into the conversation around masculinity.

“He was always in class going above and beyond to learn more and even taught himself how to do 3D animation and never stops learning.”

Glover’s advice for aspiring TSU students entering the film industry is to stay on course, and things will fall into place.

“You have to be dedicated to the craft and be resourceful,” he said. “You have to create on your own, make the connections on your own.” He emphasized that sticking to your own path and staying dedicated, would eventually connect the dots.

The Virginia native added that he always knew that showcasing his talent on a large-scale platform like Disney would elevate his art to unprecedented heights. He freelanced for Yamaha and Apple, following graduation, before moving to Los Angeles in 2020. Glover took on several independent projects before he and was accepted into Disney’s Launchpad Program for writers and directors from underrepresented backgrounds.

This gave Glover an opportunity to produce short films for Disney.

As a testament to his journey, Glover and his wife, Kariss, now own a production company called “Room 108,” named after the edit bay at TSU.

“I credit edit bay room 108 with being that space where we could get lost in our creativity and come out with something super dope. That space represents what we want to create for ourselves and other people coming into the industry.”

Glover also has paid it forward by coming back to the university as a guest speaker for the communications students.

Watch Glover’s film “Black Belts” on Disney+, presented by Launchpad.