TSU Hosts ‘Big Blue Breakfast for Counselors’ to Strengthen Partnerships, Advance Student Success

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is continuing its forward momentum under what President Dwayne Tucker has called a “TSU Renaissance,” a period of renewal and strategic transformation aimed at restoring financial stability, strengthening enrollment, and reenergizing engagement with key education partners.

President Dwayne Tucker makes a point, as he and Dr. Eric Stokes, Vice President of Enrollment Management, answer participants’ questions at the Big Blue Breakfast for Counselors in Nashville. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

As part of this renewed focus, TSU hosted its first “Big Blue Breakfast for Counselors” series last week — Thursday in Memphis and Friday in Nashville — drawing more than 50 participants in Memphis and about 30 in Nashville. Spearheaded by President Tucker and the Division of Enrollment Management, the initiative is designed to rebuild relationships with high school counselors and stakeholders who play a vital role in guiding students toward higher education opportunities.

Jenai Hayes, Director of Media Relations in the Office of Enrollment Management, passes the mic to Cristiana Gentry, College and Career Readiness Coach at McGavock High School, who has a pressing question. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“We are in a time of rebuilding and revitalization at TSU,” said Tucker. “This Breakfast with Counselors series is part of that mission, to reconnect, to be transparent, and to share how we are transforming TSU to ensure long-term sustainability. We want our partners to see that we are stronger, more focused, and ready to continue producing outstanding graduates who change the world.”

Garrison Holland, TSU Senior Admissions Counselor, greets visitors at the counselors’ breakfast in Nashville, as Dr. Stokes looks on. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Tucker noted that past decisions related to scholarship offerings and admission practices, though made with good intentions, had lasting effects on TSU’s brand and enrollment balance. His administration has prioritized realignment and data-driven strategies to stabilize the university’s operations while fostering new growth.

“We had a period where enrollment grew faster than we could support, and discount rates became unsustainable,” Tucker said. “We’ve had to make tough but necessary adjustments, and now we’re entering a phase of real momentum. There’s a new spirit across campus. Students, faculty, alumni, everyone is engaged and focused on our success. This is what the TSU Renaissance is all about.”

Visiting high school counselors tour the TSU SMART Technology Center on the Avon Williams Campus. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Dr. Eric Stokes, vice president for Enrollment Management, said the Breakfast for Counselors events represent a deliberate step in reconnecting with those who help shape students’ educational journeys.

“President Tucker has been the catalyst for this outreach,” Stokes said. “He understands how critical it is to rebuild relationships with counselors and partners who influence students’ college decisions. These events in Memphis and Nashville mark our first major step, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Attendees at the Big Blue Breakfast for Counselors in Memphis share a moment with President Dwayne Tucker. (Submitted photo)

Stokes explained that the gatherings are intended to become an annual tradition and will expand to other key markets, including East Tennessee, Atlanta, Chicago, Indianapolis, and St. Louis. “We want to continue this engagement, not just to provide updates, but to listen, to learn what our partners need and how TSU can better serve their students,” he added.

Dr. Portia Johnson, TSU’s director of recruitment, said the breakfast for counselors serves as both a pilot initiative and a model for future outreach efforts.

“This was our first time doing something like this, and we’ve been so encouraged by the turnout,” said Johnson. “Our goal is to ensure counselors have the latest information about TSU, from our admissions process and scholarships to our innovative academic offerings, outstanding research infrastructure, and technological advancements. This is how we keep the TSU story alive in classrooms across the country.”

The Nashville session drew praise from local educators who attended.

“It’s encouraging to see this kind of hands-on leadership,” said Cristiana Gentry, College and Career Readiness coach at McGavock High School. “President Tucker and his team are showing genuine commitment to students and to the schools that support them.”

Jason Harrison, of LEAD Academy High School, added, “You can feel the excitement. TSU is clearly turning a corner — they’re focused, transparent, and moving in a direction that benefits students and the broader community.”

University officials also highlighted TSU’s cutting-edge academic and research initiatives, including advancements in artificial intelligence and instructional technology, positioning TSU as a national leader in innovation among HBCUs.

For more information on enrollment and admissions at TSU, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/emss/

Featured photo: President Dwayne Tucker shares insights with Memphis and Shelby County high school counselors and stakeholders about the diverse educational opportunities available at Tennessee State University. (Submitted photo)