Category Archives: Featured

TSU community raises over $600K in support of graduating seniors

By the Office of Institutional Advancement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. X, 2025) – Tennessee State University (TSU) has announced the incredible success of its 2024 end-of-year giving campaign, which raised over $600,000 for TSU’s graduating seniors. This achievement was made possible by the dedication and generosity of alumni, friends and supporters who answered the call to invest in the next generation of leaders.

Throughout December, the TSU community united to build a #FutureReadyTSU and support the #CloseTheGap campaign, a movement dedicated to reducing the balances and debt of students approaching graduation. The cornerstone of the campaign was a matching gift challenge from TSU alumni Amos and Brenda Otis, who committed to doubling every dollar donated to the university on Giving Tuesday.

“As an alumnus myself, I am extremely proud of the fact that alumni giving has increased from previous years,” shared interim President Dwayne Tucker. “Tennessee State University is a great institution, and with continued alumni and community support, this university will continue to be a key part of the community and this city’s growth.”

These contributions will provide critical resources for TSU’s seniors, ensuring that they have the finances available to complete their degrees.

“Each dollar raised was a testament to the power of the TSU community. Every gift, no matter the size, reflects a shared belief in our students and their ability to change the world,” Dr. LoLita Toney, vice president of Institutional Advancement, expressed.

Throughout 2025, the university aims to build on this support, honoring its proud legacy while expanding opportunities for students.

To learn more about the Office of Institutional Advancement, visit giving.tnstate.edu.

TSU Hosts Inaugural Black History Month Tour Across Nashville

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University launched its inaugural Black History Month tour, an initiative designed to honor and educate participants on the rich African American history and culture deeply rooted in Nashville. The event brought together faculty, staff, and students, underscoring TSU’s commitment to fostering cultural awareness and appreciation within its community.

 
TSU faculty, staff at The Fisk University Galleries during an inaugural Black History Month tour. (Photo courtesy Tennessee State University/ Aaron Grayson)

The tour, intended to be an annual event each February, included visits to three iconic cultural landmarks: The Fisk University Galleries, The National Museum of African American Music, and The Jefferson Street Sound Museum. Participants traveled on TSU’s charter bus to each location, where they engaged in immersive experiences highlighting the artistic, musical, and historical contributions of African Americans. Expert guides provided valuable insights throughout the journey.

Tonya Turner, senior assistant and training coordinator for business and finance at TSU, played a key role in organizing the tour. The idea stemmed from a previous orientation bus tour for new TSU employees, which inspired Turner to expand the initiative into a dedicated Black History Month tour.

 
TSU students Olivia Whitmore, center and Kristian Butler, right, admire a piece of art at The Fisk University Galleries. (Photo courtesy Tennessee State University/ Aaron Grayson)

“I overheard a few employees discussing the history of Jefferson Street,” Turner said. “At first, I wanted to focus solely on Jefferson Street, but then I thought, why not create a Black History Month tour instead?”

Students were excited to take part in the experience. Olivia Whitmore, a junior majoring in family and consumer sciences, learned about the tour through her honor society advisor, Dr. Brione Lockett.

“He mentioned there was a Black History Month tour happening that would be really good to attend and get to know more about Jefferson Street,” said Whitmore, a Nashville native. “It was enlightening to learn about our history in such a personal and engaging way. I appreciate TSU providing these opportunities during Black History Month; it really deepens our connection to our culture.”

Chief Information Officer Sterlin Sanders explores the evolution of Black music through interactive exhibits at the National Museum of African American Music.

Fellow student Kristian Butler, also a family and consumer sciences major, reflected on her experience at The National Museum of African American Music.

“My favorite experience was watching the ‘Roots Theatre’ documentary and seeing how African American music has transitioned and evolved throughout history and around the world,” said Butler, who is from Memphis.

According to Turner, the tour was hosted by TSU’s Business and Finance Department. She hoped participants gained a deeper understanding of Black history and the invaluable contributions of African Americans to shaping the United States.

At The Fisk University Galleries, visitors admired African American masterpieces that showcased Black artists’ impact on the art world.

“We were completely in awe of the talent and history represented here. Seeing these works in person was truly inspiring,” said one attendee.

Tonya Turner

At The National Museum of African American Music, the group explored Black music’s evolution through interactive exhibits.

“I never knew how deeply rooted African American music is in every genre we listen to today. This experience was eye-opening,” remarked a TSU faculty member.

The tour concluded at The Jefferson Street Sound Museum, highlighting Nashville’s Black music scene.

“I grew up in Nashville, but I never realized how much history was right in my backyard. This tour gave me a newfound appreciation for my city,” shared a student participant.

As a token of appreciation, participants received gift bags filled with TSU memorabilia to commemorate the event. As the bus returned to campus, a shared sense of gratitude and enlightenment resonated among attendees. TSU’s first Black History Month tour was more than just a day of sightseeing—it was a celebration of history, music, and the enduring legacy of African Americans in Nashville and beyond.

The organizing committee for the event included Darryl Thompson, Sharon Hull-Smith, Dr. Brione Lockett, Brittany Cosby, Dr. Learotha Williams, Regina Anderson, Linda Spears, Greg Robinson, LaToya Bankhead, Andre Westmoreland, Franchetta Greer, and Bradley White.

 TSU Tiger Bay, College of Ag Team Lead $5M Wetlands Restoration Effort

By Charlie Morrison

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tiger Bay Wetlands restoration project officially launched this winter, led by a collaborative team from Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture (TSUAg). With the support of public and private partners, TSU is taking significant steps toward rehabilitating this vital ecosystem.

Dr. Bill Sutton emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience in preparing students for success in the private sector, public sector, or graduate school.

Representatives from TSUAg, the Nashville Metro Government, the Cumberland River Compact, and Resource Environmental Solutions recently took the first step in a $5 million USDA Forestry Service-backed project.

The project to restore Tiger Bay took shape after the College of Agriculture secured a grant from the USDA Forestry Service. The project, titled the “Restoration of an Urban, Forested Wetland at Tennessee State University to Improve Educational Opportunities and Ecosystem Services,” will restore the forested environment and free it from invasive species.

Associate Dean for Academics and Land-grant Programs Dr. De’Etra Young is the principal investigator for the grant. She stated that TSU scientists and students will assist in the restoration of this forested wetland ecosystem, which will improve the ecosystem services that the wetland provides, along with experiential learning opportunities.

“Tiger Bay is a unique asset we’re lucky to have right here on campus,” Young says. “Restoring it is important, and our partnership with the USDA Forestry Service, the Nashville city government and non-profit and for-profit environmental firms is critical to our being able to execute this grant in full.”

Dr. De’Etra Young

Young continued to note that these efforts will also provide a research environment for TSU students who can utilize this opportunity to develop real-world skills that will set them apart in their post graduate job search. “It’s our responsibility to preserve this unique asset for future generations of research students, and this team we’ve assembled will help us greatly in meeting that responsibility.”

Young shared that successfully executing the grant and bringing the project to life began with assembling the right team. TSUAg faculty members Drs. Bill Sutton, Tom Byl, Sarah Neumann, Yujuan Chen, Jason de Koff and Reginald Archer are all participating in the rehabilitation program.

Forestry management is key to Tiger Bay’s rehabilitation. Urban Forestry professors Drs. Neumann, Chen, and Young will identify invasive species for removal and select new tree species to enhance the ecosystem’s health.

While Dr. Reginald Archer will create geospatial and topographic maps of Tiger Bay’s natural resources, Dr. Sutton and Dr. Byl will focus on wildlife and vegetation considerations.

TSU Ag research professor Dr. Tom Byl works in the wetlands with graduate student and mentee Devin Moore.

Dr. Sutton is leading the wetlands restoration, partnering with Resource Environmental Solutions “We are planning a full-scale wetland restoration to remove invasive species and to re-plant with native species,” Sutton says.

Dr. Byl will focus on hydrology and water quality to support a healthy TSU wetland ecosystem. Excessive nutrients at Tiger Bay have fueled cyanobacteria and toxic algae blooms for years, and this project allows Dr. Byl to build on his 20 years of wetlands research.

“The wetland has tremendous value, and we are very lucky to have it on our campus,” says Dr. Byl. “Our goal is to revitalize the wetland, make it more accessible to the TSU community and the public, and preserve it as critical greenspace and habitat for wildlife.”

To learn more about the College of Agriculture, visit www.tnstate.edu/agriculture/.

Alexis Clark contributed to this report.

TSU Partners with NDOT on $10 Million SMART Grant

By Dr. Celeste Brown, Alexis Clark

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s College of Engineering will receive $700,000 as part of a $10 million SMART Grant awarded to the City of Nashville by the U.S. Department of Transportation. TSU will partner with Nashville’s Department of Transportation (NDOT) and WeGo Public Transit to conduct research aimed at improving pedestrian safety and reducing traffic fatalities.

TSU master’s student Tupac Moseley, left, Atiqur Mallick and Dr. Kamrul Hasan, center, attend the NDOT event announcing the $10 million SMART Grant, which will support research on pedestrian safety and traffic fatality reduction. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University/Aaron Grayson)

Led by Dr. Kamrul Hasan, Assistant Professor of electrical and computer engineering, the research will focus on leveraging advanced data and innovative technologies to enhance mobility and safety for vulnerable road users.

Recently, TSU College of Engineering students, faculty, and administrators joined Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell for the SMART grant announcement at the Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center. During the event, Dr. Quincy Quick, associate vice president for Research and Sponsored Programs, emphasized the role of artificial intelligence and LiDAR technology in the research.

“This project embodies one of the fundamental concepts and cores of research,” Quick said. “It will employ state-of-the-art technology and make a lasting impact on society. Our TSU students will work with LiDAR, AI, and machine learning technology as part of this project. That aligns with the City of Nashville’s approach to integrating technology to enhance the quality of life for its citizens.”

The Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program is a two-stage initiative, consisting of Planning and Prototyping Grants (Phase I) and Implementation Grants (Phase II). This program supports projects that advance smart technologies and innovative practices.

Dr. Quincy Quick

This initiative supports Nashville’s Vision Zero Action Plan, which aims to eliminate traffic-related deaths and severe injuries by deploying cutting-edge safety interventions along high-risk corridors. The funding provides TSU faculty and students with critical research opportunities to contribute to the city’s broader transportation safety strategy. The university’s involvement in the Leveraging Advanced Data to Deliver Multimodal Safety (LADDMS) initiative will support data collection and analysis using technologies such as LiDAR, which monitors near-miss incidents and assesses intervention effectiveness.

Atiqur Mallick and Tupac Moseley, two graduate students pursuing master’s degrees in computer science and computer information systems engineering, will play key roles in the project.

“We’re excited to see how the project grows and how our involvement—through real conversations with community members—helps improve safety,” said Moseley, a Memphis native. “I’m also looking forward to expanding industry collaborations, not only with TSU but with other HBCUs as well. The fact that we’re working just down the street from TSU and engaging with people in this corridor and North Nashville is a great opportunity.”

Mallick echoed that sentiment. “We hope to apply what we learn from NDOT and TSU to ensure our state’s citizens can get home safely,” Mallick said. “That is our primary concern and ultimate goal.”

The two students also played an important role in Phase 1 of the SMART Grant in 2023, collaborating with NDOT to complete the preliminary work that led to this Phase 2 implementation.

By collaborating with local agencies and institutions, TSU will help expand safety measures while strengthening its role in urban mobility research. This project builds on previous efforts to implement technology-driven solutions for safer streets and will provide valuable insights that could influence transportation policies and infrastructure development across Nashville.

Dr. Hasan, who will lead the research initiative on TSU’s behalf, emphasized the broader impact of the project.

“Ultimately, this research will benefit not only Nashville but the entire state,” Hasan said. “This phase of the project is a stepping stone. We’re looking to expand our findings nationwide so more communities can benefit.”

TSU’s role in this initiative highlights the university’s commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement, reinforcing its impact as a leader in engineering and transportation safety. To learn more about the College of Engineering, visit www.tnstate.edu/engineering/.

TSU Senior Takes Big Step Toward Sports Management Career Goal with Titans’ Internship

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As a senior majoring in Human Performance and Sports Science (HPSS) at Tennessee State University, Noah Pennington is on the verge of realizing his dream of operating within a major sports organization. His recent internship with the NFL’s Tennessee Titans marks an extraordinary step toward that goal, which also showcases the unique partnership between TSU and the Titans that provides students access to the professional sports world.

Noah Pennington

An Indianapolis native, Pennington completed a four-week paid internship with the Titans in December, where he gained rich insights into leadership, management styles, and logistical operations within a professional sports franchise. “Working alongside key decision-makers and participating in meetings about the construction of the new stadium was a transformative experience,” Pennington said. “I had the opportunity to absorb knowledge from industry veterans, which solidified my career aspirations in sports management and operations.”

TSU has long enjoyed a productive partnership with the Titans, allowing the TSU Tigers football team to host home games at Nissan Stadium. The collaboration, which extends beyond athletics, engages with the community through the Titans’ ONE Community platform, which targets Nashville’s underserved areas to foster opportunities in education, neighborhoods, and economic development.

Noah Pennington is scheduled to graduate in May. He already has a job lined up. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Pennington’s internship exemplifies how TSU students benefit from this relationship. Earlier in his college career, Pennington participated in a Maymester course designed to connect sports management students with Titans staff across various departments – from finance to legal affairs. This immersive experience sparked his interest and laid the groundwork for his successful internship application. 

“It’s incredible how TSU, particularly the HPSS department, has helped guide me to these opportunities,” said Pennington. “Dr. (Jason) Smith and Dr. (Timothy) Jones played pivotal roles in my development, providing the mentorship and connections necessary to thrive in the competitive sports industry. The hands-on experience through the internship complemented my classroom learning perfectly.”

Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and VP of Academic Affairs, says the TSU-Tinans partnership has benefitted students immensely.

Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, expressed pride in TSU students like Pennington. “We are committed to empowering our students by partnering with industry leaders who can provide real-world experience. Noah’s journey with the Titans is a testament to our successful collaboration and the bright futures that await our students,” Melton said.

Johari Matthews, a TSU alum and Vice President of the ONE Community and Titans Foundation, said, “The partnership that we have with TSU has been instrumental in our approach to better serving students by introducing them to careers in the sports industry. Noah is a perfect example of how partnerships like this can open doors and provide hands-on experiences that level the playing field in the workforce. We look forward to the many things that he will accomplish in the future as we are certain that it is bright!”

Dr. Jason Smith, left, HPSS Department Chair, shares a moment with Noah Pennington during a classroom activity on the main campus. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Dr. Lolita D. Toney, TSU’s Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement, emphasized the importance of mentorship and professional development: “Noah and students like him gain invaluable hands-on experiences and mentorship touchpoints that will lay the foundation for their future careers. Hopefully, one day they too will be inspired to pay it forward.”

Dr. Jason Smith, HPSS department chair, praised Pennington for his exemplary work ethic and leadership during his internship. “Noah Pennington exemplifies our mission of bridging classroom learning with real-world application. His initiative, creativity, and strong work ethic have set him apart and served as an inspiration to his peers. He embodies the HPSS ideal: a driven student leveraging education and personal talent to excel in the professional sports world.”

Pennington is scheduled to graduate in May. He has already lined up a job offer, positioning himself perfectly to make significant contributions to the sports industry.

For more information on the TSU Human Performance and Sports Sciences program, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/hpss/.

TSU Student Creates ‘Tiny Dorm’ Spin on NPR’s ‘Tiny Desk’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When most students move into a dorm, they bring posters, rugs, essentials, and maybe even a mini fridge to make it feel like home. But for David Nyenwe, a musician and rising junior at Tennessee State University, Boyd Hall wasn’t just a place to sleep—it was a stage waiting for a musician.

Inspired by NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts, Nyenwe reimagined his dorm room as a ‘Tiny Dorm’ featuring TSU backup singers, a live band, and his original R&B music. Millions of social media views later, the small space sparked a big commotion, cementing his spot as one of TSU’s rising musical talents.

David Nyenwe

For Nyenwe, a Memphis native who has been singing and playing multiple instruments since childhood, adapting to new spaces and showcasing his abilities comes naturally. He said playing the piano at church while growing up was the primary influence on his live music performances.

“This journey has been a blessing,” Nyenwe said. “Adapting to any space … I’ve been doing that since I was young, and it feels good to know that it’s something I have the capability of doing.”

Nyenwe, who is a finance major and performs under the artist name Dav!d, launched the idea of performing in his dorm room during his sophomore year. He envisioned creating his own sound with a live band, he just needed the platform. Already performing at TSU events, Nyenwe began collaborating with other musically inclined students. That’s when he started inviting them to his dorm to create music and document their journey.

After several viral videos, the band grew, and ‘Tiny Dorm’ sessions moved to unoccupied classrooms to accommodate the expanding crew.

The ‘Tiny Dorm’ sessions, originally located in a Boyd Hall dorm room, later moved to unoccupied classrooms to accommodate the growing crew.

“The support that I get from them means so much to me,” Nyenwe said, referring to his friends who are background singers and instrumentalists. “From the production to the visuals, there’s so much talent at TSU.” One of Nyenwe’s most viral moments was a recent “Tiny Dorm” session featuring a live band performance of his song All The Time, which garnered over 1.5 million views on Instagram. While the viral moments have been exciting, Nyenwe said the connections he’s made throughout the journey at TSU are what he values most.

“That’s what the college experience is really about to me,” he said. “Coming to TSU has been a real world experience, and I have met so many people along the way who have helped me adapt. It has been very positive, and this journey has taught me a lot about myself—even my journey with God.”

Corey Walker, a senior from La Vergne, Tennessee, who plays drums for ‘Tiny Dorm’ said connecting with Nyenwe over a year ago and making music together has been a great experience.

David Nyenwe, a lifelong musician, showcases his talent on the guitar, one of several instruments he has played since childhood. (Photo submitted)

“I’ve never done something that resembled a Tiny Desk in this way,” said Walker, a commercial music major. “We show up, make it work, and have fun. You do the things you love with people who have a creative mindset, just to get out there and expose yourself because we’re all musically inclined.” Walker added that he and the live band fully support Nyenwe’s dreams, including one day performing on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert in Washington, D.C.

NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series features intimate concerts recorded live in a small office space. The effort, which began 17 years ago, highlights performers from all genres and has created many iconic moments in the music industry.

Nyenwe not only looks forward to performing on Tiny Desk one day but also anticipates becoming a star in the music industry. “I want to keep creating music that moves people and sharing this journey with everyone who supports me,” he said.

Check out Nyenwe’s music and ‘Tiny Dorm’ sessions on YouTube and social media at @ _SincerelyDavid_.

TSU Offers Free, 24/7 Comprehensive Telehealth Services to Students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is making comprehensive telehealth services available to all students at no cost and without the hassle of traditional insurance. Imagine having a wellness resource at your fingertips: From the comfort of their dorm rooms, students can simply download an app and access a wide range of medical and mental health services from licensed professionals nationwide.

Dr. Bridgett Golman

This initiative is the result of a groundbreaking partnership with TimelyCare, a leader in virtual health and well-being services. Thanks to this collaboration, students will no longer have to navigate complex insurance regulations or endure lengthy waits for appointments.

Getting started with TimelyCare is easy for TSU students. They can simply download the TimelyCare app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store or visit timelycare.com. By logging in with their TSU credentials, students can schedule appointments, seek immediate care, and explore numerous health and wellness resources directly from their devices.

Chrishonda O’Quinn

“This platform is a game-changer for our students,” says Chrishonda O’Quinn, President of the Student Government Association. “Our goal is to encourage students to reach their potential both academically and in their extracurricular pursuits, but that can only happen if they are mentally and physically well. TimelyCare addresses the barriers many of us face regarding mental health resources. This service provides the support students need at their fingertips.”

Tamya Franklin, a junior biology major from Memphis, Tennessee, echoes this sentiment: “I think TimelyCare is an amazing service. TSU pouring into its students with this resource is phenomenal, especially in our communities where we face adversity daily. Mental health isn’t often talked about, but it’s so important because many health issues stem from it.”

Tamya Franklin

With this partnership, students will benefit from:

– 24/7 On-Demand Care: Immediate support available at any time, recognizing that health concerns often arise outside regular business hours.

– Diverse Provider Options: Access to mental health professionals who reflect the student body’s diversity, with many offerings multilingual support.

– Enhanced Peace of Mind: Platform prioritizes the protection of students’ personal health information.

Tyler Vazquez

University officials say the initiative aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access, reducing wait times and providing a diverse network of providers ready to assist students in navigating their health journey. 

“TimelyCare is fundamentally transforming how students engage with their health,” says Dr. Bridgett Golman, Vice President for Student Affairs at TSU. “With the increasing demand for mental health resources, this partnership provides immediate support, helping to reduce stigma and prioritize student well-being.”

Tyler Vazquez, Student Trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, adds, “This invaluable resource empowers students to thrive, ensuring we have access to the care we need without barriers. It demonstrates TSU’s commitment to our health and success.”

Dr. Dorsha N. James

Recent studies indicate that 69 percent of undergraduate students who drop out cite emotional stress as a significant factor in their decision. In this context, TimelyCare serves as an essential resource, with 75 percent of users reporting mental health improvements after using the service, including 100 percent among those at potential suicide risk. 

Luke Hejl, CEO and Co-founder of TimelyCare, states, “By partnering with TSU, we’re dedicated to fostering student success through accessible, team-based care. This collaborative approach not only supports students where they are but also enhances their ability to reach academic and personal goals.”

Dr. Dorsha N. James, Director of Student Health Services at TSU, says, “With the addition of TimelyCare, students now have more healthcare options. I’m excited that alongside on-campus medical services, students can access nationwide providers 24/7. These counseling and medical services are offered at no cost, relieving financial burdens while promoting health management.”

With the launch of TimelyCare at TSU, students are now empowered to take charge of their mental and physical health, supporting their academic success and overall well-being.

For more information about the TimelyCare partnership and the services available to TSU students, visit TSU TimelyCare

Hundreds of High School Juniors and Seniors Expected for TSU Spring Preview Day on April 12

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is set to welcome hundreds of high school juniors and seniors, along with their families from across the nation, for the highly anticipated Spring Preview Day on April 12. This premier open house event showcases TSU’s programs, campus life, and community to prospective students.

The festivities will begin at 9 a.m. at the Gentry Center Complex on the main campus. Registration is now open.

“We warmly invite prospective students and their families to explore the exciting opportunities at TSU during Spring Preview Day,” says Dr. Portia Johnson, Executive Director of Recruitment and Campus Visits. “This event offers a unique platform for attendees to see how TSU can support their academic and personal growth, and we look forward to showcasing our vibrant campus.”

The Spring Preview Day will feature an array of engaging activities across campus. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with academic and financial aid advisors, as well as meet deans and department chairs who will present displays representing their respective areas. The visitors will also connect with current students, gaining insights into campus culture and the supportive learning environment that TSU provides.

Elmore J. Jones, Jr., TSU’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, emphasizes the importance of Spring Preview Day in helping prospective students and families discover what distinguishes TSU as a leading institution.

“Spring Preview Day offers students and their families the chance to experience our exceptional programs, resources, and services firsthand,” says Jones. “Participants will interact with our outstanding faculty, advisors, and current students, highlighting the transformative learning environment that TSU is proud to offer.”

Last year’s Preview Day was canceled due to inclement weather; however, in 2023, over 500 prospective students and their families attended the event, which took place in early December, with participants hailing from more than 15 states, including California, Illinois, and Michigan.

For more information and to register for Spring Preview Day 2025, please visit https://futuretiger.tnstate.edu/eventregister.asp.

College of Ag to Hire Veterinarian, Boosting Program and State’s Economy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture is making strides to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen the state’s agricultural sector by hiring an in-house veterinarian. The initiative, still in its early stages, aims to hire a licensed veterinarian within the next 18 months. This effort will benefit TSU animal science students, the agriculture community and Tennessee’s economy.

Cameron Walker during his current Kentucky Equine Management Internship.

The decision to hire an in-house veterinarian aligns with mirroring the university’s demographics and supporting its pre-veterinary students. Cameron Walker, a junior at TSU studying pre-vet, noted the value of this new addition for students like himself.

“Having somebody that went through the process and that can give you tips on what to do and how to get through vet school would be great to have first-hand,” Walker said. “For an HBCU to have a vet in-house is great. It’ll motivate us to keep pushing because we’re not the only ones trying.” Walker is currently an intern at the Kentucky Equine Management Internship (KEMI) program, located on a Central Kentucky horse farm.

After college, Walker will be applying for veterinarian school with a long-term goal of becoming a surgeon.

TSU senior Niarra Anthony during TSU’s ‘Ag Week’ celebration last Spring.

Niarra Anthony, a senior who works with goats, chickens, cows, and more on TSU’s farm, has been accepted into Purdue’s veterinary school. She said having a veterinarian on campus will be transformative. She believes it will show students that their dreams are achievable. “It makes me excited,” Anthony said. “I think that would be very beneficial for students like myself. Not only because I love animals, but one of the main reasons I want to be a vet is to let people that look like me know that they can do it too.”

Currently, only 2.2 percent of veterinarians in the U.S. are Black, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pre vet students stated that they aim to increase these numbers by having an in-house veterinarian on campus who will become role models to aspiring veterinarians.

Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean of the College of Agriculture

Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean of the College of Agriculture, outlined the significance of the new position. “The need for someone who understands animal diseases and connects that to human health is critical on the research side,” Reddy said. “That person will be able to assist, work with our extension agents, and guide them, as well as be helpful to the state’s animal producers.”

Reddy noted that the veterinarian will be involved in various aspects of the college.

From supporting TSU’s pre-vet students to advancing research at the upcoming One Health Center, which will link the study of animal and human diseases, a new veterinarian will play a vital role on campus. In December, the Tennessee State Building Commission (SBC) approved plans for TSU to expand its physical footprint with two new College of Agriculture buildings, including the facility where the veterinarian will likely work with the One Health Center. This $63 million project, totaling 110,000 square feet, combines federal and state funding to enhance the university’s research and outreach capabilities.

Rendering of one of the two new College of Agriculture buildings at Tennessee State University, slated for completion in August 2026.

In regard to outreach, an in-house veterinarian will not only enhance student experiences to sustain a future- ready university, but also boost Tennessee’s agricultural landscape. Pete Nelson, President of AgLaunch and a member of the TSUAg Advisory Board, highlighted the broader impact on the state’s livestock industry.

“Supporting this work with an in-house veterinarian can help take these programs to the next level and build new programs for farmers,” Nelson said. He stated that the university already supports farmers statewide who are seeking to grow their livestock operations, all while maintaining its own livestock on its research farm. So, this addition would improve TSU’s ability to assist underrepresented farmers and build self-sufficiency in livestock care, directly benefiting the state’s agricultural economy.

Pete Nelson, President of AgLaunch

The initiative of hiring an in-house veterinarian is supported by Land Grant funds, which provide the flexibility to hire without restrictions, according to Reddy. TSU currently has 23 Food and Animal Science students participating in the Dean’s Scholars program, eight of which conduct hands-on research on the university’s farm.

The addition of a licensed veterinarian on campus will serve as a resource for students, providing guidance from animal care to navigating the process of applying to veterinary schools. As Dr. Reddy noted, this hire is not only about filling a gap but also about fostering the next generation of veterinarians.

“There are very few Black veterinarians in the country,” he said. “A lot of students express interest, but not many get qualified to become a veterinary doctor because there are very few seats and very high competition,” he said. “We think having a veterinarian on campus will help those students prepare better, get into the best schools, and get veterinarians out there in the communities.”

As TSU continues to build its reputation as a leading institution among HBCUs, the addition of an in-house veterinarian represents a step forward. Not only does this effort supports students like Cameron Walker and Niarra Anthony, but it also positions TSU to play a crucial role in addressing the state’s agricultural needs and boosting its economy. Visit the College of Agriculture at www.tnstate.edu/agriculture/.

USAID Taps TSU to Lead AI Advancements in Semiconductors 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, recognized as a leading technology and innovation hub, has been selected by the U.S. Agency for International Development to spearhead advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), specifically in the semiconductor sector. The SMART ‘AI for ALL’ Research and Training Center at TSU and International Programs will play a crucial role in shaping future AI technologies and driving innovation within this essential field.

Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s Vice President for Technology and Innovations and leader of the SMART Center, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership.

Dr. Robbie Melton

“We are thrilled to embark on this innovative journey with USAID,” Melton said. “The SMART Center presents an exceptional opportunity not only to advance AI research but also to solidify our role in economic development and technology transfer that benefits diverse communities. This collaboration will empower our students and faculty to push the boundaries of technology and play a significant role in shaping the future landscape of AI applications in semiconductors.”

Clinton D. White, Agency Counselor at USAID, said, “We are excited about the innovative work being done at Tennessee State University in the realm of AI and semiconductors. This initiative not only strengthens our technological capabilities but also enhances our commitment to fostering sustainable economic partnerships.”

This designation as a premier training center underscores TSU’s commitment to enhancing research and development in AI applications for semiconductors, positioning the university as a cornerstone of technological progress. The partnership aligns with USAID’s mission to promote sustainable economic growth and development.

Local Middle Tennessee students work on high-tech computers at the TSU SMART Center during a summer camp focused on artificial intelligence systems.

In addition to its advancements in AI, TSU is also recognized as a global coding hub for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as part of Apple’s Community Education Initiative. This further reinforces the university’s dedication to providing innovative educational opportunities and training in cutting-edge technologies.

By harnessing TSU’s expertise in AI, this initiative aims to establish a dynamic platform that facilitates bilateral and trilateral trade opportunities between American businesses and Caribbean enterprises. It will foster an environment ripe for procurement opportunities, philanthropic services, and strategic partnerships throughout the Pan-African diaspora.

Dr. Jewell Winn, Executive Director for the Office of International Programs and Academic Global Engagement at TSU, emphasized the inclusivity of the project and partnership.

“It is paramount that we leverage the power of AI to drive technological advancement while ensuring that every community can participate in this growth. Our objective is to prepare a new generation of skilled professionals equipped to utilize these technologies for the benefit of all.”

For more information about TSU’s SMART Center, please visit https://tsu-smartinnovationtech.netlify.app/