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TSU recognized as 2024 Fulbright HBCU Institutional leader designation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been named a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader, marking the fourth time in five years. This prestigious recognition, awarded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), highlights TSU’s contributions to global academic exchange through its foreign exchange programs for students, faculty, and staff.

As the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative, the Fulbright Program fosters cross-cultural understanding and global partnerships. TSU has repeatedly earned this prestigious distinction in recent years, including for 2024-2025, solidifying its ongoing commitment to international engagement.

Dr. Arlene Nicholas-Phillips and Mark Brinkley, Director of International Education and Global Learning, with TSU students during a visit to a Maasai village in Arusha, Tanzania, this summer.
 

Dr. Jewel Winn, Senior International Officer and Executive Director for TSU’s Office of International Affairs, expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing the university’s commitment to its international community since the office’s inception in 2012.

“The Fulbright Program exposes our students, faculty, and staff to the world,” Winn said. “It broadens their perspectives and prepares them to become global citizens and leaders, which is a key goal of our institution.”

Dr. Winn, who also serves as TSU’s Fulbright Liaison, was recognized as the Fulbright Liaison of the Month this August.

“I’m thrilled that TSU continues to lead in global engagement, with strong support from our administration,” she added. “We not only send students abroad but also welcome students from around the world.”

Dr. Jewell Winn
Dr. Jewel Winn

The Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders initiative recognizes institutions that support exchange participants and encourage campus-wide engagement with Fulbright opportunities. This honor positions HBCUs like TSU as key destinations for international students and scholars while showcasing their intellectual and cultural influence to global audiences.

The announcement of TSU’s selection came just ahead of the 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference, hosted by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Dr. Arlene Nicholas- Phillips, Interim Chief of Staff and Assistant Vice President of Global Initiatives and Partnership, highlighted the university’s international presence, noting that its students and staff represent more than 45 countries.

“In this role, we solidify TSU’s global footprint,” Phillips said. “More people are learning about Tennessee State University, and we proudly carry Tiger Pride with us wherever we go.”

D’Neka Cunningham, a Caribbean student at Tennessee State University, represents TSU at the College Fair in Freeport, Bahamas, showcasing opportunities for future Tigers.

“As an HBCU, receiving this recognition shines a bright spotlight on TSU and our accomplishments as a global leader,” she continued.

Earlier this year, TSU was also ranked sixth in the Best Value HBCU Rankings for international students,  according to Study Abroad Aide  , further underscoring its commitment to providing affordable and impactful global experiences.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken congratulated the HBCU Institutional Leaders, including TSU, in a press release, commending their dedication to promoting global engagement and fostering international understanding.

Scott Weinhold, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, added, “HBCUs play a critical role in developing tomorrow’s leaders. Their engagement with the Fulbright Program builds meaningful relationships that span across communities and nations.”

TSU’s Office of International Affairs offers various programs and services, including the Intensive English Program (IEP), IEP & Cultural Immersion, passport services, and International Student & Scholar Services. TSU’s IEP is the only program in Tennessee accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).

With this latest recognition from the Fulbright Program, Tennessee State University continues to strengthen its reputation as a global leader in higher education, fostering international collaborations. The university’s commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange ensures that TSU remains at the forefront of global engagement. For more information on the Fulbright Program, visit www.fulbrightprogram.org/hbcu/. 

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Class of 2028 officially begins academic with Freshman Convocation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Fall 2024 Freshman Convocation marks the official start of transformation and growth for the newest TSU Tigers. Tennessee State University officially welcomed hundreds of students from the class of 2028 on Sept. 11. First-time students filled Kean Hall, with females dressed in all white and males in dark-colored suits, as they were formally introduced by TSU faculty and staff as official TSU Tigers.

TSU Interim President Ronald Johnson addresses the Class of 2028 during his first formal interaction with them at the freshman convocation.

The annual assembly signifies the beginning of their academic journey at the university and their transformation as college students.

This was the first formal interaction between the new class of students and TSU Interim President Ronald Johnson, who welcomed them with words of encouragement.

“Welcome to TSU,” Johnson said. “Let’s travel together over those hurdles, gain access, and conquer self-doubt. We now know that on the other side, we will have the capacity to own opportunities.”

Dr. Tasha Carson, Assistant Vice President of First-Year Students, reminded the students that they are a vital part of the university, and the goal is to meet their needs and inspire their aspirations. “Class of 2028, you are symbolic of our commitment to TSU’s motto: Think, Work, and Serve,” Carson said. “I now pass to you an eternal light representing knowledge and truth because you are the light of our institution.”

Smiling students from the class of 2028 attend the Fall 2024 Freshman Convocation in Kean Hall, officially marking the start of their TSU journey. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University.)

Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn, now a senior, reassured the freshmen that she was in their shoes just four years ago. She encouraged them to stay strong during their Tiger Journey and leave a lasting legacy at the university.

“TSU is not just a place where you’ll get a degree. It’s where you discover who you are, what you stand for, and the legacy you want to create,” O’Quinn said.

Victoria Cooksey

“This is an environment of rich culture, leadership, and purpose. You are the next generation of scholars, leaders, and innovators,” she continued. “Whether you realize it or not, each of you has a voice, a unique talent in progress, and now is the time to find that.”

Victoria Cooksey, a freshman from Salt Lake City, Utah, and a member of the Tennis Team, said her first month at TSU has been a great experience. “Adapting to the tennis life, the school life, and also socializing at events … it’s been super fun, and I love it so far,” said Cooksey, who is studying mechanical engineering. She noted that the freshman convocation was uplifting and a great way to interact and kick off the school year with her class. “I feel so happy to be here and to see everyone, even the alumni who came back. I feel like it really shows how great this school is, and I’m excited.”

Tyler Huey, of Memphis, a third-generation legacy student, said the freshman convocation made him feel celebrated as a new student at TSU and was a great opportunity to connect with classmates and network.

Huey, who is studying health sciences, said attending TSU was a no brainer.

Tyler Huey

“I’m a legacy student. It just feels good to be somewhere where my family before me walked,” he said. “The history of historically Black colleges is deep. I’ve always felt like attending an HBCU was for me. Why not go to a school that was made for us, by us?”

At the end of the ceremony, legacy students were presented with pins to honor their dedication to continuing their family’s legacy at their alma mater. To close the convocation, students pledged to commit themselves “to serious intellectual and cultural efforts” and to conduct themselves “with honor and dignity to become better prepared to live a full and useful life in society.”

The Grammy Award-winning Aristocrat of Bands delivered a great performance to close out the ceremony. Other notable speakers at the Freshman Convocation included Interim Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Bridgett Golman, TSU Associate Vice President and University Registrar Dr. Verontae Deams, Miss TSU Chandler Holt, and Mister TSU Chandler Cotton.

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TSU reopens facility destroyed by tornado during Small Farm Expo

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture hosted its 20th Annual Small Farm Expo, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony for facilities rebuilt after the 2020 tornadoes. The event celebrated the reopening of the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research and Education Greenhouse, the Agriculture Education Center, and the Pavilion, which are key parts of TSU’s agricultural programs.

Dr. Chandra Reddy, left, and TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)

TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson had remarks at the ceremony, emphasizing the resilience and determination of the university in overcoming past challenges.

“The devastation caused by the 2020 tornado was a formidable setback, but it did not deter us,” Johnson said. “We’re not just replacing what was here, we’re advancing what we can do. These state-of-the-art facilities will redefine the landscape of agricultural research, education, and community engagement, not just at TSU but across the state of Tennessee.”

These rebuilt facilities enable researchers to conduct cutting-edge experiments in sustainable agriculture and host educational workshops, seminars, and public outreach programs.

The Small Farm expo brought together hundreds of industry leaders, small farmers, and students for a day of workshops, farm tours, and the annual awards luncheon. Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean of TSU’s College of Agriculture, expressed his gratitude to the partners who continue to participate in the yearly expo and who helped rebuild the facilities.

TSU students interact with industry employers during the Small Farm Expo, which brought together hundreds of Ag leaders, small farmers, and students. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)

“We seized this opportunity to build a modern, comprehensive agricultural research station that we can all be proud of,” Reddy said. “The new research infrastructure stands as a symbol of our collective strength and determination, and it will serve as a beacon for future research, innovation, and education.”

Dr. De’Etra Young, Associate Dean for Academics and Land-grant Programs, noted the significance of the new facilities for the university’s future.

“These facilities symbolize our commitment to a future-ready TSU,” Young said. “They are designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and excellence, ensuring that our students and faculty have the resources they need to lead and excel in agriculture.”

Dr. De’Etra Young

The Expo featured workshops on urban agriculture, poultry production, beekeeping, and hemp research, as well as guest speakers from local, state, and federal levels.

TSU students Jhanya Chenault and Jaida Seafous, both agriculture ambassadors studying animal sciences, expressed excitement about the opportunities to engage with industry professionals and expand their career paths.

“I jump at these opportunities because I want to present myself to future employers,” said Chenault, a junior from Atlanta, GA. “Being here in Tennessee, we have so many options, and I’m surrounded by people who want to be in the same spaces that I want to be in.”

TSu Ag. student ambassadors Jhanya Chenault, left, and Jaida Seafous.

For Seafous, a sophomore from Houston, TX, this was her first time attending the Expo.

“I wanted to take full advantage of this opportunity,” Seafous said. “We want to get our faces out there, and I have many opportunities at Tennessee State University.

Finis Stribling who is the Director of TSU’s New Farm Academy Small Farms Program, highlighted the significance of Expo and highlighted farmers who may be limited to resources. “Our mission has always been to work with small-scale, limited-resource, underserved producers,” he said. “Now, we’re looking at innovative approaches like drone technology to advance small-scale farming here at TSU.”

Dean Chandra Reddy, left, and Finis Stribling, center back, present Small Farm Expo category winners with checks for their achievements. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)

The expo also honored Ryan McCaffrey as the Tennessee Small Farmer of the Year, awarding him $3,000 for his achievements. Other award recipients, each receiving $1,000, included Debra Lockard for the Alternative Enterprises Award, Briley Dodge for the Innovative Marketing Award, and Adam Clark as the Most Improved Farmer of the Year.

TSU continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing agricultural research and supporting the state’s small farming community. These efforts ensure that the next generation of agricultural leaders is well-equipped for the future, even in the face of challenges like the devastating 2020 tornado.

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TSU alum, Freedom Rider honored with Transit Center

 NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The journey of Dr. Ernest ‘Rip’ Patton, Jr., a TSU alumnus, was one of courage, resilience, and a commitment to justice. His bus rides as a Freedom Rider aimed to dismantle segregation in the South, ultimately leading to his arrest in the 1960s.

Dr. Ernest ‘Rip’ Patton, Jr.

60 years later, Patton’s bus ride has now gone in a different direction, toward honoring his legacy as a humanitarian in Nashville.

This month, the city of Nashville celebrated the opening of the late Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center, a $16.9 million project symbolic of his lifelong dedication to advancing freedom and equality in the South.

During the ribbon cutting of the official opening of the transit center in honor of the Nashville native, Patton’s family, dignitaries from WeGo Transit, the state of Tennessee, council members, and senators were all present.

Dr. Learotha Williams Jr., a professor of African American and Public History at TSU, spoke passionately at the ribbon-cutting ceremony about the importance of the center, as he drafted the historical narrative for the space.

Dr. Learotha Williams Jr.

“We are celebrating our TSU alum who figured prominently in the Civil Rights Movement and in the Freedom Rides,” Williams said. “This is a long overdue celebration because these students, our 14 students (Freedom Riders), whose names will be represented here, were expelled from school as a result of their participation in the Freedom Rides. It’s important that TSU is represented in this space.”

Born in 1940, Patton grew up in Nashville, where he experienced the harsh realities of racial segregation firsthand. At Tennessee Agricultural and Industrial University (TSU) Patton initially channeled his passion for music into leadership as a drum major in the marching band. His talent extended beyond campus, with many, including TSU alumnus Don Hardin, recalling Patton’s impressive drum skills at local churches and community events.

Don Hardin.

Alongside other partners, the center’s design and construction were guided by The Don Hardin Group, led by TSU alumnus Don Hardin.

“Patton was a pillar in the community who was multitalented,” Hardin said.

“I’m here to witness this momentous occasion in the North Nashville Transit being named after Dr. Patton. What he and some of the other Freedom Riders did for the world, it’s an honor to be here and name this Transit after him. Nashville wouldn’t be Nashville without TSU,” he noted. “And it’s great to have the university heavily involved in this project.”

The Transit Center is a result of progress, ensuring to connect the North Nashville community to the rest of the city and beyond as riders have access to two high schools, four middle schools, six medical centers, and two university’s, one of which includes TSU, Patton’s alma mater.

Michael Patton, son of Dr. Ernest ‘Rip’ Patton Jr., speaks about his late father’s legacy during the North Nashville Transit Center ceremony.

Michael Patton, son of Dr. Patton, also spoke on the legacy of his father. “The very same industry that my father and a handful of unfathomably courageous souls fought against now honors the Freedom Riders’ historic struggle with the Transit Center bearing the name of Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr,” Patton said. “WeGo (Public Transit) has turned an important page in history, bringing things full circle, recognizing the power, the value that pure courage in its raw form, spread throughout a united people, has to change the very hearts and minds of a nation.”

Steve Bland, CEO of WeGo Public Transit, echoed the same sentiments of honoring the past while looking toward the future.

Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell captured the significance of the day with his remarks as well. “This Freedom Rider has taken his last ride, but his story now lives here forever at the intersection of independence and opportunity in North Nashville.” The center commemorating Patton and fellow Freedom Riders is located along Clarksville Pike, but ultimately will connect the dots for residents to get to their nearest grocery store, job, or day care center with ease.

The Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center, a $16.9 million project, was celebrated by the city of Nashville in honor of Patton’s lifelong dedication to advancing freedom and equality in the South.

As the North Nashville Transit Center opens its doors, it carries the legacy of a TSU alumnus dedicated to civil rights, whose bus ride for justice has transformed into a lasting tribute.

For more information about the North Nashville Transit Center honoring late Dr. Ernest “Rip” Patton Jr., visit www.wegotransit.com/projects/north-nashville-transit-center/.

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TSU Students receive coveted White House honor

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service)-Two accomplished Tennessee State University students have been selected as HBCU Scholars through the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity.  TSU’s Erin Armstrong, a senior health science major, and Chandler Vidrine, a Ph.D. student in the public policy and administration program, were chosen for the prestigious program. They were among 110 students selected from HBCUs nationwide.  

Selection criteria included exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and community service. The HBCU Scholars program, now in its 10th year, aims to empower students through mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and policymakers.

Armstrong, a Nashville native, is an honor student and attends TSU on an academic scholarship. She currently serves as the senior class press with the TSU Student Government Association and aspires to become a pediatric dentist. She expressed her excitement about starting her senior year at TSU with this recognition.

“I’m excited about being able to represent my university on a broader scale, growing professionally, developing more leadership skills, and advocating for HBCUs across the nation,” she said. “Academically and personally, I am just excited to see myself evolve. I entered TSU being shy, and now I’m a representative of the university at an all-time high.”

Vidrine is from Ville Platte, Louisiana, and completed his undergraduate degree at Southern University, a fellow HBCU in Baton Rouge. He said that he chose TSU for its promising online program and to reconnect with the HBCU culture. The doctoral student emphasized the significance of the White House HBCU recognition for him as a first-generation college graduate.

“This testimony means everything,” Vidrine said. “When I was selected as an HBCU Scholar, I was super excited, especially with me being a first-time college graduate from my family.”

He looks forward to networking with peers from diverse backgrounds. “It’s always good to share different ideas as well, and how to address certain situations and utilize those innovative ideas.”

The HBCU Scholars will also be invited to the 2024 HBCU Week National Annual Conference, from September 15-19, in Philadelphia, PA. The annual conference theme is “Raising the Bar: Where Excellence and Opportunity Meet.” In a press release from the U.S. Department of Education, Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized that The White House initiative for HBCU students, aligned with the department’s mission to “Raise the Bar,” and encourages students to “uplift their communities, foster unity, strengthen democracy, and contribute to economic growth.” 

“For 10 years, the HBCU Scholars program has celebrated the exceptional academic talent and achievements of students at our Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey.”

Through workshops, leadership programs, and networking events, the TSU students, along with other selected HBCU Scholars, will have the opportunity to enhance their skills and expand their horizons.

As Armstrong and Vidrine embark on this journey for the 2024-25 school year, their selection as HBCU Scholars highlights the recognition and support from the White House Initiative for exceptional students at Tennessee State University.

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TSU alumna wins Netflix Barbecue Showdown

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Tennessee State University alumna and chef Shaticka Robinson has proven that even dreams can be smoked to perfection. The former TSU executive chef won season three of Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown and the $50,000 grand prize that came along with the title. Robinson competed against the best backyard smokers and pitmasters in the country.

Tennessee State University alumna Chef Shaticka Robinson competes in episode 306 of Netflix’s “Barbecue Showdown,” ultimately winning the competition. (Photo courtesy of Netflix)

The Nashville native said she always believed in herself and knew she would win the competition.

“I put my soul on the table,” Robinson said. “Being on the grill is a peaceful place for me. So, in my mind, I knew I was a winner.”

Robinson was at TSU for nearly six years before leaving to film the show in Georgia. She shared how her parents taught her how to cook at the age of seven, with the mindset of turning a kitchen into a home. This was especially true at TSU, as she prepared the menu for student dining. In 2018, Robinson was hired at TSU through Aramark as the cafe’s chef.

“How do I turn the cafe into everyone’s kitchen or a home away from home?” Robinson said when she took on the job. “That’s what I tried to create at Tennessee State University. I love TSU, so I thought it would be awesome for me to be able to go back to my school and try to make a difference.”

Robinson was at TSU as the executive chef for nearly six years before leaving to film the show in Georgia.

She noted that her time at the university developed her passion for cooking as well. “Being at TSU, handling the cafe and catering, made me a better chef,” she said.

In 2020, during the pandemic, she started delivering home cooked meals in her Hendersonville neighborhood to those in need. Her cooking efforts quickly became the talk of her community. That’s when she decided to take her passion a step further and purchased her own food truck, Coley’s Jook Junt, where she offers a barbecue feast and soul food.

It was last year when Robinson was sought out by a casting agent to compete in the TV show competition, bringing her much more recognition for her craft. From the show winnings, alongside $50,000, she also won a new smoker that will be needed for her food truck business as she says now her menu items sell out every day.

Barbecue Showdown winner Shaticka Robinson showcasing her grilling skills in episode 303. (Courtesy of Netflix)

Robinson also sells her own dry rib rub online and “Bougie BBQ” merchandise such as T-shirts, hats, and glassware to bring a different style and look to the barbecue industry.

Robinson stated that she is grateful for the recognition of her talents and for showing the world that a Black woman can, too, barbecue.

She concluded with little advice to the thousands of TSU students she has served breakfast, lunch, and dinner to every day in the cafe. “Don’t take failure as a no,” she said. “Dream so big that it scares you. Believe you have greatness in you, because you do.”

Robinson is a wife and a mother of five who currently resides in Nashville.

Watch Chef Robinson on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown and check out her food truck at www.coleysjj.com.

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Two agriculture professors earn national recognition

By Charlie Morrison, Alexis Clark

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Two Tennessee State University College of Agriculture professors have been recognized for their outstanding contributions in research and excellence in education. Dr. Dilip Nandwani, a botanist and professor of organic agriculture, was named the 2024 American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) Fellow. While Agriculture professor and soil scientist Dr. Jason de Koff was recently named the winner of the 2024 Agronomic Education and Extension Award.

Dr. Nandwani is the first scientist from a Historically Black College and University or 1890 land-grant university to receive the prestigious honor. He has spent more than three decades teaching, researching, and mentoring in agriculture science and education.

“I am honored to be recognized by the American Society for Horticultural Science as a Fellow,” said Dr. Nandwani. “This award acknowledges 30 years of teamwork in horticultural research, Extension, and teaching, emphasizing our commitment to advancing society through horticultural education and principles.”

Dr. Nandwani is one of eight scientists named ASHS Fellows in the 2024 class. ASHS Nandwani manages TSUs certified organic farm, which includes fruits, vegetables, and herbs used for research and education efforts. Newly elected Fellows will be honored at an awards ceremony during an ASHS Annual Conference in September.

Dr. de Koff will also attend a ceremony to receive his American Society of Agronomy accolade, the Agronomic Education and Extension Award, recognizing excellence in education. The award includes a certificate, a complimentary ticket to the ceremony, and $2,000.

“This award is truly an honor,” said Dr. de Koff. “Working in Extension has allowed me to serve others, which is why I love what I do. I look forward to continuing to engage with and learn from all the stakeholders we serve.”

Dr. de Koff is active in the agronomy community, serving as President of the Tennessee Association of Agricultural Agents and Specialists, Chair of the Agriculture and Natural Resources subcommittee in the Southern Region Program Leaders Network, and holds many other leadership roles. As a research scientist, he has received over 60 local, state, or national awards and $44 million in grants as Principal Investigator or co-Principal Investigator, including TSU grants.

“College of Agriculture Dean, Dr. Chandra Reddy, said that these achievements highlight the dedication and impact of TSUs College of Agriculture professors. “Dr. Nandwani and Dr. de Koff’s work continues to advance the fields of horticulture and agronomy, benefiting both the academic community and society at large,” said Reddy. He noted that these are important national recognitions by their peers in their fields of expertise. “Both faculty members have been with TSU for over a decade, and we are proud of their diligence and commitment to service.”

For more information about the College of Agriculture, visit TSU College of Agriculture.

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TSU expands global impact with Ghana Experience Program

By Alexis Clark, Chrishonda O’Quinn

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University continues to make strides as a global institution. In collaboration with the HBCU African Education Coalition (HAEC), TSU has launched the Ghana Experience program to promote cultural exchange, global awareness, and academic enrichment. The initiative brought together 60 TSU students and staff who embarked on a transformative journey from June 1-16 to various regions of Ghana, including Accra, Akosombo, Kumasi, and Cape Coast.

Newly elected SGA president Chrishonda O’Quinn with students from the Wesley Girls’ High School in Accra, Ghana.

Mark Brinkley, who serves as director of International Education in TSU’s Office of International Affairs, explained how the HAEC partnership and the Ghana Experience program align with the university’s mission to provide students with transformative global experiences.

“This unique program will offer an invaluable opportunity for TSU students, faculty, and staff to engage with Ghana’s rich heritage, diverse cultures, and educational landscapes,” Brinkley said.

During the two-week immersive program of cultural exchange, participants engaged in educational seminars, community service projects, interactive workshops, and visits that provided an understanding of Ghana’s history and educational system.

TSUs Chrishonda O’Quinn and Jalen Mask were both Student Logistical Coordinators for this initiative and were selected for the Ghana Experience. O’Quinn, a senior and the newly-elected SGA president, said the study abroad program was a personal cultural awakening for her but also an opportunity to share the importance of education with young girls from the Wesley Girls’ High School in Cape Coast, Ghana.

TSU student Jalen Mask with Ghanaian student during Summer 2024 study abroad trip.

“This understanding is crucial in shaping your relationships, how you lead, and how you view yourself,” O’Quinn said. “Additionally, it sharpens your cross-cultural communication skills and helps you appreciate the privilege of having access to the resources we have. Giving back to the educational system in Ghana brought me pure joy.”

Mask, a rising junior, is a biology major and future medical doctor. He said the experience made him passionate about being a contributor to a global society.

“My TSU study abroad experience in Ghana has culminated in a higher sense of self-identity, resilience, and passion for who I am,” Mask said. “Being immersed in the culture makes me ambitious to continue making a positive difference in this world as a global contributor. Through this opportunity, my horizons have been broadened, and I am eager to continue showing up as my authentic self and defying the odds.”

TSU is set to open a SMART center at St. Martin de Porres.

The Ghana Experience also included other HBCU students and administrators from Clark Atlanta University, North Carolina A&T, Morgan State University, Hampton University, and Howard University.

Building on the success of the Ghana Experience, TSU is set to open a SMART center at St. Martin de Porres, one of the partnering institutions in Accra, Ghana. This initiative marks a significant step in TSU’s commitment to global education and fostering international partnerships.

To learn more about study abroad opportunities at TSU, visit www.tnstate.edu/business/international/.

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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 enhances enrollment experience with ZeeMee 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is embarking on a new era of personalized college recruitment with its latest collaboration with ZeeMee, a cutting-edge app that is revolutionizing the interaction between universities and prospective students. This partnership aims to elevate TSU’s recruitment process by building authentic connections and meeting students on their own terms.

Elmore J. Jones, Jr.

Deputy Chief Operating Officer Elmore J. Jones, Jr., says the partnership with ZeeMee will greatly enhance student engagement with potential new Tigers.

“Our admissions team is dedicated to maintaining a strong connection with our incoming applicants, and this partnership will provide us with an additional tool to achieve that goal.”

The ZeeMee app offers a unique platform for TSU to connect with prospective students in a more personalized and meaningful way. By joining the online community, accepted students will gain access to valuable information about campus life, housing options, course offerings, and more.

Director of Admissions LaMar-Octavious Scott says the collaboration with ZeeMee is focused on increasing student engagement, improving communication, and reducing the number of undecided applicants considering TSU.

LaMar-Octavious Scott

“We are excited to work alongside ZeeMee as we wrap up the Fall 2024 cycle and gear up for the Fall 2025 admissions season,” says Scott. “ZeeMee’s innovative approach and dynamic features allow prospective students to build meaningful connections with others who share an interest in TSU. This partnership will advance our recruitment-to-enrollment process and amplify our institutional marketability, putting the power in the hands of prospective students.”

TSU launched ZeeMee on June 19, coinciding with Juneteenth and the celebration of the university’s 112th anniversary. Scott shares, “As we observed this special day, we invited all prospective students to join us on ZeeMee and become part of the TSU community.”

Following the launch, students received emails and text messages inviting them to join the TSU community based on their admissions status. Admitted students will have access to additional opportunities for engagement, with ZeeMee conveniently accessible on mobile devices.

By leveraging ZeeMee’s data collection and analysis capabilities, TSU aims to measure the impact of the platform on enrollment and engagement. Throughout the year, ZeeMee will provide valuable insights into community performance, enrollment trends, and more.

In addition to facilitating interactions between prospective students, ZeeMee’s unique features create a social network tailored for the college experience. This virtual community allows students to connect, share experiences, and establish relationships before arriving on campus. According to Scott, this pre-arrival engagement not only fosters a sense of belonging but also empowers students to take ownership of their college journey.

For further information on admissions at Tennessee State University, please visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions.