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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.

                                                                                                            

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Melton named to  AI board, continues TSU’s role as tech leader

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Tennessee State University is pleased to announce that Dr. Robbie Melton is a member of the Southern Regional Education Board Commission (SREB) on Artificial Intelligence in Education. Dr. Melton, who serves Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, is also the Vice President for Technology Innovations and heads the TSU SMART Global Technology Innovation Center. Melton’s appointment further solidifies her status as a top expert and TSU as a leading institution on artificial intelligence.

“In this transformative era of artificial intelligence, it’s personal for me,” shared Dr. Melton. “As a member of the Southern Regional Education Board Artificial Intelligence Commission, I’m committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, and to eliminating the digital divide.”  

The two-year SREB commission brings together leaders in education and business “to chart a course for how AI is used in classrooms and how to prepare a workforce that is being transformed by technology,” outlined in an April 19 press release from the commission. The commission’s first order of business is to review research and industry data regarding AI and to hear from education experts like Melton. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, who chairs the commission, presided over the group’s first meeting on May 1.

“When used correctly, AI is a powerful tool capable of reshaping our education system,” according to McMaster in the April press release. “By working together, we can overcome the challenges that AI presents and harness its power to ensure our students are prepared for the workforce of the future.”  

Members, from each of SREB’s 16 states, include leadership from governors’ offices, state education and workforce agencies, K-12 educators and leaders, postsecondary faculty and leaders, and business executives, managers and engineers. TSU’s Melton represents Tennessee along with Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education with the Tennessee Department of Education and Steven Gentile, Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. Brad D. Smith, president of Marshall University in West Virginia and former Silicon Valley CEO, co-chairs the commission. 

“Learning to lean into the discoveries AI technology will develop in the future excites me,” said Smith, in the same press release. “We’re given the challenging, yet promising opportunity of preparing students for a digital world with evolving opportunities in life, employment and contribution.” 

SREB will develop recommendations for Southern states to lead in three areas, using AI in teaching and learning, K-12 and postsecondary, developing related policies in K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and preparing students for careers in AI.  The states include Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

“We need to be proactive now, because AI is fundamentally shifting the classroom and the workplace,” said SREB President Stephen L. Pruitt. “The Commission will bring us together for a roadmap on preparing students for this world in which AI is a reality.”  

Melton’s appointment comes ahead of her leading a major TSU AI event. On June 5-7, TSU will host the A.I. FOR ALL: Open Education Summit. The event will address Ethics and Policies for AI, AI Tools for Every Stage of Education, AI for Educational Equity, and Innovating Pedagogy with AI, along with other topics. The summit will include industry heavyweights Google, Apple, Oracle, T-Mobile, Comcast, Amazon, and Microsoft. National speakers, panels, interactive workshops, AI exhibits, plus art galleries and tools will also be on display. Some of the prominent sponsors and partners include the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, T-Mobile Education, Merlot- Affordable Learning Solutions, and MIT-Open CourseWare. The summit is free and open to the public.

“My passion lies in making AI accessible to everyone, amplifying voices that are often unheard, and breaking down the barriers that divide us,” added TSU’s Melton.  “Together, we can shape a future where AI isn’t just a tool for the few, but a force for good that enriches all of our lives.”

To attend the TSU AI Summit please email [email protected] or call 615.963.7113.

Media interested in covering this event should contact TSU Media Relations at [email protected] or call 615.963.5331. 

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TSU celebrates first graduates of Dr. Levi Watkins Institute

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The journey to become a doctor or dentist is one step closer to becoming a reality for several recent Tennessee State University graduates. After making history as the first graduating class of the TSU Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Accelerated Medical and Dental program, 14 students will now start their new journey to medical and dental school. All completed a rigorous 3-year academic program, debt-free. Parents and close friends gathered for a dinner and reception to mark this major milestone for the students and TSU.

 
Barbara C. Murrell, center, chair of the accelerated program, joins the inaugural cohort of TSU’s Dr. Levi Watkins Institute at the 2024 spring commencement ceremony. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams,” Barbara C. Murrell, the chair of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute told those in attendance.

“Yet a dream doesn’t become reality through magic. It takes sweat, determination, and hard work. And lastly, yesterday is but today’s memory,” she continued. “And tomorrow is today’s dream. So, dream big, I know you’ll make us proud.”

All of the students graduated with a B.S. degree in Biology with a 3.5 GPA or higher in three years, a requirement of the program. However, Jaden Knight and Samantha Altidort maintained a 4.0 GPA. Knight, a Dayton, Ohio native will be attending Meharry Medical College to become an orthodontist. He is a first generation college student.

“We are ecstatic, blessed, and very proud of Jaden,” stated his parents Carl and Shamica Kennebrew, during the event.

Samantha Altidort, one of two Dr. Levi Watkin Jr. Scholars who graduated with a 4.0 GPA, with her family during the program’s graduation celebration.

“We were able to watch what God is doing with him just to see Jaden get the fruits of his work, his hard work, and his dedication,” Carl said. “This program is creating generational wealth and starting a new path for Black men and women.”

Knight stated that he looks forward to addressing the underrepresentation of African American men in the field and improving underrepresented patient satisfaction. Altidort, a Nashville native, will also be attending Meharry Medical College to become a family medicine physician. She followed in her parents Michel and Guerda Aldidort’s footsteps, who are both TSU alumni and work in the medical field.

“We are here to celebrate Sam,” her parents said. “We are so happy and grateful for Sam. To God be the glory.” Michel added that they advised their daughter to attend TSU. “And that was a great decision,” he said. “Now she’s ready to go to Meharry Medical College.”

Jaden Knight, one of two Dr. Levi Watkin Jr. Scholars who graduated with a 4.0 GPA, with his family during the program’s graduation celebration.

Among active physicians, only 5.7% identified as Black or African American in the United States as of 2023. While 3.8% of dentists in the country identify as Black, according to the American Dental Association.

In 2020, Tennessee State University and Meharry Medical College joined forces with a shared vision to eliminate health disparities among marginalized populations. The result was the establishment of the Meharry Medical College/Tennessee State University Medical/Dental Accelerated Pathway Program. The transformative initiative was in honor of TSU alumnus and renowned heart surgeon Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. The program serves as a pipeline for underrepresented students to become medical doctors and dentists.

Lalita Hodge, program coordinator of the Dr. Levi Watkins Institute, explained the significance of the program and its significance to the healthcare field.

“To our future brown and Black doctors, we just wanted to let them know how special they are to us and give them a great send-off,” Hodge said of the celebration.

“TSU is going to impact the medical field. I think someone in this program will have the cure for cancer. Someone is going to have the cure for dementia.”

Congratulations to the first cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute Accelerated Pathway Program!

•           Samantha Altidort

•           Alan Bethea, Jr.

•           Taylor Brown

•           Chaun Cheaney

•           Kayla Davis

•           Xavier Erves

•           Camille Haskins

•           John Kim

•           Jaden Knight

•           Brooke Majors

•           McKhia McCrary

•           George Picken IV

•           Ashton Terrell

•           Ryla Traylor

To learn more about the Meharry Medical College/Tennessee State University Medical/Dental Accelerated Pathway Program, please visit https://www.tnstate.edu/watkins/.

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TSU students promote mental wellness to prevent holiday blues

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In the midst of finals, winter blues, and the holiday season, Tennessee State University students are prioritizing their mental health.

SGA student leaders partnered with the University Counseling Center for “Tiger Wellness Week.” The goal was to address the emotional well-being of students during this time of the year.

SGA president Derrell Taylor said the activities were designed to help students recognize the value of their mental health. 

Travis Ducksworth, Derrell Taylor, Elizabeth Armstrong and Amore’ Dixie during Tiger Wellness Week.

“From distributing “You Are Loved” t-shirts to passing out affirmations and creating stress balls, our focus was internal, mental, and physical well-being,” said Taylor, a senior who is a business major. 

Taylor added students even did yoga as a preventative measure to ward off the “holiday blues” during what’s considered the happiest time of the year. 

“Towards the end of the semester, we deal with finals and it’s a lot of anxiety for most students. It’s a draining time of the year. The goal was to wrap up the semester on a positive note and remind students that, despite the emotional challenges of the holiday season, they are supported.”

Travis Ducksworth, the first mental health ambassador of TSU’s counseling center,” shared insights into the impact of Tiger Wellness Week. “We were able to give people a reason to reflect and appreciate themselves even more,” Ducksworth said. “Especially during the winter months, once that sun goes down sooner, sometimes your emotions do too.” 

The emphasis is on finding creative ways to help students balance their collegiate life while prioritizing mental health.

During Tiger Wellness Week students has yoga sessions as a preventative measure to ward off the “holiday blues” during what’s considered the happiest time of the year, along with the stress of finals.

“Regardless of what your situation is, stay present,” Ducksworth advised.

Elizabeth Armstrong, a therapist at TSU’s counseling center, highlighted the importance of treating mental health as an aspect of overall health. She addressed the cultural stigmas surrounding African American mental health, urging students not to wait until they’re in crisis to seek counseling.

“Mental health is still health,” Armstrong said. “It’s important because the majority of our population, culturally, have dealt with a lot of trauma.” 

63% of Black adults believe that a mental health condition is a sign of ‘personal weakness,’ according to the National Alliance of Mental Illness. 

“People seem to think something must be extremely wrong to come to counseling, part of even normalizing that is making people aware that you don’t have to be in crisis to come to counseling. But if you’re struggling with your mental health in general, don’t suffer in silence,” stressed Armstrong. 

As the semester comes to an end, Amore’ Dixie, Representative at Large for the Counseling Center, offered encouragement for students to finish strong mentally first to finish academically.

TSU students held a balloon release with messages inside, symbolizing letting go of anything holding students back. 

“I highly encourage everyone to stay focused, stay positive, and make sure to turn in all of their work on time,” Dixie said. 

“Don’t give up now, we’re almost at the home stretch. If you are feeling overwhelmed or just want to talk to someone, be sure to stop by the Counseling Center where one of the therapists can better assist you.”

Regarding the prevalence of mental health challenges among college students, data from the American Psychological Association shows that over 60% of college students experienced at least one mental health problem during the 2020–2021 school year.

According to the American Journal of Epidemiology there has been little research on the association between HBCU attendance and mental health compared to PWI attendance. Despite this gap in research, the American Journal of Epidemiology reports that cross-sectional surveys found better health outcomes for Black students enrolled at HBCUs, including less drinking, fewer mental health conditions, better body image, and more social support.

Travis Ducksworth, the first student ambassador of TSU’s counseling center reading a mental wellness pamphlet.

The week-long event helped students understand and communicate their emotions. It culminated with a balloon release with messages inside, symbolizing letting go of anything holding students back. 

“Moving forward, we plan to collaborate with the University counseling center to implement more consistent check-ins, mental health events, and comfortable, open spaces on campus,” Taylor said, noting that hosting events in the spring will be beneficial as well.

If you or someone you know needs assistance or counseling, please visit www.tnstate.edu/counseling/contact.