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Former Deloitte Global CTO Jerome Oglesby Joins TSU as Strategic Advisor to the President, Focused on Information Technology

By Angela Mills

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University (TSU) is proud to announce the appointment of Jerome Oglesby as Strategic Advisor to the President, where he will lead efforts to enhance the university’s technology strategy, digital transformation, and cybersecurity initiatives.

A distinguished global leader in technology strategy, transformation, and governance, Oglesby brings over 35 years of experience in driving impactful IT advancements for some of the world’s most esteemed organizations. His expertise in cybersecurity, cloud transformation, and IT governance will play a critical role in realizing new and important efficiencies, elevating TSU’s technological infrastructure and digital capabilities to new heights.

Ogelsby accepted the appointment with no compensation.

“Technology is the backbone of modern education, and Jerome’s visionary leadership and expertise will be instrumental in helping TSU to work smarter and offer more to our students, faculty and staff,” said Dwayne Tucker, Interim President of TSU.

Oglesby currently serves as an Advisory Partner with Ahead, Inc., where he provides strategic guidance to chief information officers on digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and IT governance. Previously, he held the prestigious role of Global Chief Technology Officer for Deloitte, overseeing global technology.  

Beyond Deloitte, Oglesby has held influential roles at Cingular Wireless, Sabre Inc., and American Airlines, leading network transformations, regional operations and flight movement systems. He has also played a key role in corporate disaster recovery strategies, pandemic planning, and sustainability initiatives.

In addition to his corporate achievements, Oglesby is a dedicated advocate for technology education and leadership development. He serves on the boards of ScienceLogic, Inc. (as Chair of the Cybersecurity Committee), Orokii, Inc., LEAD Public Schools, the Tennessee CIO Advisory Board, and several nonprofit organizations.

“I am honored to join TSU and contribute to its legacy of academic excellence and innovation,” said Oglesby. “I look forward to collaborating with university leadership to implement forward-thinking IT strategies that enhance learning, research, and institutional success.”

Oglesby holds a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from The University of Texas at Arlington and an MBA from Lipscomb University. He is also a graduate of The United States Marine Corps Communications Electronics Institute.

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TSU Shines at HBCU Day at the Capitol

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University was among the state’s HBCUs represented recently at the Day at the Capitol. The annual event brings together students, faculty, and supporters from Tennessee’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities to engage with state legislators, highlighting the achievements and needs of these institutions. TSU’s presence raised awareness of the contributions of HBCUs, advocate for supportive funding and policies, and helps to strengthen the relationship between these institutions and state lawmakers.

TSU student Chandler Hollis, right, presents State Representative David Hawk with a TSU gift bag during HBCU Day at the Capitol.

Nearly 40 TSU representatives attended the event On Feb. 18, including interim President Dwayne Tucker, students from the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. program, the Student Government Association, Honors College, and more. Students distributed gift bags to all House representatives and senators, each containing TSU gear along with flower bulbs from the College of Agriculture.

Chandler Hollis, a junior biology major and a Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., scholar, shared his thoughts on representing TSU at the Capitol. “I got the chance to sit down and speak with representatives,” Hollis said. “My HBCU… we’re good enough, and I have been afforded the opportunity to be here at the Capitol for a reason. We’re not here just because—we’re here because we are a prestigious school, and I take pride in Tennessee State University.”

From left to right, TSU students Linzee Nelson, Chrishonda O’Quinn, and Erin Armstrong.

Chrishonda O’Quinn, SGA president, highlighted the importance of the experience, saying, “This was my first time participating in HBCU Day at the Capitol. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to represent our university and showcase its achievements while advocating for support from legislators. It’s a chance to network and promote us as students pursuing degrees and building successful careers. This experience can open doors to new opportunities beyond our time at the university.”

In addition to providing networking opportunities, the event highlighted TSU’s research and academic offerings. A major attraction was “Blue,” TSU’s robotic dog, which greeted lawmakers and drew attention to the display by the TSU SMART . The Center promotes digital literacy, inspiring smart connected innovations, and equipping students with essential technology skills for the digital workforce.

Dr. Robert O’Keefe Hassell, center, joins fellow Smart Center faculty and staff to showcase TSU’s robot dog, ‘Blue.’

Dr. Robert O’Keefe Hassell, executive director of TSU’s SMART Center, highlighted the center’s role in showcasing TSU’s innovative programs. “TSU is home to so many amazing things, and the SMART Center is one of those things,” he said. “We’re excited to be here to spread new innovations and technology, along with the amazing programs we offer at the TSU SMART Center.”

From left to right: Roderick Reed, Director of Marketing and Communications in Agriculture; House Representative Harold Love Jr.; and Lobbyist Leah Dupree Love.

Leah Dupree Love, a 2005 TSU alumna and a lobbyist with the Ingram Group, also underscored the day’s impact. “When we are educating Tennesseans, we are educating them to go out and prosper in all 95 counties,” Love said. “I wanted to make sure that this day was a success because HBCUs matter. These efforts are so important to TSU students and I hope students go back to campus rejuvenated.”

Darryl Thompson, Special Advisor to the president for External Relations, Infrastructure, and Major Projects, emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with lawmakers. “We were not here to erase the past but to build off the past and create a much brighter future,” Thompson said. “This visit is to ensure that students remain at the center of all decisions and that those decisions are best for the future of Tennessee State.”

HBCU Day at the Capitol not only allowed TSU to advocate for its needs but also reinforced its role as a future-ready institution, dedicated to advancing educational equity and creating opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader community.

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TSU and Regions Bank launch scholarship honoring distinguished alumna’s legacy

By the Office of Institutional Advancement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, in partnership with Regions Bank, has announced the establishment of the Latrisha Stewart Jemison Endowment Scholarship, celebrating an influential alumna and advocate for educational advancement and community service.

Jemison, who earned her Master’s in Business Administration degree at TSU in 2018, devoted her career to uplifting communities through financial empowerment, mentorship and education until her passing in December 2023. As a senior vice president at Regions Bank, she spearheaded initiatives that expanded financial literacy, supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and provided economic opportunities for underserved communities. Her passion for giving back was evident in every aspect of her work, including her deep involvement with TSU.

“Help others. Reach back. Once you’ve been blessed, be a blessing to others,” Jemison often said—a philosophy she embodied throughout her career.

In 2023, the university’s inaugural Corporate Partners Breakfast recognized Jemison’s dedication and honored her commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships. Now, her legacy will continue through the Latrisha Stewart Jemison Endowment Scholarship, which will support students at TSU who share her drive to make a difference.

The $100,000 scholarship, funded by Regions Bank, ensures that Jemison’s impact will live on, empowering the next generation of TSU students to pursue their academic and professional goals.

For more information on the Latrisha Stewart Jemison Endowment Scholarship, visit www.giving.tnstate.edu.

Feature photo:

Late Latrisha Jemison, left, receiving an award from Lin Li, Dean of the College of Engineering, right, at the 2023 Corporate Partners Breakfast at TSU’s Avon Williams Campus

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

By the Office of Institutional Advancement

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.

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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.

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 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.

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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/.

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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/.

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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_.

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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.