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Tennessee State University Mourns the loss of Dr. Curtis Johnson, executive administrator

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –Tennessee State University is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Dr. Curtis Johnson, Chief of Staff and Vice President of Administration. TSU officials said Dr. Johnson was found unresponsive in his home on Tuesday night, leaving a profound void in our university community.

TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson remembered the late administrator for his commitment to the university.

TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson, left, and Dr. Curtis Johnson, right, at the Fall 2024 One Stop Shop event in Kean Hall.

“Dr. Johnson was the embodiment of the spirit that is TSU. His presence beamed with ‘Golden Sunshine’ and an unwavering commitment to our students, as well as an infectious love for inspiring, motivating, and engaging people,” recalled President Johnson. “I encourage everyone in our TSU community to embrace the essence of the wonderful blessing that Dr. Johnson has been. Let’s support each other as a family and offer our prayers of comfort to Dr. Johnson’s loved ones and close friends.”

Dr. Johnson was a dedicated administrator and a beloved figure on campus and worked closely with faculty and staff.

Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn

His commitment to enhancing the student experience was evident in his leadership of Auxiliary Services, where he oversaw vital areas such as Dining Services, the TSU Bookstore, and Emergency Management, among many others. News of his passing has left the campus family in shock and disbelief.

Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn said Dr. Johnson was one of the administrators she looked forward to working with based on her experience as SGA vice president last year.

“I am deeply heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dr. Curtis Johnson,” O’Quinn expressed. “Dr. Johnson never hesitated to uplift and prioritize the student voice. His presence was remarkable, with an infectious laugh and a smile that could light up any room.”

She added, “Johnson made everyone he encountered feel valued, seen, and heard, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of so many. He loved Tennessee State University with all his heart.”

Dr. Artenzia C. Young-Seigler

Dr. Artenzia C. Young-Seigler, immediate past chair of the TSU Faculty Senate and Board of Trustees member, said the loss has resonated among her peers as well.

The department chair and professor of Biological Sciences added that the faculty held Dr. Johnson in high regard and viewed him as the consummate team player.

“I was blessed to be able to work with him, members of the team he built, and those he has mentored over the years.  Sunshine or rain, you could always count on him.  His service at TSU has touched everyone.  His absence will be deeply felt by those who had the privilege of working directly with him or those fortunate to share a knowing “look” or “chuckle”.

 Dr. Curtis Johnson, left, and former Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover at the 2023 Inspire Change Changemaker Award ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans.

TSU is offering grief counseling to help those who may be struggling with Johnson’s passing. Students seeking assistance and support are encouraged to visit the Counseling Center in the Floyd Payne Campus Center.  TSU employees can participate in individual and group sessions on campus and at the Avon Williams Educational Center.

Johnson came to TSU in 2013 and served under former president Dr. Glenda Glover, until her retirement. The two first met during their tenure at Jackson State University.

“Dr. Johnson was a source of guidance, support, and inspiration, tirelessly working to foster a positive campus environment,” Glover said. “Dr. Johnson’s contributions extended far beyond his official duties. He was a mentor to many and a leader among his peers. Dr. Johnson was also a close friend.”

Dr. Curtis Johnson, left, assists a student during the first session of the Speak TSU initiative.

Interim President Johnson said, “Dr. Johnson has honored us and is a noble legacy of our beloved TSU. His impact on our community will be felt for years to come.”

TSU plans to hold a campus-wide gathering to honor Dr. Johnson’s memory. Details regarding the event will be forthcoming. Everyone is encouraged to participate as the university celebrates Dr. Johnson’s life and contributions to TSU and the HBCU community.

Tennessee State University Grief Counseling:

Student Counseling                                

615.963.5611                                          

Floyd Payne Campus Center                      

Suite 306                                                                   

8am – 4:30pm                                          

Employee Counseling

855. 437.3486

Floyd Payne Campus Center

Rm. 125 and 129           

9am – 3pm         

Avon Williams

Training Room 1: 10am – 2pm

 The Employee Assistance Program is also available for you 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The toll-free number is (855) 437-3486. For additional benefits and services, please visit the EAP Website using access code here4tn, if needed.

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TSU to welcome hundreds of students for Fall Preview Day

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Hundreds of high school juniors and seniors from across the nation, along with their families, are expected to attend Tennessee State University’s highly anticipated Fall Preview Day on Sept. 28. Considered TSU’s premier open house event, Fall Preview Day showcases the university to prospective students by highlighting its programs, offerings, campus life, and community.

TSU students and campus ambassadors gather for a group photo in support of high school students during last year’s Fall Preview Day. (TSU photo)

Fall Preview Day activities will kick off at 12 p.m., in Kean Hall Gymnasium on the main campus. Registration is now open.

“We warmly invite prospective students and their families to join us for Fall Preview Day and discover the exciting opportunities TSU has to offer,” says Dr. Portia Johnson, Executive Director of Recruitment. “This event provides a perfect platform for attendees to witness how TSU can foster their academic and personal development, and we look forward to welcoming them to our vibrant campus.” 

Organizers say Fall Preview Day will feature a diverse array of activities across campus. Participants will have the chance to engage with academic and financial aid advisors, as well as deans and chairs of various colleges, who will set up displays and exhibits representing their respective departments. Visiting students will also have the opportunity to interact with current students and gain insight into the campus culture and supportive learning environment.

Elmore J. Jones, Jr., TSU’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, highlights the significance of Fall Preview Day in giving prospective students and families a firsthand look at what sets TSU apart as a premier institution.

“Fall Preview Day provides students and their loved ones the opportunity to experience the exceptional programs, resources, and services we offer,” says Jones. “Participants will have the chance to interact with our outstanding faculty, advisors, and current students, who will showcase the transformative learning environment that TSU prides itself on.”

Last year, more than 500 prospective students and their families attended Fall Preview Day, which was held in the first week of December. Participants came from over 15 states, including California, Illinois, and Michigan.

For more information and to register for Fall Preview Day 2024 https://tnstateu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vbRQEjZAlYuLsO?Q_CHL=qr

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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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SGA launches Speak TSU to elevate student voices

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  The Tennessee State University Student Government Association recently introduced the Speak TSU: Your Roar, Our Ears initiative. This platform empowers TSU students to elevate their voices and address any concerns within the campus community. Launched in August as part of Interim President Ronald A. Johnson’s 100-Day plan, the initiative aims to tackle the university’s pressing challenges and ensure it is well-positioned for future success.

Interim President Ronald Johnson speaks with students about his initiative to address the university’s pressing challenges.

Recently, TSU faculty, staff, deans, students, and Speak TSU executive members gathered for the initiative’s first session. The event featured an open conversation and Q&A with President Johnson and other university leaders.

President Johnson highlighted that Speak TSU aligns with the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI), a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation. “Our students are the heart of TSU,” Johnson told the attendees. “By empowering our students’ voices through Speak TSU, we will strengthen our institution and continue to do more to be more.”

Johnson encouraged students to use this platform to address concerns related to financial aid, maintenance, facilities, or academics. He emphasized that this initiative will foster effective communication and drive positive change across the campus. “This is essential in amplifying the student voice and advancing our goal of a future-ready TSU,” he said.

Dr. Daarel Burnette, newly appointed Senior Advisor and Interim Executive Vice President, helps a student during a Q&A session at Speak TSU.

SGA President Chrishonda O’Quinn explained that Speak TSU provides an effective way for students to voice campus concerns and receive timely responses. “The goal is for you to submit any student concerns with any department. We’ll compile this data, present it to faculty and staff, and provide you with accurate feedback,” O’Quinn assured. “It’s more efficient to get information directly from student government and the faculty and staff.”

College deans were also present to address any questions students had about their academic journey and advisement. During the Q&A session, students received answers from Dr. Curtis Johnson, Vice President for Administration and Chief of Staff, and new TSU leadership.

Dr. Daarel Burnette, newly appointed Senior Advisor and Interim Executive Vice President; Dr. Bridgett Golman, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students; and Darryl Thompson, Special Advisor for External Affairs, Infrastructure, and Major Projects, were all present to meet with students and discuss various topics.

Dr. Curtis Johnson, left, assists a student during the first session of the Speak TSU initiative.

Burnette spoke about the historical lack of resources from an HBCU or public school perspective and the challenge of maximizing impact with limited resources. “We need this platform to guide us in taking the appropriate actions to address campus concerns,” Burnette said.

Thompson added that Speak TSU efforts are aimed at setting new expectations and monitoring progress. “It starts with understanding standards and resetting expectations.” We’re establishing benchmarks to guide performance,” Thompson noted.

Regarding financial aid and scholarship delays, Golman highlighted the university’s commitment to working closely with students. She emphasized the importance of clear communication and staying informed about deadlines. Golman encouraged students to reach out for further clarification or assistance as needed, reinforcing that the administration is dedicated to supporting students throughout the process.

Dozens of students attended the first session of Speak TSU at the Humanities Building to have an open conversation with TSU faculty and staff.

As TSU student leaders collaborate with university leadership and administration, these efforts will shape a future where every Tiger’s voice is valued and celebrated.

Speak TSU Student Executive Members: Student Trustee Tyler Vazquez, SGA Vice President Anyah Sanders, SGA President Chrishonda O’Quinn, Miss TSU Chandler Holt, Mister TSU Chandler Cotton, Sr. Class President Erin Armstrong, Jr. Class President Tommy Applewhite III, and Sophomore Class President Trinity Clark.

To learn more about Speak TSU, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/activities/speaktsu.aspx.

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TSU extends One Stop Shop to assist students 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University extends the One Stop Shop days to help students who still need to enroll for the fall semester. The extension comes following two weeks of successfully assisting nearly 2,000 students through One Stop Shop. Located in the Kean Hall Gymnasium, students received services ranging from financial aid, course advisement, student IDs, meal plans, housing, and more in one convenient place. The extended dates are August 26-28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This extension aims to provide students with the opportunity to complete essential tasks for the new academic year, all in one convenient location. Dr. Curtis Johnson, Vice President for Administration and Chief of Staff, underscores the significance of this service and its extension.

“We want to make sure that the students who need assistance are able to receive that assistance as conveniently as possible,” Johnson said. “We decided it is in the best interest of the students to provide this service during the duration of registration.”

Students have until August 29 to register and enroll for the current fall semester. 

“We don’t want students to have to run from department to department to get their business taken care of. That’s why we’re keeping the One Stop Shop extended and centrally located,” Johnson added.

The One Stop Shop has assisted students like TSU freshman Mariah Ard of Oak Ridge, TN, who attended to get advisement assistance.

“I went over to the advisement team to get my classes taken care of,” said Ard, who is studying architecture engineering. “He (TSU faculty) helped me reset my password, and now everything is all set. I am ready to go to class and be very successful.”

Collier Smith of Memphis, a junior studying criminal justice, visited the One Stop Shop several times throughout the week to utilize multiple services. “I’ve been coming to the One Stop Shop since Monday,” Smith said. “I’ve gotten a lot of stuff handled. One thing I can say is, it’s been a success so far.”

Johnson noted that the most requested services initially included parking decals and ID badges, but later shifted to financial aid and advisement.

As the fall semester has begun, Tennessee State University encourages all students to take advantage of the extended One Stop Shop dates.


Please visit the link below if you still need assistance.  https://tnstateu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bgsrfEleIg1dluC

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TSU names Veteran HBCU Administrator Dr. Daarel Burnette Senior Advisor and Executive VP

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Daarel Burnette as Senior Advisor and Interim Executive Vice President. In this role, Dr. Burnette will be instrumental in helping to design and execute Interim President Dr. Ronald A. Johnson’s TSU Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI) and oversee CFO operations during the transition.

TSU’s TCI is a comprehensive plan to drive transformative change, focusing on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and institutional growth. Dr. Burnette’s appointment is a key step in this ambitious effort.

“TCI is our roadmap to a stronger, more resilient TSU,” said Dr. Johnson. “Dr. Burnette’s deep experience and proven leadership make him uniquely suited to help us sustain a Future Ready TSU.”

Dr. Burnette brings a distinguished career in higher education administration, following his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Air Force. His fiscal expertise has stabilized and improved the financial health of several HBCUs, including Jackson State University and Winston-Salem State University.

“Dr. Johnson and I share a belief that Future-Ready institutions are built on transparency, accountability, and a people-centered approach. This is at the heart of the TSU Trajectory Change Initiative, and I am excited to join Dr. Johnson and his team in driving lasting positive and significant change at TSU,” said Dr. Burnette.

Dr. Burnette holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and finance from Morehouse College, an MBA from Georgia State University, and a Ph.D. in leadership in urban higher education from Jackson State University. A native of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellence.

“TCI is not just a strategy; it’s a commitment to our entire TSU community,” added Dr. Johnson. “Together, we are building a stronger, more innovative TSU that’s Future Ready. Our goal is to do more, to be more—ensuring lasting success and impact for generations to come.”

View Dr. Burnette’s CV here.

Learn more about the Interim President’s 100 Day Plan here.

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TSU welcomes Class of 2028 during move-in week

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For TSU’s incoming freshman, Kennedi Hines, her passion for engineering started at age 7. Now, Hines, a Nashville native, will begin her collegiate journey at Tennessee State University to fulfill her dream of becoming an architectural engineer.

“She has been building, constructing things, and drawing blueprints to scale since she was a little girl,” said Hines’ mother, Brittney Hazley. “So, I knew she had a passion and talent for this.”

TSU freshman Kennedi Hines, left, and her mother, Brittney Hazley, move her belongings into Wilson Hall as she settles into her dorm.

 Hines, a third-generation legacy student, said she’s excited about the next four years at her new home. She is one of hundreds of first-time freshmen who moved into their dorms starting August 12, as a part of Freshmen Move-in. 

 “I moved in this week, and seeing how the culture is at TSU has been great,” Hines said. “Being here has brought me out of my shell.”

TSU faculty, staff, and alumni made significant efforts to ensure a seamless integration for new and returning Tigers. Following Freshmen move-in thousands of upperclassmen returned a few days later.  All hands were on deck for move-in, including volunteers from corporate partners Amazon, Kroger, and Regions Bank.

Michelle Brown, Amazon’s Public Policy Lead for the state of Tennessee, and a team of Amazon employees arrived to help students and their families unload their cars and move into the freshman dorms.

Michelle Brown, Amazon’s Public Policy Lead for the state of Tennessee.

“We are proud partners of TSU,” Brown said. “We’ve participated in job fairs and various events, so it’s only natural we would be here on the first day of school helping freshmen move in. We’re just excited to kick this off and continue to grow and build with TSU, so thanks for having us.”

Kelly Allen, North Nashville Branch Manager for Regions Bank, said their work with TSU is a natural extension of their commitment.

“Our role as a bank and as members of the Nashville community is to proactively find ways to use our time, talents, and resources to make life better in our community,” Allen said. “Regions is a proud supporter of Tennessee State University because of your mission to educate students and your role as a vital economic engine for Middle Tennessee.”

Incoming freshmen like Madison Menifee, a Mass Communications major from Ohio, and Lurenzo Moffett of Indiana, who will be studying architectural engineering, had great move-in experiences with their families as well. Menifee, a first-generation student, said she feels great about her decision to attend TSU after lengthy college tours throughout the year.

TSU freshman Madison Menifee, right, and her mother, Toni Prosser, stand in front of Wilson Hall after moving her into her dorm.

“I chose TSU because of the way they welcomed me in,” Menifee said during move-in. “This feels like a family. There’s so much support here. And I chose a HBCU for the cultural aspect.”

Moffett, one of six siblings, is the first to attend a HBCU. “I love the cultural feel here,” he said. “And I look forward to joining campus organizations.”

Dr. Brent Dukhie, Assistant Dean of Student Support, said that the TSU housing staff provided an effective check-in, friendly personnel, and well-run systems that resulted in a seamless move-in experience this year.

TSU freshmen Lurenzo Moffett, center, and his family during move in week.

“The housing staff is excited to welcome our Tigers back to school this week! We can’t wait to have another incredible year full of community, support, and wonderful memories,” Dukhie said.

“And the support from local churches and companies such as Regions, Amazon, and Kroger has been invaluable. Their partnership has made a tremendous impact on our move-in process, and we’re incredibly grateful for their commitment to our students. This collaboration truly exemplifies the power of community.”

Dukhie added that the goal of move-in is to give new and returning students a strong sense of community and support, while ensuring them a memorable and enriching HBCU experience.

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TSU Transfer students to benefit from new transcript technology

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has a new automated system that will significantly reduce wait time for students eager to know about their accepted credit hours. University officials say Parchment Raptor allows students to receive news about their credit evaluations within minutes, compared to waiting days. This will benefit transfer students and those who take college courses while still in high school.

TSU is the first public institution in the State to use the cutting-edge transcript processing software. The Registrar Office launched the Parchment Raptor on August 5.

Click here to watch Dr. Deams discuss the Parchment Raptor launch:

“We are excited to announce the launch of this new feature that automates the collection, data extraction, and integration of transcripts into Student Information Systems,” said Dr. Verontae Deams, TSU’s Associate Vice President and University Registrar.

“This collaboration with Parchment Raptor not only enhances efficiency and accuracy but also significantly reduces processing time, providing a seamless and improved experience for students and academic advisors alike.”

Cameron Felker

Previously, the process of receiving and evaluating transcripts could take anywhere from several hours to days. Now, with the automation powered by artificial intelligence, that timeframe has been decreased to just two minutes. Upon submission of their transcript, students receive an automated message notifying them that their transcript has been evaluated, along with the option to review their course credits through their DegreeWorks or MyTSU account.

Transfer students like Cameron Felker, a music major from Chicago, and Sheldon McMillan, a supply chain management major from Atlanta, are excited about the new system, despite having experienced the longer waiting periods themselves.

Felker, who transferred from the University of Memphis, recalls waiting nearly a month for an update on his transcript. “I would check almost two to three times a week to see if it came across,” he said. “With this automated system, it will make it way easier for students.”

McMillan had a similar experience, saying he waited over a month for answers regarding his credits from an online program. “I am glad that students coming after me will not have to deal with the same delays that I experienced.”

Prior to partnering with Parchment, TSU processed and managed transcripts manually, often times labor-intensive based on the number of credits and institutions that students had previously attended.

For more information on records and registration or to learn more about the Office of the Registrar, visit TSU Records and Registration.

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TSU joins FirstGen Forward, boosts support for First-Gen Students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been recognized for its dedication to enhancing the experiences and outcomes of first-generation college students. TSU has been selected as a new member of the FirstGen Forward Network, a national nonprofit organization formerly known as the Center for First-Generation Student Success.

FirstGen Forward selects higher education institutions, businesses, and other organizations for their network that demonstrate a commitment to improving the experiences and success of first-generation college students.

Dr. Sessi Aboh, Director of the Title III You First Project and Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students at TSU, said the partnership aligns with the You First Project organization’s mission and will elevate the university’s efforts.

Dr. Sessi Aboh

“When we started the You First Project, we affirmed TSUs commitment to our students’ success and upheld the institution’s dedication to using a systematic approach and leveraging best practices,” Aboh said. “We aim to advance student success and increase first-generation students’ persistence and graduation rates. Partnering with experts and a community of peer institutions will help us gain additional insights and skills.”

The You First Project is a comprehensive care network designed to support first-generation students at TSU, guiding them toward improved graduation rates and career readiness.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, TSU had 1,200 first-generation students and hosted programs featuring panel discussions and gift giveaways to celebrate these new students.

Institutions must apply to join the FirstGen Forward Network. During their first year of active engagement, Network Member institutions commit to building a foundational understanding of first-generation student success through monthly workshops, networking, professional development opportunities, and sharing resources. Successful completion of these requirements may lead to advancement to the Network Leader phase, with the ultimate goal of achieving Network Champion status.

FirstGen Forward’s three-phase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success will benefit both TSU students and the You First Project. This approach includes engaging and empowering institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. Over 400 higher education institutions across the country are part of the FirstGen Forward Network.

Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, expressed enthusiasm about TSU’s membership. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know that Tennessee State University will be a significant contributor,” Jones said.

“Being named a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for Tennessee State University,” Jones continued. “It allows us to join a dedicated community of professionals ready to share evidence-based practices and resources, tackle challenges, and advance the success of first-generation students nationwide.”

The You First Project: Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students is a Title III/FUTURE Act Grant initiative. For more information about the You First Project, visit www.tnstate.edu/youfirst or contact the TSU You First Project/Title III at 615-963-4969. To learn more about FirstGen Forward, visit https://firstgen.naspa.org.

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TSU Interim President Ronald Johnson outlines vision for university with 100 Day plan

Nashville, TN, August 13, 2024 – Tennessee State University’s Interim President, Ronald A. Johnson, unveiled his First 100 Day Action Plan during the university’s Fall Faculty Staff Institute on Monday, August 12. The plan, which began on July 8, introduces the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI), a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation.

Dr. Johnson brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in higher education, having co-founded the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University and served in key advisory roles for national organizations. He is also an accomplished economist and investment manager, with a background in managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios and holding senior positions at major financial institutions.

Dr. Johnson’s First 100 Day Action Plan and the TCI are designed to address the pressing challenges facing TSU, ensuring that the university remains future-ready and poised for success in the years to come.

Please view the First 100 Day Plan here.