Category Archives: Student Profile

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TSU’s New Direction Gospel Choir Shines at 40th Stellar Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The New Direction Gospel Choir from Tennessee State University captivated audiences at the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, a prestigious event in the gospel music scene. The live taping took place on August 16 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in downtown Nashville.

The New Direction Gospel Choir practices ahead of their performance at the 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards in Nashville.

As an Emerging Artist featured in this year’s show, New Direction delivered a powerful rendition of “I’m Saved” by Dexter Walker & Zion Movement, exemplifying their commitment to excellence and creativity in gospel music.

For choir members, the experience was both surreal and affirming. “This is amazing, and a dream come true,” said Jace Lightfoot from Kankakee, Illinois, who is studying public health. “Honestly, it feels unreal. I just wanted to let God work through me.”

Jace Lightfoot

Serenity Bond, a senior public health major from Memphis, Tennessee, expressed pride in representing HBCU choirs nationwide. “This performance shines a light on other HBCUs, showing them, they can participate in events like this too,” she noted. “New Direction felt like home and helped me grow in my relationship with God. I encourage incoming students to get involved, join groups, and fully embrace the experience.”

Senior biology major Myles Witcher from Little Rock, Arkansas emphasized that the choir’s mission extends beyond music. “We’re not just performing; we’re ministering,” he said. “We’ve been blessed to share the stage with artists like Ricky Dillard and Pastor Mike Jr. at the Dove Awards, and now the Stellar Awards. For anyone considering TSU, I’d say be your true self and don’t worry about others’ opinions.”

Serenity Bond

The choir’s stellar performance followed a significant national achievement earlier this year when they took top honors at the 2025 How Sweet the Sound national gospel choir competition. Under the direction of Choir Master Justin Butler, they secured $11,000 in prize money, including $1,000 for winning the People’s Choice Award.

Myles Witcher

Building on that momentum, Butler said he is grateful that New Direction and TSU were highlighted on such a prominent national platform. “The Stellar Award performance reflects the dedication, talent, and hard work of our students, and we’re excited to continue showcasing the powerful legacy of gospel music,” Butler said. “Our mission is to spread joy and inspiration through music, connecting with audiences on a deeper level.”

The Stellar Awards, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, attracted gospel artists and fans from across the country. The New Direction Gospel Choir has consistently drawn audiences with its soulful sound, vibrant energy, and uplifting messages. The 40th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will premiere on August 30 at 8 p.m., on the Stellar Network and will air on BET on August 31 at 7 p.m., central.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Grayson/ Tennessee State University.

Alumni, College of Agriculture, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU Leads the Way in Developing Heat-Tolerant Tomatoes for Tennessee Farmers

By Charlie Morrison, Alexis Clark

Tennessee State University is answering a growing call from farmers across the state: How can we grow better tomatoes in the face of rising temperatures?

With a mission rooted in research, academics, and outreach, TSU’s College of Agriculture (TSUAg) is leading a new project to develop a heat-tolerant tomato variety capable of withstanding Tennessee’s extreme summers. This is an effort driven by student researchers and grounded in local community partnership.

Recent TSU graduate Katrina Seaman at Smiley Farm, supporting Tennessee farmers through heat-tolerant tomato research.

“This experiment is the reason I was excited to jump on board at TSUAg… because it was the farmers who identified this problem for us,” said Katrina Seaman, a recent TSU graduate and now a project manager for the research. “Whether you chop them for a salad or can them, tomatoes are an important consumer product. Especially to the small and medium-sized farmers in Tennessee.” Seaman noted that the dilemma was that the high temperatures in the summer decimated tomato yields.

The effort began after local growers approached TSU at the 2024 Tennessee Small Farm Expo seeking help. In response, Dr. Suping Zhou, a TSU Ag research professor, secured a $300,000 grant from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) through its Rapid Response to Extreme Weather Events program to explore potential solutions.

Now, the project is testing tomato varietals, mulching systems, and grafted plants across three distinct farms in Tennessee, using advanced agricultural technology to monitor outcomes.

Tomatoes grow at Smiley Farm where researchers are testing heat-tolerant varieties to support farmers facing extreme summer temperatures.

Dr. Zhou stated that farmers’ feedback guided this project.

“This kind of research is exactly why TSU exists as a land-grant institution,” said Dr. Zhou. “We have the infrastructure, the student talent, and the statewide partnerships to respond directly to issues impacting our region’s growers.”

Seaman, along with three graduate research assistants Jing Zao, Jun Guo, and Madhavarapu Sudhakar, are collecting real-time data with help from sensors that track salinity, temperature, moisture, and light at the soil and canopy level. This gives the team of researchers a full picture of the growing conditions across each location.

“We’re taking decades and generations of experience from the farmers and then applying it to TSU resources,” Seaman said. “At the end of this project, we want Tennessee farmers to know how to adapt to their growing practices during hot summers.”

TSU is working with Eldridge Farm in Woodlawn, Smiley Farm in Ridgetop, and Little Creek Produce in Cookeville. Each location brings a unique environment to test how tomatoes perform in different mulching systems, field types, and temperature controls. The researchers have also teamed up with the Nashville Farmers’ Market to tackle the heat tolerant tomato project.

TSU researcher Dr. Suping Zhou and project manager Katrina Seaman join partners at Smiley Farm, one of three sites participating in the tomato research.

“What I’m taking away from this, especially as I look toward a career in Extension, is that collaboration is at the heart of this work,” Seaman said.

The team recently presented early findings at Little Creek Produce this summer, inviting growers from across the region to see the technology in action and learn about heat mitigation strategies.

As climate conditions continue to challenge food systems, TSU’s work signals the vital role land-grant institutions and HBCUs play in agriculture and food security.

“This project represents the very best of our land-grant mission by connecting students, researchers, and communities to solve real-world problems,” said Dr. Zhou. “And it shows that TSU is not only capable but essential to the future of agriculture in Tennessee.”

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

Alumni, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, GRANTS, NEWS, RANKINGS, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU Continues to Invest in Campus Safety, Enhances Crime Prevention Strategy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Christian McClain walks the campus of Tennessee State University as a student with a mission rooted in legacy and service. A Nashville native and rising sophomore majoring in criminal justice, McClain is spending his summer interning with TSU’s Police Department. He’s gaining hands-on experience reviewing camera footage, shadowing officers, and helping with day-to-day tasks. Efforts to learn the ropes of a career path of his late father, Commander Anthony McClain, a TSU alumnus and North Precinct Commander for the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, who passed away in March 2025.

Christian McClain, right, with his late father Anthony McClain, a TSU alumnus and former North Precinct Commander for the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.

“TSU PD has been doing well on campus,” McClain said. “Over the years, I’ve witnessed improvements. I feel safe here.”

In 2024, TSU PD achieved state accreditation, a major milestone that affirmed the department’s ongoing commitment to safety. This recognition is the first in the department’s history. The accreditation was granted by the Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation (TLEA) Program, a recognition from the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police (TACP) Board of Directors Professional Standards Committee.

“The accreditation goes to show that TSU PD has the will to improve and will continue to do so,” he added. After graduation, McClain plans to follow in his father’s footsteps and join Metro Police, with aspirations of one day starting his own security firm.

McClain’s mission mirrors a broader effort at TSU, where safety measures and crime prevention strategies are making a measurable difference.

TSU Police Chief Gregory Robinson.

Crime on campus has dropped by 35% so far since the 2024-2025 school year, according to TSU Police Chief Gregory Robinson. “The goal is to continue keeping our faculty, students, and staff safe while minimizing any threats or risks to our university,” he said. “We will enhance our coverage and visibility by adding more officers and security measures.”

Key advancements have played a major role in that progress. Funded through Title III and a Higher Education Safety grant, the department has acquired eight portable surveillance trailers, known as Live Video Technology (LVT), which help monitor key areas across campus .

Robinson also stated that visibility remains a key factor in TSU PD’s success both in active patrolling on campus and off campus community outreach.

One of eight portable surveillance trailers used to monitor key areas across campus for enhanced safety and security.

“We have done a great job getting out of our vehicles, patrolling, and being visible,” he said. “Our students engage with officers when there’s a uniform presence. Accreditation has proven that we’re using the best practices that are beneficial across the country.”

Robinson noted that the department works daily to strengthen its approach to safety and build trust across campus. “We’ve been successful, but we’re not a finished product,” he said. “Every day, we strive to be a better department and provide a conducive environment for our faculty, staff, visitors, and most importantly, our students.”

Six newly hired officers will begin police academy training this summer, bringing the department’s total to nearly 30 officers. In addition, new in-car laptops are helping officers stay visible and responsive while completing reports in the field.

TSU PD gathered at the Health Sciences Building last fall for a TACP Accreditation Award Ceremony honoring their state recognition.

TSU is also expanding campus infrastructure with additional security features. Dr. Eddie Cribbs, Executive Director of Auxiliary and Support Services, said the university is working to install even more cameras and emergency call boxes. These are towers that provide direct access to the TSU Police Department for emergencies. As of July, there are nearly 30 of these call boxes on campus.


“We’re expanding camera coverage across campus, including the tennis courts and the Avon Williams campus,” Cribbs said. “We’re adding more Code Blue emergency boxes at both campuses. When students feel safe they are able to show up fully  to learn, to lead, to thrive, and to experience a true sense of belonging. Campus safety is more than just protection. It means creating an environment where every student feels seen, valued, and at home.”

Dr. Eddie Cribbs

For TSU students like McClain, these efforts continue to build a safe and supportive environment. One that reflects a strong future supported by an accredited police department.

“I’m hoping to gain more knowledge in this field,” McClain said. “And with this internship with TSU PD, I’ve been doing so.”

To learn more about TSU PD, visit www.tnstate.edu/police.

College of Engineering, Featured, FEATURED, Student Profile

Soaring to New Heights: Dwight DeBerry’s Journey to NASA Internship 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dwight DeBerry’s journey to a NASA internship is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. A Memphis native, DeBerry is a senior pursuing a dual major in architectural engineering and psychology at Tennessee State University.  

Dwight Deberry

His path to NASA was unexpected, fueled by two years of dedicated research that included projects like the Tensegrity Structures initiative under Dr. Ranganathan Parthasarathy and a collaboration with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) on cable barriers with Dr. Deo Chimba, both professors in the department of civil and architectural engineering at TSU.  

Reflecting on his previous research, DeBerry admits, “At the time, I didn’t fully recognize the skills I was developing. My contributions felt routine, but they ultimately led me to this incredible opportunity at NASA.” 

Currently, DeBerry is a Research Lab Assistant Intern at the Intelligent Tactical Mobility Robotics Laboratory at TSU, working on a NASA-sponsored project aligned with the Advanced Air Mobility mission where he focuses on emergency landing site identification for advanced air mobility systems.  

His work is vital for integrating new air transportation methods that aim to connect underserved regions efficiently. Utilizing the IRIS interphase system developed by Dr. Amir Shirkhodaie, a TSU professor for mechanical and manufacturing engineering, DeBerry’s role involves applying optical imaging systems to enhance safety protocols for Urban Air Mobility (UAM).  

He emphasizes, “Without our research, the deployment of UAM systems could face significant safety risks, including catastrophic failures.” 

DeBerry and his graduate researchers’ team.

DeBerry stands out as the only undergraduate in a multidisciplinary team of graduate researchers specializing in various engineering fields. He leverages his architectural engineering background to assess spatial dynamics for safe landing zones, utilizing tools like Google Earth to ensure practical implementation within urban environments. “By combining our diverse skill sets, we create more comprehensive and resilient solutions,” he notes. 

Throughout his internship, DeBerry has honed his technical skills in data analytics, advanced software applications, and interface development. He believes that his contributions lay a critical foundation for safe and reliable UAM operations, ultimately shaping the future of urban transportation.  

“This internship is a step toward contributing to some of the world’s most significant advancements,” he reflects, aligning this experience with his aspirations in academia. 

In addition to his academic pursuits, DeBerry is focused on expanding his business, “Extreme Dorm Makeover.” This venture aims to create safer and more convenient living spaces for students, helping them feel comfortable and at home in their environments.  

After graduation, DeBerry plans to pursue a Ph.D. to deepen his expertise and contribute to impactful research. His long-term goal is to enter academia, where he hopes to blend research, teaching, and mentorship, nurturing the next generation of engineers. With a bright future ahead, DeBerry embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication, paving the way for exciting advancements in both engineering and education. 

For more information on the College of Engineering, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/engineering/  

Alumni, College of Agriculture, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, RESEARCH, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU Breaks Ground on New $90 Million Agriculture Facilities

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –With hard hats on and shovels in hand, Tennessee State University leaders, dignitaries, and College of Agriculture faculty broke ground June 26 on the future of agricultural innovation.

TSU leaders, dignitaries, and College of Agriculture students and faculty attend the groundbreaking ceremony for new state-of-the-art facilities featuring advanced labs, classrooms, and research centers.

The historic  ceremony is for the construction of new facilities that will support TSU’s Food and Animal Sciences and Environmental Sciences programs, spanning more than 110,000 square feet combined. Scheduled for completion in fall 2026, the development reflects the university’s continued investment in research, student success, and community impact.

CheKenna Fletcher, a Ph.D. candidate in agricultural sciences at TSU, served as the mistress of ceremonies and said the new buildings will have a lasting impact.

CheKenna Fletcher speaks during the groundbreaking ceremony, where she served as the mistress of ceremonies.

“Agriculture is our future, so I am very excited about this coming into fruition,” Fletcher said. “I’m excited for all of the students who will be able to utilize the facilities and their labs. It’ll be an awesome opportunity for us to grow our department, grow more leaders and scholars in the agricultural field, especially in the food and animal sciences.”

Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture, called the groundbreaking a historic moment for the university and the state of Tennessee. “These buildings will offer students hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for real-world careers in agriculture, science, and environmental sustainability,” he said.

Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture.

Approved by the Tennessee State Building Commission in 2023, the facilities will include classrooms, laboratories, research centers, and administrative offices to support the university’s growing academic, research, and extension missions. The project will be located at the corner of Schrader Lane and Dr. Walter S. Davis Boulevard.

TSU Interim President Dwayne Tucker expressed his support for the development, calling it a symbol of momentum for the university. “We are sowing the seeds of innovation and progress,” Tucker said. “This project, which will serve as a hub of education, research, and outreach in the field of agriculture, underscores the state’s continued confidence in our university and the strength of our land-grant mission.”

The complex will include:

Rendering of one of the two new College of Agriculture buildings at Tennessee State University, slated for completion in Fall 2026.
  • 35 faculty offices
  • 23 research labs
  • 17 teaching labs
  • 4 classrooms
  • A large multipurpose room
  • Collaborative workspace and support areas

The two buildings will also house future centers of innovation, including the One Health Center, the Precision Agriculture Center, the Soil Health Center, and the Water Management Center. Dozens of dignitaries attended the event, including Senator Bo Watson, Representative Harold Love Jr., and TSU Board of Trustee Dr. Marquita Qualls.

Senator Watson applauded the university’s future and the promise of the project. “TSU will successfully fulfill its mission as a land-grant university and will be a university of choice among the historically Black colleges and universities,” Watson said. “That is our commitment. Let this groundbreaking be a testament to that commitment.”

TSU Interim President Dwayne Tucker expressed his support for the development during the groundbreaking ceremony.

The event also featured remarks and special recognitions from TSU administrators and the university’s design and construction team. Community stakeholders, including the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Tennessee Farm Bureau, and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, also shared remarks, followed by a reception.

This development comes at a pivotal time for the College of Agriculture, which recently restructured into five academic departments to strengthen research and instruction. This new College of Agriculture complex will further enhance this transformation, allowing the college to better serve students, farmers, and communities across Tennessee.

For more information, visit www.tnstate.edu/agriculture.griculture.

Alumni, College of Agriculture, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, RESEARCH, Research and Sponsored Programs, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU student lands prestigious internship at Harvard Medical School

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – A Tennessee State University student is spending the summer at one of the most prestigious institutions, Harvard Medical School, applying what she’s learned at TSU to cutting-edge biomedical research.

Kyla Hughes in her lab coat during her internship in the Department of Cardiology at Boston Children’s Hospital. (Photo submitted.)

Kyla Hughes, a senior and Dallas native, already has a Massachusetts Institute of Technology internship under her belt as the accolades are continuing to build. The agriculture biotechnology major is undergoing her current paid 10-week internship at Boston Children’s Hospital in the Department of Cardiology, as part of the Summer Honors Undergraduate Research Program at Harvard.

“My reaction to getting the internship was very positive,” Hughes said. “I am one of two HBCU students in this program. So being underrepresented in the science field at Harvard, doing the research, is really motivating me.”

She credits her academic preparation to TSU’s College of agriculture and guidance from professors like Dr. Sonali Roy, for equipping her with skills to confidently conduct and present research.

Hughes, who is also a David Scott Farm Bill Scholar, continues to demonstrate how a strong foundation can lead to a profound impact across various disciplines. “Science is translational and cardiology is a new field for me to dive into,” she said. “I’ve learned more about myself as a scientist now and pushing myself intellectually.”

TSU senior Kyla Hughes is spending the summer conducting biomedical research through a Harvard internship at Boston Children’s Hospital. (Photo submitted.)

Associate Dean for Academics and Land-grant Programs Dr. De’Etra Young, said the college is committed to preparing students like Hughes to thrive in competitive environments, contribute to their communities, and lead with purpose. “Through rigorous academic training, hands-on research, and leadership development, we are equipping students to pursue advanced study, enter high-impact careers, and serve as thoughtful, solutions-oriented leaders in agriculture and beyond,” Young said. “Kyla exemplifies the excellence we aim to foster through the David Scott Farm Bill Scholarship and our Dean’s Scholars Undergraduate Research Program. Her internships, along with her campus leadership and service, reflect the breadth of opportunities available to students who are prepared and supported.”

Hughes plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biology or molecular genetics after graduating in 2026.

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

College of Public Service, EVENTS, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, RESEARCH, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU Hosts CARES Conference with Record Turnout, Focused on Elder Justice

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, in partnership with the Adult Protective Services of the Tennessee Department of Human Services, hosted the annual CARES (Center on Aging Research and Education Services) Conference June 11-12 at the Avon Williams Campus. The event marked the largest turnout in 15 years, welcoming more than 250 attendees and over a dozen community vendors.

Participants gather at Avon Williams Campus for the annual CARES Conference and welcomed more than 250 attendees in its largest turnout in 15 years and focused on financial exploitation and protecting older Tennesseans.

This year’s theme, “Financial Exploitation: Investigations and the Need for Collaboration,” brought together national experts, frontline professionals, and local leaders committed to protecting older Tennesseans. Vendors included Nashville PBS, the Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer’s Center, and the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services.

Chantelle Smith, a lawyer and consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative, with extensive experience prosecuting civil and criminal elder abuse cases, served as the lead facilitator for the conference. The conference also featured panelists and presenters from across the state, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Ascend Credit Union, and St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital.

Dr. Cara Robinson, chair of TSU’s Department of Social Work and Urban Studies and co-director of CARES, emphasized that the conference not only benefits students in the College of Public Service but also provides vital resources for communities across the state. “Our biggest takeaway is understanding how stakeholders can work together when there’s a suspected case of financial exploitation,” Robinson said.

Dr. Cara Robinson

“Speakers presented real-world cases that showed how institutions collaborate to bring justice for older adults.” She added, “We plan to continue all our efforts through CARES. This is a great opportunity to showcase the impactful work being done at TSU. One of our main goals is to help students learn how to serve, lead, and engage with their communities.”

Dr. Donna Dopwell, also a co-director of CARES, leads the center’s student mentorship efforts. Both Robinson and Dopwell believe the conference gives students a firsthand look at professionals in leadership roles, many of whom are on similar career paths.

Breion ‘ 2’Live Bre’ Dixon volunteered with the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition during the conference.

Several TSU alumni participated in the conference, including Breion Dixon, a 2020 graduate who served as a volunteer for the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition. “I used to be a caregiver for my grandmother,” Dixon said. “It touched my heart to see how underserved communities are getting the resources they need.” Dixon noted the conference as a reflection of the university’s ongoing commitment to service. “TSU has always been a school of resources. When I stepped on campus, I realized it’s more than just education, it’s about community and family. This conference shows that TSU is all about sharing resources and giving back to the community.”

Rita Fleming, a program leader for family and consumer sciences in TSU’s College of Agriculture, also attended the event to explore elder care resources. “This event was eye-opening and very informative,” Fleming said. “I learned how to resolve issues involving financial scams and how to report these situations effectively. TSU hosting this event reflects our commitment to community outreach both in urban and rural areas.”

Rita Fleming attends the CARES conference to explore elder care resources.

The two-day event covered topics such as: Understanding Financial Exploitation, Legal and Investigative Challenges, Prevention and Victim Protection, and Collaborative Action Efforts. This year’s programming centered around real-world case studies that explored the impact of financial exploitation on older victims. Key discussions focused on collaboration between law enforcement and community professionals, strategies to strengthen legal and investigative outcomes, prevention tools, and resources for coordinated local efforts across Tennessee.

As TSU continues to lead in advocacy and education, the CARES Conference remains an example of how the university merges academics with community engagement to address real life issues.

To learn more about the CARES Center, visit tnstate.edu/cares.

College of Liberal Arts, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU student lands NBA summer internship with Utah Jazz

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – From the classroom to the basketball court, Tennessee State University junior Peyton Tripp is taking her talents to the NBA. The Memphis, Tennessee native and mass communication major is spending the summer in Salt Lake City as an intern with the Utah Jazz.

Tripp is one of many TSU students seizing internship opportunities this summer to put their classroom knowledge into real-world practice. She is serving on the Utah Jazz People & Culture team as a paid intern for 10 weeks through the NBA HBCU Fellowship Program. Her journey began in June with a two-day immersive onboarding experience at the NBA offices in New York City before she headed to Utah for the remainder of the internship.

Peyton Tripp during her Utah Jazz internship this summer.

“I hope TSU students follow their journeys and recognize that it’s okay to have doubts along the way because I’ve certainly had mine,” Tripp said. “What matters most is giving 100 percent to the path you’re on and staying committed to growing through the process.”

Tripp shared that she is excited to apply her focus in integrated marketing while supporting a variety of People & Culture initiatives, including recruiting, onboarding, and employee training. “I represent those who may feel hard work doesn’t always pay off, and those unsure of their next steps,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to lean on the people around you offering support, because you’re not in it alone.”

She said she was inspired to apply for the fellowship by her peers and their success within TSU’s communications program.

The NBA HBCU Fellowship Program provides career development opportunities in the business of basketball for undergraduate and graduate students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Fellows are selected by NBA teams and the league office to work within a variety of departments, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, IT, social responsibility, and marketing.

Peyton Tripp

TSU communications professor Joshua Little praised Tripp’s internship selection, calling her an exceptional fit for the opportunity.

“Not only is she a leader in the classroom, but she’s also an important figure in the community,” Little said. “She always exceeds expectations. Peyton is determined and seeks out every opportunity and initiative she can.” Little added that the department’s goal is to ensure students gain hands-on experience that leads to full-time careers after graduation.

“We want our students to have real-world opportunities before they leave our campus,” he said. “Having them placed in prestigious positions like this speaks not only to the strength of our programs, but also to the incredible talent and potential our students possess.”

As Tripp continues her internship, she hopes her journey encourages other TSU students to believe in themselves and their potential. “I want this to be a reminder that hard work matters, and that we are worthy of great opportunities,” she said.

For more information on the fellowship, visit www.nbafoundation.nba.com/hbcu-fellowship.

College of Life & Physical Sciences, Featured, FEATURED, RESEARCH, Student, Student Profile, Uncategorized

TSU Senior Preselected for STEM Internship with Prestigious Naval Research Laboratory

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Deja Story, a senior mathematics major from Johnson City, TN, has been preselected for the prestigious Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) HBCU/MI Internship Program. This opportunity marks a significant milestone in her academic journey, validating her hard work and dedication.

“I am incredibly honored to be preselected,” Story shared. “It’s a testament to my perseverance and commitment to my studies.”

This comprehensive, multi-component program offers students the opportunity to conduct state of the art research relevant to the Department of Defense (DoD), Department of Navy (DoN) and the NRL.  Internships are awarded competitively to students who have completed at least one year of undergraduate training in science, mathematics, or engineering.

Deja Story’s Certificate of Academic Merit received from TSU’s Honors College.

Story has maintained an impressive 4.0 GPA throughout her academic career, which she attributes to effective time management, detailed planning, and active engagement in her classes.

“The sense of accomplishment from achieving a high GPA is rewarding, but it’s also a challenge that requires discipline and passion,” she noted.

Her research experience has been equally remarkable. Under the guidance of Dr. Michael Reed, Department Chair of Mathematical Sciences in the College of Life and Physical Sciences, Story has been conducting research on Symbolic Rees algebra, a mathematical structure important in commutative algebra and algebraic geometry. Their project aims to prove that the Symbolic Rees algebra is Noetherian for prime ideals defining space monomial curves with multiplicity 5. This research not only deepens the understanding of algebraic structures but also fuels her desire to pursue a Ph.D. in mathematics.

Deja Story

As she prepares for her internship in Washington, D.C., Deja is eager to work alongside experienced researchers on real-world projects. “I look forward to gaining research experience and exploring whether a career in the military is right for me,” she explained. The two-month program will provide her with invaluable insights into STEM-related research, further enhancing her academic journey.

After graduation in Fall 2025, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in applied mathematics with a vision of combining research and service as an officer in the Air Force. “I hope to apply my mathematical knowledge to solve complex, real-world problems in the military,” she stated.

Deja’s journey exemplifies resilience and determination, and her future is bright as she continues to inspire others in her pursuit of academic excellence and service.

College of Agriculture, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Student Profile, Uncategorized

Nation’s Youngest Farmer Explores Future at TSU College of Agriculture

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – “Tomayto-tomahto” or “potayto-potahto”, it doesn’t matter the fruit or vegetable. Ask 10-year-old Kendall Rae Johnson to grow it, and she absolutely can. As the youngest certified farmer in the nation, she’s already planting the seeds of success.

Kendall Rae Johnson sits inside a greenhouse at Virginia State University, a partner institution on her national tour. In collaboration with USDA’s NUAg initiative and VSU, Kendall is promoting financial literacy, urban farming practices, and USDA youth loan opportunities.

Johnson visited Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture (TSUAg) recently to explore what could be her future college home. From a Q&A session with TSUAg Dean Dr. Chandra Reddy, students, faculty, and staff to lab and greenhouse tours on the TSU farm, the Atlanta native is already laying the groundwork for a fruitful academic journey.

 Her visit was part of the 1890 Youth Ambassador Tour, an initiative supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which also funds the National Urban Agriculture (NUAg) Project. Johnson serves as the USDA’s National Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, a role that allows her to represent young voices in agriculture and connect with TSU and fellow HBCUs that have a strong agricultural legacy.

Kendall’s agricultural adventure began at just three years old. Inspired by her great-grandmother’s advice to “put collard greens back in the dirt,” the phrase sparked her curiosity and passion for gardening.

A TSUAg researcher, left, gives Kendall Rae Johnson a hands-on demonstration of extracting DNA from a plant.

“My dad let me put the collard greens in the backyard, and one day it finally grew,” she shared during a Q&A with TSUAg students, faculty, and staff. “It felt magical to see, and I started checking on them every day.” That moment led to even more planting, as she began saving seeds from the kitchen and replanting them in the soil.

Now Kendall and her parents, Ursula and Quentin Johnson, run aGROWKulture Urban Farm in Georgia, growing tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and more. They also raise chickens and honeybees all stemming from Kendall’s love for agriculture.

During her TSU visit, Kendall toured a newly renovated research lab, where she tested DNA on plants and was presented with a white coat by TSU researchers. She also met with President Dwayne Tucker and explored TSU’s farm and greenhouse, dressed in her overalls and boots.

Kendall, center, and her parents, Ursula, left, and Quentin Johnson at the greenhouse on TSUs farm.

At age six, Kendall declared, “I want to be a farmer.” Her parents embraced the vision, launching a business in her name. By the time she was nine, they discovered she was officially the youngest certified farmer in the nation. She now has several agriculture-themed children’s books available on Amazon.

Her parents were impressed by the experience TSU provided. “It’s amazing that TSU gave her this opportunity,” said her father, Quentin. Her mother, Ursula, stated, “We want kids to know they can be in this field, and Kendall is the example they can look to.”

Ursula also shared her excitement about Kendall potentially returning to TSU in the future for mentorship and continued support in agriculture.

Leigh Oliver, interim director of recruitment and retention for TSUAg, coordinated Kendall’s visit and said she was inspired by the young farmer.

“I’ve never met someone her age so passionate about farming,” said Oliver. “Her visit really means a lot. Agriculture isn’t always a common interest among young people, but it’s at the heart of TSU’s legacy—as we were originally founded as Tennessee Agricultural and Industrial State University. We want people to truly understand what TSUAg represents and what our mission is. Kendall’s presence has the power to inspire other children and college students to take an interest in farming and see the value in agricultural careers.”

Aaliyah Cotton

Agriculture students like Aaliyah Cotton also joined the tour. Cotton, a rising senior, said Kendall’s visit was refreshing and impactful.

“When I was younger, I didn’t see the representation of a Black woman in this field,” Cotton said. “She’s a young entrepreneur, and TSUAg is providing an authentic experience. Seeing her here brings a sense of community and comfort not just for her, but for us too.”

In 2021, Kendall’s story caught national attention, leading to appearances on Good Morning America, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, CNN, Nickelodeon News, and Sesame Street. She’s also been recognized by former First Lady Michelle Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris.

Kendall Rae Johnson, left, and her mother Ursula Johnson showcase Kendall’s new book, My Farm Biz, during a Q&A session with TSUAg students, faculty, and staff.

Through her nonprofit, Kendall Rae’s Green Heart, she’s on a mission to empower youth through agricultural practices, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Her visit to TSU was not only a tour but a reminder of the university’s A&I roots and its future. As TSUAg continues to grow the next generation of agricultural leaders, Kendall Rae Johnson’s story is proof that even the smallest seed can grow into something special. For more information about the College of Agriculture, visit www.tnstate.edu/agriculture/.