Category Archives: Student Profile

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TSU in-house studio prepares Men’s Initiative program students for the music industry

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – More space, more resources, and a better opportunity. This semester, Joshua Akhidenor spent time crafting his talent in a new music studio located on campus that he considers a safe haven.

Joshua Akhidenor, also known as LilCEOJosh, practices his guitar while listening to music at TSUs campus studio. (Photo by Alexis Clark)

The music studio, which is accessible to members of the Men’s Initiative campus program, is fully loaded with quality equipment to engineer, record music, and produce beats. Akhidenor, a sophomore majoring in business, said he has been producing music since he was in high school, and is grateful to now have a place on campus to express his passion.

“I feel like I belong in here,” Akhidenor said as he sat in the studio. “It (the studio) helps me visualize who I can become. I came to college and took advantage of the networking opportunity.” Since his arrival at the university, Akhidenor has taught himself how to play the guitar and piano.

As many students utilize the space to break into the music industry, Hahidenor looks forward to one day owning a record label focused on finding talent from students enrolled at a HBCU.

The studio, located on the ground floor of Kean Hall, is painted black with neon lights around the perimeter. On the walls are graffiti art, music plaques and awards dedicated to music phenom and TSU alum Aaron ‘DUBBA-AA’ Lockhart, who funded the studio.

TSU alum, platinum recording artist and producer Aaron ‘DUBBA-AA’ Lockhart graduated in 2016. (Photo by T Time Productions)

Lockhart, a platinum recording artist, and one of the executive producers for the Aristocrat of Bands’ gospel album The Urban Hymnal, said his efforts came about to give students studio space that he didn’t have when attending TSU.

“I wanted to give my resources and use my talents to give back to the institution that helped me become who I am today,” Lockhart said.

Joshua Akhidenor and David Nyenwe said the music studio is a safe haven to help express their passion for music. (Photo by Alexis Clark)

“I want to give the students the opportunities that they should be having on a college campus. We need something on our campus for us, by us.”

David Nyenwe, a TSU freshman majoring in business administration who also produces music, said he has not utilized the studio yet, but looks forward to the sound he can create once he does.

“A lot of people are better at music than they think, they just need the resources. So, supplying a studio for people to use, will help shed light on the talent that’s at the school,” Nyenwe said.  “I feel like this is a safe haven.”

Dr. Andre Bean, director of the Men’s Initiative and interim assistant dean of student activities, said the program is all about providing support to Black male students on campus.

The Men’s Initiative currently has more than 100 members. Bean said the studio offers a great opportunity for the students to discover their hidden talents.

Dr. Andre Bean, Director of the Men’s Initiative program.

“We have to find new and innovative ways to engage the Black male students that are enrolled in higher education,” Bean said.

“And this space is open and available to our Men’s Initiative guys … to create beats and have an opportunity to tinker and toy with things of their interest.”

The studio is an engagement tool for the university. According to Bean, although the studio is for students in and or connected to the program, the university looks forward to one day opening another studio on a larger scale that will be accessible for everyone.

Joshua Akhidenor said he looks forward to breaking into the music industry and one day creating his own record label to find artist from HBCUs.

For Akhidenor, a Memphis native, who has already spent a number of hours in the facility, said it afforded him the chance to produce and “show off my talent” to Lockhart, he said.

“I appreciate the opportunity,” he added.

The Men’s Initiative mission is to plan, implement, and coordinate high-impact programming that holistically promotes persistence, academic success, and sense of belonging. The goal is to support African American/Black Male students to help them succeed each semester as they continue their studies towards graduation.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Men’s Initiative program, email [email protected].

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TSU expert says midterm elections to determine nation’s ‘true political values’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – With the extreme divide between Democrats and Republicans, and a “major strain” on the democratic process, a Tennessee State University political scientist says this midterm election will determine where “our political values truly lie” as a country. 

Dr. Shameka N. Cathey

“Our current political climate is one of the most intense moments that we have experienced in some time as a nation,” says Dr. Shameka N. Cathey, assistant professor of political science. “As we emerge from a global pandemic, while facing an economic recession and concern over climate change, our everyday existence – the very basic things in our lives – from gas prices to education, to inflation and healthcare are key political issues in this moment.”  

An estimated 125.6 million Americans are expected to turn out for November’s midterm elections, according to a national pollster. Voters are coming out in full force, with 25 million who have already cast their ballots in early voting, as of Oct. 31. With the stark differences in how to lead the country forward, Cathey says she understands why voters are coming out in huge numbers. Democrats want to hold on to power, while Republicans aim to change that. 

“If there is a shift in the current makeup of the House, Republicans can block the President’s agenda for the rest of his term. Everything from student debt release, women’s right to choose, police reform, and healthcare will be on the line,” says Cathey.  

Jaiden Walker

She adds that with a flip in the entire makeup of Congress, Republicans will pass their own legislation, block any of Biden’s Supreme Court nominees, if that were to happen again, and stop any important investigations into former President Trump. Republicans will also be in a better position for a 2024 Presidential candidate, she says.

Jaiden Walker, a second-year political science student from Selman, Alabama, agrees that with the issues at stake, he’s not surprised at the record number of people expected to vote in the midterm. He calls on his fellow students to participate in the process, as “difference makers.” 

“I think that midterm elections always have important implications in the day-to-day lives of Americans,” says Walker. “It is important for students to participate because that’s one major way we can effect change by expressing our rights.” 

Historically, the outcomes of midterm elections have not been so favorable to the party in power. Could this term be any different? Cathey says with the surge in early voting and other factors, the outcome could go either way. 

“The tendency in midterm elections is to favor the out party due to what is called surge and decline theory,” she says. “Presidential elections often bring a surge of voters who are less partisan, and those voters stay home (decline) in the midterm elections. A change in direction could come from motivated voters due to Biden’s party pledge to protect abortion rights, student debt forgiveness, and his social and economic agenda.”  

Cathey also says several Republican candidates are being viewed as vulnerable. States like Georgia, Ohio, Arizona, and North Carolina can be a tossup for either party. In Georgia, for instance, more than 1.6 million have already cast their votes, according to recent projections. 

Election day is Nov. 8. Early voting is underway in many states, including Tennessee.

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TSU alum designs groundbreaking sneaker through Nike highlighting university 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The tiger spirit has been embedded in Tennessee State University since 1912. However, a new groundbreaking Nike “Yardrunners” sneaker collection has given alumni and students a new way to strut their school spirit.

“THINK. WORK. SERVE. ” has always been the motto at Tennessee State University. But in this instance, TSU students are ‘serving’ looks this fall as Nike launched a multicolor Dunk Low sneaker displaying the university’s colors designed by TSU alum, Kalynn ‘KT’ Terrell.

TSU alum Kalynn ‘KT’ Terrell is a fashion designer who customized a Nike sneaker this year displaying the university’s colors. (Photo by Hunter Hart photography)

“This was a goal that I always wanted to accomplish and the prototype was my exact design,” Terrell said.

Head drum major of the Aristocrat of Bands Marro Briggs, said he was excited to get his hands on a pair of the sneakers as the historical aspect, is deeper than the aesthetic.

“This is a once in a lifetime … a piece of history,” Briggs, an economics and finance major, said. “I was really excited because I love shoes. This sheds a bigger light on us and our culture. I am happy they (Nike) chose TSU.” 

The TSU themed sneakers feature tiger-printed shoelaces with a “Tiger Pride” branding on the striped insoles. The shoes also feature 1912 embroidered on the heel tabs. The inner tongue highlights the TSU motto with a color scheme of red, blue, black, white, and yellow. 

Terrell, a 2016 TSU graduate, added that the yellow gives the sneaker a special touch. The color symbolizes the land of golden sunshine, another university moniker fondly used by alumni.

AOB drum majors from left to right, Jeremiah Mensa, Joshua Knox, Curtis Olawumi, Marro Briggs, all purchased TSU Dunk Low sneakers. (Photo by Julian Curry)

“For me it (yellow) represents completion,” Terrell said. “It’s not your alma mater until you walk the stage …  so, it symbolizes that I made it. I did it.”

Terrell is a fashion designer, wardrobe stylist and serial entrepreneur from Huntsville, Alabama, who began a partnership with Nike in 2020.

When Terrell was a teenager, she knew that fashion and tennis shoes were more than just a hobby, they were a lifestyle. During undergrad, Terrell said she always had a sense of self as she walked the campus with confidence, graduating with a degree in psychology.

“I became who I am because of Tennessee State University,” Terrell said. “If I had never attended TSU, I probably wouldn’t be comfortable dressing how I dress now.”

Terrell’s style and branding landed her with an opportunity of a lifetime, designing a shoe for Nike.

“This opportunity meant the world to me. It’s groundbreaking and it lets me know that I am on the trajectory of going in the right direction.”

The TSU themed sneakers feature white or tiger-printed shoelaces with a “Tiger Pride” branding on the striped insoles. The shoes also feature 1912 embroidered on the heel tabs, and the TSU motto on the inner tongue with a color scheme of red, blue, black, white, and yellow. ( Photo courtesy of Nike)

This year, Nike Yardrunners class focused on “HBCU alumni who are forging a legacy through fashion that will inspire future generations.” 

Tennessee State University Dunk Low is part of a four-piece HBCU Yardrunners first-ever shoe collection that also highlighted sneakers created by women who attended Clark Atlanta University, Florida A&M University, and North Carolina A&T University.

TSU Nike Dunk Low was released during homecoming week at local retailers like ROOTED and City Gear, and online on SNKRS, selling out within hours.

Former Miss TSU and fellow Alabama native Mallory Moore said she’s thrilled to see her alma mater in the spotlight and proud of the individual behind the design. 

“HBCU’s are finally being showcased for their positive contributions to society and the leaders they produce, specifically Tennessee State University,” Moore said.

“TSU has a big sneaker community, so it feels amazing. I am grateful that the university I once served is being celebrated in a major way.”

Kalynn Terrell is a fashion designer, wardrobe stylist and serial entrepreneur from Huntsville, Alabama, who began a partnership with Nike in 2020. (Photo by Chrisean Rose)

Everyone is hopeful that the Nike spotlight will bring future endeavors to the university. Terrell said she looks forward to collaborating with her alma mater again. She noted how HBCUs and African Americans move the culture forward in the fashion industry.

“We are the style,” Terrell said. “We are the standard.”

Terrell is the owner of three product base businesses: Nose In The Air, KT Wore It, and Nose In The Air Hair Co. She said operating her businesses and staying true to herself has aligned her with opportunities she was destined for.

“When I am gone, what’s going to be here to keep my name afloat,” Terrell said when asked about leaving a legacy. “I am trying to create something that is bigger than me. I would love to leave a staple.”

About Nike Yardrunners

Nike’s Yardrunners is a series to celebrate the cultural contributions and history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, along with their students and alumni.

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TSU and Tennessee Titans expand historic partnership with launch of team’s Impact Program, ‘ONE Community’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As the Tennessee Titans continue their long-standing partnership with Tennessee State University, on Thursday the team officially announced the launch of their Impact Program, ‘ONE Community.’

The ONE Community platform includes multi-faceted programs that reach many of Nashville’s most underserved communities with a focus on three areas – Opportunity, Neighborhoods, and Education.

TSU is one of 16 local and regional organizations that is a part of the community benefits platform.

Tennessee Titans held a press conference at TSU on Thursday to officially announce the launch of their Impact Program, ‘ONE Community.’

“TSU is excited about the expansion of our partnership with the Titans and the opportunities students will gain to be successful through internships and employment with the team,” said Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover during a press conference held at the university.

“Our historic relationship, an HBCU and NFL franchise, spans over 25-years and centers around both organizations’ commitment to serve communities in the city we proudly call home, Nashville.”

With ONE Community, TSU and the Titans will be expanding their long-standing relationship by launching a new partnership that will establish several initiatives including athletics, academics, students and university support through scholarship and job shadowing programs, professional development opportunities, and employment opportunities.

The team will also continue its partnership by hosting TSU games at the new stadium and engage in other TSU-related initiatives.

Tennessee Titans President Burke Nihill speaks during a press conference announcing the launch of, ‘ONE Community.’ (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The Titans will serve as the annual presenting sponsor of the John Merritt Classic and partner with TSU to expand gameday activation and expanded branding opportunities.

TSU graduate student Nykole Allen-Clark, who is the division captain for Project Destined, an organization that also partners with the Titans, said this opportunity is huge for the university.

“I am extremely excited about the Tennessee Titans partnership,” Allen-Clark said. “This program will provide students and adult learners with unmatched exposure to a development in the community.”

Adolpho Birch, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for the Tennessee Titans, said ONE Community represents a substantial amount of work and effort and is a product of extensive interaction and feedback from residents and community leaders. 

“Ultimately, increasing opportunities for workforce and small business development, nurturing and enhancing our neighborhoods in need, and supporting education at all levels are what the community believed would be most impactful,” Birch said.

Johari Matthews, a TSU alum and Titans Foundation’s programs director, said they are proud to announce their partnership. “Our valued relationship with President Glover, the TSU athletic department and the students and staff are all very critical to the Titans story,” Matthews said.

The Titans Foundation’s Programs Director, TSU alum Johari Matthews (center) with TSU students during a Titans press conference. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“We believe that every student deserves an educational journey with the resources, experiences, and access necessary to create a meaningful path to vocational and life success.”

The project has been underway for more than two years. The announcement comes on the heels of the city of Nashville and the Titans reaching an agreement on a newly proposed football stadium earlier this week estimated at $2.1 billion.

For more information about ONE Community, visit www.tennesseetitans.com/news/titans-launch-impact-program-one-community.

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee.  With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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TSU SGA Pres. and VP attend White House roundtable on impact of Dobbs ruling by SCOTUS   

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Student Government Association President Kenneth Rolle, II and Vice President Aliyah Holmes attended a roundtable discussion on reproductive rights and how the Dobbs decision could impact college students across the country. Vice President Kamala Harris extended the invitation to Rolle and Holmes, as well as to other student leaders to hear their thoughts first-hand regarding the issue.    

TSU Student Government Association President Kenneth Rolle, II and Vice President Aliyah Holmes said experiencing a roundtable discussion on reproductive rights at the White House was a monumental moment and looks forward to spreading awareness on campus. (Photo submitted)

Rolle said the opportunity was monumental for the university’s student body and brought forth additional information on how overturning Roe vs. Wade impacts students and young adults.  

“It was a great day in D.C,” Rolle said. “This is a great opportunity for Tennessee State University to showcase the student leadership that we produce here, but on a national stage. They (White House officials) want to hear the student’s perspective, and how we feel about the issue of women’s reproductive rights.”  

Rolle said the roundtable discussion with Vice President Harris provided students with information on how to advocate for change and properly educate the campus on this issue. The Orlando, Florida native said he looks forward to becoming more knowledgeable on how the Supreme Court’s ruling affect women’s rights following the visit. “I foresee us doing a push to raise awareness.”

SGA leaders take a selfie in front of portraits of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris during their visit at the White House.

Prior to their arrival, Holmes said her focus was spreading awareness on campus when she returned from Washington D.C. “HBCU students even being invited to the White House to participate in this discussion makes us feel like our voices do matter,” Holmes said. “It was a great experience. Being able to come back to our institution to share the knowledge that we gained is a great opportunity. Inviting TSU student leaders will have a huge, lasting impact on our institution and our student body.”

In August, TSU President Glenda Glover visited the White House, at the request of VP Harris, for a similar roundtable discussion and to obtain pertinent information that could aid TSU students in making well-informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs.

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TSU receives $1.5 million from HCA Healthcare to create pipeline for future Black doctors and technology experts  

Tennessee State University and HCA Healthcare are continuing their partnership in a major way. In a recent joint press conference, the Nashville-based health system gifted TSU $1.5 million to provide scholarships for aspiring students wanting to becoming medical doctors and technology leaders, and for education initiatives.  

Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. healthcare scholar cohort class of 2025 receives their white coats, presented by alumni of TSU, MMC Physicians and dentist during the fourth annual lecture series and white coat ceremony. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The HCA, TriStar Health donation will provide scholarship opportunities for 12 students enrolled in the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., Institute and three students majoring in computer science. The goal is to help build the pipeline for African American healthcare professionals and technology experts. The breakdown of the gift includes $1.4 million for Levi Watkins scholars pursuing a degree in the TSU accelerated medical program, while $100,000 will go Computer Science’s HCA Healthcare ITG Scholars. 

“We applaud and thank HCA Healthcare for this generous gift and continued support of TSU, and our talented students,” TSU President Glenda Glover said during the event. “This investment in our students helps them to become the future doctors and health technology leaders they aspire to be. HCA is making their dreams a reality.” 

Mitch Edgeworth, division president for HCA Healthcare TriStar Division, said their cooperation is proud to be able to invest in the university.  

The breakdown of the gift from HCA Healthcare and TriStar Health includes $1.4 million for Levi Watkins scholars pursuing a degree in the TSU accelerated medical program. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“Rooted in our mission to care for and improve human life, we are committed to providing resources and opportunities for future healthcare leaders to grow, learn and make a difference through this partnership,” Edgeworth said. “TriStar Health is proud to be part of HCA Healthcare and supports this incredible investment that will establish a strong and diverse pipeline of future physicians and healthcare ITG leaders in our community.” 

Class of 2025 Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute cohort students said this opportunity will help them succeed in becoming future physicians, dentist, and healthcare professionals to bridge the healthcare gap and provide for underserved communities in need. 

“I hope to reduce the racial inequalities in the medical field as well as fixing the patient and physician trust between the African American community and the physician,” said Sierra smith, a biology major whose goal is to become an anesthesiologist. 

Donnell Shaw, an aspiring dermatologist majoring in biology, said he looks forward to creating a skin care line for African Americans. 

“I hope to accomplish owning my own private practice and making my own Black skin care line. I’ve always loved helping people and giving back.” 

While $100,000 of the donations will go Computer Science’s HCA Healthcare ITG Scholars, HCA will also provide seven ITG staff members to serve as adjunct faculty for the fall semester. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The gift is part of the organization’s larger commitment to give $10 million over three years to Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Serving Institutions.  

Currently, there are 117 new students in the computer science program. In addition to the scholarships for computer science students, HCA will also provide seven ITG staff members to serve as adjunct faculty for the fall semester. 

Christopher Jeff, a junior majoring in computer science, said he felt elated to know that corporations like HCA want more students with a passion in Computer Science to achieve their long-term goals. Jeff aspires to become a software engineer. 

“It means that there are places like HCA that want nothing but the best for people that attend HBCUs and to see them succeed,” Jeff said, noting that he is grateful for the scholarship opportunities and additional faculty members provided by HCA. 

TSU scholars engaging with HCA, TriStar Health representatives before a check presentation of $1.5 million. Their goal is to help build the pipeline for African American healthcare professionals and technology experts. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

TSU and HCA Healthcare have a long-standing partnership. In 2015, the corporation donated $1 million to fund internship opportunities and support the growth of the Health Information Management program. Sherri Neal, chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer of HCA Healthcare, said gestures as such, are building a more diverse talent pipeline of healthcare. 

“Increasing the diversity of our healthcare workforce is vital to providing more equitable, culturally competent care to our communities,” Neal stated. 

HCA Healthcare Scholars and HCA Healthcare ITG Scholars will be provided with hands-on shadowing opportunities, mentors, seminars, leadership sessions, career guidance and internship opportunities. 

Please visit www.tnstate.edu/biology/special_programs.aspx to find out more about the TSU accelerated medical program, and https://www.tnstate.edu/computer_science/degrees/accelerated.aspx  computer science.

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TSU legacy student Jala Turner Selected as Visa Black Scholar

By Staff Writer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Upon graduating from Greater Atlanta Christian School, freshman Jala Turner decided to continue her family’s legacy as a TSU Tiger while creating one of her own after being accepted into the second cohort of The Visa Black Scholars and Jobs Program.

The program is in partnership with The Thurgood Marshall College Fund and provides assistance for Black and African American high school graduates in the United States with a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 who plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university to pursue an undergraduate degree in business or technology.

Turners parents were members of the TSU Aristocrat of Bands and said its exciting to see her get involved on campus as a TSU cheerleader along with being a Visa Scholar.

“When all of us were on the Zoom call and found out that we got the scholarship, we were crying and everything. It’s amazing and a really big honor for me,” says Turner who is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration and a minor in Spanish. 

“Being a Visa Black Scholar shows everyone that I have a lot to offer, and I’m so glad that someone saw my talent. It feels good to receive this scholarship and have these opportunities.”

In addition to receiving a needs-based scholarship grant of up to $20,000 per year for four years, Turner and fellow scholars will be mentored by a Visa employee, receive training throughout the year, attend an all-expenses paid Scholar Summit next summer, intern at one of Visa’s locations, and gain full-time employment with Visa upon graduation and successful completion of the program.

“The program is very beneficial. I have a mentor, Maria, and she’s great. She’s Hispanic and I’m minoring in Spanish, so I’m happy they made that connection,” says Turner.

“The summer of my sophomore year I can start doing paid internships with Visa and choose from any Visa corporation around the world, so I’m very excited for that. I don’t know where I want to go, but it’s a great opportunity. Also, there’s a guaranteed job offer after I graduate, and I think that’s great because I won’t have the stress of wondering what am I going to do after college.”

Turner’s parents, Anwar and Nicole of Lawrenceville, GA, agree.

“We are so proud of Jala walking in our footsteps as TSU Alumni as well as her brother and a host of other family members who have attended TSU since 1912. Her father and I were members of the Aristocrat of Bands, so it’s even more exciting to see her get involved on campus as a TSU cheerleader,” says Nicole.

Jala Turner wearing Visa apparel as she was accepted into the second cohort of The Visa Black Scholars and Jobs Program over the summer.

 “We are thrilled that she was selected for this highly competitive program. She will not have the stress that so many will feel trying to find a paid summer internship before graduation. She won’t have the struggle of trying to find a mentor within her field to develop and coach her to the next level. Most important, she will never have to bear the burden of graduating without employment. Through Visa, one of the top companies in the world, she has a direct pathway into her career. We are grateful and extremely proud that she gets to represent TSU in this elite program.”

Turner graduated high school with a 3.6 GPA and was a member of the varsity golf club, the varsity dance and cheer teams, the Beta Club, the National Honor Society, the National Honor Society of Dance Arts, and the Spanish Club. 

Community service was also a major part of her activities. This included introducing elementary school students to dance and a mission trip to Puerto Rico where we painted the recreation area in an orphanage. She was accepted into seven of the ten universities she applied to and ultimately chose TSU because, for her, it’s home.

“When I was looking at colleges, I had a list of what I needed. I wanted to go to an HBCU, I wanted to be close to family, and I wanted to cheer,” says Turner who has been dancing since she was two and cheering since she was four. “We’re a TSU family. My parents, my older brother, and my family went here; so, I grew up at TSU. Also, half of my dad’s side lives in Nashville. I feel like the icing on the cake was me making the cheer team. I grew up watching TSU cheerleaders and knew I had to be one of them. So, when I got on the team, I had everything: family, the HBCU experience, and my cheer sisters. It was perfect.”

Jala hopes to have her own real estate company one day, but for now, she wants to focus on keeping her grades up and networking with fellow students and professionals on campus.

Turner encourages anyone wanting to attend college to research and apply for as many scholarships as possible, even the unsolicited ones that come via email. 

“See which ones benefit you and apply early,” she says. “Also, don’t count yourself out even if you don’t have the best grades. Just try your best and put yourself out there. Keep working hard and you’ll eventually reach your goals.”

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TSU Back in Stride for 2022 Homecoming Celebration

By Kelli Sharpe

Nashville, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – There’s no homecoming like a TSU homecoming as the University gears up for this year’s celebration. The 2022 theme is “Back in Stride Again,” as TSU prepares to welcome thousands of alumni back to the 500-arce campus. Homecoming is October 2-8 and kicked off the week-long celebration with the annual Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest and Gospel Explosion on Sunday.    

The celebration will be highlighted with a scholarship gala, the legendary TSU parade, and of course the homecoming football game between the Tigers and Bethune-Cookman University out of Florida.   

From the legendary Homecoming Parade to the Annual Scholarship Gala, students, staff and faculty look forward to getting Back in Stride Again for the 2022 homecoming celebration.

“TSU homecoming is always a special and exciting time of year for the University as we welcome alumni and friends to our campus,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.   

“This marks the second year we’ve held in-person activities to highlight student achievement and showcase our accomplishments as an institution. It is also a time to celebrate alumni and supporters who have left an indelible mark on TSU.”  

This year’s honorees are: Grand Marshals Entrepreneur, Ms. Andrella Kenner, Global Warming Ambassador and Rev. Dr. Gerald Durley. Honorees are Communications and Public Relations Executive, Dr. Harold Jackson and Former TSU first lady, Mrs. Edwina Hefner.

Grant Winrow

In addition to the big game against Bethune-Cookman at Nissan Stadium on Oct. 8 and the parade that morning, another major highlight of TSU’s homecoming is the Annual Scholarship Gala, TSU’s signature fundraising event. It will take place on Oct. 7 at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Nashville.    

TSU Homecoming Chairman Grant Winrow added that this year promises to be even more exciting, but safety will remain a priority even as the pandemic has tapered off.   

“Homecoming week officially begun with an array of events, to kick off the annual celebration,” said Winrow.   

“Last year certainly lived up to the hype and was indeed a homecoming for the record books. So, get ready and come prepared this year, as we are “Back in Stride Again,” picking up where we left off. The health and safety of everyone is our number one priority. We will adhere to all safety protocols that are still in place and ask that you practice social distancing throughout the weekend. Although wearing a mask is no longer mandatory, it is encouraged when inside among large groups.”    

Kenneth Rolle II., said TSU students are looking forward to getting Back in Stride for homecoming this week.

Student Government Association President Kenneth Rolle II., said for students, TSU’s homecoming can be summed up in two words, ‘get geeked.’

“That is all that needs to be said. TSU alumni and friends from near and far will know it’s homecoming week by those two simple words.”   

Other homecoming activities this year include the Ralph Boston and Dr. Catana Starks golf tournament in the morning on Oct. 6; followed by the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute White Coat Ceremony that afternoon at 2 p.m. and the homecoming concert featuring upcoming rappers Glorilla, Nardo Wick, Est Gee, Babyface Ray and the Ying Yang Twins later that day; the Breakfast of Champions, the homecoming pep rally, the Charles Campbell Fish Fry, and the National Pan-Hellenic Step Show all on Oct. 7; and the legendary Homecoming Parade on Oct. 8. The parade will be from 14th and Jefferson Street to 33rd and John Merritt Boulevard.   

For more information about TSU’s 2022 Homecoming, visit www.tnstate.edu/alumni/homecoming/index.aspx .

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TSU 2022 Fall Career Fair largest turn out in university history with over 1,000 students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Over 1,000 TSU students will be better prepared for internships and the job market following the university’s Fall Career Fair. The students took advantage of meeting over 240 potential employers at the fair that included representatives from government agencies, aerospace, banking, engineering, healthcare, and several other industries. The employers set up tables and displays in the Gentry Center Complex to network with students about career and employment opportunities. 

Companies representing the automotive, engineering, aerospace, banking and healthcare industries attend the 2022 Fall Career fair. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“This is amazing,” Antoinette Duke, Director of the Career Development Center said during the event. “This is the largest career fair that we’ve had.” In preparation of the fair, the university held career readiness sessions at each housing location, on and off campus. The hands-on training sessions were led by executives and representatives of major companies such as Atria, PepsiCo, and Procter and Gamble. 

President Glenda Glover made an announcement mid-event stating how proud she was to see students seeking employment and thanked all the company representatives for coming. “We appreciate the support … thank you to our sponsors for being here,” Glover said.

Whitney Hawkins, a freshman health science major from Chicago, Illinois speaks with represnentives for Overhead Door Company. (Photo by: Aaron Grayson)

“And to the students, I look forward to you all being employees for the companies present, in the near future.”

Whitney Hawkins, a freshman health science major from Chicago, Illinois, said she was excited to see how many companies poured into her HBCU with internship and employment opportunities.

“I am open to learn about all these amazing companies,” Hawkins said during the event. “I am grateful that the school had this opportunity for us. They (employers) were really open and conversational.” While Hawkins was searching for internship opportunities to one day become a physician assistant, Reginald Cooper Jr., a rising senior from Memphis, was on a job hunt for opportunities related to health sciences.

Reginald Cooper Jr., a rising senior from Memphis, spoke with several employers as he seeks interest in a career related to health sciences. (Photo by: Aaron Grayson)

“It was very informative speaking with Fifth Third Bank, as it has been at all the booths,” Cooper said.

“It’s great to see how many booths have come back from the previous years to show that they have an interest in TSU students.” Cooper appreciated how all the employees at each booth was approachable, greeting him with a smile. “I found a lot of opportunities and I’m excited that I see a lot of TSU students here.”

Xenea Ford, a TSU graduate who attended the fair to represent her company, said it was a full circle moment to see how impactful the event was for her and current students. Ford is a 2017 graduate who is an Internal Account Manager for Jackson National Life Insurance Company.

TSU alum Xenea Ford, an Internal Account Manager for Jackson National Life Insurance Company, said her company is offering job and internship opportunities. (Photo by: Aaron Grayson)

“I actually found out about my company at a career fair at TSU in Kean (Hall),” Ford said.

“It feels really nostalgic and amazing to be able to be here. We are looking for diverse talent and I love that we are looking here at TSU. Harold Guy, another TSU alum who is an Account Executive for Enterprise fleet management, couldn’t agree more.

“I have been smiling from ear to ear since I have been here,” Guy laughed during the event. “I am excited to see the students dressing the part and coming in with their resumes.”

Employers said they were impressed about the students’ level of preparation and career readiness. (Photo by: Aaron Grayson)

Like many students, one of those rising seniors who had their resume on hand was Adrien Calvert who is studying Mass Communications.

“This is something to appreciate,” Calvert said noting that many companies told him there is a seat at the table for a communications major.

“We are about to get into the real world.” 

For more information about the TSU Career Services Department, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/careers/ .

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

TSU agriculture student embodies the Tiger Spirit in fight against rare cancer 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For Zaria Hunter, this semester marks her triumphant return to Tennessee State University as she continues the battle of her life against a rare form of cancer.  

In 2021, Hunter started her spring semester of sophomore year off strong, studying agriculture sciences with a pre-veterinary medicine concentration.

Zaria Hunter. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

But Hunter’s school year took a turn when she began having constant, severe headaches. Something she expected to pass overtime with some medication. What Hunter didn’t expect, was to spend her 20th birthday in St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis fighting the rare cancer that was ravishing her body and had already reached stage 4. 

In April 2021, Hunter’s family discovered that the cancerous cells had already spread throughout her body.

“It was in my liver, brain, lungs, spine and hip bone,” Hunter shared.

During her five month stay at St. Jude, Hunter experienced going into a coma several times, one of which lasted four days.

“That’s when things were getting rough,” she added.  Hunter, an Atlanta native, was frail and couldn’t walk. Standing 5-foot-4 inches tall at 85 pounds, she underwent seven rounds of intravenous chemotherapy and surgery to receive an implanted port in her chest.  

While Hunter was in Memphis for treatment, her long-time friend from high school who also attends TSU, Chayne Alexander, prayed for her recovery and return to the university. 

“Her family had reached out to her friends and once I found out, I instantly started crying,” Alexander said. “Because I’ve experienced this feeling before when I lost my granddad, so I was hurt to the core.”

Alexander said their friends supported and prayed for Hunter every day, keeping their faith. 

In 2021, Zaria was hospitalized for five months after being diagnosed with a rare cancer. (Photo submitted)

And so did Dr. De’Etra Young, the Associate Dean for Academics in the college of agriculture.

“When Zaria was hospitalized, we communicated frequently,” Dr. Young said, noting that Hunter was concerned about her schoolwork, staying hopeful in her return to TSU. “Her desire to return to school while fighting cancer, is determination that I have never seen before,” Young said.

“She inspires me. Her resilience speaks to the caliber of what type of student she is. To know that she is still fighting and staying uplifted, I look forward to the day she graduates,” Young said.

“Once a tiger, always a tiger.”

Zaria at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
learning how to walk again.

Fellow students and professors say despite how ill Hunter became, she always kept a smile on her face throughout her journey. After her five months stay at the hospital, Hunter was released and began her daily dosage of oral chemotherapy.  

“I never lost who I was when I was in the hospital,” Hunter said. “I kept high spirits and stayed positive.”

This semester, Hunter is back in Nashville battling a small percentage of cancer that is only in her lungs now.

Hunter is visiting St. Jude once a month for checkups while she is pursuing her dream at TSU to become a veterinarian.

“It feels great to be back,” she said. “My determination to be better, and to do better kept me going … I was praying for these better days,” she smiled.

Zaria Hunter, who aspires to become a veterinarian, feeding goats at Tennessee State University’s agricultural farm. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

She said that although balancing school and her social life while fighting cancer will get tricky, she knows that she is up for the challenge. “God let me know that it was going to get rough in the beginning but … I never gave up on myself,” she said.

Hunter said she is thankful for her support system at TSU and looks forward to being cancer free, and most importantly, getting her degree with the ultimate goal of becoming a veterinarian.