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TSU’s New Students Orientation Welcomes Incoming Tigers to the Land of Golden Sunshine

May 6, 2025 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a celebration of new beginnings, Tennessee State University is set to roll out the welcome mat for nearly 950 first-time freshmen and transfer students during the New Student Orientation (NSO). Taking place over four days—May 21, June 9, June 18, and July 14—the new Tigers will immerse themselves in TSU’s unique campus culture, all while basking in the warmth of the “Land of Golden Sunshine.”

The NSO, designed to ease the transition for incoming students and their families, will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the Kean Hall on the main campus. Attendees can look forward to a wealth of experiences, including campus tours, program previews, and information sessions covering everything from student activities to financial aid.

“Our New Student Orientation is more than just an introduction; it’s an essential step in helping students begin their journey at Tennessee State University,” said Dr. Angela Duncan, executive director of enrollment services. “This is the time where students and families can really connect with the university community and find their place in this vibrant environment. They’ll interact with current students who serve as ambassadors, meet with academic advisors, and gain valuable insights into campus resources, ensuring they are well-equipped for their first day of classes in the fall.”

Hundreds of students and family members attend a recent new student orientation in Kean Hall on the main campus.

Echoing her sentiments, Dr. Erica Lewis, director of student engagement, said, “NSO is all about building community. Students will not only get essential information to navigate their first semester but also make lasting connections with their peers and university staff. It’s our official welcoming of the new class, and we are excited to support them as they embark on this transformative journey.”

With sessions tailored to majors, students will have opportunities to engage with faculty and delve into various academic programs. Parents, too, are encouraged to engage and establish connections, creating their own support network while preparing their children for academic success.

Registration for the NSO is simple. New students interested in attending can visit www.tnstate.edu/orientation for more information or visit https://futuretiger.tnstate.edu to secure their spot and confirm their assigned orientation date.

As the countdown begins to the fall semester, TSU looks forward to filling the campus with the spirit and energy of these incoming Tigers—a fresh chapter in the Land of Golden Sunshine.

For more information on admission to TSU, please visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions.

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 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and 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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From the Classroom to the Globe: TSU’s Study Abroad Program Transforms Lives and Leaders

April 15, 2025 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – At Tennessee State University, the world isn’t just outside the campus—it’s a classroom brimming with opportunities. With its long-standing study abroad program, TSU empowers students to step beyond borders, not only broadening their academic horizons but also nurturing the leadership skills and global awareness that today’s employers demand.

As students traverse continents—from the vibrant streets of Ghana to the serene beaches of St. Croix—many are finding that the journey is as transformative as the destination.

This travel season, TSU has already sent 63 students and eight faculty members on international journeys, with trips spanning Africa, Australia, Europe, Asia, and South America. The 2024-2025 season promises further adventures in countries such as Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Spain. Recently, a cohort of 12 TSU students and faculty returned from a life-changing excursion to St. Croix, an experience that blended cultural immersion with academic exploration.

“Spring break of 2025, I was blessed with the opportunity to travel to St. Croix as a logistical coordinator,” said Kennedy Ann Lee Johnson, a junior biology major from Atlanta. “This experience helped me enhance my leadership skills by exposing me to a new dimension of global advocacy. It reshaped my perspective on the island, revealing its deep historical and cultural ties to Africa. I decided to pick up a double minor in Africana Studies to explore these connections further.”

On their recent visit to St. Croix, a group of study abroad students find time for photo by the Millennium Monument above Point Udall on the east end of St. Croix. The monument was built for the New Year’s celebration in 2000, marking the azimuth of the first U.S. sunrise of that year. (submitted photo)

Fellow student Christina Elaine Schwartz, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Columbia, Maryland, was on the journey with Kennedy. “Studying abroad in St. Croix was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. You’ll come back with new knowledge, confidence, and unforgettable memories.”

According to Dr. Bridgett Golman, Vice President for Student Affairs, the exposure TSU students gain from these experiences is invaluable.

“The convenience of having a passport application acceptance facility directly on campus enhances our students’ ability to explore the world. We believe that engagement in international education is vital to their growth,” Golman said.

Mark Brinkley, Director of International Education and Global Learning, added, “The study abroad experience allows students to align their academic, career, and personal goals. It equips them with the skills necessary to initiate respectful, meaningful conversations across cultures. Our students have expressed a strong desire to explore their African heritage and the Diaspora, and we’re excited to cater to those interests.”

A group of TSU study abroad students, and other tourists visiting a wildlife reserve in Tanzania, observe a relaxed male lion enjoying the coolness provided by the visitors’ parked tour vehicle. (Submitted photo)

Freddie Louis Calhoun III, a first-year graduate student who participated in the study abroad program to Ghana, said, “It opened my eyes to new things. The connections I made and the perspectives I gained have been invaluable.”

As TSU continues its mission to cultivate global leaders, one message resonates louder than others: experience the world. The university invites students to embrace these unique opportunities for growth, advocating for a future where they not only aspire to lead but are inspired to serve. The world is waiting—take the leap and let it transform you.

For more information on the TSU Study Abroad program, visit www.tnstate.edu/business/international

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Dr. Jewell Winn Honored with Prestigious Fulbright Scholar Award During Women’s History Month

March 13, 2025 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dr. Jewell Winn, Senior International Officer and Associate Professor of Educational Leadership, has been awarded the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award in International Education Administration for the 2024-25 academic year. The award, granted by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board, will allow Winn to travel to France and Senegal to further her expertise in international education.

Dr. Jewell Winn gives welcome remarks at the 2025 Mister and Miss Collegiate International pageant. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

With a career spanning more than 35 years in higher education and academia, Winn’s latest accolade adds to many other significant achievements, including her historic role as the first African American female President of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA), and as an Advisory Board member of the Association of Public Land Grant Universities Commission on International Initiatives Abroad.

“In my role as the Fulbright Liaison and Student Advisor, I always encouraged others to apply for Fulbright opportunities. When I learned about this program specifically for HBCU administrators, I decided to apply without any expectation,” Winn said. “Being awarded this competitive Fulbright is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the unwavering support from the State Department and my university’s commitment to internationalization. This will be an eye-opening experience as I engage with international educators and expand my understanding of global education.”

Interim President Dwayne Tucker, and Dr. Jewell Winn welcome international education leaders to the Enhancement Workshop for Humphrey Fellows, a Fulbright and U.S. Department of State program, hosted by TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Winn’s two-week visits to France and Senegal will run from March through April 12.

Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at TSU, expressed her pride in Winn’s accomplishments.

“Dr. Winn’s recognition as a Fulbright Scholar highlights her unwavering commitment to the field of international education and her exceptional leadership within our academic community. We are honored to have her represent Tennessee State University on such a prestigious platform, further affirming our mission to cultivate a globally engaged learning environment,” Melton said.

Dr. Jewell Winn congratulates contestants representing their various countries at a past Mister and Miss Collegiate International pageant in Poag Auditorium. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Among other notable accomplishments, Winn established the Office of International Affairs at TSU, reinforcing the university’s commitment to global education.

A Fulbright top-producing Historically Black College and University for the past four consecutive years, TSU has facilitated several global learning experiences, paving the way for the university’s continued leadership in international education. TSU recently hosted an Enhancement Workshop for Hubert H. Humphrey Fellows, a Fulbright program.

As Women’s History Month is observed, TSU honors Dr. Jewell Winn not only for her significant professional milestones but also for her role in empowering future generations of leaders. Her contributions serve as an inspiration to women and educators everywhere.

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TSU Integrates Athlete Training with Apple Watch in Groundbreaking Research

March 13, 2025 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As the sun rises over the Tennessee State University track, a trio of standout athletes—Kaitlyn Cook, Caleb Joshway, and Devin Jones—lace up their shoes for another day of training. This time, they’re not just relying on instinct and determination; they’re integrating cutting-edge technology into their routines thanks to Apple Watch.

Kaitlyn Cook, a hurdler on the TSU Track team, right, gives data from her Apple Watch to Coach Chandra Cheeseborough, as other team members look on. (Photo by Jada Harris)

In a study aimed at exploring the intersection of health and performance metrics among student-athletes, Cook, a freshman business major from Richmond, Virginia; Joshway, an MBA finance student from Auburndale, Florida; and Jones, a freshman exercise science major from Miami, are outfitted with Apple Watches. These devices are part of a study led by the Departments of Human Performance and Sports Science (HPSS), Educational Teaching and Learning (EDTL), and the TSU SMART Center.

Key objectives of the study are to improve the effectiveness of health monitoring, enhance athletic performance, and promote the overall well-being of TSU’s student-athletes. The findings could revolutionize training strategies and set the stage for advancements in athlete monitoring and performance optimization.

Track team members utilize the Apple Watch during all aspects of their training to ensure accurate data collection. (Photo by Jada Harris)

“Our goal is to assess the effectiveness of Apple Watch in monitoring various health metrics, which can ultimately enhance athletic performance,” Dr. Jason Smith, Department Chair and Associate Professor, Pedagogy, Sports Leadership (HPSS) highlighted. “We’re particularly interested in how this technology can shed light on cardiovascular fitness and recovery.”

Apple Watch assists the athletes in tracking metrics across activity, sleep, heart rate, and mobility — essential components of their training. “It tracks my sleep so I can see if I’m getting enough rest, and I can even see my sleep stages, including how much time I spend in REM or deep sleep,” Joshway explained. “The fitness and health data is crucial because it helps me understand how my body is doing so I can decide whether I’m ready for training.”

Devin Jones, who runs the 800M 4X4 relay, second from right, says the Apple Watch helps him track his sleep pattern. (Photo by Jada Harris)

Chandra Cheeseborough, Athletics Director and Track and Field Head Coach at TSU, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative: “This study helps monitor training activities and gives deeper insights into fitness and health metrics, like cardio fitness and sleep stages. Having access to that data helps the study participants better understand what’s happening in their own body and it helps me as a coach to time their rest periods. It is a win-win for everybody.”

The current study builds on preliminary insights gained from a pilot program conducted with the TSU Men’s and Women’s Tennis teams in Spring 2024. According to Dr. Nicole Arrighi, Assistant Dean of Teacher Education, “The tennis survey highlighted a positive correlation between Apple Watch usage and performance enhancements. Players who frequently use the device during practices report increased motivation and improved fitness. Notably, 80 percent of respondents set performance goals based on watch data. Those with longer ownership experienced greater benefits, suggesting that consistent usage enhances training outcomes. Overall, Apple Watch has become a valuable tool for the team.”

The study will also explore the interplay between health and fitness metrics and academic engagement through participant surveys.

Dr. Robbie Melton, Vice President for Technology Innovations and Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, added, “The ability to include Apple Watch in this study not only provides our athletes with advanced tools for performance monitoring but also enriches our academic environment. The data collected from this study will contribute to our understanding of technology’s role in athletics and education. It exemplifies our commitment to integrating innovative solutions to enhance student success and well-being.”

The study is spearheaded by distinguished TSU faculty and administrators, including Dr. Smith from HPSS, Dr. Arrighi from EDTL, and Dr. Melton from the TSU SMART Center. The research aims to fill a critical gap in the literature concerning wearable technology in athletics, particularly for track and field athletes. Apple Watch devices were provided through Apple’s Investigator Support Program.

For information on the TSU Human Performance and Sports Science program, please visit https://www.tnstate.edu/hpss/.

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TSU Tiger Bay, College of Ag Team Lead $5M Wetlands Restoration Effort

February 7, 2025 Alexis Clark

By Charlie Morrison

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tiger Bay Wetlands restoration project officially launched this winter, led by a collaborative team from Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture (TSUAg). With the support of public and private partners, TSU is taking significant steps toward rehabilitating this vital ecosystem.

Dr. Bill Sutton emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience in preparing students for success in the private sector, public sector, or graduate school.

Representatives from TSUAg, the Nashville Metro Government, the Cumberland River Compact, and Resource Environmental Solutions recently took the first step in a $5 million USDA Forestry Service-backed project.

The project to restore Tiger Bay took shape after the College of Agriculture secured a grant from the USDA Forestry Service. The project, titled the “Restoration of an Urban, Forested Wetland at Tennessee State University to Improve Educational Opportunities and Ecosystem Services,” will restore the forested environment and free it from invasive species.

Associate Dean for Academics and Land-grant Programs Dr. De’Etra Young is the principal investigator for the grant. She stated that TSU scientists and students will assist in the restoration of this forested wetland ecosystem, which will improve the ecosystem services that the wetland provides, along with experiential learning opportunities.

“Tiger Bay is a unique asset we’re lucky to have right here on campus,” Young says. “Restoring it is important, and our partnership with the USDA Forestry Service, the Nashville city government and non-profit and for-profit environmental firms is critical to our being able to execute this grant in full.”

Dr. De’Etra Young

Young continued to note that these efforts will also provide a research environment for TSU students who can utilize this opportunity to develop real-world skills that will set them apart in their post graduate job search. “It’s our responsibility to preserve this unique asset for future generations of research students, and this team we’ve assembled will help us greatly in meeting that responsibility.”

Young shared that successfully executing the grant and bringing the project to life began with assembling the right team. TSUAg faculty members Drs. Bill Sutton, Tom Byl, Sarah Neumann, Yujuan Chen, Jason de Koff and Reginald Archer are all participating in the rehabilitation program.

Forestry management is key to Tiger Bay’s rehabilitation. Urban Forestry professors Drs. Neumann, Chen, and Young will identify invasive species for removal and select new tree species to enhance the ecosystem’s health.

While Dr. Reginald Archer will create geospatial and topographic maps of Tiger Bay’s natural resources, Dr. Sutton and Dr. Byl will focus on wildlife and vegetation considerations.

TSU Ag research professor Dr. Tom Byl works in the wetlands with graduate student and mentee Devin Moore.

Dr. Sutton is leading the wetlands restoration, partnering with Resource Environmental Solutions “We are planning a full-scale wetland restoration to remove invasive species and to re-plant with native species,” Sutton says.

Dr. Byl will focus on hydrology and water quality to support a healthy TSU wetland ecosystem. Excessive nutrients at Tiger Bay have fueled cyanobacteria and toxic algae blooms for years, and this project allows Dr. Byl to build on his 20 years of wetlands research.

“The wetland has tremendous value, and we are very lucky to have it on our campus,” says Dr. Byl. “Our goal is to revitalize the wetland, make it more accessible to the TSU community and the public, and preserve it as critical greenspace and habitat for wildlife.”

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

Alexis Clark contributed to this report.

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TSU Partners with NDOT on $10 Million SMART Grant

February 5, 2025 Alexis Clark

By Dr. Celeste Brown, Alexis Clark

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s College of Engineering will receive $700,000 as part of a $10 million SMART Grant awarded to the City of Nashville by the U.S. Department of Transportation. TSU will partner with Nashville’s Department of Transportation (NDOT) and WeGo Public Transit to conduct research aimed at improving pedestrian safety and reducing traffic fatalities.

TSU master’s student Tupac Moseley, left, Atiqur Mallick and Dr. Kamrul Hasan, center, attend the NDOT event announcing the $10 million SMART Grant, which will support research on pedestrian safety and traffic fatality reduction. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University/Aaron Grayson)

Led by Dr. Kamrul Hasan, Assistant Professor of electrical and computer engineering, the research will focus on leveraging advanced data and innovative technologies to enhance mobility and safety for vulnerable road users.

Recently, TSU College of Engineering students, faculty, and administrators joined Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell for the SMART grant announcement at the Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center. During the event, Dr. Quincy Quick, associate vice president for Research and Sponsored Programs, emphasized the role of artificial intelligence and LiDAR technology in the research.

“This project embodies one of the fundamental concepts and cores of research,” Quick said. “It will employ state-of-the-art technology and make a lasting impact on society. Our TSU students will work with LiDAR, AI, and machine learning technology as part of this project. That aligns with the City of Nashville’s approach to integrating technology to enhance the quality of life for its citizens.”

The Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program is a two-stage initiative, consisting of Planning and Prototyping Grants (Phase I) and Implementation Grants (Phase II). This program supports projects that advance smart technologies and innovative practices.

Dr. Quincy Quick

This initiative supports Nashville’s Vision Zero Action Plan, which aims to eliminate traffic-related deaths and severe injuries by deploying cutting-edge safety interventions along high-risk corridors. The funding provides TSU faculty and students with critical research opportunities to contribute to the city’s broader transportation safety strategy. The university’s involvement in the Leveraging Advanced Data to Deliver Multimodal Safety (LADDMS) initiative will support data collection and analysis using technologies such as LiDAR, which monitors near-miss incidents and assesses intervention effectiveness.

Atiqur Mallick and Tupac Moseley, two graduate students pursuing master’s degrees in computer science and computer information systems engineering, will play key roles in the project.

“We’re excited to see how the project grows and how our involvement—through real conversations with community members—helps improve safety,” said Moseley, a Memphis native. “I’m also looking forward to expanding industry collaborations, not only with TSU but with other HBCUs as well. The fact that we’re working just down the street from TSU and engaging with people in this corridor and North Nashville is a great opportunity.”

Mallick echoed that sentiment. “We hope to apply what we learn from NDOT and TSU to ensure our state’s citizens can get home safely,” Mallick said. “That is our primary concern and ultimate goal.”

The two students also played an important role in Phase 1 of the SMART Grant in 2023, collaborating with NDOT to complete the preliminary work that led to this Phase 2 implementation.

By collaborating with local agencies and institutions, TSU will help expand safety measures while strengthening its role in urban mobility research. This project builds on previous efforts to implement technology-driven solutions for safer streets and will provide valuable insights that could influence transportation policies and infrastructure development across Nashville.

Dr. Hasan, who will lead the research initiative on TSU’s behalf, emphasized the broader impact of the project.

“Ultimately, this research will benefit not only Nashville but the entire state,” Hasan said. “This phase of the project is a stepping stone. We’re looking to expand our findings nationwide so more communities can benefit.”

TSU’s role in this initiative highlights the university’s commitment to research, innovation, and community engagement, reinforcing its impact as a leader in engineering and transportation safety. To learn more about the College of Engineering, visit www.tnstate.edu/engineering/.

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TSU Senior Takes Big Step Toward Sports Management Career Goal with Titans’ Internship

January 27, 2025 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As a senior majoring in Human Performance and Sports Science (HPSS) at Tennessee State University, Noah Pennington is on the verge of realizing his dream of operating within a major sports organization. His recent internship with the NFL’s Tennessee Titans marks an extraordinary step toward that goal, which also showcases the unique partnership between TSU and the Titans that provides students access to the professional sports world.

An Indianapolis native, Pennington completed a four-week paid internship with the Titans in December, where he gained rich insights into leadership, management styles, and logistical operations within a professional sports franchise. “Working alongside key decision-makers and participating in meetings about the construction of the new stadium was a transformative experience,” Pennington said. “I had the opportunity to absorb knowledge from industry veterans, which solidified my career aspirations in sports management and operations.”

TSU has long enjoyed a productive partnership with the Titans, allowing the TSU Tigers football team to host home games at Nissan Stadium. The collaboration, which extends beyond athletics, engages with the community through the Titans’ ONE Community platform, which targets Nashville’s underserved areas to foster opportunities in education, neighborhoods, and economic development.

Noah Pennington is scheduled to graduate in May. He already has a job lined up. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Pennington’s internship exemplifies how TSU students benefit from this relationship. Earlier in his college career, Pennington participated in a Maymester course designed to connect sports management students with Titans staff across various departments – from finance to legal affairs. This immersive experience sparked his interest and laid the groundwork for his successful internship application.

“It’s incredible how TSU, particularly the HPSS department, has helped guide me to these opportunities,” said Pennington. “Dr. (Jason) Smith and Dr. (Timothy) Jones played pivotal roles in my development, providing the mentorship and connections necessary to thrive in the competitive sports industry. The hands-on experience through the internship complemented my classroom learning perfectly.”

Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and VP of Academic Affairs, says the TSU-Tinans partnership has benefitted students immensely.

Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, expressed pride in TSU students like Pennington. “We are committed to empowering our students by partnering with industry leaders who can provide real-world experience. Noah’s journey with the Titans is a testament to our successful collaboration and the bright futures that await our students,” Melton said.

Johari Matthews, a TSU alum and Vice President of the ONE Community and Titans Foundation, said, “The partnership that we have with TSU has been instrumental in our approach to better serving students by introducing them to careers in the sports industry. Noah is a perfect example of how partnerships like this can open doors and provide hands-on experiences that level the playing field in the workforce. We look forward to the many things that he will accomplish in the future as we are certain that it is bright!”

Dr. Jason Smith, left, HPSS Department Chair, shares a moment with Noah Pennington during a classroom activity on the main campus. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Dr. Lolita D. Toney, TSU’s Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement, emphasized the importance of mentorship and professional development: “Noah and students like him gain invaluable hands-on experiences and mentorship touchpoints that will lay the foundation for their future careers. Hopefully, one day they too will be inspired to pay it forward.”

Dr. Jason Smith, HPSS department chair, praised Pennington for his exemplary work ethic and leadership during his internship. “Noah Pennington exemplifies our mission of bridging classroom learning with real-world application. His initiative, creativity, and strong work ethic have set him apart and served as an inspiration to his peers. He embodies the HPSS ideal: a driven student leveraging education and personal talent to excel in the professional sports world.”

Pennington is scheduled to graduate in May. He has already lined up a job offer, positioning himself perfectly to make significant contributions to the sports industry.

For more information on the TSU Human Performance and Sports Sciences program, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/hpss/.

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TSU Offers Free, 24/7 Comprehensive Telehealth Services to Students

January 21, 2025 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is making comprehensive telehealth services available to all students at no cost and without the hassle of traditional insurance. Imagine having a wellness resource at your fingertips: From the comfort of their dorm rooms, students can simply download an app and access a wide range of medical and mental health services from licensed professionals nationwide.

This initiative is the result of a groundbreaking partnership with TimelyCare, a leader in virtual health and well-being services. Thanks to this collaboration, students will no longer have to navigate complex insurance regulations or endure lengthy waits for appointments.

Getting started with TimelyCare is easy for TSU students. They can simply download the TimelyCare app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store or visit timelycare.com. By logging in with their TSU credentials, students can schedule appointments, seek immediate care, and explore numerous health and wellness resources directly from their devices.

“This platform is a game-changer for our students,” says Chrishonda O’Quinn, President of the Student Government Association. “Our goal is to encourage students to reach their potential both academically and in their extracurricular pursuits, but that can only happen if they are mentally and physically well. TimelyCare addresses the barriers many of us face regarding mental health resources. This service provides the support students need at their fingertips.”

Tamya Franklin, a junior biology major from Memphis, Tennessee, echoes this sentiment: “I think TimelyCare is an amazing service. TSU pouring into its students with this resource is phenomenal, especially in our communities where we face adversity daily. Mental health isn’t often talked about, but it’s so important because many health issues stem from it.”

With this partnership, students will benefit from:

– 24/7 On-Demand Care: Immediate support available at any time, recognizing that health concerns often arise outside regular business hours.

– Diverse Provider Options: Access to mental health professionals who reflect the student body’s diversity, with many offerings multilingual support.

– Enhanced Peace of Mind: Platform prioritizes the protection of students’ personal health information.

Tyler Vazquez

University officials say the initiative aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access, reducing wait times and providing a diverse network of providers ready to assist students in navigating their health journey.

“TimelyCare is fundamentally transforming how students engage with their health,” says Dr. Bridgett Golman, Vice President for Student Affairs at TSU. “With the increasing demand for mental health resources, this partnership provides immediate support, helping to reduce stigma and prioritize student well-being.”

Tyler Vazquez, Student Trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, adds, “This invaluable resource empowers students to thrive, ensuring we have access to the care we need without barriers. It demonstrates TSU’s commitment to our health and success.”

Recent studies indicate that 69 percent of undergraduate students who drop out cite emotional stress as a significant factor in their decision. In this context, TimelyCare serves as an essential resource, with 75 percent of users reporting mental health improvements after using the service, including 100 percent among those at potential suicide risk.

Luke Hejl, CEO and Co-founder of TimelyCare, states, “By partnering with TSU, we’re dedicated to fostering student success through accessible, team-based care. This collaborative approach not only supports students where they are but also enhances their ability to reach academic and personal goals.”

Dr. Dorsha N. James, Director of Student Health Services at TSU, says, “With the addition of TimelyCare, students now have more healthcare options. I’m excited that alongside on-campus medical services, students can access nationwide providers 24/7. These counseling and medical services are offered at no cost, relieving financial burdens while promoting health management.”

With the launch of TimelyCare at TSU, students are now empowered to take charge of their mental and physical health, supporting their academic success and overall well-being.

For more information about the TimelyCare partnership and the services available to TSU students, visit TSU TimelyCare.

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TSU Takes Center Stage at 2024 World Food Prize Foundation Conference

November 20, 2024 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, a leader in agricultural and environmental sciences, played a major role in this year’s World Food Prize Foundation Conference, which convened over 1,200 participants from more than 60 countries to engage in critical discussions on global food security, diversification, and sustainability in agriculture.

An 1890 Land-Grant institution, TSU attracts significant funding and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, contributing to its mission of fostering innovation and enhancing food accessibility. This year’s conference held in Des Moines, Iowa, Oct. 29-31, spotlighted the urgent need for sustainable practices to increase the quality, quantity, and availability of food globally.

A highlight of the conference was the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, featuring a distinguished panel on “Cultivating the Next Generation of Food and Agriculture Leaders.” TSU President, Dr. Ronald A. Johnson, and senior environmental science major, Kennedy Bentley, represented the university on the panel. Bentley, a 4.0 GPA student and a USDA Institute of Food and Agriculture NexGen Scholar, embodies the university’s commitment to developing future leaders in environmental conservation. Recently, she showcased her dedication by speaking at the G-7 Summit in Italy and participating in food preservation training in Senegal.

Dr. Manjit Misra, Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), moderated the panel and highlighted the USDA’s investment of $262 million over five years in its NextGen program, aiming to attract 20,000 young professionals to the field of food and agriculture. “We have already engaged 5,500 youths in the program, putting us on track to achieve our ambitious vision,” Misra stated.

In response to questions about innovative educational solutions to reach underserved communities, Dr. Johnson likened the world to a jigsaw puzzle, emphasizing the necessity of diversity. “Without these critical pieces, solutions to our global challenges will remain elusive,” he asserted.

Bentley underscored the importance of creating meaningful engagement opportunities for youth, citing her incredible experiences with the NextGen program. “It was phenomenal. It promoted academic success and fostered global interactions,” Bentley stated. “Youth voices need to be heard in high-level discussions.”

Dr. Johnson further stressed the importance of equity in representation within the agricultural sector: “We must bring in individuals who were previously overlooked and enable them to contribute to societal growth and impact.”

As the only Historically Black College and University represented at the conference, TSU’s participation was significant in addressing the industry’s need for new leadership to replace retiring professionals. Dr. Chandra Reddy, Dean of the TSU College of Agriculture, emphasized, “TSU’s involvement at such a prestigious forum not only highlights our brand on an international scale but also reinforces our responsibility to cultivate the next generation of agriculture leaders.”

The panel also included remarks from industry leaders like Paul Schickler, Chair of the World Food Prize Foundation Council of Advisors, and Wendy Wintersteen, President of Iowa State University, who shared insights on addressing the challenges faced in the agricultural realm.

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TSU Students Lead Voter Mobilization Initiatives for Upcoming Presidential Election

October 31, 2024 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – With one of the most anticipated presidential elections just days away, Tennessee State University students are actively ensuring that their voices are heard, and their votes are counted. Student leaders will hold a series of voter education and civic engagement initiatives to mobilize fellow students for the upcoming General Election. Events include rallies, a social media campaign, and an Election Day Watch party Nov. 5, from 7-10 p.m., at the Floyd-Payne Campus Center. Absentee ballot awareness is a major focus to help registered students to vote in other areas.

Chrishonda O’Quinn, Student Government Association President, emphasized her administration’s commitment to civic engagement since the start of the fall semester. In a push to maintain momentum leading up to the election, TSU’s student Instagram platform features a countdown to Election Day campaign, fostering excitement and engagement within the student body.

“We started with voter registration, holding an open house with voter registration tables in the campus center where students could register on the spot,” said O’Quinn. “We also organized a voter awareness rally and, in collaboration with the Office of Alumni Relations, hosted an empowerment panel discussing the significance of voting, complete with student performances that really energized our peers to get involved.”

Under the theme, “Be Empowered Tigers,” TSU students are mobilizing to maximize voter participation and education. Dr. Bridgett Golman, Vice President of Student Affairs, expressed the university’s dedication to ensuring students are well informed about the voting process and their rights.

“At Tennessee State University, we believe in the power of our students’ voices,” Golman said. “It is crucial for every student to understand not only how to vote but also the impact that their participation has on their community and the future of our nation. We are committed to providing them with the resources and knowledge they need to make informed decisions.”

Many students are taking their responsibility to vote seriously. Mecca Sales, a junior majoring in Family and Consumer Sciences, shared her perspective. “I think the election is very important, especially as a person of color. It is vital to take advantage of the freedoms we have fought hard to obtain. I will be going home to cast my ballot.”

Fellow student Dashia Ramsey, a junior in Nutrition and Dietetics from Birmingham, Alabama, shared her experience voting via absentee ballot. “This election is crucial for us to express our voices. Our ancestors paved the way for us to vote, and it is essential that we participate. TSU is doing an incredible job facilitating voter registration events and helping us be heard.”

University officials are equally committed to energizing students about civic participation. Cristal Roach, Assistant Dean of Student Activities, highlighted the importance of being involved not just in presidential elections but also in local and state elections. “We want students to understand the significance of voting and to actively take part in the electoral process, especially first-time voters who may not know the requirements,” Roach stated. “We’re making it fun and informative, with activities centered on real issues that students care about.”

The purpose of the events are to promote an understanding and interest in the political process. The Student Election Commission will play a major role in the proceedings, ensuring that students are aware of voting rights.

For more information on TSU’s civic engagement activities or to get involved, please contact the Office of Student Activities at (615) 963-5250, or visit https://www.tnstate.edu/activities.