Category Archives: Uncategorized

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

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, FACULTY, Featured, NEWS, Uncategorized

TSU Advances AI Education with Amazon’s Machine Learning University

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University announces a new collaboration with the AWS-Machine Learning University (MLU) Educators Consortium and Transformation Alliance, a nationwide initiative helping college faculty integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into their curriculum.

Through this collaboration, faculty from TSU’s Department of Computer Science and the SMART Center are gaining access to training, curated curriculum resources, and ongoing support to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing field of AI/ML.

Dr. Verontae Deams shares information during an Amazon-affiliated career fair highlighting TSU’s ongoing partnership with Amazon.

Through this collaboration, faculty from TSU’s Department of Computer Science and the SMART Center are gaining access to training, curated curriculum resources, and ongoing support to prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing field of AI/ML.

“At Tennessee State University, we recognize the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in shaping the future of education and innovation,” said Provost and Vice President for SMART AI Innovations at TSU, Dr. Robbie Melton.

Melton is among the 2025 Leading Women in AI, recognized for advancing artificial intelligence in education technology, research, and practical applications.

“Through our collaboration with the AWS-MLU Educators Consortium and Transformation Alliance, we are equipping our faculty with cutting-edge tools and resources to integrate AI into the curriculum, ensuring our students are prepared for the careers of tomorrow,” Melton said.

Dr. Robbie Melton

TSU is one of several institutions participating in this effort. The initiative aims to build inclusive AI education pathways, especially at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Jerome Johnson, director of Solutions Architecture, National Security, and Defense at Amazon Web Services stated that the industry-aligned curriculum is the catalyst that transforms academic potential into innovation reality. “Our collaboration with the Tennessee State University through the AWS-MLU Educators Consortium provides faculty and students with hands-on AI experience using real-world tools and frameworks,” Johnson said.

“TSU’s participation in this program demonstrates how strategic academic collaborations can accelerate both learning and breakthrough discovery, ensuring the next generation of AI innovators reflects the diverse perspectives needed to tackle tomorrow’s greatest challenges.”

As part of TSUs multifaceted partnership with Amazon, Dr. Portia Johnson takes part in an Amazon Career Choice outreach event.

This project offers hands-on training that is easily integrated into the current curriculum and new courses and programs, and a long-term community of practice. “This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for AI/ML expertise but also reinforces our commitment to fostering AI tech education, empowering all our student body to become leaders and innovators in this rapidly evolving field,” Melton said.

This collaboration reflects TSU’s ongoing commitment to future-ready learning and academic excellence. By empowering faculty with the tools to bring AI and ML into the classroom, TSU is preparing students to lead in a tech-driven world.

Alumni, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

Tennessee State University to Build $60M State-of-the-Art Engineering Facility 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is taking a step toward a future-ready campus with a new, nearly 70,000-square-foot engineering building. Approved by the Tennessee State Building Commission on August 15, the $60 million facility will serve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge research, while reflecting TSU’s commitment to sustainability, workforce development, and leadership among university engineering programs.

Rendering of the rear view of Tennessee State University’s new College of Engineering building, scheduled for completion in Summer 2027. (Photo courtesy of Melvin Gill & Associates and Bauer Askew Architecture.)
 

The project will consolidate engineering programs and the Applied & Industrial Technology program into one modern, interdisciplinary complex designed to foster collaboration across all academic levels.

Construction is expected to begin later this year, with completion slated for summer 2027.

“The new building is a substantial investment in the College of Engineering,” said Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering.

“Over the years, our college has experienced significant growth in students, faculty, research, and academic programs. This facility will provide a world-class space that enhances interdisciplinary collaboration across six undergraduate programs, three master’s programs, and one Ph.D. program. It will also host innovative engineering activities that directly benefit the metro Nashville area and Middle Tennessee.”

Dr. Lin Li, Dean of the College of Engineering

The building will include classrooms, computer labs, over 30 teaching and research laboratories combined, and more. Among the many instructional labs are a Future Energy Lab, Additive Manufacturing Lab, and Drone Flight and Air Traffic Lab, which will give students hands-on training in emerging areas of engineering.

“The new engineering building is the first step in elevating Tennessee State University’s engineering program to meet the demands of industry and the state of Tennessee,” said Will Radford, assistant vice president of Planning, Design, and Construction. “By establishing new partnerships and providing modern facilities, we are positioning TSU engineering students to not only keep pace but to set standards in the industry.”   

Rendering of the student commons area inside Tennessee State University’s new College of Engineering building.

The building is being designed by Melvin Gill & Associates, and Bauer Askew Architecture in partnership with TSU’s Planning, Design, and Construction team.

TSU President Dwayne Tucker emphasized the project’s importance for both the university and the broader community.

Will Radford, Assistant Vice President of Planning, Design, and Construction.

“This building represents an opportunity for innovation and leadership,” said President Tucker. “Tennessee State University is preparing the next generation of engineers who will shape our state and our nation. This investment ensures that our students have access to the tools, spaces, and experiences necessary to compete globally.”

Tucker added that as the university continues to advance as a future-ready institution, this project underscores its commitment to meeting the growing workforce demand for engineers in Tennessee and beyond. “It reflects our mission to provide access, sustainability, and impact while positioning TSU as a leading university,” he said.

To learn more about the College of Engineering, visit www.tnstate.edu/engineering/.

Alumni, EVENTS, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU Begins New Era with President Dwayne Tucker’s Bold Vision for Transformational Change

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — In his first state-of-the-university address as President of Tennessee State University, Dwayne Tucker, an alumnus and former Board of Trustees member, presented an ambitious agenda aimed at revitalizing the institution. Addressing faculty and staff at the Faculty and Staff Institute, Tucker emphasized a transformative, student-first approach that prioritizes enhanced customer service, student sustainability, operational efficiency, and a comprehensive plan to address the university’s challenges.

Minutes after his state-of-the-university address, President Dwayne Tucker joined faculty and staff in singing the TSU Alma Mater. From left: Dr. Robbie Melton, President Tucker, Dr. Eric Stokes, Jim Grady, and Dr. Artenzia Young-Seigler. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Tucker, who took on the presidency August 5 after effectively serving as interim president since December 2024, is championing a transformative vision for TSU’s future. He said, “To make real progress, we must embrace a foundational change in how we operate.” This call to action reflects a proactive approach to positioning TSU for future growth in enrollment and financial stability.

In outlining TSU’s financial challenges, Tucker acknowledged the necessity for a multi-year turnaround strategy. The university aims to transition from deficits to a net surplus within three years, he said. He indicated the essential roles of strategic partners, including the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR), the consulting firm Strata Information Group (SIG), and an IT advisor in facilitating this transformation.

As part of his comprehensive agenda, Tucker mentioned the introduction of Slate, a critical Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool aimed at enhancing recruitment and enrollment processes. He reinforced the commitment to transparency and efficiency within university operations, emphasizing, “There’s no sacred policy; we must reimagine TSU for the next 100 years.”

Faculty and staff in the packed Kean Hall welcome President Dwayne Tucker with a standing ovation as he is presented by the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Tucker elaborated on the need to reassess fiscal responsibilities, underscoring the importance of operating with a mindset akin to that of a for-profit organization. He noted that all budget areas should be carefully reviewed, hinting at potential cost-saving measures.

Dr. Robbie Melton, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, welcomed Tucker with enthusiasm, stating, “We are all excited about the energy and vision that President Tucker brings to TSU. His insights into the importance of customer service and community engagement resonate deeply with our mission as an institution dedicated to student success.”

To further bolster enrollment efforts, Tucker announced the appointment of Dr. Eric Stokes as the new Vice President of Enrollment Management. Stokes, a seasoned professional with a strong track record, emphasized the need for collaboration across all facets of the university. “Everyone in the Tiger community, including faculty, staff, students and alumni, will play a role in advancing the university,” Stokes said.

Dr. Eric Stokes, Vice President of Enrollment Management, comes to TSU with more than 20 of experience as a strategic enrollment leader. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Echoing President Tucker’s sentiments, Stokes expressed excitement about the implementation of the new CRM tool. “Slate will empower us to enhance our recruitment strategies and engage prospective students more effectively,” Stokes said. He assured attendees that preparations for the incoming fall 2026 cohort are already underway.

Faculty and staff members responded positively to Tucker’s vision, with Dr. Trinetia Respress, dean of Graduate and Professional Studies, illustrating the growing optimism around customer service initiatives that prioritize student needs as a pathway to university success. Leah Granderson, executive director of Planning, Design, Construction, and Operations, echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing the collective commitment to sustaining TSU’s growth by placing students and their families at the heart of all efforts.

President Tucker concluded his address by reinforcing his belief in the faculty and staff’s critical role in executing the transformation needed at TSU. His message resonated with his colleagues, instilling a sense of unity and determination to overcome current challenges together.

As the new academic year approaches, TSU is preparing for fall classes to begin on August 18, while freshman move-in was scheduled from August 12-13. The university will also open its One-Stop Shop from August 12-22, providing students with a valuable opportunity to complete any last-minute processes necessary for class registration.
                                                                                   

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public land-grant university offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU’s campus spans 500 acres. The university is committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders. Visit tnstate.edu for more details. 

Alumni, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

Tennessee State University Board of Trustees Appoints Dwayne Tucker as President

By Angela Mills

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is pleased to announce that alumnus Dwayne Tucker is the institution’s new president. The TSU Board of Trustees made the appointment on Tuesday, August 5, during a special meeting.

Dakasha Winton, TSU Board Chair, said, “On behalf of the TSU Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dwayne Tucker as the new President of TSU. His leadership through continued uncertainty and turbulent times with dignity, grace under fire, and a strong resolve to put students first made him the obvious choice.”

President Tucker has served as interim president of TSU since December 2024. He is the ninth president of Tennessee State University.

“I thank the Board of Trustees, students, faculty, staff, and our alumni for their support as we continue this journey,” Tucker said. “My focus remains on putting TSU on a path to sustainability. With the help of our State legislators, the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, the Tennessee Board of Regents, and other supporters, we will extend the legacy of TSU.”

Prior to Tucker’s selection as interim president, he served as the CEO of LEAD Public Schools, a network of public charter schools in the Metro Nashville area.

Tucker’s diverse business background and turnaround work with underperforming businesses brings a broad understanding of corporate functions, including sales, operations, marketing, public relations, information technology, legal, human resources, and finance/accounting to the university.

Tucker has held the titles of CEO, chief human resource officer, chief administrative officer, and president with companies including First Data, Northwest Airlines, and Alliance Data.

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/.

FACULTY, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

Tennessee State University Appoints New Vice President of Enrollment Management

By Angela Mills

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee State University is excited to announce the appointment of Eric Stokes, Ph.D., a strategic enrollment leader with a proven track record in higher education, as the new Vice President of Enrollment Management. With more than 20 years of experience, he will play a pivotal role in advancing TSU’s enrollment initiatives.

Dr. Stokes, a Knoxville native, said, “I’m excited to join Tennessee State University in this new role and am committed to working with our dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni to promote TSU as a premier institution for higher education. Together, we will cultivate an inclusive and dynamic environment that empowers students to achieve their academic and personal goals.”

Dr. Stokes most recently served as the Assistant Vice Provost for Strategic Enrollment Management at the University of Memphis, where he successfully enrolled the largest freshman class in the university’s modern history. Under his leadership, the university increased the average GPA and ACT/SAT scores of incoming students, dramatically grew the dual enrollment program to the largest in the state, and implemented innovative recruitment strategies that are best practices in the industry.

In his new role, which reports to the TSU president, Dr. Stokes will oversee all areas of enrollment management, including recruitment, admissions, and records. His experience implementing a first-in-class enrollment CRM platform, which will significantly enhance strategic recruitment and data-driven enrollment management, will be invaluable to TSU.

“Dr. Stokes’ team-oriented strategy in enrollment management will significantly enhance TSU’s efforts to reach our goals and foster support for our diverse student body,” said Interim President Dwayne Tucker.

Dr. Stokes holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration and a master’s in Higher Education Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public land-grant university offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU’s campus spans 500 acres. The university is committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders. Visit tnstate.edu for more details. 

Alumni, College of Education, FACULTY, FEATURED, Featured, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU Launches Ambitious ‘One Move Big Impact’ Initiative: College of Education to Relocate Downtown

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a transformative move toward modernized education and operational excellence, Tennessee State University has unveiled its groundbreaking “One Move. Big Impact.” initiative. This strategic undertaking will see the relocation of the College of Education from its main campus to the vibrant downtown Avon Williams Off Campus Instructional Site, effective this upcoming fall semester.

 TSU’s downtown Avon Williams campus will soon be home to the College of Education as part of the university’s new ‘One Move. Big Impact.’ initiative.

This initiative is a commitment to enhancing student experiences, fostering collaborative spaces, research laboratories, and an expansion of the teaching and excellence center, Dr. Janet Finch, dean of the College of Education, stated. “The access to advanced laboratory spaces where students can engage in practical, hands-on learning is pivotal. It’s about providing our students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical applications that will empower them in their careers, as well as aligning them with Nashville’s dynamic growth and educational community.”

“This initiative is much more than just moving buildings; it’s about reimagining how we educate and support our students in real-world environments,” emphasized Dr. Robbie Melton, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs and SMART Technology AI Innovations. “We are excited about the potential this move holds for streamlining operations and enriching the educational journey through access to invaluable resources and urban engagement.” Melton underscored the importance of equipping students with 21st-century technology enhanced skills in settings that reflect the demand of their future workplace.

Dr. Robbie Melton

Additionally, the strategic expansion plans include significant enhancements to laboratory spaces and research centers, most notably the AI For All Applied Research Innovation Center. This nationally renowned center serves as a hub for innovation in artificial intelligence, especially designed to enrich the teaching and learning processes while preparing students for a rapidly evolving technological workforce. The initiative to relocate aims to foster an environment where these resources can be fully utilized and integrated into the academic experience.

In addition to the College of Education’s new home, the “One Move. Big Impact.” initiative will involve strategic space adjustments and consolidations within the entities already at the Avon Williams Off Campus Instructional Site, including the College of Business, College of Public Affairs, Department of Speech and Language, Department of Public Health, Adult Education, Library and Media Services, and the recently recognized top online (Forbes 2025) “TSU Global Online/eLearn.” As part of the space adjustment, the staff of the Incubation Center will undergo a reorganization for optimal space utilization, thus enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration that is crucial for innovative research and teaching.

Guided by benchmarks set by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) and industry best practices, TSU’s space optimization initiative aims to consolidate programs into this urban hub, which will emphasize student-centered workspaces equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

Leah Granderson

“We are embracing a fresh vision of what a productive learning environment looks like,” said Fabien Jolivette, director of planning and logistics lead for the initiative. “Our goal is to maximize space utilization and advance operational efficiency, ultimately fostering a vibrant community capable of meeting today’s educational demands.” This comprehensive reimagining of space will create collaborative studios, innovation labs, and research centers that are strategically designed to enhance student collaboration and inquiry, Jolivette added.

Leah Granderson, TSU’s executive planning director and project sponsor, emphasized the importance of the initiative.

“’One Move. Big Impact.’ exemplifies how one thoughtful action can lead to significant results,” Granderson said. “This revitalization aligns our facilities with current enrollment levels while enhancing our downtown presence. With the state Capitol, major transit thoroughfares, and cultural landmarks within reach, the Avon Williams Campus will continue to be an academic beacon for our community.” This strategic placement not only enhances educational access but also situates students in proximity to various professional opportunities and resources within Nashville’s bustling urban landscape.

The “One Move. Big Impact.” initiative is due for completion by the fall semester, marking a pivotal chapter in TSU’s plan aimed at enhancing student, faculty, and staff experiences while strengthening the university’s operational framework through innovative research and educational excellence.

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.

Alumni, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, RANKINGS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU Recognized by Forbes as a Top HBCU for Online Programs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News) – Tennessee State University continues to distinguish itself as a national leader in virtual learning after recently earning a top ten spot on Forbes’ 2025 list of Best Online Programs among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

As a public, comprehensive land-grant institution located in the heart of Nashville, TSU offers affordable, accessible, and high-quality academic programs while adapting to evolving student needs. From working professionals to adult learners returning to finish their degrees, TSU’s digital platform is designed to meet learners where they are.

Dr. Cheryl Seay, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Global Online, said the university has prioritized online education since launching its first program in 2001. “The objective is to broaden TSU’s impact across Tennessee, the nation, and internationally,” Seay said, noting that the success of TSU Global Online is a reflection of the dedicated faculty and staff. “By leveraging cutting edge technology and innovative teaching methods, the university ensures that students feel engaged and supported throughout their journey, regardless of location, reaffirming TSU’s role as a leader in online education.”

TSU was also awarded the 2024 Best Online Master’s in Tennessee designation by Online Master Colleges, reinforcing the university’s strength in graduate education. The university offers nearly 40 fully online programs, including undergraduate degrees, certificate programs, and graduate degrees such as the EdD in Educational Leadership, the PhD in Public Policy and Administration, and master’s degrees in Data Science and Business Data Analytics.

One standout program is the online accelerated Master of Business Administration, which allows students to earn their degree in 12 months while maintaining full-time careers. De’jah Hill, a recent graduate of the MBA program, said the Forbes recognition is well earned. “Being recognized by Forbes affirms that my alma mater is on the right path,” Hill said. “The online program gave me everything I needed. It was flexible, the professors were invested in our success, and I never felt like I was navigating it alone.”

TSU supports adult learners through its Pathway to Completion program, which assists those who have been out of school for two or more years in returning to finish their degrees online.

At the Avon Williams Off Campus Instructional Site, the SMART Center serves as a hub for academic innovation and research, offering online professional development courses that explore emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Dr. Robbie Melton, interim provost of academic affairs and vice president for technology and innovation at TSU, emphasized the university’s global reach. “Our online programs and classes are internationally recognized, with students across the globe seeking education access and career training,” she said.

Building on that momentum, Dr. Seay noted that combining TSU’s tradition of excellence with modern digital tools is what continues to drive national recognition. She emphasized the university’s commitment to expanding access, strengthening student support systems, and preparing learners for success in an increasingly digital world.

To learn more about TSU’s online programs and opportunities, visit www.tnstate.edu/online/contact.aspx.