By Angel Higgins and Emmanuel Freeman
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a display of community spirit, Tennessee State University’s corporate partners are making sure no student goes hungry. The Tiger Food Pantry, a beacon of hope for those wrestling with food insecurity, has received a remarkable surge of support in recent days.
On January 19, nearly 20 dedicated volunteers from HCA, a leading healthcare giant, rolled up their sleeves to restock the pantry, embracing the spirit of service on MLK Day. Just four days later, the commitment continued as Dollar General, one of the pantry’s steadfast allies, presented a $1,000 check from its African American Employee Resource Group, aimed at providing vital supplies to students in need.
Since opening its doors in the basement of Wilson Hall in 2015, the Tiger Pantry has become a lifeline for over 1,200 students and even staff members seeking emergency assistance. Amid the hustle of college life, students find solace in this sanctuary, where nourishment is just a few steps away. Freshman nursing major, Jazmine Samuels from Atlanta, shared her heartfelt gratitude: “The Tiger Pantry really means a lot to me. Knowing food is always there takes a huge weight off my shoulders, especially during times like snowstorms. It’s a simple but crucial resource that helps us get through.”
Echoing her sentiments, senior psychology and architectural engineering major Dwight DeBerry from Memphis reflected on the pantry’s role in his personal academic journey. “I can honestly say there were times I relied on those resources to get through. It’s hard to put into words, but it truly means everything,” DeBerry said
Leigh Oliver, the executive director of the Career Development Center, which oversees the Tiger Pantry, expressed profound appreciation for the partnerships. “The help from HCA and the donation from Dollar General mean a lot to our Tiger Pantry and, more importantly, to our students,” she said. “Many of them don’t have reliable transportation to grocery stores, so having access to basic food staples right here on campus makes a real difference in their daily lives. When partners like these step in to support us, it shows our students that the community sees them, cares about them, and is invested in their success. That kind of support goes far beyond food—it helps sustain hope and dignity.”
Zahyra Viel, a product analyst at HCA and proud TSU alum, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. “I know firsthand the challenges students face. Being able to give back is incredibly fulfilling. Everyone deserves access to basic needs, and I’m honored to be part of a team that makes that possible.”
Jeremy West, IT project manager at Dollar General and president of the African American Employee Resource Group, added, “We’re proud to partner with Tennessee State University in support of the Tiger Food Pantry. This donation helps advance food security and accessibility for students. We are honored to contribute to their well-being and academic success.” West was accompanied by four company representatives, including three TSU alums.
As the Tiger Food Pantry continues its mission of supporting students, it thrives on the generosity of the community. Open during the academic year on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the pantry welcomes contributions of food, hygiene products, and monetary donations.
To stay updated on the latest information, follow the Tiger Food Pantry on Instagram at @tsutigerpantry.
Featured Photo: A team of Dollar General employees, led by Jeremy West, President of the African American Resource Group, presents a check to Leigh Oliver, Executive Director of the Career Development Center, and the staff, to support the TSU Tiger Food Pantry. Photo by Aaron Grayson
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.