New Mister and Miss TSU Crowned in Annual Homecoming Celebration

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Last night, amid a festive atmosphere of pomp, circumstance, and pageantry, Tennessee State University continued a Homecoming tradition with the coronation of the new Mister and Miss TSU and their Royal Court. The event took place in Kean Hall on the main campus, where hundreds of parents, friends, fellow students, and university officials gathered to witness the occasion.

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson, and his wife, Mrs. Irene Oakley Johnson, congratulate the newly crowned Mister. and Miss TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Chandler Carrington Cotton and Chandler Tiana Holt were crowned as Mister TSU and Miss TSU, respectively. Cotton, a senior biology major from Tulsa, Oklahoma, becomes the 34th Mister TSU, while Holt, a senior health science major from Birmingham, Alabama, is now the 94th Miss TSU in the university’s history.

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson officiated the ceremony, administering the university oath to the newly crowned king and queen. He congratulated Cotton and Holt, emphasizing the importance and legacy of their new roles. “Taking on the responsibility of Mr. TSU and Miss TSU is steeped in tradition,” President Johnson said, highlighting the significance of their titles.

Six former Miss TSUs congratulate Chandler Tiana Cotton on her coronation as the new Miss TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Following President Johnson, his wife, Irene Oakley, delivered the charge to the university’s royalty, encouraging them to embrace their roles with dignity and purpose.

Cotton expressed his gratitude for the support he received throughout his journey. “I credit my family, friends, and the caring culture at TSU, along with my deep faith in God, for my success,” he said, adding that his career goal is in medical sales.

The TSU Sophisticated Ladies perform at the coronation of the New Mister and Miss TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Holt, the daughter of two TSU alumni, shared her aspirations for the future: “My ultimate hope is to be able to impact at least one person in each room I step into.” She also acknowledged the vital role her family, friends, and university community played in her achievements. Holt aims to pursue a master’s degree in health sciences after graduation.

Former Mister TSU Naton Smith, Jr., and Former Miss TSU Mariah Rhodes serve as master and mistress of ceremonies at the coronation. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The new Mister and Miss TSU Royal Court includes:

– Mister and Miss Senior: Garrison Holland and Alaska Humphrey

– Mister and Miss Junior: Brandon Diggs and Kennedy Chambers

– Mister and Miss Sophomore: Tylor Miller and Tiona Roberts

– Mister and Miss Freshman: Tayten Waters and Jaylen Brunson

The coronation was a highlight of TSU’s Homecoming week (Oct. 6-11), celebrating the university’s spirit and fostering a sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.