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TSU joins FirstGen Forward, boosts support for First-Gen Students

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been recognized for its dedication to enhancing the experiences and outcomes of first-generation college students. TSU has been selected as a new member of the FirstGen Forward Network, a national nonprofit organization formerly known as the Center for First-Generation Student Success.

FirstGen Forward selects higher education institutions, businesses, and other organizations for their network that demonstrate a commitment to improving the experiences and success of first-generation college students.

Dr. Sessi Aboh, Director of the Title III You First Project and Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students at TSU, said the partnership aligns with the You First Project organization’s mission and will elevate the university’s efforts.

Dr. Sessi Aboh

“When we started the You First Project, we affirmed TSUs commitment to our students’ success and upheld the institution’s dedication to using a systematic approach and leveraging best practices,” Aboh said. “We aim to advance student success and increase first-generation students’ persistence and graduation rates. Partnering with experts and a community of peer institutions will help us gain additional insights and skills.”

The You First Project is a comprehensive care network designed to support first-generation students at TSU, guiding them toward improved graduation rates and career readiness.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, TSU had 1,200 first-generation students and hosted programs featuring panel discussions and gift giveaways to celebrate these new students.

Institutions must apply to join the FirstGen Forward Network. During their first year of active engagement, Network Member institutions commit to building a foundational understanding of first-generation student success through monthly workshops, networking, professional development opportunities, and sharing resources. Successful completion of these requirements may lead to advancement to the Network Leader phase, with the ultimate goal of achieving Network Champion status.

FirstGen Forward’s three-phase approach to scaling holistic first-generation student success will benefit both TSU students and the You First Project. This approach includes engaging and empowering institutions to transform the first-generation student experience, advance academic and co-curricular outcomes, and build more inclusive institutional structures. Over 400 higher education institutions across the country are part of the FirstGen Forward Network.

Maurice Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, expressed enthusiasm about TSU’s membership. “We are excited to see a groundswell of activity from the Class of 2024 Network Members and know that Tennessee State University will be a significant contributor,” Jones said.

“Being named a Network Member in the FirstGen Forward Network is an exciting opportunity for Tennessee State University,” Jones continued. “It allows us to join a dedicated community of professionals ready to share evidence-based practices and resources, tackle challenges, and advance the success of first-generation students nationwide.”

The You First Project: Graduation Initiatives for First-Generation Students is a Title III/FUTURE Act Grant initiative. For more information about the You First Project, visit www.tnstate.edu/youfirst or contact the TSU You First Project/Title III at 615-963-4969. To learn more about FirstGen Forward, visit https://firstgen.naspa.org.

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TSU Interim President Ronald Johnson outlines vision for university with 100 Day plan

Nashville, TN, August 13, 2024 – Tennessee State University’s Interim President, Ronald A. Johnson, unveiled his First 100 Day Action Plan during the university’s Fall Faculty Staff Institute on Monday, August 12. The plan, which began on July 8, introduces the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI), a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation.

Dr. Johnson brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in higher education, having co-founded the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University and served in key advisory roles for national organizations. He is also an accomplished economist and investment manager, with a background in managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios and holding senior positions at major financial institutions.

Dr. Johnson’s First 100 Day Action Plan and the TCI are designed to address the pressing challenges facing TSU, ensuring that the university remains future-ready and poised for success in the years to come.

Please view the First 100 Day Plan here.

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TSU interim President unveils 100-Day plan during fall gathering 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The new academic year at Tennessee State University began with renewed enthusiasm at the TSU Faculty and Staff Institute (FSI) for 2024-25. The event marked Interim President Dr. Ronald A. Johnson’s first formal appearance before faculty and staff. Dr. Johnson was warmly welcomed by over 300 employees as he introduced key leadership additions and launched his 100-Day Action Plan, the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI). This initiative is designed to address current challenges and ensure TSU remains future-ready and poised for success.

Pres. Johnson, center, with the 84th Student Government Association student leaders during the 2024-25 Faculty and Staff Institute.

“I am here. I am ready, and I am prepared to pilot the trajectory of this institution,” President Johnson declared to the faculty and staff, who donned TSU blue to show their Tiger spirit.

The 100-Day Action Plan is a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation. The plan also includes addressing operational leadership, assessing and resolving issues, strategic alignment, and financial stabilization.

Dr. Johnson brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in higher education and has a distinguished career in the HBCU community. Johnson is the former president of Clark Atlanta University and served in key advisory roles for national organizations. He is also an accomplished economist and investment manager, with extensive experience in managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios and holding senior positions at major financial institutions.

“To be more, we must commit to doing more,” he told the audience, outlining his approach to leading TSU. “And the road ahead will not be easy.” He emphasized the importance of understanding internal stakeholder needs and tailoring cross-organizational alignment and execution strategies.

Pres. Johnson, left, meets Duanté Abercrombie, center, who is the inaugural head coach of the men’s hockey team, and Nick Guerriero, right, the Director of Hockey during FSI.  

During the event faculty, and staff engaged in a Q&A session with President Johnson. He highlighted TSU’s achievements, such as the state-of-the-art SMART Global Center and the significant research efforts within the College of Agriculture. He also acknowledged the unprecedented challenges the university has faced and discussed his plans to enhance communication and success across the campus.

President Johnson noted that improving TSU’s services is essential for understanding and meeting student needs, and for integrating delivery channels to provide a seamless student experience across all touchpoints.

He also announced the addition of two seasoned higher education leaders to his team. Dr. Bridgett Golman, who will serve as Interim Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, and Darryl Thompson, who will serve as Special Advisor for External Affairs, Infrastructure, and Major Projects.

“Their extensive experience and dedication to institutional excellence will be crucial as we continue to execute our 100-Day Action Plan, meet the Board’s strategic goals, and prepare TSU for a successful future,” President Johnson stated.

Nearly 300 faculty and staff donned TSU blue to show their Tiger spirit during this year’s FSI to kick off the Fall 2024 semester.

The annual event also featured brief remarks from every TSU college dean, welcoming President Johnson. Faculty and staff heard from Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robbie Melton, Chair of the Faculty Senate Dr. Artenzia Young-Seigler, Director of engagement and visibility Reginald Cannon, and more. Student Government Association leaders, along with newly appointed student trustee Tyler Vazquez, were also present.

At this year’s FSI, Dr. Johnson set the foundation for TSU’s journey toward becoming a Future-Ready institution, ready to meet the challenges of the next decade and beyond.

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Get Ready for Fall at TSU’s One Stop Shop!

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Still need to finalize your fall enrollment? Tennessee State University is offering a One Stop Shop at Kean Hall from August 13-23, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., giving students the chance to take care of essential tasks for the new academic year all in one location.

The One Stop Shop provides a range of services including setting up meal plans, receiving ID badges, getting parking decals, and book bundles and post office mailboxes. Advisors for classes, faculty from the Bursar’s Office, financial aid counselors, and more will be available to assist with any paperwork, including health immunization records.

Dr. Curtis Johnson, Vice President for Administration and Chief of Staff, underscores the significance of this service: “We’re excited that the One-Stop Shop will be open for our students this fall. It’s a great opportunity for students to complete their registration process and receive assistance with IDs, parking permits, academic advisement, or financial aid, ” he said.

“This centralized service eliminates the need to visit multiple departments and brings all the necessary resources into one location.”

For those unsure about required paperwork, Johnson said students should go online first. “We encourage students to go online, especially for parking. Bring your driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and student ID before getting in line. Preloading these items into the system will streamline the process when you arrive.”

Click the links below for additional service information:

Meal plan services. Book bundle information.

ID Card services Postal Service Parking/ Decals

The One Stop Shop will also offer COVID-19 resources, including masks and hand sanitizer, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Chrishonda O’Quinn, SGA President, highlights the value of the center as well from a student’s perspective. “It’s crucial for students to stop by the center because its goal is to assist with any challenges they may face during their time at the university. It’s a valuable resource for navigating your college experience.”

Trey Cunningham, a TSU spring 2024 graduate and former rep at large for the financial aid office said the one stop opportunity is for all students and even TSU employees. “The One Stop Shop is beneficial for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time freshman, returning student, transfer, graduate student, or even an employee,” Cunningham said. “It allows you to handle multiple tasks at once. My freshman year, getting my parking decal at Kean Hall was seamless. “I hope students utilize the resources available and take full advantage of what TSU offers.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to get everything done in one place at the One Stop Shop!

For more information about the One Stop Shop, visit www.tnstate.edu/campus_life/dates.aspx.

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Interim President Johnson Announces Key Additions to Leadership

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University Interim President Ronald A. Johnson has announced the addition of two seasoned higher education leaders, Dr. Bridgett Golman and Darryl Thompson, to his leadership team. These appointments mark significant progress in President Johnson’s First 100 Days Action Plan, which focuses on stabilizing operations, resolving critical issues, and positioning TSU for long-term success.

Dr. Golman and Mr. Thompson will play pivotal roles in advancing the university’s Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI)—a key component of the 100-Day Plan aimed at leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation. Their expertise and leadership will help drive the initiatives necessary to ensure that TSU remains future-ready and aligned with the strategic goals set by the Board of Trustees.

Dr. Bridgett Golman joins the team as the Interim Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students. In this role, she will provide transitional leadership across several key areas, including customer relations, disability services, enrollment services, strategy and effectiveness, and undergraduate recruitment.

Dr. Golman brings 28 years of experience in higher education, having worked at research universities, public universities, and community colleges, where she has been instrumental in enhancing academic performance, elevating the student experience, optimizing enrollment management, and driving institutional growth.

Darryl Thompson will serve as President Johnson’s Special Advisor for External Affairs, Infrastructure, and Major Projects. With over 30 years of experience, Mr. Thompson is recognized for his ability to lead comprehensive strategies for institutional advancement, resource acquisition, and strategic partnerships. His recent tenure at Kentucky State University saw him build strong relationships with elected officials and executive branch leaders, while also ensuring the effectiveness of infrastructure projects and operational efficiency.

“I am pleased to welcome Dr. Bridgett Golman and Darryl Thompson to the TSU leadership team,” said Interim President Johnson. “Their extensive experience and dedication to institutional excellence will be crucial as we continue to execute our First 100 Days Action Plan, meet the Board’s strategic goals, and prepare TSU for a successful future.”

These appointments underscore the progress being made in President Johnson’s efforts to improve TSU’s daily operations and align the university with the Board’s long-term vision. As TSU continues its journey through the 100-Day Plan, the addition of high-caliber leaders like Dr. Golman and Mr. Thompson is a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence and its readiness to face the challenges ahead.

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TSU math camp concludes with NASA visit

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Middle Tennessee high school students took a step toward their future STEM careers, including the possibility of becoming astronauts, thanks to Tennessee State University’s All-Star Math Institute (ASMI) summer camp. The week-long camp, which focused on enhancing mathematical skills and promoting STEM disciplines, culminated in a trip to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama.

ASMI is a free program designed to improve math skills, increase retention in STEM fields, and provide enrichment in AI and coding and explores career opportunities in these areas.

Dr. Andrea Tyler, TSU’s Executive Director for Title III, noted that the camp not only strengthens the university’s connection with the local community but also enhances the pipeline of high school students interested in mathematics and STEM degree programs at TSU.

“The ASMI camp experience helped the students better understand the educational requirements and career options within mathematics, enabling them to make more informed decisions about their academic and professional futures,” Tyler said.

A highlight of the camp was a guest lecture by TSU alumnus Corey Harrell, the Safety and Mission Assurance Branch Chief at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Harrell shared insights about his crucial role in planning the Artemis II mission, overseeing rocket engines essential for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

“People today often don’t realize how integral math is in our lives,” Harrell told the students. “It’s essential in my role as a NASA supervisor and engineer.”

Harrell, who earned a degree in electrical engineering from TSU, emphasized the foundational role of math and science in every rocket launch and satellite. He recounted his journey from being a TSU student to securing a dream internship at NASA, which led to his current leadership position.

“Talking to these aspiring students was both an honor and a pleasure,” Harrell said. “It’s rewarding to influence younger generations while returning to my alma mater.”

Tyler highlighted the impact of the ASMI camp, noting that the concentrated, immersive experience played a crucial role in igniting the students interest in STEM careers. This exposure is valuable for students from underrepresented backgrounds who have limited access to STEM role models and opportunities, he said.

Following the camp, students visited the NASA Museum in Huntsville, Alabama, on the 55th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. The visit featured hands-on space simulations and discussions with NASA scientists.

The ASMI camp, in collaboration with TSU, offers educational enrichment and hands-on experiences for Middle Tennessee high schoolers, shaping their future academic and career paths.

For more information about the ASMI, visit the ASMI Website.

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Covid-19 prevention a priority amid surge in cases, fall return

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  COVID-19 cases are spiking in several states across the country, including Tennessee, as projections from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate the spread of new COVID-19 variants. Recent data shows over 255,000 new cases reported in Davidson County alone within the last 180 days. According to the Tennessee Department of Health, there were nearly 370 new COVID-19 cases in the county for the week ending July 14.

Tennessee State University’s Interim Public Health Program Director, Dr. Wendelyn Iman, emphasizes the importance of immunization as a preventative measure. 

“Whatever strain is out there, whatever our physicians are recommending, I would advise my friends and relatives to ensure their immunizations are up to date,” Dr. Iman said. 

“The most important thing for us, as an institution, is to be proactive in prevention and for individuals to be immunized against COVID-19. Prevention is so much less expensive.”

Dr. Iman, who is also a subject matter expert on infectious diseases, highlights the necessity for TSU, and all institutions, to take additional preventative measures as students return for the fall semester. TSU officials remain optimistic based on past success navigating the pandemic and will encourage the campus community to take precautions if there is an increase in cases. Along with prevention, the University also stresses the importance of protection and awareness for the academic year and beyond.

“The University wants to ensure that individuals who may be exposed or have the potential to be exposed protect themselves and others by continuing to follow our campus COVID protocols,” said Dr. Curtis Johnson, vice president for Administration and Chief of Staff.

“The University will continue to provide masks, sanitizer, and other protective supplies,” Dr. Johnson added. “We are working with our campus health services to encourage frequent hand washing and meeting in well-ventilated areas when gathering in groups.”

Johnson noted that there are COVID-19 protocols in place for students living on campus, as well as those who commute each day. All students should also alert HR, Emergency Management, or Student Affairs if infected.

“Residential students should report to their residence hall director, who will coordinate with health services for isolation, if necessary. Commuting students are asked to stay off campus for 24 hours and follow COVID protocols for the next five days when in public.”

Nationwide, there was a 23.5% increase in emergency room visits for COVID-19, during the week ending July 6, according to CNN. The media outlet also reported that there has been increased viral activity levels for COVID-19 in wastewater.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, TSU implemented comprehensive safety protocols and offered students a variety of resources and support options. In 2021, students who tested positive for COVID-19 were placed in an area known as the IQ (Isolation and Quarantine) zone, where they received 24-hour service, including access to health professionals, meal delivery three times a day, laundry service, and medication if needed. The university even offered incentives, such as gift cards, to encourage students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated. Online class discounts were also available for students.

As of July 15, 2024, the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1 have high prevalence in the United States. According to USA TODAY, the symptoms associated with the KP.3 variant are similar to those from the JN.1 variant. The CDC outlines some basic symptoms of COVID-19, which can appear between two to 14 days after exposure and range from mild to severe:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat

The CDC advises seeking medical attention if experiencing severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds.

TSU does not have a mask or vaccination mandate in place as outlined by state law, and does not provide COVID-19 testing at this time. However, students, faculty, or staff experiencing symptoms or who have tested positive should contact the Campus Health Center at (615) 963-5291 or [email protected], along with the other appropriate departments as outlined by University protocol.

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TSU alumna wins Netflix Barbecue Showdown

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Tennessee State University alumna and chef Shaticka Robinson has proven that even dreams can be smoked to perfection. The former TSU executive chef won season three of Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown and the $50,000 grand prize that came along with the title. Robinson competed against the best backyard smokers and pitmasters in the country.

Tennessee State University alumna Chef Shaticka Robinson competes in episode 306 of Netflix’s “Barbecue Showdown,” ultimately winning the competition. (Photo courtesy of Netflix)

The Nashville native said she always believed in herself and knew she would win the competition.

“I put my soul on the table,” Robinson said. “Being on the grill is a peaceful place for me. So, in my mind, I knew I was a winner.”

Robinson was at TSU for nearly six years before leaving to film the show in Georgia. She shared how her parents taught her how to cook at the age of seven, with the mindset of turning a kitchen into a home. This was especially true at TSU, as she prepared the menu for student dining. In 2018, Robinson was hired at TSU through Aramark as the cafe’s chef.

“How do I turn the cafe into everyone’s kitchen or a home away from home?” Robinson said when she took on the job. “That’s what I tried to create at Tennessee State University. I love TSU, so I thought it would be awesome for me to be able to go back to my school and try to make a difference.”

Robinson was at TSU as the executive chef for nearly six years before leaving to film the show in Georgia.

She noted that her time at the university developed her passion for cooking as well. “Being at TSU, handling the cafe and catering, made me a better chef,” she said.

In 2020, during the pandemic, she started delivering home cooked meals in her Hendersonville neighborhood to those in need. Her cooking efforts quickly became the talk of her community. That’s when she decided to take her passion a step further and purchased her own food truck, Coley’s Jook Junt, where she offers a barbecue feast and soul food.

It was last year when Robinson was sought out by a casting agent to compete in the TV show competition, bringing her much more recognition for her craft. From the show winnings, alongside $50,000, she also won a new smoker that will be needed for her food truck business as she says now her menu items sell out every day.

Barbecue Showdown winner Shaticka Robinson showcasing her grilling skills in episode 303. (Courtesy of Netflix)

Robinson also sells her own dry rib rub online and “Bougie BBQ” merchandise such as T-shirts, hats, and glassware to bring a different style and look to the barbecue industry.

Robinson stated that she is grateful for the recognition of her talents and for showing the world that a Black woman can, too, barbecue.

She concluded with little advice to the thousands of TSU students she has served breakfast, lunch, and dinner to every day in the cafe. “Don’t take failure as a no,” she said. “Dream so big that it scares you. Believe you have greatness in you, because you do.”

Robinson is a wife and a mother of five who currently resides in Nashville.

Watch Chef Robinson on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown and check out her food truck at www.coleysjj.com.

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TSU Honor Society wins prestigious academic award

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s chapter has won the prestigious Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD) Academic Honor Society Order of the Torch Award for the 2023-24 academic year. This award recognizes the most outstanding ALD chapters based on chapter involvement, communication, visibility, and overall presentation during the academic year.

This year, the Board of Directors of ALD recognized TSUs Honor Society chapter as one of five chapters across the nation to receive the Order of the Torch.

TSU is the only HBCU to receive this recognition this year.

Tennessee State University’s chapter is successfully led by the organization’s President Keyon’Dre Boyd, Vice President Calvin Pickett Jr., and elected board members Vinessa Taylor, Azana Bruce, Carrie Estes, Kynnedi Priestly, Promiss Patterson, Morgan Myers, Ziri Mgbeke, and Camille Lander.

TSU chapter Vice President Calvin Pickett, a junior studying criminal justice and political science, said he is proud of the award recognition, especially since the university chapter had been chartered only two years ago.

“It’s phenomenal to see that we were the only HBCU selected among the ALD chapters. Because we put in the work, our events were successful, and we had a phenomenal e-board,” Pickett said.

There are currently over 450 members in the society. “It speaks volumes that we’re more than just an honor society. We’re here to make the university proud by providing service.”

The chapter president, Keyon’Dre Boyd, a rising senior studying biology, stated that the efforts and chapter events have been rewarding.

“It really shows that HBCUs can put in the hard work and make a difference within a national honor society like this,” Boyd said. “I want to thank our advisors as well. They set a high standard in the Office of First-Year Experience and motivated us to strive for this award and become a prestigious chapter.”

The chapter was advised by TSU Student Development Specialist William Taylor and Chief Student Affairs Officer, Interim Associate Vice President Dr. Tasha Carson.

“We are so proud of our chapter of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society at Tennessee State University,” Carson said. “The work that this chapter has done in just its second year of being chartered is worthy of this national recognition. To be the only HBCU recognized this year really speaks to the work we do. We are proving that first-year students at TSU are brilliant, committed to academic excellence, and future-ready.”

ALD Executive Director Eileen Merberg said that it is truly impressive what the winning chapters were able to accomplish this past year. “We sincerely appreciate the work it takes to achieve the Order of the Torch award,” Merberg said. “The students from these winning institutions demonstrated high-quality programming, outstanding communication across campus and in their communities, and overall excellence.”

She acknowledged the students’ efforts while juggling the responsibilities of academics, family, work, friends, community service, and participation in campus organizations. “These chapters were able to stay engaged and continue the important work of supporting student success.”

This recognition highlights the excellence of the university’s ALD Honor Society chapter. The commitment of the students and chapter advisors to academic achievement will continue to inspire and shape the next generation of scholars.

More about Alpha Lambda Delta

 Alpha Lambda Delta is an honor society that recognizes students’ academic success in their first year at a college or university. Founded in 1924 and active on 280 campuses, Alpha Lambda Delta inducts 22,000 members annually and has over 1.3 million lifetime members. Alpha Lambda Delta’s mission is to “encourage superior academic achievement, to promote intelligent living and a continued high standard of learning, and to assist students in recognizing and developing meaningful goals for their unique roles in society.” Since 1939, Alpha Lambda Delta has been a member in good standing with the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS), the only national accrediting body for collegiate honor societies.

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TSU prepares Class 2028 for college life

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Metro Nashville students are proving that staying close to home can be advantageous as they prepare to attend Tennessee State University this fall. Incoming freshman and Nashville native Eric Thomas joined hundreds of students for the first week of new student orientation (NSO) at TSU.

Thomas, a Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) graduate, is benefiting from a partnership between the school district and TSU that launched two years ago. This partnership provides 100 scholarships to top students from MNPS. When NSO concludes in August, Thomas is expected to be among nearly 1,000 new first-time freshmen enrolling at TSU as the Class of 2028.

2024 New student orientation had nearly 1,000 new first-time freshmen enrolling at TSU as the Class of 2028.

Thomas graduated from Hillsboro High School with a 3.8 GPA and has an interest in mass communications and accounting. “I really enjoyed orientation today,” Thomas said. “All the ambassadors were really enthusiastic and had great spirits. I love the environment.”

New student orientation offers first-time freshmen several opportunities to visit the TSU campus, from late July to August, to prepare for college life. Called the ROAR Experience, the orientation also provides parents and students an opportunity to ask any lingering questions regarding financial aid, course advisement and selection, and student activities alongside university ambassadors.

Thomas stated that he looks forward to spending his collegiate years at TSU and is grateful for the partnership between TSU and MNPS that resulted in a scholarship for him. “I really haven’t processed how blessed I am to be in a position to have a full-ride scholarship.”

Incoming freshman Eric Thomas, left, and his mother, Ta-tanisha Thomas, during NSO.

Thomas’ mother, Ta-tanisha Thomas, said he had been accepted into several colleges, and it speaks volumes that he chose TSU.

“This is a huge opportunity for him, and I know that he’s going to do really well,” she said. “I’m very happy that he’s part of the TSU family, and we are too now.”

TSU is also the university of choice for out-of-state students. Atlanta native Jordan Harris and his family were just as excited for him as he joins his older brother at TSU. Jordan plans to major in agriculture business this fall, while his brother Julian Harris, a rising senior, is studying biology. The Harris’ parents, Walter and Julia, said that they both enjoyed the seamless process of NSO and are excited to know both of their sons will be together to support one another.

“Just sitting here going through the new student orientation, I can tell that they’re very organized,” Julia Harris said. “They are ready for this incoming class to come in, as well as my son having a support system with his older brother.”

Jordan and Julian’s parents Walter, left, and Julia Harris at new student orientation in Kean Hall.

The annual event for incoming freshmen was held on the main campus in Kean Hall. Activities featured tours, program previews, and information sessions for students and parents on various student and university services.

Dr. Portia Johnson, the Executive Director of Recruitment, said this opportunity gives students an exciting glimpse into their next four years at TSU while ensuring parents have a smooth transition into college.

“We want them to feel excited about coming to college. This is a new journey for them as they are leaving the nest and high school,” Johnson said.

The final orientation date for new students is Tuesday, August 13, 2024. To enroll or learn more about the first-year student experience at TSU, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/fye/.