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Basket Drive Provides Families With Thanksgiving Meals

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University student leaders and organizations will make the Thanksgiving holiday one to remember for some local families. On Saturday, November 11, over 100 students held a successful food drive to prepare food baskets for families in need.  TSU students, faculty, staff, and alumni donated non-perishable food items for the baskets that will be distributed during the holiday season to help families.

“This Project 111 service event consisted of students and the community packing Thanksgiving baskets for those in need,” said Chrishonda O’Quinn, SGA executive vice president.

“The number 111 is significant because TSU has been in existence for 111 years. The objective was to pack 111+ Thanksgiving baskets. I’m pleased the TSU community answered the call.  We exceeded our goal.”

The sophomore delegation and O’Quinn presented the drive as part of their Project 111: Community Service. Mr. Sophomore Brandon Diggs voiced how important it was for the sophomore class to participate in the drive.

Mr. TSU Davin Latiker, left, and Miss TSU Victoria McCrae, with Mr. Sophomore Brandon Diggs, right, preparing Thanksgiving baskets

“We wanted to show each other, the faculty, students, and staff that although we are only in our second year here at Tennessee State University, how powerful we are as a collective working together to make a change in our community,” said Diggs.

It was estimated that there were roughly 300-400 items donated, as food filled four tables plus the stage in the Elliott Hall auditorium.

“Directly after the event, we dropped the donations off to the Nashville Rescue Mission,” O’Quinn add, in response to where the food would be donated.

Members from the Psi Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity Inc, Sisters in Different Shoes Inc. and SGA used their personal cars to take the items to the shelter. Diggs remarked how Nashville Rescue Mission was very proud to see them.

“As HBCU students, we should give back to our community in general because we are the community. We are making the history and culture of our institution day by day; we write the narrative not only for ourselves but for the ones around us.”

SGA Executive Vice President, Chrishonda O’Quinn and TSU students posing with a finished Thanksgiving basket

Noting that service is an essential part of the student experience at TSU, O’Quinn said student leaders are expected to lead service initiatives.

“It is important to give back to the community since it is consistent with the universities’ goals of social responsibility, community development, and historical preservation. It enhances not just the educational experience of the students but also the communities they serve.”

Over the past weeks SGA leaders have led student participation in a breast cancer walk and a mental health and wellness week.

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Alumna has TSU inspired designs at Urban Outfitters

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The next time you shop at Urban Outfitters look for signs of TSU at the clothing retail stores. That’s because TSU alumna Faith Reeves has brought her creative touch to Urban Outfitters, where she designed an array of TSU apparel and accessories. Reeves graduated from TSU in spring 2022 with a degree in family and consumer sciences and a concentration in fashion merchandise. Her journey to the fashion industry began instantly after being selected as a 10-week buyers intern at Urban Outfitters (UO) just days before graduation.

Faith Reeves wearing TSU inspired hat and denim jacket she designed during her internship with Urban Outfitters.

“I was sitting in my dorm at the time, and I remember getting a call from a New York number,” she said, reminiscing about the call from Urban Outfitters. “Thank you, God, I was so emotional and really excited to be selected.”

The decision to apply for the program was influenced by one of her professors who saw potential in Reeves’ talent. The internship was a blend of design and research on the fashion industry and TSU history, she said. From concept to creation, Reeves and five students from other HBCUs designed exclusive UO capsule collections celebrating the culture and community of their schools. The proceeds from the UO Summer Class ’22 capsule collection support a donation of $55,000 to participating schools, according to their website.

Reeves’ designs not only showcase her alma mater but also landed her a spot in a campaign shoot featuring the products she designed. The products, including shirts, hats, jeans, and jackets, were upcycled with special details in honor of the Land of Golden Sunshine.

Faith Reeves wearing TSU-inspired Urban Outfitters denim jeans with patches of AOB photos.

Reflecting on the experience, the Springfield, TN native highlighted how she learned the ropes of buying and designing and applied it to her next opportunity. After her internship, she embarked on a designer apprenticeship in San Francisco with Old Navy for a year. Now, Reeves is in the midst of interviews, exploring opportunities that align with her passion. Reeves says the Urban Outfitters internship not only provided her with a platform to showcase her creative skills but also a chance to contribute to something meaningful for her alma mater

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Former CNN anchor guest speaker for TSU fall commencement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University will hold its fall commencement Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 9 a.m. in the Gentry Center Complex. Nearly 700 students will walk the stage to receive their degrees during the ceremony. This year’s speaker is award-winning journalist and former CNN anchor Don Lemon. Lemon anchored the long-running CNN primetime program, Don Lemon Tonight as well as CNN This Morning.

“I was honored to get the invitation from President Glenda Glover to be the guest speaker for this important milestone in a student’s life,” said Lemon.

“I look forward to sharing parts of my journey and what I’ve experienced as a journalist, in hopes of inspiring the class of 2023 to leave their mark on the world. Make it a better place for human beings, as they embody the TSU motto of think, work, serve.”

Lemon has won a variety of distinguished awards for his work which has spanned nearly three decades, including an Edward R. Murrow award, multiple Emmys and a Peabody award, among others. In addition to CNN, Lemon has served as an anchor and correspondent at the NBC and MSNBC television networks, as well as at local stations in New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and St. Louis. 

His work as a journalist includes countless global breaking news stories from the anchor desk, as well as on location. He has covered the war in Ukraine, for which he received a Peabody award in 2022. Also, the death of Osama Bin Laden, the inaugurations of the 44th and 45th Presidents of the United States, the school shootings in Uvalde, Texas and Newtown, Connecticut, and the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Freddie Gray, George Floyd and Tyre Nichols. He joined CNN as a correspondent in 2006.

Commencement will include 328 undergraduate students and 324 graduate students. University officials encourage graduates to arrive one hour before the ceremony due to parking. While masks are not required, this is flu season and everyone is asked to exercise caution.

TSU fall commencement will also be live streamed from the University’s YouTube channel at www.tnstate.edu/livestream

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Hundreds expected for Fall Preview Day

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University announces its much-anticipated Fall Preview Day, the premier open house event designed to showcase the university to prospective students and their families. The event, scheduled for Dec. 2, will begin at 2 p.m., in the Kean Hall Gymnasium, offering an extensive range of activities across the main campus.

Fall Preview Day 2023 is expected to attract hundreds of high school juniors and seniors, along with their families, from various states across the nation. Visitors from across Tennessee and as far away as California, Texas, Michigan, and Wisconsin will have the unique opportunity to experience TSU campus during the fall and gain valuable insights into the university’s academic offerings and admission processes.

“We invite prospective students and their families to join us for Fall Preview Day and explore the possibilities that await them,” says Dr. Portia Johnson, Director of Recruitment and Campus Visits. 

“This event is an ideal opportunity to see firsthand how TSU can shape their academic and personal growth, and we look forward to welcoming them to our campus.”

During preview day, visitors will have the opportunity to interact with academic and financial aid advisors, as well as deans and chairs of various colleges and departments. These representatives will provide valuable information about the wide array of programs, scholarships, and other offerings available at TSU.

Jason T. Evans, TSU’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasizes the importance of Fall Preview Day in providing prospective students and their families with an immersive experience of what makes TSU an exceptional educational institution. “Fall Preview Day allows these students and their loved ones to witness firsthand the outstanding programs, resources, and services that set our university apart,” says Evans. “They will engage with our exceptional faculty members, advisors, and current students, who will share their experiences and illustrate the transformative learning environment at TSU.”

Fall Preview Day attendees will also be treated to a TSU Tigers basketball game in the Gentry Center Complex. This engaging activity will showcase the vibrant campus culture and the enthusiastic support for TSU athletics. Free tickets will be provided at a limit of three persons per family.

To obtain more information about the event and register for Fall Preview Day 2023, please visit the official website at 
https://visit.tnstate.edu/event/449439.

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TSU honors military service men and women with Veterans Day program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Tennessee State University honored the retired men and women of our nation’s armed forces during its annual Veterans Day celebration. The program featured TSU cadets, students, and guest speaker Chief Operating Officer and retired Lt. General Jason Evans.  The event was held in Poag Auditorium. Evans encouraged people to never forget and always honor those who fought for us.

AFROTC Det. 790 performing the ceremonial act of presenting and displaying the national flag, also known as, “posting the colors.

“As we recognize those that have served our nation with honor and distinction, veterans have earned our undying gratitude,” said Lt. General Evans. “As a nation we must ensure that we never forget the services and sacrifices of our veterans.”

Cadet Madison Taylor shared how proud he was to be a part of the program and to see TSU celebrating veterans.

“I think the University observing this day was amazing,” Taylor said.

“It goes to show that veterans do have support and appreciation out there for their services and commitment. We united as a community and honored those who have defended our freedoms.”

Tribute Speaker, Retired Lt. General Jason Evans

Taylor’s fellow cadet, Deja Story, agreed with him on the significant of the observance. Story, a mathematical science major, expressed her gratitude toward veterans and also what it meant to her for TSU to observe Veterans Day annually and in this manner.

“This makes me feel proud that I go to this university and that the day is being observed because sometimes veterans are overlooked in everyday life. This was our chance to give thanks to those who have selflessly aided to the defense and well-being of our nation.”

Tennessee State University is a “Certified Vets Campus.” This designation means that the University provides support services especially for veterans in an effort to ease their transition from military service to college life.

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TSU receives $2.3 million grant to combat maternal mortality

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  Tennessee State University is set to address the increasing death rate of new mothers across the state and the country with a grant $2.3 million from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The five-year grant will support the establishment of a research center dedicated to applied maternal health disparities research. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maternal mortality rose from 861 maternal deaths in 2020 to 1,205 maternal deaths in 2021, a 40% overall increase.

 Dr. Wendelyn Inman, TSU’s Interim Public Health Program Director, addressed the urgent need for action as the United States has the highest rate of maternal deaths across the globe.

Interim Public Health Program Director Dr. Wendelyn Inman, right, discussing research on maternal mortality with second-year Master of Public Health student J’La Jenkins. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)

“That should be unheard of,” Inman said. “Part of it is because we don’t have culturally competent providers. Providers aren’t sensitive to their needs.”

TSU has been allocated $483,400 of the HRSA grant for the first year. Inman, who is the principal investigator for the grant, noted the significance for underrepresented women, emphasizing the importance of being part of research from the beginning, rather than entering at a later stage, when it might be too late.

“That will make a big different to some women’s life, and some child who gets to keep their mother.”

The CDC is categorizing maternal mortality as death while pregnant or within 42 days of the end of pregnancy. This is irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management, but not from accidental or incidental causes. Statistics from the World Health Organization, from 2021, revealed “the maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black (subsequently, Black) women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.6 times the rate for non-Hispanic White (subsequently, White) women (26.6.) Rates for Black women were significantly higher than rates for White and Hispanic women.”

TSU second-year Master of Public Health student J’La Jenkins believes cultural competency is important, even within her program.

 Dr. Wendelyn Inman

“Especially being a Black woman of childbearing age, knowing the importance of how high the rates of maternal mortality are among Black women that look like me,” Jenkins said. “It is important that we have TSU, which is in the heart of a Black community, to be the research center for this work.”

Jenkins added that receiving this grant enables TSU to increase the public health workforce representing underserved communities. She said the numbers are declining and that receiving this grant from HRSA shows the University’s commitment to turning those numbers around.

“Not only is this going to impact me, but generations after me. I was astonished at how the university is currently underfunded, but we are still able to be the house of this research center,” she said.

From 2017 to 2020, the State of Tennessee reported that 113 women died during pregnancy or within a year of pregnancy from causes related or aggravated by pregnancy. These pregnancy-related deaths accounted for 35% of all deaths during that period. A published report from the State also saw a 2.5% increase in birth related deaths for non-Hispanic Black women compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. Cardiovascular diseases, compounded by disparities, emerged as leading causes. TSU, along with 15 other HBCUs, received funding to establish research centers. Dr. Inman expressed the importance of involving the community in the research process to ensure a diverse and inclusive approach from the ground up. Inman said this research, alongside other HBCUs, will create research turned into interventions to help within the community.

Dr. Quincy Quick

“We are going to have research centers so we can train doctoral, master’s level, and undergraduate students to join the public health workforce and the health care workforce to make a difference from the inside out. HRSA knows that if we can get more African American providers out there, we will see better outcomes. This will also highlight the pivotal role it plays in addressing the root causes of maternal mortality.”

Dr. Quincy Quick, TSU’s Associate Vice President of Research and Sponsored Programs, stressed the grant’s significance.

“Receiving funding from HRSA at TSU will bolster our capacity and capabilities in public health research, specifically as it relates to maternal mortality rates,” he said.

“This is particularly significant given that the state of Tennessee has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country.”

Both Inman and Quick believe the HRSA grant, and HBCU maternal mortality research initiative will place underrepresented women at the forefront. Just as important, it positions TSU to provide groundbreaking research to address this health disparities and to train a diverse and inclusive public health workforce that can bring the meaningful change needed to save lives for the state of Tennessee and beyond.

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TSU Alumnus has film premiere on Disney+

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For Tennessee State University alumnus Spencer Glover, it all started in an edit bay, in room 108 of the Performing Arts Center. It was the perfect campus space to be creative and bring his ideas to life. Now, Glover is reaping the benefits of his hard work, after pitching a 12-slide presentation to studio giant Disney that was adapted into a film.

From left to right: Van-Maurice Glover, Kariss Forte, Melissa Forte, Mercedes Glover, Stephanie Rakers on red carpet for Black Belts Premiere.

Titled “Black Belts,” the 20-minute movie premiered on Disney+ in September.  

“I was really excited and grateful for the opportunity,” Glover recalled the moment he received the call back after interviewing to direct the film.

“I was ready to dive in and get to work and was excited at the idea that on the other end of it, I would be a better and more confident director.”

The film explores the relationship between a Black father and son set against the backdrop of martial arts. Glover shared, beyond the Kung Fu and action, the film dives deeper into the conversation around masculinity.

“When people watch the film, I hope they see this moment between a Black father and son, being openly emotional with each other.”

Glover graduated from TSU with a degree in mass communications in 2012, and is also a former member of the Aristocrat of Bands.

Reflecting on his time at TSU, Glover emphasized, “TSU is so important to the foundation of my skills.”

He credited the university for providing an environment where he felt both safe and free to express himself creatively.

Spencer Glover in undergraduate school at TSU in the TV station during a musical showcase that he created called, ‘Next in Line’

“TSU was super vital to my life, career, and development as an artist.”

His former TSU instructors Joseph Richie, associate professor of Communications, and Melissa Forte, who was an assistant professor at the time, praised the filmmaker for his success.

Richie described Glover as one of the program’s pioneers, highlighting his drive and dedication.

“None of us are surprised that he’s doing very well now. He was extremely driven, active and took the program seriously. That’s why we’re here. To see students like Spencer’s success, this is the payoff for a professor.”

Forte noted Glover’s humility and diligence.

“Spencer is very humble and kind.  I think that served him very well at TSU,” Forte said.

The film Black Belts explores the relationship between a Black father and son set against the backdrop of martial arts. Beyond the Kung Fu and action, the film dives deeper into the conversation around masculinity.

“He was always in class going above and beyond to learn more and even taught himself how to do 3D animation and never stops learning.”

Glover’s advice for aspiring TSU students entering the film industry is to stay on course, and things will fall into place.

“You have to be dedicated to the craft and be resourceful,” he said. “You have to create on your own, make the connections on your own.” He emphasized that sticking to your own path and staying dedicated, would eventually connect the dots.

The Virginia native added that he always knew that showcasing his talent on a large-scale platform like Disney would elevate his art to unprecedented heights. He freelanced for Yamaha and Apple, following graduation, before moving to Los Angeles in 2020. Glover took on several independent projects before he and was accepted into Disney’s Launchpad Program for writers and directors from underrepresented backgrounds.

This gave Glover an opportunity to produce short films for Disney.

As a testament to his journey, Glover and his wife, Kariss, now own a production company called “Room 108,” named after the edit bay at TSU.

“I credit edit bay room 108 with being that space where we could get lost in our creativity and come out with something super dope. That space represents what we want to create for ourselves and other people coming into the industry.”

Glover also has paid it forward by coming back to the university as a guest speaker for the communications students.

Watch Glover’s film “Black Belts” on Disney+, presented by Launchpad.

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VP of Student Affairs Frank Stevenson elected chairman of the Metro Hospital Authority Board

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is pleased to announce that Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Frank Stevenson has taken the helm of Nashville General Hospital (NGH) and leadership of the Metro Hospital Authority Board. VP Stevenson was elected board chair at the October meeting. In his new role, he continues to embody TSU’s commitment to service. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to be a part of the communities that border the campus and the city as a whole.

“This is a full circle moment for me because I remember my mother carrying me in her arms to Nashville General to get treated for an injury that resulted in getting stitches,” Stevenson recalled.

“It is also important to represent Tennessee State University in the communities we serve. I am honored to take on this significant role at Nashville’s public hospital. Just as I believe individuals should have access to a quality education the same holds true for access to quality healthcare.”

Stevenson has served the board for the past eight years and has also served as the chair of the finance committee for the past four years.

In addition to his executive management position at TSU, Stevenson also serves as the advisor of the New Direction Gospel Choir and Leadership TSU.

“Service is a major part of the student experience here at TSU. What better way to make a favorable impression on our students than to exemplify what it means to serve others.”

Stevenson holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee at Martin and a Master of Public Administration from Murray State University. He is currently completing the Doctoral Program at Trevecca Nazarene University. Stevenson recently served as executive director of a local charter school and executive deputy director for the Tennessee Office of Minority Health. He also serves on the boards of the Nashville Predators Foundation Board, The Tennessee Historic Commission and South Nashville Youth Football League.

NGH is Nashville’s first community hospital and first opened its doors in 1890. Today, the hospital sees nearly 60,000 patients annually. 

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Billboard recognizes TSU’s Commercial Music program as one of the best in the world

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is now home to one of the top music business programs in the world. The October 7 issue of Billboard Magazine highlighted over 25 internationally acclaimed music business programs, including TSU, as one of the 2023 Top Music Business Schools.

TSU’s students are pictured with Tennessee native singer and actress CoCo Jones along with Willie “Prophet” Stiggers, co-founder and chair of the Black Music Action Coalition, and Def Jam Recording executives during a session of the music accelerator program held in May. (Photo courtesy 353 Media Group)

“This is a major milestone,” said Dr. Mark Crawford, who serves as coordinator of TSU’s commercial music program. “Not every HBCU has this program to begin with. This recognition puts us on the global stage.”

Dr. Crawford expressed his excitement for what he believes is a remarkable achievement and recognition that will open doors to new opportunities for students. This is in the form of internships and career opportunities.

Sophomore Honoria Hodges is already reaping the benefits of the program. Hodges is currently a TSU Meistersingers and said what she is learning from the program, in addition to her talent, will set her up to become an R&B/ pop artist.

“It is wonderful that we received this recognition,” Hodges said. “This will get all our names (students) out there to get what we want out of our careers. And my experience so far at TSU has been very enlightening.” 

Honoria Hodges

In May, TSU offered students the music business accelerator program, a 4-week course in partnership with the Black Music Action Coalition. Students got a chance to collaborate with industry giants such as Wasserman Music, Amazon Music, Nashville Music Equality, the RIAA, Live Nation, and more. The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity gave them access to internships and employment. Notable guest speakers included producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, BET and NAACP award-winning music artist CoCo Jones, rapper Waka Flocka, and others who provided valuable industry insights.

TSU alumnus Jonathan Boddie said it is unique opportunities like the accelerator program that sets the program a part. Boddie is a Nashville native and professional musician who graduated from the commercial music program in 2010.

Dr. Mark Crawford

“I think this is well deserved,” Boddie said in response to the recognition, especially noting that the university is in the heart of ‘Music City.’ “I want to raise awareness that we have one of the top programs, and we can also get people to invest into the school.”

As a professional musician, Boddie has had a residency overseas, and even lived in Korea for six months to pursue his musical career. Boddie shared that the TSU commercial program and Dr. Crawford have had the greatest impact on his career.

“Dr. Crawford has never stopped looking out for us. He is always going the extra mile to give you more opportunities and I cannot say that about any other institution I have been a part of,” Boddie said.

Jonathan Boddie performs with Blue Masala Band during a concert held at Red Caboose Park in Bellevue, TN.

“The professors really do care even beyond graduation and I appreciate that.”

TSU alumni of the commercial music program include Harry Fox Agency client solutions coordinator Dashawn Howard and two-time Grammy-nominated producer Dwane “Key Wane” Wier, II.

“I hope we will continue to build on this kind of momentum,” Crawford added. “Recognition by Billboard and other professional entities will lead to curiosity. This will create additional opportunities.”

TSU makes the list as one of the two HBCUs, alongside Howard University. The prestigious recognition from Billboard comes as the program prepares to celebrate 25 years of educating students.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, said the honor to the 25-year program is well earned, and well overdue. 

“I was ecstatic because I know how hard everyone works,” Morgan-Curtis said, referring to the department’s faculty, and especially chair Dr. Robert Elliot, and Dr. Crawford for ensuring the students have “access to real world applications.”

Commercial music alumni practicing for the upcoming ensemble event at TSU. From left to right, Jonathan Boddie on the guitar, drum player Jameel Aziz, and bass player Maurice Farmer.

“Our students are getting these paid internships that are allowing them to do not only what they are being trained in, but what they love,” she said.

To celebrate the anniversary, the University will host a Commercial Ensemble Showcase November 13-15 at the Cox Lewis Theater inside the Performing Arts Center. Showtime is 7 p.m. each night and is free and open to the public. Traditionally a two-night event, an extra night was added to mark this significant milestone, featuring an alumni commercial ensemble as well as a faculty ensemble.

As TSU’s commercial music program continues to shine on the global stage, Crawford, who has overseen the program since the inception, is confident that faculty will help to foster the next generation of performers, producers, songwriters, and industry leaders.

Check out Billboard’s latest issue recognizing TSU here.

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TSU Student Leaders Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness

By Angel Higgins

The event has a special meaning for organizer, TSU student Tamauri Murray

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The goal of the Tennessee State University Office of Student Activities and Leadership is to enhance the skills of those elected or selected to serve in the student government association. Mister Junior Tamauri Murray is doing just that by using his platform to bring awareness to breast cancer awareness.   Murray organized the TSU Goes Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Walk for student leaders to participate on Saturday, October 21.  For the Birmingham, AL native, the event had a special meaning and to have his peers involved made it even more significant.  

The event had a special meaning for organizer, TSU student Tamauri Murray and his mother Tuwanna Murray who is a breast cancer survivor.

“I wanted to make sure I used my position as Mister Junior to emphasize breast cancer awareness. This walk is one of the ways I have done so. While my mom is home fighting her fight in Birmingham. It’s my mission to do my part here in Nashville.”

Tamauri’s mother, Tuwanna Murray, is a breast cancer survivor and the walk was in her honor. His mom found out her diagnosis on June 20th after finding a lump in her breast and having a mammogram. He recalled the day his mother told the family.

“This summer I was working at TSU as a University Ambassador and went home for the weekend in between orientations. My mom sat me and my sister down and told us she felt a lump and was diagnosed with breast cancer. I really did not know how to process it. I did not cry and instantly lost my appetite. So many questions were asked, lots of which my mom did not have answers to yet,” says the computer science major.”

The TSU leader emphasized how important it was for him to use his platform to bring awareness to breast cancer after seeing his mom go through surgery and chemotherapy. Throughout all the ups and downs the Murray family has been through since Tuwanna’s diagnosis, she keeps God on her side and is very proud of what her son has accomplished.

“I could not do it without my support squad, that includes my son, Tamauri,” Tuwanna Murray said.

Student Government Association Executive Vice President, Chrishonda O’Quinn, at the TSU Goes Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Walk

“Since he found out, he checks up on me and supports me while in Nashville. I am so proud of him and the efforts he has put forth being Mister Junior. Tamauri organizing the walk just made me smile harder than ever. My love for him and his sister will forever be unmatched.”

Several hundred participated in the walk as a part of the national observance of Breast Cancer Awareness for October. The event began near the Walk of Fame Park off of 4th Avenue South in Nashville.  Student Government Association Executive Vice President, Chrishonda O’Quinn said the initiative was really important for students to be a part of and to represent the University.

“Tamauri wanted to partner with Student Activities and Leadership for the walk. It feels really nice to be here not only in support of the survivors and people who have been through it but his mother as well. The administration and I are grateful to be a part of this walk.”

O’Quinn and Murray serve as members of the TSU 83rd Student Government Association.