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Publix, UNCF Join Forces to Empower TSU Students with Scholarships, Enhance ‘Tiger Pantry’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Tennessee State University continues to provide meaningful opportunities for its students through strong community partnerships. This dedication was on full display during the Publix Cares Recognition and Information Session, a collaborative effort between Publix and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). During the event, five deserving TSU students were awarded $5,000 scholarships each, while additional funds were donated to enhance the university’s Tiger Pantry, a food assistance program for students in need.

Publix Super Markets Manager of Associate Diversity & Inclusion LaTarsha Melvin, center, speaks during the Publix Cares Recognition and Information Session at TSU.

This year’s scholarship recipients were Ashlee Bailey, Olivia Blauser, Ceara Jackson, Stephanie Hayes and A’Kevian Anderson.

The awards were presented on campus on Nov. 3, with Publix generously matching the total amount by contributing an additional $25,000 to support the Tiger Pantry, which provides essential food and resources for students experiencing food insecurity.

For senior business administration major Ashlee Bailey from Chicago, a two-time the Publix Cares Scholarship recipient, the gift has been life changing. Bailey said the award has helped her manage her school expenses and stay focused on her goals.

Ashlee Bailey

“This opportunity has allowed me to pay my school loan back,” Bailey said. “I actually know that despite the economic struggles across the nation and beyond, it is significant that TSU is providing resources that students can put toward their financial account to continue their education.”

Olivia Blauser, a junior studying political science, shared a similar sentiment.

“I feel absolutely blessed to be a recipient of this scholarship,” Blauser said. “It is nice to be offered something through the UNCF. It just means the world that we have a partnership with Publix to provide scholarships for students like me.”

Olivia Blauser

Blauser added that Publix is not only awarding scholarships but also providing internship opportunities in various sectors, which helps students gain hands-on career experience.

Tiffany Baker, TSU’s director of Foundation Scholarships, said the partnership continues to make a lasting difference.

“This partnership with Publix honors the scholarship recipients they awarded to Tennessee State University,” Baker said. “They award five students $5,000 each year, and Publix matches that amount to our Tiger Pantry. Any time TSU students can receive an abundance of resources via scholarships and internships, it is a win-win for us. In this economy, it is invaluable to have partners that help students in need of additional resources.”

Tiffany Baker, TSU’s director of Foundation Scholarships

Lee Walker, a local Publix store manager, said this is the third consecutive year of Publix’s support to TSU through this initiative.

“The goal for Publix is not only to serve the community, but to also create opportunities for people to join the company and grow through its career pathways to access those benefits,” Walker said. “We want to give students opportunities they may not have otherwise. We want to help pay for school and help them understand that you have to keep learning. Do not stop growing, the opportunities are there for you if you are willing to put in the work.”

Walker added that Publix’s commitment to matching the scholarship funds for the Tiger Pantry reflects their dedication to empowering students and supporting the broader TSU community.

“I hope one of my kids comes to TSU,” he said.

The Publix Cares partnership, in collaboration with UNCF, continues to reflect TSU’s mission of ensuring access, opportunity, and support for its students both in and beyond the classroom.

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Julie James, Longtime Accounting and Audit Professional, Named University Controller at TSU

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Tennessee State University President Dwayne Tucker has appointed a new financial leader in his effort to strengthen the university’s fiscal operations and advance the institution’s multi-year transformation strategy.

Julie R. James has been named University Controller, responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, including financial reporting and internal controls to ensure accuracy and compliance. James, a Certified Public Accountant, joined TSU on Nov. 10.

An accomplished accounting and audit professional, James brings more than two decades of experience leading risk management, financial operations, and organizational improvement across corporate, nonprofit, and public accounting sectors.

“I am honored to join the university and contribute to its long legacy,” James said. “My focus is on strengthening financial operations, establishing and supporting effective systems, and helping position the university for continued long-term success. I am committed to serving this institution and its students with resolve, integrity, and purpose as we continue advancing the legacy of Tennessee State University.”

She is widely recognized for her expertise in operational transformation and her leadership grounded in integrity, accountability, and excellence.

“Julie’s leadership represents the level of expertise and innovation we’re building across every area of TSU,” said President Tucker. “Her background in financial management and organizational transformation will help us strengthen internal operations and continue advancing the university’s mission.”

In addition to being a CPA, James holds credentials as a Certified Information Systems Auditor and Certified Internal Auditor. She is currently pursuing an Executive MBA at Vanderbilt University. She holds a Master of Professional Accountancy and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Jackson State University.

James is also the founder of Bekah Consulting, her private accounting and consulting firm. In recent years, she has provided advisory and consulting services to mission-driven organizations while serving as accounting faculty in higher education. Drawing on her experience in risk and compliance, financial reporting, and internal audit, she has led initiatives to modernize financial systems, strengthen governance, and enhance transparency across diverse industries.

Her professional honors include recognition on Forbes’ 2025 Best-in-State CPAs list, the 2023 TSCPA Apex Impact Award, and a CPA Practice Advisor’s 40 Under 40 award. James also serves in volunteer leadership roles and remains active in community service organizations.

This appointment underscores President Tucker’s ongoing commitment to reimagining the university and strengthening his leadership team as part of a comprehensive plan to enhance fiscal integrity, operational efficiency, and student success. James’ addition to the executive leadership team reflects TSU’s continued investment in experts who will guide the university toward growth, financial stability, and long-term excellence.

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TSU Named Among Billboard’s Top Music Business Schools for Third Consecutive Year

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Another year, another Billboard recognition. 

For the third consecutive year, Tennessee State University has been named one of Billboard Magazine’s Top Music Business Schools for 2025. TSU’s Commercial Music Program, part of the Department of Music, joins other renowned programs in receiving this prestigious recognition.

TSU’s program continues to distinguish itself as the oldest accredited commercial music program at an HBCU. Located in the heart of Nashville, with faculty who are active in the industry, the program offers students unique, hands-on learning experiences. The October issue of Billboard highlights TSU’s commitment to aligning with current industry trends, providing strong faculty engagement, and emphasizing site visits, guest speakers, and internship opportunities.

Dr. Mark Crawford, professor and coordinator of the Commercial Music Program

Dr. Mark Crawford, professor and coordinator of the Commercial Music Program, said the recognition reflects the program’s quality and consistency.

“I’m very proud and pleased,” Crawford said. “This consecutive recognition shows the veracity of our program. It’s about consistent activity and having a presence in the music community.”

That “activity and presence,” Crawford explained, stem from the abundant opportunities, accessibility, and resources available to TSU students, especially due to the university’s strategic location in Nashville, often referred to as ‘Music City.’ Students benefit from hands-on experience through internships, guest lectures, and networking events, often securing employment offers before they graduate.

Commercial music students regularly attend industry events and field trips, such as visits to the Gibson Guitar Factory, BMI, Warner Brothers, the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. During these trips students participate in discussions with professionals across the entertainment sector. Recently, Crawford hosted an alumni music panel, where graduates returned to share insights about their careers and experiences beyond TSU.

TSU alum Sydney Verge

One of those alumni was Sydney Verge, who earned a bachelor’s degree in music, and an MBA from TSU.

“It was a full-circle moment to see the other side of the classroom and engage with current students,” Verge said of her experience as a panelist. “It’s good to know that the students are still hungry, engaged, and eager to learn.”

Now working with the Recording Academy, Verge said the Billboard recognition is both validating and inspiring.

“To be mentioned alongside many other great schools shows that the standards are there, the work is there, and the results are there,” she said. “We’re operating on the same level as programs across the nation and beyond.”

Adding to the momentum within TSU’s Department of Music, the university is also celebrating Professor Jasmine Fripp, director of the University Choir and TSU Meistersingers, who was recently named a GRAMMY® Music Educator Award Semi-Finalist for her outstanding impact on students and music education. Her recognition highlights the depth of musical excellence across the university from commercial music to choral performance and education.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, expressed pride in the program’s continued success.

“We have known for years the quality of our program, and Dr. Crawford has been the key architect behind it,” Morgan-Curtis said. “We appreciate that Billboard has recognized that excellence. Dr. Crawford and the program balance the scholarly with the practical to ensure our students are competitive in all job markets.”

TSU’s continued recognition by Billboard underscores the university’s growing reputation as a leader in music business education and innovation. To learn more about the Commercial Music Program, visit tnstate.edu/music.

Click here to view TSU’s Billboard recognition online.


	

	
	




	
	

			
	

				

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TSU Hosts Black Maternal Health Weekend 2025 to Address Crisis and Strengthen Community Support

		

			 		

	


		

		

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University hosted Black Maternal Health Weekend 2025 at its downtown Avon Williams Campus, bringing together hundreds of attendees, including national leaders, advocates, healthcare professionals, and families, to address the Black maternal health crisis and strengthen community support.  





The two-day event, held Oct.10–11, was presented in partnership with 4Kira4Moms, 4Kira4Dads, Walmart, and Elev8Health. It featured panel discussions, networking sessions, and a professional resource fair focused on solutions to improve maternal outcomes in the Black community.





Angela Wynn, director of Stewardship and Donor Relations at TSU, said the event reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to community health and engagement.





“We have the data, and it’s shocking. But behind every statistic is a person and their story,” Wynn said. “This weekend, we centered those stories. The voices of moms, dads, and families because their lived experiences, are the most important map we have to guide us to a safer future.” Wynn noted that these efforts is sacred work in the Nashville community and beyond. “We created a space where the voices that are too often silenced were finally heard and honored. It’s from this place of listening and respect that we’ll build a future where every family can celebrate a birth without fear,” she said.





The event kicked off with the Black Maternal Health Symposium, where speakers and experts shared research, personal experiences, and policy recommendations.





Highlights included:





    

  • Panel #1: The State of Black Maternal Health: Crisis, Advocacy & the Path Forward – exploring systemic barriers, data, and policy solutions.
    • 




  • Panel #2: Fathers, Brothers & Allies: How Black Men Can Champion Maternal Health – highlighting the role of men as partners, fathers, and advocates.
    • 




  • Panel #3: Nourishing the Village: Nutrition, Wellness & Black Maternal Health – focusing on food access, cultural nutrition, and holistic wellness.
    • 






The following days, the event continued with the Thrive Tour Community Baby Shower & Resource Fair, hosted by Elev8Health. The fair provided expectant parents with vital resources, supplies, and health information from community organizations and vendors. The day also marked the launch of The Dads Den, presented by 4Kira4Dads, offering tailored conversations and tools for fathers to strengthen their role in maternal and family health.





“Black maternal health is not just a woman’s issue, it’s a family and community issue,” said Gabrielle Albert, executive director of 4Kira4Moms. “Through this weekend, we created a village where mothers, fathers, and allies came together to learn, connect, and act.”





The symposium concluded with a screening of the Emmy Award–winning documentary “Ebony Canal,” followed by a community dialogue with filmmaker Emmai Alaquiva, and Charles Johnson of 4Kira4Moms. Participants described the conversation as emotional and empowering.  With Black women three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women, the weekend served as a critical platform for education, advocacy, and collaboration. Through partnerships with healthcare leaders, nonprofits, and sponsors, the event reinforced TSU’s commitment to supporting health equity and community well-being.

	

	
	




	
	

			
	

				

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Academic honors grow as TSU strengthens student success

		

			 		

	


		

		

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University students are proving that academic excellence is not just a goal, but a standard. Last semester, more than half of TSU’s full-time undergraduates earned a spot on the Dean’s List, which requires a grade point average of 3.0 or higher. The achievement reflects a steady rise in student success over the past two years. 






Breyana Brown




For seniors like Breyana Brown, the recognition reflects both personal effort and TSU’s strong support systems. A Memphis native and a pre-med biology major, Brown said she experienced a major turnaround in her sophomore year, after a big drop in her grades the previous year. “I made an academic comeback,” she said. “I got set up with my academic coach at the time and she talked to me about what to do next and how to elevate my academic experience and grades.”





Brown, who earned all A’s over the summer and secured a place on the Dean’s List, credits tutoring, advisement, and one-on-one coaching with keeping her on track.





“Academically, there is still a strong foundation being built,” she said, urging incoming students never be ashamed of not knowing the answer. “That is what college is for. To figure out your why and your answer. Take pride in gaining more insight.” She said the Office of Tutoring was instrumental in keeping her focused by connecting her with the right resources and mentors.





University data reflects similar stories across the student body. In spring 2023, 46% of full-time undergraduates made the Dean’s List. That number rose to 54% the following spring and climbed again this year, with 60% of students reaching the milestone. The upward trend is tied to intentional support services and faculty engagement that help students stay on course from their first semester to graduation.






Dr. Johnnie Smith




EAB Navigate, the university’s advising and early alert system, allows faculty and academic coaches to monitor student progress and intervene quickly when challenges arise. 





Dr. Johnnie Smith, assistant vice president for Academic Affairs and Student Support, said the system ensures no student falls through the cracks. “We have student success specialists, formerly known as academic advisors, who do advising, coaching, mentoring, and counseling,” Smith said. “Each specialist is assigned students with touch points, and the system allows us to involve not only coaches and tutors, but also faculty, so the pipeline of support is seamless.”





In addition, TSU’s Passionate About Student Success Tutoring Department, another major resource, plays a key role, offering 24-hour in-person and virtual support, along with specialized tutoring for majors such as biology, and test preparation for exams like the MCAT.    






Dr. Robbie Melton




Dr. Robbie Melton, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said the results show what happens when both students and faculty are intentional about success. “Our goal is not just to retain students, but to graduate them. That means making sure they know about and take advantage of the resources that are here for them,” Melton said. “We have seen an increase in faculty engagement through tools like EAB Navigate, which allow us to identify early warning signs and step in before a student falls too far behind.”   





In highlighting other areas of academic achievement, the Honors College continues to attract top talent from across the nation. Dr.  Coreen Jackson, dean of Honors College, noted that enrollment has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years.





Last semester, nearly 750 students were enrolled in the program, all meeting the minimum requirement of a 3.4 GPA or higher.





Speaking on student support, Smith emphasized that this momentum reflects the university’s commitment to excellence. “When students are intentional and the university is intentional, academic excellence is the result,” she said.





For student tutoring and advising resources, visit the Academic Achievement & Retention Center. 

	

	
	




	
	

			
	

				

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TSU, VUMC Agreement Creates Clinical Training Pathways for HPSS Students

		

			 		

	


		

		

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center have announced a new articulation agreement to provide TSU Human Performance and Sport Sciences (HPSS) students with direct access to clinical training opportunities at VUMC. 





The agreement creates a clear path for students interested in athletic training and other areas of sports medicine and adds to the strong foundation already offered through TSU’s HPSS program.






Dr. Jason Smith




Vanderbilt will host semester-long clinical immersions designed to give athletic training students hands-on experience that prepares them for their careers. TSU students will benefit from specialized advising and guidance to strengthen their preparation for admission into Vanderbilt’s highly competitive program.





Dr. Jason Smith, chair of the HPSS department, emphasized the importance of this new step in advancing student opportunities.





“The professionalism demonstrated by the team at Vanderbilt University Medical Center throughout this process has been exceptional. This agreement enhances the growing legacy of Tennessee State University’s Human Performance and Sport Sciences department, aligning it with the nation’s premier universities and medical centers,” Smith said.





He added that the partnership continues to build momentum for the program.






HPSS students take part in hands-on clinical training.




“The HPSS department has established new pathways to success for our students by creating athletic training agreements with MTSU and now VUMC. We are also proud to see our respected Exercise Science program continue to flourish as we create these partnerships and a legacy.”





Nick Caporale, associate athletic trainer at VUMC, highlighted the valuable learning experience the collaboration will provide.





“This collaborative effort between Tennessee State University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center will provide TSU students interested in athletic training and sports medicine with the opportunity to learn directly from VUMC’s Athletic Training staff on the sidelines of Vanderbilt athletic events,” Caporale said. “Our goal is to build a consistent and collaborative relationship that helps prepare these students to become strong candidates for future master’s degree programs in athletic training.”





The agreement, effective August 1, 2025, enrolls TSU HPSS students in VUMC’s clinical training program with coordinated scheduling and annual reviews to keep both programs aligned.






HPSS students will gain clinical training in sports medicine through a new partnership with VUMC.




“This agreement demonstrates a commitment to collaboration between our institutions and expands opportunities for TSU students interested in the high-demand field of athletic training,” said Dr. Poliala Dickson, HPSS representative.





The TSU HPSS program equips students with a strong academic foundation across concentrations in physical education, health education, exercise science, and sport administration. The department prepares future health educators, exercise science professionals, and sports administrators to lead with knowledge, strategy, and service.





Additionally,  students in the program are exposed to community fitness, recreation, corporate wellness, clinical environments, and administrative roles in sports, while also benefiting from professional immersion experiences integrated into the curriculum.





This new agreement with Vanderbilt Medical Center builds upon those existing strengths by offering an additional layer of clinical training that positions TSU students for success in the highly competitive and growing field of sports medicine.





To learn more about the HPSS program, visit www.tnstate.edu/hpss/.

	

	
	




	
	

			
	

				

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Dr. Richard Barnett Inducted into National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame

		

			 		

	


		

		

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – TSU’s legendary Dr. Richard Barnett was posthumously inducted into the National Black College Alumni (NBCA) Hall of Fame during a ceremony held on Sept. 27 in Atlanta. The event celebrated his remarkable legacy as a basketball player, educator, and advocate for civil rights and youth empowerment. TSU President Dwayne Tucker was among university officials and fellow alumni who attended the induction ceremony.





Dr. Barnett, who passed away in April, leaves a lasting legacy in athletics, education, and mentorship. Born in Gary, Indiana, on Oct. 2, 1936, he began his basketball journey at Tennessee A&I State College (now TSU), where he led the Tigers to three consecutive NAIA national championships from 1957 to 1959 under legendary coach John McLendon. He was a three-time All-American, two-time NAIA Tournament MVP, and remains the only player to have his jersey retired by the university.





Following college, Barnett was selected fourth overall in the 1959 NBA Draft by the Syracuse Nationals and went on to a 14-year professional career. He became a household name with the Los Angeles Lakers and later the New York Knicks, where his signature “Fall Back Baby” jump shot became iconic. He helped the Knicks secure NBA championships in 1970 and 1973, and in 1990, the franchise retired his No. 12 jersey.





Beyond the court, Barnett distinguished himself as a scholar and educator. He earned a master’s degree from New York University and a doctorate in education from Fordham University. He taught sports management at St. John’s University, founded Fall Back Baby Productions, and established the Dr. Richard Barnett Foundation to inspire and support youth. His influence extended far beyond basketball, as he championed education, civil rights, and opportunities for the next generation.





In 2024, Barnett’s remarkable career and lifelong dedication to basketball will be commemorated with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His recent induction into the NBCA Hall of Fame places him among more than 300 distinguished HBCU graduates celebrated for their achievements and impact.





The NBCA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was part of a weekend that included the Competition of Black College Queens, the Thomas W. Dortch, Jr. HBCU Golf Classic, and a range of leadership and empowerment events for HBCU students and alumni.





For more information on the NBCA Hall of Fame Foundation and its programs, visit www.nbcahof.org.





Featured Photo: Called the “Fall Back Baby” for his iconic jump shot during his playing day, Dr. Richard Barnett helped the New York Knicks win NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. (Submitted photo)





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.

	

	
	




	
	

			
	

				

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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, 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/.

	

	
	




	
	

			
	

				

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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.