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TSU in-house studio prepares Men’s Initiative program students for the music industry

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – More space, more resources, and a better opportunity. This semester, Joshua Akhidenor spent time crafting his talent in a new music studio located on campus that he considers a safe haven.

Joshua Akhidenor, also known as LilCEOJosh, practices his guitar while listening to music at TSUs campus studio. (Photo by Alexis Clark)

The music studio, which is accessible to members of the Men’s Initiative campus program, is fully loaded with quality equipment to engineer, record music, and produce beats. Akhidenor, a sophomore majoring in business, said he has been producing music since he was in high school, and is grateful to now have a place on campus to express his passion.

“I feel like I belong in here,” Akhidenor said as he sat in the studio. “It (the studio) helps me visualize who I can become. I came to college and took advantage of the networking opportunity.” Since his arrival at the university, Akhidenor has taught himself how to play the guitar and piano.

As many students utilize the space to break into the music industry, Hahidenor looks forward to one day owning a record label focused on finding talent from students enrolled at a HBCU.

The studio, located on the ground floor of Kean Hall, is painted black with neon lights around the perimeter. On the walls are graffiti art, music plaques and awards dedicated to music phenom and TSU alum Aaron ‘DUBBA-AA’ Lockhart, who funded the studio.

TSU alum, platinum recording artist and producer Aaron ‘DUBBA-AA’ Lockhart graduated in 2016. (Photo by T Time Productions)

Lockhart, a platinum recording artist, and one of the executive producers for the Aristocrat of Bands’ gospel album The Urban Hymnal, said his efforts came about to give students studio space that he didn’t have when attending TSU.

“I wanted to give my resources and use my talents to give back to the institution that helped me become who I am today,” Lockhart said.

Joshua Akhidenor and David Nyenwe said the music studio is a safe haven to help express their passion for music. (Photo by Alexis Clark)

“I want to give the students the opportunities that they should be having on a college campus. We need something on our campus for us, by us.”

David Nyenwe, a TSU freshman majoring in business administration who also produces music, said he has not utilized the studio yet, but looks forward to the sound he can create once he does.

“A lot of people are better at music than they think, they just need the resources. So, supplying a studio for people to use, will help shed light on the talent that’s at the school,” Nyenwe said.  “I feel like this is a safe haven.”

Dr. Andre Bean, director of the Men’s Initiative and interim assistant dean of student activities, said the program is all about providing support to Black male students on campus.

The Men’s Initiative currently has more than 100 members. Bean said the studio offers a great opportunity for the students to discover their hidden talents.

Dr. Andre Bean, Director of the Men’s Initiative program.

“We have to find new and innovative ways to engage the Black male students that are enrolled in higher education,” Bean said.

“And this space is open and available to our Men’s Initiative guys … to create beats and have an opportunity to tinker and toy with things of their interest.”

The studio is an engagement tool for the university. According to Bean, although the studio is for students in and or connected to the program, the university looks forward to one day opening another studio on a larger scale that will be accessible for everyone.

Joshua Akhidenor said he looks forward to breaking into the music industry and one day creating his own record label to find artist from HBCUs.

For Akhidenor, a Memphis native, who has already spent a number of hours in the facility, said it afforded him the chance to produce and “show off my talent” to Lockhart, he said.

“I appreciate the opportunity,” he added.

The Men’s Initiative mission is to plan, implement, and coordinate high-impact programming that holistically promotes persistence, academic success, and sense of belonging. The goal is to support African American/Black Male students to help them succeed each semester as they continue their studies towards graduation.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Men’s Initiative program, email [email protected].

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TSU alum designs groundbreaking sneaker through Nike highlighting university 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The tiger spirit has been embedded in Tennessee State University since 1912. However, a new groundbreaking Nike “Yardrunners” sneaker collection has given alumni and students a new way to strut their school spirit.

“THINK. WORK. SERVE. ” has always been the motto at Tennessee State University. But in this instance, TSU students are ‘serving’ looks this fall as Nike launched a multicolor Dunk Low sneaker displaying the university’s colors designed by TSU alum, Kalynn ‘KT’ Terrell.

TSU alum Kalynn ‘KT’ Terrell is a fashion designer who customized a Nike sneaker this year displaying the university’s colors. (Photo by Hunter Hart photography)

“This was a goal that I always wanted to accomplish and the prototype was my exact design,” Terrell said.

Head drum major of the Aristocrat of Bands Marro Briggs, said he was excited to get his hands on a pair of the sneakers as the historical aspect, is deeper than the aesthetic.

“This is a once in a lifetime … a piece of history,” Briggs, an economics and finance major, said. “I was really excited because I love shoes. This sheds a bigger light on us and our culture. I am happy they (Nike) chose TSU.” 

The TSU themed sneakers feature tiger-printed shoelaces with a “Tiger Pride” branding on the striped insoles. The shoes also feature 1912 embroidered on the heel tabs. The inner tongue highlights the TSU motto with a color scheme of red, blue, black, white, and yellow. 

Terrell, a 2016 TSU graduate, added that the yellow gives the sneaker a special touch. The color symbolizes the land of golden sunshine, another university moniker fondly used by alumni.

AOB drum majors from left to right, Jeremiah Mensa, Joshua Knox, Curtis Olawumi, Marro Briggs, all purchased TSU Dunk Low sneakers. (Photo by Julian Curry)

“For me it (yellow) represents completion,” Terrell said. “It’s not your alma mater until you walk the stage …  so, it symbolizes that I made it. I did it.”

Terrell is a fashion designer, wardrobe stylist and serial entrepreneur from Huntsville, Alabama, who began a partnership with Nike in 2020.

When Terrell was a teenager, she knew that fashion and tennis shoes were more than just a hobby, they were a lifestyle. During undergrad, Terrell said she always had a sense of self as she walked the campus with confidence, graduating with a degree in psychology.

“I became who I am because of Tennessee State University,” Terrell said. “If I had never attended TSU, I probably wouldn’t be comfortable dressing how I dress now.”

Terrell’s style and branding landed her with an opportunity of a lifetime, designing a shoe for Nike.

“This opportunity meant the world to me. It’s groundbreaking and it lets me know that I am on the trajectory of going in the right direction.”

The TSU themed sneakers feature white or tiger-printed shoelaces with a “Tiger Pride” branding on the striped insoles. The shoes also feature 1912 embroidered on the heel tabs, and the TSU motto on the inner tongue with a color scheme of red, blue, black, white, and yellow. ( Photo courtesy of Nike)

This year, Nike Yardrunners class focused on “HBCU alumni who are forging a legacy through fashion that will inspire future generations.” 

Tennessee State University Dunk Low is part of a four-piece HBCU Yardrunners first-ever shoe collection that also highlighted sneakers created by women who attended Clark Atlanta University, Florida A&M University, and North Carolina A&T University.

TSU Nike Dunk Low was released during homecoming week at local retailers like ROOTED and City Gear, and online on SNKRS, selling out within hours.

Former Miss TSU and fellow Alabama native Mallory Moore said she’s thrilled to see her alma mater in the spotlight and proud of the individual behind the design. 

“HBCU’s are finally being showcased for their positive contributions to society and the leaders they produce, specifically Tennessee State University,” Moore said.

“TSU has a big sneaker community, so it feels amazing. I am grateful that the university I once served is being celebrated in a major way.”

Kalynn Terrell is a fashion designer, wardrobe stylist and serial entrepreneur from Huntsville, Alabama, who began a partnership with Nike in 2020. (Photo by Chrisean Rose)

Everyone is hopeful that the Nike spotlight will bring future endeavors to the university. Terrell said she looks forward to collaborating with her alma mater again. She noted how HBCUs and African Americans move the culture forward in the fashion industry.

“We are the style,” Terrell said. “We are the standard.”

Terrell is the owner of three product base businesses: Nose In The Air, KT Wore It, and Nose In The Air Hair Co. She said operating her businesses and staying true to herself has aligned her with opportunities she was destined for.

“When I am gone, what’s going to be here to keep my name afloat,” Terrell said when asked about leaving a legacy. “I am trying to create something that is bigger than me. I would love to leave a staple.”

About Nike Yardrunners

Nike’s Yardrunners is a series to celebrate the cultural contributions and history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, along with their students and alumni.

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TSU and Tennessee Titans expand historic partnership with launch of team’s Impact Program, ‘ONE Community’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As the Tennessee Titans continue their long-standing partnership with Tennessee State University, on Thursday the team officially announced the launch of their Impact Program, ‘ONE Community.’

The ONE Community platform includes multi-faceted programs that reach many of Nashville’s most underserved communities with a focus on three areas – Opportunity, Neighborhoods, and Education.

TSU is one of 16 local and regional organizations that is a part of the community benefits platform.

Tennessee Titans held a press conference at TSU on Thursday to officially announce the launch of their Impact Program, ‘ONE Community.’

“TSU is excited about the expansion of our partnership with the Titans and the opportunities students will gain to be successful through internships and employment with the team,” said Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover during a press conference held at the university.

“Our historic relationship, an HBCU and NFL franchise, spans over 25-years and centers around both organizations’ commitment to serve communities in the city we proudly call home, Nashville.”

With ONE Community, TSU and the Titans will be expanding their long-standing relationship by launching a new partnership that will establish several initiatives including athletics, academics, students and university support through scholarship and job shadowing programs, professional development opportunities, and employment opportunities.

The team will also continue its partnership by hosting TSU games at the new stadium and engage in other TSU-related initiatives.

Tennessee Titans President Burke Nihill speaks during a press conference announcing the launch of, ‘ONE Community.’ (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The Titans will serve as the annual presenting sponsor of the John Merritt Classic and partner with TSU to expand gameday activation and expanded branding opportunities.

TSU graduate student Nykole Allen-Clark, who is the division captain for Project Destined, an organization that also partners with the Titans, said this opportunity is huge for the university.

“I am extremely excited about the Tennessee Titans partnership,” Allen-Clark said. “This program will provide students and adult learners with unmatched exposure to a development in the community.”

Adolpho Birch, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for the Tennessee Titans, said ONE Community represents a substantial amount of work and effort and is a product of extensive interaction and feedback from residents and community leaders. 

“Ultimately, increasing opportunities for workforce and small business development, nurturing and enhancing our neighborhoods in need, and supporting education at all levels are what the community believed would be most impactful,” Birch said.

Johari Matthews, a TSU alum and Titans Foundation’s programs director, said they are proud to announce their partnership. “Our valued relationship with President Glover, the TSU athletic department and the students and staff are all very critical to the Titans story,” Matthews said.

The Titans Foundation’s Programs Director, TSU alum Johari Matthews (center) with TSU students during a Titans press conference. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“We believe that every student deserves an educational journey with the resources, experiences, and access necessary to create a meaningful path to vocational and life success.”

The project has been underway for more than two years. The announcement comes on the heels of the city of Nashville and the Titans reaching an agreement on a newly proposed football stadium earlier this week estimated at $2.1 billion.

For more information about ONE Community, visit www.tennesseetitans.com/news/titans-launch-impact-program-one-community.

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee.  With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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TSU Back in Stride for 2022 Homecoming Celebration

By Kelli Sharpe

Nashville, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – There’s no homecoming like a TSU homecoming as the University gears up for this year’s celebration. The 2022 theme is “Back in Stride Again,” as TSU prepares to welcome thousands of alumni back to the 500-arce campus. Homecoming is October 2-8 and kicked off the week-long celebration with the annual Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest and Gospel Explosion on Sunday.    

The celebration will be highlighted with a scholarship gala, the legendary TSU parade, and of course the homecoming football game between the Tigers and Bethune-Cookman University out of Florida.   

From the legendary Homecoming Parade to the Annual Scholarship Gala, students, staff and faculty look forward to getting Back in Stride Again for the 2022 homecoming celebration.

“TSU homecoming is always a special and exciting time of year for the University as we welcome alumni and friends to our campus,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.   

“This marks the second year we’ve held in-person activities to highlight student achievement and showcase our accomplishments as an institution. It is also a time to celebrate alumni and supporters who have left an indelible mark on TSU.”  

This year’s honorees are: Grand Marshals Entrepreneur, Ms. Andrella Kenner, Global Warming Ambassador and Rev. Dr. Gerald Durley. Honorees are Communications and Public Relations Executive, Dr. Harold Jackson and Former TSU first lady, Mrs. Edwina Hefner.

Grant Winrow

In addition to the big game against Bethune-Cookman at Nissan Stadium on Oct. 8 and the parade that morning, another major highlight of TSU’s homecoming is the Annual Scholarship Gala, TSU’s signature fundraising event. It will take place on Oct. 7 at the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Nashville.    

TSU Homecoming Chairman Grant Winrow added that this year promises to be even more exciting, but safety will remain a priority even as the pandemic has tapered off.   

“Homecoming week officially begun with an array of events, to kick off the annual celebration,” said Winrow.   

“Last year certainly lived up to the hype and was indeed a homecoming for the record books. So, get ready and come prepared this year, as we are “Back in Stride Again,” picking up where we left off. The health and safety of everyone is our number one priority. We will adhere to all safety protocols that are still in place and ask that you practice social distancing throughout the weekend. Although wearing a mask is no longer mandatory, it is encouraged when inside among large groups.”    

Kenneth Rolle II., said TSU students are looking forward to getting Back in Stride for homecoming this week.

Student Government Association President Kenneth Rolle II., said for students, TSU’s homecoming can be summed up in two words, ‘get geeked.’

“That is all that needs to be said. TSU alumni and friends from near and far will know it’s homecoming week by those two simple words.”   

Other homecoming activities this year include the Ralph Boston and Dr. Catana Starks golf tournament in the morning on Oct. 6; followed by the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute White Coat Ceremony that afternoon at 2 p.m. and the homecoming concert featuring upcoming rappers Glorilla, Nardo Wick, Est Gee, Babyface Ray and the Ying Yang Twins later that day; the Breakfast of Champions, the homecoming pep rally, the Charles Campbell Fish Fry, and the National Pan-Hellenic Step Show all on Oct. 7; and the legendary Homecoming Parade on Oct. 8. The parade will be from 14th and Jefferson Street to 33rd and John Merritt Boulevard.   

For more information about TSU’s 2022 Homecoming, visit www.tnstate.edu/alumni/homecoming/index.aspx .

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TSU Recognized as a Global Academic Leader, Receives Prestigious Fulbright HBCU Title

Tennessee State University faculty and administrators at the 100,000 Strong in Africa Conference.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For the third consecutive year, Tennessee State University has been selected as a Fulbright Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Institutional Leader. TSU receives the honor from the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and is recognized for demonstrating exemplary work with its foreign exchange program for students, faculty and staff. 

The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange program. TSU earned the honor for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 academic school years for promoting exchange opportunities on campus. The University is one of 19 HBCUs to receive the designation by the State Department.

Tennessee State University Students were in Ghana for two weeks participating in a conference that focused on Pan-Africanism. They were joined by students from Clark Atlanta, Morgan State, and Howard University.

“Tennessee State University strives to maintain our status as a global institution and receiving the Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader award from the U.S. Department of State helps us do just that,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.

“TSU has operated an exemplary international exchange program for three consecutive years and has been recognized each of those years as a global academic leader for providing opportunities to all students.”  

TSU President, Glenda Glover

Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield, commended the selected HBCUs receiving the Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader designation this year, noting that “HBCUs are an important part of the American and global higher education communities, providing life-changing exchange opportunities for American and international students, faculty, and administrators alike.”

Dr. Jewell Winn, executive director for International Programs and senior international officer for TSU, said it was an honor to be acknowledged for the prestigious awards.

Dr. Winn also serves as the Fulbright Liaison for the University.  

Dr. Jewell Winn
Dr. Jewell Winn

“Our students and faculty participated in Fulbright workshops this Spring and were excited about the many opportunities available,” Winn said. “As a result, we are seeing more interest in Fulbright initiatives and are very grateful to be part of a university community committed to comprehensive internationalization through important partnerships such as this.”

For more information on the Fulbright Program, visit http://eca.state.gov/fulbright. 

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TSU agriculture student embodies the Tiger Spirit in fight against rare cancer 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For Zaria Hunter, this semester marks her triumphant return to Tennessee State University as she continues the battle of her life against a rare form of cancer.  

In 2021, Hunter started her spring semester of sophomore year off strong, studying agriculture sciences with a pre-veterinary medicine concentration.

Zaria Hunter. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

But Hunter’s school year took a turn when she began having constant, severe headaches. Something she expected to pass overtime with some medication. What Hunter didn’t expect, was to spend her 20th birthday in St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis fighting the rare cancer that was ravishing her body and had already reached stage 4. 

In April 2021, Hunter’s family discovered that the cancerous cells had already spread throughout her body.

“It was in my liver, brain, lungs, spine and hip bone,” Hunter shared.

During her five month stay at St. Jude, Hunter experienced going into a coma several times, one of which lasted four days.

“That’s when things were getting rough,” she added.  Hunter, an Atlanta native, was frail and couldn’t walk. Standing 5-foot-4 inches tall at 85 pounds, she underwent seven rounds of intravenous chemotherapy and surgery to receive an implanted port in her chest.  

While Hunter was in Memphis for treatment, her long-time friend from high school who also attends TSU, Chayne Alexander, prayed for her recovery and return to the university. 

“Her family had reached out to her friends and once I found out, I instantly started crying,” Alexander said. “Because I’ve experienced this feeling before when I lost my granddad, so I was hurt to the core.”

Alexander said their friends supported and prayed for Hunter every day, keeping their faith. 

In 2021, Zaria was hospitalized for five months after being diagnosed with a rare cancer. (Photo submitted)

And so did Dr. De’Etra Young, the Associate Dean for Academics in the college of agriculture.

“When Zaria was hospitalized, we communicated frequently,” Dr. Young said, noting that Hunter was concerned about her schoolwork, staying hopeful in her return to TSU. “Her desire to return to school while fighting cancer, is determination that I have never seen before,” Young said.

“She inspires me. Her resilience speaks to the caliber of what type of student she is. To know that she is still fighting and staying uplifted, I look forward to the day she graduates,” Young said.

“Once a tiger, always a tiger.”

Zaria at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
learning how to walk again.

Fellow students and professors say despite how ill Hunter became, she always kept a smile on her face throughout her journey. After her five months stay at the hospital, Hunter was released and began her daily dosage of oral chemotherapy.  

“I never lost who I was when I was in the hospital,” Hunter said. “I kept high spirits and stayed positive.”

This semester, Hunter is back in Nashville battling a small percentage of cancer that is only in her lungs now.

Hunter is visiting St. Jude once a month for checkups while she is pursuing her dream at TSU to become a veterinarian.

“It feels great to be back,” she said. “My determination to be better, and to do better kept me going … I was praying for these better days,” she smiled.

Zaria Hunter, who aspires to become a veterinarian, feeding goats at Tennessee State University’s agricultural farm. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

She said that although balancing school and her social life while fighting cancer will get tricky, she knows that she is up for the challenge. “God let me know that it was going to get rough in the beginning but … I never gave up on myself,” she said.

Hunter said she is thankful for her support system at TSU and looks forward to being cancer free, and most importantly, getting her degree with the ultimate goal of becoming a veterinarian. 



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TSU engineering program gets major boost from Turner Construction Company

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Turner Construction Company awarded three $15,000 scholarships for engineering students and will fund $65,000 to the department in Tuition Assistance Program grants to qualified students. TSU and Turner have partnered in efforts to support STEM students, and specifically those majoring in engineering.  A check presentation and roundtable discussion were held to highlight the partnership.  

More than 50 students attended along with TSU President Glenda Glover, executives from the company, and alumni in engineering. In addition to the scholarships, roundtable discussion focused on internships, career opportunities in the field of engineering and HBCU impact.   

The three scholarship winners of Turner award are:  Gregory Hobbs, Havilah Akachukwu and Ethiopine Choping.

Gregory Hobbs, left, Havilah Akachukwu, center, and Ethiopine Choping, right, were awarded $15,000 scholarships from Turner Construction Company. (Photo by Alexis Clark)

Akachukwu, a junior from Nigeria majoring in Mechanical Engineering, said she is thankful for the awarded funds and thought the overall event was amazing. 

“To be able to see people in the industry take out time from their busy schedules to be there, just to talk about ways in which we, the students in engineering could help ourselves was wonderful,” Akachukwu said.  She looks forward to one day becoming a design engineer and thanked Turner for believing in the university as majority of the panelists were either HBCU or TSU graduates. 

“For the efforts they have put into our school and the students, I am grateful. They were all lovely and tried their best to communicate and interact with every student present.” Choping, a civil engineering major from Alaska, was shocked when she was notified about the scholarship and mentioned how informative the event was.  

“I learned that there are different paths to take to be successful and each path is unique,” Choping said. “As long as you’re putting in effort, you will get the results you want.” 

Hobbs, an Architectural Engineering major from Alabama, said that he prayed about receiving the scholarship to help cut cost of his tuition. 

“The Turner Company event was wonderful,” Hobbs said. “The speakers provided a lot of insight on making it through school and choosing the correct career path. They spoke on managing school, personal life, and mental health.” Hobbs said the panelist assured him how much TSU alumni take care of one another and appreciated the insight. 

Students, TSU President Glenda Glover, and engineering department staff listens during roundtable discussion from Turner panelists about career goals in the field and HBCU impact. (Photo by Alexis Clark)

“I learned that TSU is a family,” Hobbs said. Everyone wants you to succeed and are willing to help you.” 

Charles Stewart, Vice President, Diverse Recruiting and Outreach, said the program is about, “the development of the student, helping the university enhance their pipeline and develop their students to be prepared to step out in the communities where we work every day, and be able to work with companies like ours.” 

TSU graduate Jimmie Jones, told the students that the foundation of being able to be his true self at the university is one of the reasons he is a superintendent at Turner now. “The biggest things I received from here (TSU) is the support from my peers.” 

Charles Stewart speaks about his company experience and program efforts. (Photo by Bethany Legg)

Dr. Catherine Armwood-Gordon, Interim Chair and Associate Professor for the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, said having TSU and HBCU alumni as part of the panel was a great way to show representation. 

“It allows students to relate and form relationships with people in the industry and company who at one point were exactly where they are now,” Armwood-Gordon said. “Allowing them to see the possibilities of their future with their degrees and understand that the time, commitment, and rigorousness of the degree will pay off in the end. The College of Engineering is grateful for Turner Construction Company investing in our students by providing scholarships and support to student activities and engagement.” 

Along with Jones, panelist Don Hardin Jr., and the event moderator Susan Vanderbilt, are all TSU alumni. Vanderbilt is the executive director and owner of Entrée Savvy, LLC, while Hardin is the owner of Don Hardin Group, the firm that designed and constructed the National Museum of African American Music located downtown.

The panel also included Stewart, Valarie Franklin, a Senior Associate/Client Relationship Manager for Moody Nolan, and the companies Lead Estimator, Cerise Inganji.

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TSU holds largest freshman convocation in university history with class of 2026 

 NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 13, 2022) – Tennessee State University officially welcomed its largest class ever of first-year students during the Fall 2022 Freshman Convocation held on Sept. 16. More than 3,500 new students poured into the Gentry Center complex in all-white attire and were formally introduced by TSU faculty and staff as official TSU tigers.

The annual assembly for freshmen marks the beginning of their academic journey at the University and their transformation as college students.  

TSU President Glenda Glover welcomes class of 2026 at the university’s largest class ever of first-year students during the Fall 2022 Freshman Convocation. (Photo by: Aaron Grayson)

TSU President Glenda Glover welcomed the students to the university with words of encouragement. 

“As young college students, you are heading in the right direction,” Glover said. “Keep on being excellent. Keep shinning and be strong … strong enough to know your purpose of why you are here.” 

A very talented freshman, Autumn Parker, blew everyone away with her rendition of Hero by Mariah Carey. The political science major from Michigan says the experience was one to remember because she had never performed in front of such a large crowd. Parker adds she has been singing her entire life but sharing her vocals to thousands was a first. 

“I was very excited to be able to share my God-given gift with my class,” Parker said. “It also brought me a sense of comfort to be surrounded by people who look like me. I was able to see Black excellence personified, which was incredible.”

More than 3,500 new students poured into the Gentry Center complex in all-white attire and were formally introduced by TSU faculty and staff as official TSU tigers. (Phot by: Aaron Grayson)

During the convocation the students pledged to commit themselves “to serious intellectual and cultural efforts,” and to conduct themselves “with honor and dignity to become better prepared to live a full and useful life in society.” 

TSU freshman Tyler Cole, a mass communications major whose parents are TSU alumni, said during the event he reflected on his parents undergraduate journey at TSU, which made his experience at the convocation even more special.

“It made me think about what my parents went through here and how successful they turned out,” Cole said. “And seeing all my classmates together gave me hope … it felt natural to be there.”

TSU freshman Autumn Parker blew everyone away with her rendition of Hero by Mariah Carey during the Fall 2022 Freshman Convocation. (Photo by: Aaron Grayson)

Terrence Izzard, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success said the convocation is an annual opening assembly that marks the beginning of the academic journey of the record-breaking, first-time freshmen. It is the official start of the transformation and growth that will transpire within the lives of our newest TSU Tigers.

“The University is pleased to welcome over 3,500 new first-year students,” Izzard said. “It remains committed to providing holistic care and support to ensure that each student has access to resources and services that will help them succeed both academically and personally.”

TSU’s history making class of first-year college students outnumbers the total African-American population at some institutions. The freshmen class average GPA is 3.38. While the largest population of incoming students are from Tennessee, and neighboring states like Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky and Ohio, there is huge a surge of students from as far as California, Texas, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

STEAM majors in agricultural sciences, engineering and health sciences, along with business, and education continue to be the most popular among the new freshman class. 

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TSU, US Dept. of Labor Deputy Secretary host summit to increase career and partnership opportunities for students    

In support of the 2021 White House initiative to advance equity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities, TSU hosted the HBCU Summer Summit hiring event presented by the US Department of Labor (DOL.)

More than 150 students and faculty members interacted with DOL representatives and career services professionals to gather input for new training, mentorship, internship programs and opportunities to promote career development and long-term employment opportunities for the federal government.

TSU President Glenda Glover and the Deputy Secretary of Labor Julie Su spoke about the importance of DOL initiatives and efforts in promoting opportunity for HBCU students. (Photo: Aaron Grayson)

DOL representatives were on-hand to answer questions about specific career opportunities in the southeastern United States, as students learned about federal careers, how to navigate the federal government job site – USAjobs, and how to write a federal resume.

President Glenda Glover said it was an honor for the university to be a part of the three-part tour including Jackson State University and Tuskegee University. Glover also noted how grateful the university is to have the Deputy Secretary of Labor, Julie Su, discuss federal government partnership and employment opportunities hands on with the students.

“We want our students to know that we have corporations to come and take such an interest in us. It shows the inclusiveness of what the administration is trying to do,” Glover said. “To focus on minorities. To focus on HBCUs … we are pleased to be a part of that conversation.”

The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development mobile American Job Centers vehicle on campus to provide a mobile computer lab with internet access to create a venue for resume workshops. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The event was open to students and faculty from TSU and all surrounding HBCUs, along with invites for Vanderbilt University and Middle Tennessee State University students.

Jalen Hall, a TSU freshmen majoring in civil engineering noted how informative the event was for his future opportunities.

“As a freshman, I didn’t know much about the Deparmtent of Labor, but after this session I’ve learned valuable information,” Hall said. “Things I can take with me as I expand and matriculate through college … it will be helpful when I start looking into job opportunities.”

Su, the Deputy Secretary of Labor, said the summit event was the beginning of building a longer-term relationship to create a pathway into the federal government for HBCU students.

Jalen Hall

“We know in order to serve the most vulnerable community and individuals and gain trust; we want to look like the people we seek to serve,” Su said. “The outreach to HBCUs was a very natural part of making sure we’re reaching the full talent.”

During the event, Su gave the students some words of advice when applying for federal government jobs, “tell us who you really are,” she said. “Speak up about the things you care about. To really bring all the pieces of yourself in the application and make sure we can see that.”

She mentioned how the country has not only gone through a public health crisis, but a racial reckoning in recent years, with hopes of finding driven students who are looking for ways to turn their vision of the world into something they can do within their lives and their job.

Lauren Caver

Lauren Caver, a sophomore majoring in elementary education, couldn’t agree more. Caver told the university that she has hopes of becoming the US Secretary of Education one day, and it was great to see majority of the DOL representatives at the event look just like majority of TSUs population.

“Seeing another woman, another woman of color on stage talking about her position was really inspiring to me,” Carver said.

“It was good to hear about their (DOL) interviewing and application process, and what actually goes into working for the federal government.”

Although several students in attendance were underclassmen, Su assured the students about internship opportunities as well.

“We want them to bring all the things that make them so excellence and passionate,” she said. “We are here because we care about the students as we are also trying to build the best department that we can.”

During the HBCU Summit event, a mobile American Job Centers van was on campus to provide students with a mobile computer lab and internet access for a resume assistance work shop.

For more information about how to apply for federal government jobs, visit www.usajobs.gov.

 About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees.  TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee.  With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.

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TSU’s transportation app provides free, real-time shuttle access for off-campus housing students 

Tennessee State University students living in University off-campus housing won’t have to wonder where the shuttle bus is for pickup and drop off for classes.

TSU’s BusWhere app is back.

The shuttle app is intended to help students plan their pickup and drop off times accordingly at the university and housed facilities.  

With the BusWhere tracking app, students will be able to see the shuttle bus location on the map in real-time and view estimated times of arrivals for any stop along the route to know when the shuttle has arrived. 

Students shared that the free app and transportation is the huge convenience they needed for their academic schedule.  

“The bus comes every hour and the drivers have been extremely nice and welcoming,” TSU senior Tamara Conley said. “My experience with the shuttle has been great so far.” 

TSU student Jason Ferrell uses BusWhere app to check the status of his shuttle.

The shuttles are making their rounds to the six locations the University is utilizing for overflow housing. The hours are from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday – Thursday and 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., Friday to Sunday. The late shuttle runs from 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. each day. 

The shuttles on the BusWhere app are making their rounds to the six locations the University is utilizing for overflow housing.

Starr Branch, a junior majoring in mass communication, said the shuttle is suitable for students without a vehicle or for those who just would prefer to save gas. 

“Many students haven’t had the chance to own their own vehicle yet, so being able to know a ride from school and back is put in place is very comforting to many,” Branch said. “With the app you know how to navigate through your day better by knowing when your ride will be at the giving destination.” 

 Associate Vice President of Student Affairs Frank Stevenson said the shuttles run at the top of the hour from hotels and every half hour from the campus. Students are asked to be at the designated stop 5-10 minutes prior to departure. 

TSU students smiles on shuttle bus headed to campus.

“The students are now able to hop on the shuttle to save gas,” Stevenson said. “Our late-night shuttle is running very well … and the students are getting to class on time.” 

TSU students should visit buswhere.com/tnstate to register for the University’s shuttle tracker app.

About Tennessee State University

With more than 8,000 students, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a comprehensive, urban, co-educational, land-grant university offering 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs and seven doctoral degrees. TSU has earned a top 20 ranking for Historically Black Colleges and Universities according to U.S. News and World Report, and rated as one of the top universities in the country by Washington Monthly for social mobility, research and community service. Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University celebrated 100 years in Nashville during 2012. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.