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TSU Alumnus and Trustee Dwayne Tucker named Interim President

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is pleased to announce that alumnus Dwayne Tucker is the institutions new interim president. The TSU Board of Trustees made the appointment on Friday, December 13, during a special called meeting.  Tucker, who was a member of the Board of Trustees, relinquished his seat to assume the position until a permanent president is named. He takes over the role without accepting a salary. 

“I am both honored and humbled by this appointment,” Tucker said. “As a proud TSU alum, I care deeply about securing the strongest possible future for my alma mater and for the students who entrust us with their education. This is why I have served all along. We have serious and important work to do, and I look forward to joining the board in doing that work transparently and with integrity. It’s the TSU way.”

The appointment comes while TSU students and faculty are on winter break for the holidays. However, Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn was quick to respond and shared that she is eager to work with the new interim president.  

“I am confident that Interim President Tucker’s deep understanding of the university’s culture and history will enable him to make a meaningful impact during his six-month tenure,” O’Quinn stated.  

“The leadership and administrative transitions that our students have navigated this semester alone have been incredibly challenging for them. With Interim President Tucker officially being seated in the role, I am hopeful that we can strengthen student morale and overall experience, advocate more effectively for state support and accountability, and enhance the university’s reputation and brand.”

“As faculty we are glad to see a proud TSU alum take over the role as interim president,” added Dr. Venkataswarup Tiriveedhi, chair of the TSU faculty senate.  “Mr. Tucker has a distinguished career in academia and the corporate sector. He is a man of honor and accepted this role gratis. I am sure with his outstanding experience and leadership TSU can overcome the current challenges.”

Prior to Tucker’s selection as interim president, he served as the CEO of LEAD Public Schools, a network of six public charter schools in the Metro Nashville area.

Tucker’s diverse business background and turnaround work with underperforming business units has resulted in a broad understanding of core corporate functions, including sales, operations, marketing, public relations, information technology, legal, human resources, and finance/accounting.

Serving as both a leader of human capital and an operations executive in the financial services and transportation industries, he has held the titles of CEO, chief human resource officer, chief administrative officer and president with companies including First Data, Northwest Airlines and Alliance Data.

The Board will continue its search for a permanent president during Tucker’s interim tenure. This leadership transition is part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the university and address its financial issues, which have been a significant concern for state lawmakers and the TSU community.

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TSU Awarded $1 Million from HUD to address Metro Nashville Housing Challenges

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University research could hold the key to affordable housing and other housing challenges facing families in Metro Nashville. TSU’s College of Public Service received a $1 million grant award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to establish a Center of Excellence – Urban and Community Research Center (UCRC). HUD made the grant award official with a check presentation to Interim Provost Dr. Robbie Melton, during a housing roundtable hosted by TSU for Nashville’s HBCUs. Through the newly established research center, the university will study the impact of displacement and relocation from gentrifying.

Dr. Rafael Harun is the principal investigator for the grant.

“Our research will examine the impacts of gentrification-induced displacement on families and communities in the Greater Nashville Region, focusing on trends and patterns of residential mobility, housing challenges, and the effectiveness of HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program in the meeting the housing needs of vulnerable populations in the region,” Dr. Harun said.

“By employing a mixed-methods approach, the study will generate actionable solutions to improve affordable housing access, mitigate displacement effects, and promote equitable urban development.”

Dr. Rodney E. Stanley, interim dean of the College of Public Service said the grant award was a major milestone for the college and TSU

“The HUD grant is the largest received by the Urban Studies Faculty and is the largest grant ever received by the College of Public Service,” explained Dr. Stanley.  “This Center of Excellence will provide valuable resources for adhering to part of the College of Public Service’s mission for research and community engagement. This is the first Center of Excellence in the College of Public Service. In turn, it will serve as an outstanding opportunity for students to work alongside faculty members in research on important public policy issues facing our urban communities.  We are excited for this opportunity and we are extremely thankful to HUD for recognizing the valuable hard work that has been, and will continue to be conducted by our Urban Studies faculty.”

Dr. Kimberly Triplett and Dr. Cara Robinson are the co-principal investigators (CO-PIs) for the grant. The other Co-PIs are Dr. Reginald Archer and Dr. Shui Bin. Dr. Harun will serve as the center’s director, while Dr. Triplett and Dr. Robinson and will take on the role of co-director and community partnership manager. 

Robinson is also chair of the Department of Social Work and Urban Studies. She said TSU’s urban studies program is committed to examining local issues through research and policy analysis to contribute to the local political landscape and dialogue. Robison added that the HUD award is another avenue for the program to fulfill its mission with this project.  

“The project will take a quantitative and qualitative analysis of those trends and patterns and provide policy solutions for addressing the needs of those individuals and families.   The Center of Excellence – the Urban and Community Research Center – will build on this research through the provision of small and large research projects in partnership with federal, state, and local agencies.”

TSU was one of two HBCUs to receive funding “to conduct research projects on topics of strategic interest to HUD and produce research that provides evidence-based solutions to housing, community development, economic development, or built environment challenges in underserved communities.”

“The Center of Excellence (COE) program at HUD is designed to support evidence-based, data-driven, and community-informed policymaking and program improvements at the local, state, and national levels,” said Solomon Greene, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research. “HUD is proud to forge new partnerships with HBCUs and invest in innovative and actionable housing and community development research that can help shape policy and deliver better outcomes for communities.”

With support from HUD, each new Center of Excellence will anchor its research around a unique set of challenges that currently impact America’s housing industry.

“Universities are anchors in their respective communities; they serve as economic drivers and thought leaders,” said Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “To build the knowledge and insights we need to drive housing policy, there’s no better place to look to than our nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

HUD has previously awarded $11 million to HBCUs.  Visit HUD’s Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) website for more information.

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TSU Alumnus Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 for Transformative HBCU Leadership

NASHVILLE, TN — Aarian Forman, a two-time Tennessee State University graduate, has been named to Forbes’ prestigious 2025 30 Under 30 list, recognizing his groundbreaking work in education and leadership development through Xceleader, an organization he co-founded to empower HBCU students nationwide.

Aarian Forman

What began as a single Zoom call in 2017 to discuss student leadership at HBCUs has evolved into a transformative force in higher education. Under Forman’s leadership, Xceleader has impacted over 8,000 students and alumni through workshops, mentorships, and nonpartisan programs, securing nearly $1 million in funding to support its initiatives.

“This recognition from Forbes isn’t just a personal honor—it’s a testament to the power of HBCU education and the unique impact we’re making,” said Forman, who holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business from TSU. “We’re creating pathways for students to build intergenerational wealth and close the racial wealth gap through entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership development.”

During his time at Tennessee State University, where he served as Student Government Association President (2016-2017), Forman developed the foundation for his future impact. “TSU showed me that higher education isn’t just about earning degrees—it’s about developing leaders who can create lasting change,” Forman reflected. “The university’s motto of ‘Think. Work. Serve.’ continues to guide our mission at Xceleader.”

Xceleader co-founders Tevon Blair, left, Jade Agudosi, center, and Aarian Forman

Alongside co-founders Jade Agudosi and Tevon Blair, Forman has positioned Xceleader as a catalyst for student empowerment. Their organization focuses on three key areas: entrepreneurship development, civic engagement initiatives, and women’s empowerment programs. The organization’s latest initiative exemplifies its innovative approach. Recently five HBCU students were selected to serve as content creators at an upcoming HBCU conference in New Orleans, providing them with hands-on entrepreneurial experience relevant to today’s digital economy.

Former SGA President Aarian Forman during a TSU football game in the 2016-2017 academic school year.

“HBCUs are national treasures,” Forman stated. “Their contributions to the American and global story continue to unfold in powerful and inspiring ways. Through Xceleader, we’re amplifying these contributions while creating new opportunities for the next generation of leaders.”

Tennessee State University has served as a pipeline for producing leaders and innovators like Forman. As a future-ready institution, TSU continues to empower its students and alumni to excel on national and global stages.

Check out Forman’s 30 Under 30 recognition here.

About Xceleader

Xceleader is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering HBCU students through leadership development, entrepreneurship training, and civic engagement. Through its comprehensive programs and initiatives, Xceleader works to create sustainable pathways for success and economic mobility within the HBCU community.

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TSU Honors Veterans at Annual Ceremony

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University honored the brave men and women who served our country at its annual Veterans Day Observance on November 11. The theme for this year’s ceremony, ‘Honoring All Who Have Served’, highlighted all veterans at TSU and beyond but also the shared sense of duty that unites them.

Lt. Col. Stephen Cash.

Lt. Col. Stephen Cash, USAF Commander of AFROTC Detachment 790 at TSU, served as the tribute speaker for the event. Cash noted that the gathering paid homage to the courage, dedication, and selflessness of our nation’s veterans.

“Veterans Day is a sacred time when we pause, reflect, and express our gratitude to the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States military,” Cash said. “It is a day to recognize those who answered our nation’s call to service, those who defended our freedoms, and those who have shaped the history and future of our country through their bravery.”

Dr. Gregory Clark, the Director of Veterans Affairs and Master of Ceremony for the program, honored all TSU faculty and staff who are active-duty service members and veterans, acknowledging their contributions to our country’s history and future through their bravery.

Dr. Gregory Clark.

“Our nation honors our sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and the people they never met,” Clark said. “Today it is our privilege to say thank you to all American veterans to let them know we appreciate them for their service and honor. The price of freedom is high, we cannot afford to forget those willing to pay it.”

Dr. Robbie Melton, Vice President for Academic Affairs, also paid homage to the late Dr. Curtis Johnson, former Master of Ceremony, Chief of Staff, and Vice President of Administration, who passed away on September 3, 2024.

Current and former service members who work at TSU participate in wealth-laying ceremony with President Ronald Johnson. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University)

Highlights of the event included a wreath laying ceremony conducted by TSU Interim President Dr. Ronald Johnson and Lt. Col. Cash.

“I want to thank all of you for coming out and extending your love for those who have served our country,” Dr. Johnson said during the ceremony. “It’s important that this love is seen, so people understand that we care, because our freedom is the result of their service.”

The program featured a performance of The Star-Spangled Banner sung by TSU students, led by choir director Jasmine Fripp. There was also a dramatic reading by TSU freshman Chloe Spearmon.

TSU freshman Chloe Spearmon, one of many students who paritpcated in the annual Veterans Day Observance.

TSU Police Department Commander Tony Blakely, one of many TSU veterans recognized at the event, expressed gratitude for the program and the university’s commitment to acknowledging veterans.

“I think it’s an outstanding program when you can commemorate those who have served to protect the United States,” Blakely said, who served in the Army at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

“Many of these individuals were in foreign lands while we were able to enjoy comfort, and because of their sacrifice, we’re able to do what we’re doing now.”

TSU Police Department Commander Tony Blakely.

As the TSU program concluded, attendees reflected on the sacrifices made by veterans not only within the TSU family, but across the nation.

To watch the 2024 Veterans Day program, visit TSUs YouTube Page at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pIWB7I3toc.

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Big Blue Experience reflects future ready mission at 2024 homecoming

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Big Blue Experience was on full display as Tennessee State University celebrated Homecoming from October 6-12, 2024. Over 20,000 alumni returned to their beloved alma mater, joining current students, faculty, and staff for the weeklong celebration. With successful new events, nearly $200,000 raised in funds, and a TSU Tiger home game win, the Big Blue Experience showcased what Homecoming is like in the Land of Golden Sunshine.

Homecoming Chair Dr. Andre Bean, at this year’s Gala that brought out hundreds of TSU alumni and supporters at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville.

For Dr. Andre Bean, this year was his first as Homecoming chair, and he noted that the week was an overall success.

“We got a lot of positive feedback about the structure and how well put together the events were, with positive turnouts at every event,” Bean said.

He highlighted that one of his personal favorite moments was the recognition of this year’s grand marshals, trailblazing alumni who have made a global impact: technology expert Jesse E. Russell and scientist Clarice Phelps.

2024 Grand Marshals Jesse E. Russell and Clarice Phelps during the homecoming football game.

“Just being able to talk about the skill set they brought to the table … it was really good to see a young alum and a seasoned alum, and that was the highlight.”

Bean also mentioned the alumni’s strong support for current students regarding overall fundraising efforts.

At the Alumni Black Out event, the goal was to raise $50,000 for university scholarships. According to Debbi Howard the Director of Alumni Relations, thanks to generous donations, the event surpassed expectations, raising over $74,000 in just a few hours.

American Idol winner, singer Ruben Studdard performs at TSU’s homecoming gala event.

The following day, the Homecoming Gala brought together hundreds of TSU alumni and supporters at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, with a performance by American Idol winner Ruben Studdard. Chaired by Dr. LoLita Toney, the event raised more than $100,000, with many contributions supporting the new ‘Close The Gap’ fund for students. Altogether, the Homecoming fundraising efforts raised nearly $200,000 throughout the week. The university will continue these efforts throughout the year, starting off strong.

“When we challenge our alumni to raise funds, they always show up and show out for the university,” Bean said. SGA Vice President Anyah Sanders, a Miami native studying biology, said that as a senior, this Homecoming was especially meaningful.

SGA Vice President Anyah Sanders, SGA President Chrishonda O’Quinn and the 2024 Royal Court at this year’s pep rally.

“This is bittersweet. It was a great way for the alums to connect with the student body,” Sanders said. “The alumni really understood how important their presence is to the current student body, so seeing them engage and listen to our needs and desires was really amazing.”

She added that the pep rally was her personal highlight, along with connecting with Interim President Ronald Johnson during his first TSU Homecoming. “It’s an opportunity for current students to connect with the past but also influence the future.”

ESPN’s First Take featuring Christine Williamson, Stephen A. Smith, Shannon Sharpe, and Cam Newton, broadcast live at TSU.

Another major highlight of TSU’s Homecoming was ESPN’s First Take visiting campus as part of their HBCU tour. The show, featuring Christine Williamson, Stephen A. Smith, Shannon Sharpe, and Cam Newton, broadcast live, continuing the national spotlight on the university.

TSU kicked off the weeklong celebration with the Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest and Gospel Explosion, followed by other traditional events like the coronation of Mister and Miss TSU and the Homecoming parade down historic Jefferson Street.

Dr. Edwina Temple, daughter of the late legendary coach Ed Temple, stands alongside U.S. Track and Field Gold Medalist Chandra Cheeseborough, TSU’s President Ronald Johnson, and others in front of the newly unveiled historical marker honoring Coach Temple.

TSU also honored Coach Ed Temple with the unveiling of a historical marker at the intersection of John Merritt Blvd and Ed Temple Blvd during the 2024 homecoming week long celebration. Temple, who led the TSU Tigerbelles for over 40 years and coached the U.S. Women’s Track and Field teams in the 1960 and 1964 Olympics, saw 41 athletes win 23 medals under his guidance. Beyond the track, Temple became a symbol of excellence during the civil rights era.

A warm welcome was also extended to the fourth cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Medical/Dental Accelerated Pathway Program during a white coat ceremony to honor students on their journey toward becoming medical doctors, dentists, and healthcare professionals.

Grammy Award winning AOB kicks off Homecoming parade down historic Jefferson Street.

Homecoming culminated with the TSU football Tigers improving to 5-2 this season with a win over Eastern Illinois University. Of course, the Aristocrat of Bands stole the halftime show, with nearly 8,000 in attendance.

Tennessee State University’s 2024 Homecoming highlighted that its alumni continue to come together to uphold the legacy of their institution, a future-ready university. Next year’s Homecoming is slated for October 12-18, 2025, with a major matchup against fellow HBCU Howard University.

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TSU PD earns state accreditation, continues commitment to campus safety

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News) – Tennessee State University’s Police Department has recently earned accreditation that aligns with best practices in law enforcement and ensures the safety of all students, faculty, and staff across campus. 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.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in the university’s ongoing efforts to strengthen campus safety.

TSU Chief of Police Greg Robinson

Chief Greg Robinson, Assistant Vice President and Chief of Police at TSU, emphasized the profound impact of the accreditation on the university’s safety initiatives. “This accreditation means so much to the positive success of institutions like TSU,” Robinson said. “It signifies that we have adopted the industry’s best standards and practices when it comes to training and implementing safety measures on campus.”

According to Lt. Chris Jones, a member of the TACP who helped oversee the accreditation process, TSU is now one of only 10 public universities in Tennessee to receive this prestigious honor.

Last year, the TSU Police Department saw a 20% reduction in crime, Robinson added. “Achieving accreditation shows that we are meeting national standards to continue improving campus safety.”

TSU PD intern Trinity Vann of Alabama has witnessed first-hand the dedication of the officers and the efforts that led to this accreditation. “I can tell that TSU Police Officers are passionate about their jobs, and they work very hard. So, I do feel that this is a very well-deserved accreditation,” Vann said, who is a senior studying criminal justice.

TSU PD intern Trinity Vann

She stated that she feels safe walking across campus to her classes and sees the accreditation as further reassurance. “It’s important because it shows that we do have people that are working here that care about the safety of not just the students, but also the teachers and the other faculty members. This accolade shows that there is a group of people who are not just doing their job, but they care about the work that they’re doing.”

Robinson noted that TSU’s Police Department, which employs 26 full-time sworn officers, has worked diligently toward this accreditation for the past three years. This recognition is the first in the department’s history.

“When a department becomes accredited, it means you have adopted the industry’s standards and best practices from across the country,” Robinson said. As part of this accreditation, TSU will continue reviewing its policies, procedures, technology, and training to provide a safe environment for its community.

TSU security, police during Fall 2024 move in day.

In addition to the reduction in crime, TSU has made significant investments in safety infrastructure, including upgraded lighting and enhancements to the Code Blue Emergency towers across campus. These towers provide direct access to the TSU Police Department for emergencies. Currently, there are nearly 30 of these call boxes on campus.

Chief Robinson looks forward to the department increasing campus safety awareness, hosting education seminars, and continuing participation in active shooter training.

“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.”

TSU security guards on campus bikes to ensure campus safety. The university continues to enhance these measures as part of its commitment to becoming ‘future-ready.

Robinson also highlighted that the accreditation opens doors for additional grant opportunities to strengthen the department’s resources.

“We put in a lot of work to become viable enough to achieve this,” he said. “Personally, this accreditation means everything. It shows the dedication and sacrifices made by the men and women of this department to reach such a high level. We are committed to sustaining compliance with the best techniques to maintain a safe environment, which has already contributed to the reduction of crime on campus.”

This accreditation status has been awarded for a three-year period ending September 2027.

This effort highlights TSU’s commitment to becoming a ‘future-ready’ university by advancing its safety measures and security efforts, ensuring that all students, faculty, and staff feel safe and supported throughout their academic journeys.

For more information on TSU’s Police Department visit www.tnstate.edu/police.

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ESPN’s First Take comes to TSU homecoming with a purpose

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News) –  Tennessee State University will celebrate homecoming from October 6-12, 2024. One of the highlights will be ESPN’s First Take live broadcast from the campus on Friday, October 11, at 9 a.m. The visit to TSU is one of three stops on the First Take HBCU Tour. While thousands are expected to attend the event during TSU’s homecoming, ESPN says its visit is more than just for a show.

“When COVID-19 hit, followed by the death of George Floyd, the company experienced a significant shift,” the company said in a statement to TSU.

“Disney began to focus on programming that truly embraced authenticity and change. From that effort emerged initiatives like Disney on the Yard, Drum Major Mickey, and a dedicated focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).”

Following America’s racial reckoning during the summer of 2020 and the hiring of David Roberts as the EVP of First Take, NBA, and College Sports, the sports network said making HBCUs a priority was a clear goal. With Stephen A. Smith’s background as a proud graduate of Winston-Salem State and his role as an ambassador for HBCU Week, the opportunity was perfectly aligned.

“As the show expanded with Shannon Sharpe, a Savannah State graduate, joining the team, we wanted to strengthen our commitment even more—especially as other companies began to move away from DEI programming. Last year, we spotlighted their alma maters, and this year, as a proud graduate of TSU and a director on the show, I was the first to push my BIG BLUE HEART to the forefront.”

First Take did its first HBCU live broadcast in Fall 2019 at Delaware State University. They explain that the notoriety of the show brings an added impact when they come to an HBCU. Students from TSU’s College of Liberal Arts will serve as production and technical assistants, including filming, lighting, and other set needs.

“We recognize the visibility and attention we bring, which directly translates to recruitment and funding—both of which are critical for every HBCU. Beyond that, we give students the opportunity to shadow our production team, providing them with firsthand experience of what it takes to make the show successful day in and day out.”

The global company says it sees itself as more than just a television network. As part of the Walt Disney Company, HBCU representation within the network is equally important.

Those planning to attend the live broadcast at TSU should arrive by 8:30 a.m. Public parking is at the intersection of Albion Street and Clare Avenue, behind Rudolph Residence Hall.

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2024 Homecoming Grand Marshals

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – This year’s Tennessee State University Homecoming Grand Marshals are two distinguished alumni whose groundbreaking careers began at TSU. Honorees Clarice Phelps and Jesse E. Russell will be recognized throughout the weekend, including at the Homecoming Gala and parade.

Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dr. LoLita D. Toney, who is the Gala Homecoming Chair, emphasized that both Russell and Phelps embody TSU’s mission of excellence.

“When we think about a ‘Future Ready TSU,’ two distinguished alumni Jesse Russell and Clarice Phelps immediately came to mind,” Toney said. “Their contributions, from groundbreaking cellular technology to the discovery of new elements, are examples of how TSU produces leaders that impact the world.”

Phelps, a trailblazer in the scientific community, made history as the first African American woman involved in the discovery of an element. She played a key role in the discovery of element 117, Tennessine (Tn), and her passion for chemistry blossomed during her time at Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School in Nashville.

After earning her chemistry degree from TSU in 2003, Phelps joined the Navy and later completed a Master’s in Nuclear and Radiation Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. Her work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory helped enable deep space exploration through NASA’s plutonium-238 production project. In 2019, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) officially recognized her as the first Black woman involved in element discovery.

Beyond her scientific accomplishments, Phelps is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scientists through her advocacy in STEM education, working with programs like Yo-STEM and Project G.R.A.D. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Her leadership in science and mentorship of underserved communities position TSU as a future-ready institution, championing excellence in STEM fields.

Similarly, Jesse Russell, known as the “Father of the Cellphone,” revolutionized the telecommunications industry. As the leader of Bell Laboratories’ team, Russell pioneered digital cellular technology, holding over 100 U.S. patents. His work in developing the first digital cellular base station and fiber optic microcell shaped the modern wireless networks we rely on today.

A 1972 graduate of TSU with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Russell earned a master’s in electrical engineering from Stanford University in 1973. Throughout his career, he has driven advancements in 4G, 5G, and the emerging 6G technologies. Russell’s contributions to telecommunications, as well as his role as chairman and CEO of incCOMMUNICATIONS Services Inc., have established him as a global leader in wireless communications.

In addition to his technical achievements, Russell’s leadership in policy and standards, including over 14 years as Chairman of the Telecommunication Industry Association (TIA) Wireless Communication Standards Organization, continues to shape the future of cellular networks. For his work, Russell received an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree from Morgan State University in 2019. His impact on next-generation technologies ensures that TSU remains at the forefront of innovation, fostering leaders in high-demand industries.

The Homecoming Gala honoring Russell and Phelps will take place Oct. 11 at 6 pm at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville.

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TSU homecoming, a celebration for all tigers to enjoy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Big Blue Experience will be on full display as Tennessee State University celebrates homecoming October 6-12, 2024. Thousands of alumni will return to their beloved alma mater and join current students, faculty, and staff for the weeklong celebration. While there is no specific theme, University officials say the big blue experience describes what homecoming is like in the Land of Golden Sunshine.

Dr. Andre Bean, Chair
TSU Homecoming

“The TSU family can expect a homecoming that is intentional about being engaging,” says Dr. Andre Bean, homecoming chair. “This year, we are focused on engaging all our stakeholders – alumni, faculty, staff, students, and the Nashville community. We have done this by ensuring that there is something on the homecoming calendar for tigers of all ages to attend.”

Adding to the buzz of TSU’s homecoming is ESPN’s First Take coming to campus. The show, featuring Stephen A. Smith, Molly Qerim, and Shannon Sharpe, will broadcast live at the TSU Amphitheater on Friday, October 11, at 9 a.m. CST. The event is a part of the sports network’s HBCU broadcast tour. TSU will highlight the institution’s rich sports history, academic achievements, and noted alumni, including Super Bowl MVP Richard Dent and Ed “Too Tall” Jones among others.

 This year’s grand marshals are trailblazing alumni who have had a global impact. They are technology expert Jesse E. Russell and scientist Clarice Phelps. The homecoming chair said that these two continue to fulfill the institution’s motto of Think, Work, Serve.

Coach Eddie George will lead the Tigers against the Eastern Illinois University Panthers at Nissan Stadium Oct. 12.

 “Mr. Russell has committed his life’s work to technology, and with that his innovations contributed greatly to smartphones the way we know them today. He holds the patent for the mobile data phone and the wireless base station. Meanwhile, Ms. Phelps has committed her life’s work to the sciences and is the first African American woman to be involved with the discovery of a chemical element.”  

Homecoming activities kickoff on Sunday, October 6, with the Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest followed by the Gospel Explosion Concert. The coronation of Mister and Miss TSU, on Wednesday, will hold all the glitz and glamour befitting Chandler Holt and Chandler Cotton. Holt is the 95th Miss TSU, while Cotton will reign as the 34th Mister TSU. Several other student events, including the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. White Coat Ceremony, the Pink Out, and parties, will lead to increased campus traffic. TSU Student Affairs encourages students to have a good time but also, be careful.

Dr. Bridgett Golman, Interim Vice President
Division of Student Affairs

“We want students to have a great time but remain aware of their surroundings and put safety first,” says Dr. Bridgett Golman, interim vice president of Student Affairs. “If you see something out of order, please report it.”  

 Student Government Association (SGA) President Chrishonda O’Quinn shares why this homecoming is a special one for her.

 “It feels like a full circle moment to return after serving as SGA Executive Vice President last year,” O’Quinn explains. “One of the greatest highlights of my role has been collaborating with students, alumni, and community partners. I’m grateful for the chance to serve again and eagerly anticipate what homecoming has in store.”

Chrishonda O’Quinn, President TSU Student Government Association

On Friday evening, American Idol winner Ruben Studdard will perform during the homecoming gala at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. The homecoming parade and football game are the main attractions, taking place on Saturday, October 12. For the second year in a row, individuals who cannot make it to Nashville can watch the live stream of the parade Saturday morning on the TSU’s YouTube Channel. Coach Eddie George will lead the Tigers against the Eastern Illinois University Panthers at Nissan Stadium that evening. Kick-off is 5 p.m.

Please visit www.tnstate.edu/alumni/homecoming/ for a complete list of events and updates.

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TSU recognized as 2024 Fulbright HBCU Institutional leader designation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been named a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader, marking the fourth time in five years. This prestigious recognition, awarded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), highlights TSU’s contributions to global academic exchange through its foreign exchange programs for students, faculty, and staff.

As the U.S. government’s flagship international academic exchange initiative, the Fulbright Program fosters cross-cultural understanding and global partnerships. TSU has repeatedly earned this prestigious distinction in recent years, including for 2024-2025, solidifying its ongoing commitment to international engagement.

Dr. Arlene Nicholas-Phillips and Mark Brinkley, Director of International Education and Global Learning, with TSU students during a visit to a Maasai village in Arusha, Tanzania, this summer.
 

Dr. Jewel Winn, Senior International Officer and Executive Director for TSU’s Office of International Affairs, expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing the university’s commitment to its international community since the office’s inception in 2012.

“The Fulbright Program exposes our students, faculty, and staff to the world,” Winn said. “It broadens their perspectives and prepares them to become global citizens and leaders, which is a key goal of our institution.”

Dr. Winn, who also serves as TSU’s Fulbright Liaison, was recognized as the Fulbright Liaison of the Month this August.

“I’m thrilled that TSU continues to lead in global engagement, with strong support from our administration,” she added. “We not only send students abroad but also welcome students from around the world.”

Dr. Jewell Winn
Dr. Jewel Winn

The Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders initiative recognizes institutions that support exchange participants and encourage campus-wide engagement with Fulbright opportunities. This honor positions HBCUs like TSU as key destinations for international students and scholars while showcasing their intellectual and cultural influence to global audiences.

The announcement of TSU’s selection came just ahead of the 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference, hosted by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Dr. Arlene Nicholas- Phillips, Interim Chief of Staff and Assistant Vice President of Global Initiatives and Partnership, highlighted the university’s international presence, noting that its students and staff represent more than 45 countries.

“In this role, we solidify TSU’s global footprint,” Phillips said. “More people are learning about Tennessee State University, and we proudly carry Tiger Pride with us wherever we go.”

D’Neka Cunningham, a Caribbean student at Tennessee State University, represents TSU at the College Fair in Freeport, Bahamas, showcasing opportunities for future Tigers.

“As an HBCU, receiving this recognition shines a bright spotlight on TSU and our accomplishments as a global leader,” she continued.

Earlier this year, TSU was also ranked sixth in the Best Value HBCU Rankings for international students,  according to Study Abroad Aide  , further underscoring its commitment to providing affordable and impactful global experiences.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken congratulated the HBCU Institutional Leaders, including TSU, in a press release, commending their dedication to promoting global engagement and fostering international understanding.

Scott Weinhold, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, added, “HBCUs play a critical role in developing tomorrow’s leaders. Their engagement with the Fulbright Program builds meaningful relationships that span across communities and nations.”

TSU’s Office of International Affairs offers various programs and services, including the Intensive English Program (IEP), IEP & Cultural Immersion, passport services, and International Student & Scholar Services. TSU’s IEP is the only program in Tennessee accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA).

With this latest recognition from the Fulbright Program, Tennessee State University continues to strengthen its reputation as a global leader in higher education, fostering international collaborations. The university’s commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange ensures that TSU remains at the forefront of global engagement. For more information on the Fulbright Program, visit www.fulbrightprogram.org/hbcu/.