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Mrs. Universe Juanita Brown Ingram receives royal welcome on return to alma mater 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – It is always special when former TSU students return to campus, but for Juanita Brown Ingram, that moment on Wednesday was extra special. The red carpet was laid out, as TSU officials, student leaders and community officials were on hand, to welcome the reigning Mrs. Universe, a 1999 graduate and former member of the Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands. Ingram, the first African American woman to wear the coveted crown, was on campus for Tea Time, “A Conversation with Mrs. Universe,” organized by the Offices of Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations. 

Three former Miss TSUs returned to campus to help welcome Mrs. Universe. From left, are Mallory Moore, Miss TSU ’21/’22; Barbara Murrell, Miss TSU ’59/’60; reigning Miss TSU Sa’Mariah Harding; Mrs. Universe Juanita Brown Ingram; and Chandra Norman Lipscomb, Miss TSU ’79/’80. (Photo to AaronGrayson)

“It is exciting and an honor to be back to where it all began,” Ingram said at the event in Elliott Hall.  The former TSU honor student has gone on to world-wide fame as an attorney, author, actress, and award-winning TV producer. In addition to the Mrs. Universe crown, Ingram is the first African American woman to compete and win the titles of Mrs. Indiana United States in 2007, Ms. World International 2012, Mrs. UK Universe 2013, Mrs. Great Britain World 2011, and Mrs. UK International 2014. 

“A Conversation with Mrs. Universe” was organized by the Offices of Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations. Cristal Powell Roach, Assistant Dean of Student Activities and Leadership, left, Miss TSU Sa’Mariah Harding, and Debbi Howard, Director of Alumni Relations, welcome Mrs. Universe. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The Tea Time, a “A Conversation with Mrs. Universe,” moderated by Miss TSU, Sa’Mariah Harding, gave Ingram the opportunity to share with TSU students what being a Mrs. Universe has meant to her, and how TSU helped to shape her future. In the audience were three former Miss TSUs, organizations and class queens, as well as Jordan Smith, the current Miss Fisk University. 

“I love the time that I was here.  I always said my experience at TSU is the reason why I am who I am today,” Ingram said, adding that being a member of AOB gave her an extra motivation for success. “I marched all four years in the band here. It thought me discipline, gave me tenacity, and the ability to overcome obstacles and to not shrink to a challenge. So, I think whether it was passing the bar or being Mrs. Universe, it really gave me the foundation to be who I am today.” 

Members of Women of Empowerment Inc., welcome Mrs. Universe Juanita Brown Ingram. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Cristal Powell Roach, assistant dean of Student Activities and Leadership, said bringing Mrs. Universe to TSU was an effort to inspire “our students” about the endless possibilities as they go after their own dreams, careers, and future goals. 

“She is an attorney, she is an executive producer, so she’s done a plethora of things. That’s remarkable,” Roach said. “So, we just wanted the young girls to know what she does and who she is. She is the first African American Mrs. Universe, so that’s huge.  So, we just wanted to create the opportunity.” 

Queens and representations of other campus organizations also participated in the welcoming ceremony for Mrs. University. In the back, standing, is Jeffrey Thomas, of the Office of Alumni Relations, the visionary behind ‘Queen & Co.” (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Debbi Howard, director of Alumni Relations, said “A conversation with Mrs. Universe,” was part of “Alumni Talks: ‘Queen & Co,’” a quarterly speaker series, where they bring in alumni to share success stories with students. 

“We acknowledge all of our former queens, and the visiting Miss Fisk University for accepting our invitation to be here today,” Howard said. 

Barbara Murrell, Miss TSU ‘59/’60; Chandra Norman Lipscomb, Miss TSU ‘79/’80; and Mallory Moore, Miss TSU ‘21/’22 were among former TSU queens who welcomed Mrs. Universe. Joining them was Aliyah Holmes, executive vice president of the Student Government Association, who made a special presentation to Ingram. 

Ingram earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from TSU. She and her family currently live in Singapore. 

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TSU says Southern Heritage Classic more than just a football game

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Linda Parrish has been coming to the Southern Heritage Classic since it started 33 years ago. Each year, she looks forward to the second weekend in September for the replay of tradition, camaraderie, homecoming, and most of all, the rivalry on the football field. 

President Glenda Glover gives an update on the university at the annual President’s Reception and Alumni Mixer at the Renasant Center in Memphis. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“I remember when the classic first started with TSU playing Grambling State University, and how it has evolved into one of the premier Black college football showcases in the nation,” says Parrish, a 1976 TSU graduate, and a retired registered nurse from Miami. 

The classic is more than the action on the field for TSU. West Tennessee, north Mississippi, and specifically Memphis are fertile grounds to recruit top high school students.

Brenda Gale Joiner, a graduating senior at Hamilton High School with a 3.9 GPA, is coming to TSU next fall to major in civil engineering. She was among several students recruited at the annual college fair as part of the classic week events.  

The TSU Aristocrat of Bands participates in the 33rd Southern Heritage Classic Parade. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“TSU is the home of the Tigers, and I love it,” she said. “I know it is a great institution. I have heard great things about the programs, and my father went to TSU.” 

Another fair goer, Kiereney Cole, a graduating senior from Booker T. Washington High School, has TSU in her sight. She wants to major in business, marketing and entrepreneurship. She has heard a lot about TSU’s business program.

“I choose TSU because it looks a very good school and I like the HBCU atmosphere,” says Cole. “I know few graduates from my school who go there and and I like what they say about the university.” 

Kiereney Cole, right, a graduating senior from Booker T. Washington High School, talks to a TSU admissions official at the annual college fair in Memphis. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

At the President’s Reception and Alumni Mixer – part of the classic weekend event – to update alumni and supporters on the state of affairs at the university, TSU President Glenda Glover touted the high quality of students attending the university. She announced the university’s historic freshman enrollment, the highest among all HBCUs in the nation, record research funding, also the highest among HBCUs, as well as a $250 million from the state for infrastructural improvement.  

“I greet you in the name of excellence. We began this semester with excitement and enthusiasm about the great things that are happening at TSU,” President Glover said. “We have the largest enrollment in our first-year class in the history of our university. I am told it is the largest enrollment of all HBCUs. Our research funding was also the highest last year, and we came close to tying that record this year, with $67 million in research funding. TSU received $250 million from the state for infrastructural development. We are in the process of identifying the structures we want to improve and upgrade and present our plan to the state.”

Debbi Howard, Director of Alumni Relations, welcomes guests at the President’s Reception and Alumni Mixer. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

On TSU’s recent housing situation, Glover said demand had exceeded supply due primarily due to high enrollment, and the high cost of living in Nashville, which had more upperclassmen seeking on-campus because they can no longer afford housing in the city. She said TSU’s situation was not unique. 

“Many universities across the country and even here in Tennessee are experiencing the same demand for campus housing. Some sent students homes without any options. We provided our students with options because we know many of them will not come without a place to stay. TSU students could attend online for free if they paid a deposit or live in off-campus housing.”  

The President thanked alumni, officials, and friends for their continued support of TSU and most importantly students.  Before the night ended, the gathering had raised more than $40,000 for student support, including $25,000 from TSU alum Lt. Col. James W. Williams, a Vietnam veteran and former prisoner of war. The check was a contribution to an endowment in his name at the university. Also, during halftime of the football game, alumnus Sedric Turner presented a check for $110,000 as the first installment on a $1 million pledge to support student scholarships and the Aristocrat of Bands.

Diehard TSU Tigers fans cheer on their beloved team at the Southern Heritage Classic football game. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Besides the college fair and big game on Saturday, another highlight of the SHC was the annual parade in the Orange Mound community of Memphis. Hundreds of people lined the route to see the floats and participants, including TSU’s world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands.   While the score wasn’t in TSU’s favor, the University still came away as winner with peaked interest from high school students and alumni support. 

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 takes over Miami with National alumni conference, The Tiger Renaissance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University National Alumni Association (TSUNAA) turned the City of Miami “Blue and White” for the 66th National Convention in the sunshine state. It had been four years since TSUNAA held an in-person annual convention due to the pandemic.

President Glenda Glover with TSU alums mingle at the welcoming ceremony of the 66th National Convention in Miami, Florida. (Photo submitted)

More than 200 members attended the alumni conference including TSU President Glenda Glover. The three-day convention, themed, “Tiger Renaissance: Celebrating TSU Excellence of Yesterday Today and Tomorrow,” included several presentations, panel discussions, and activities such as, “Tiger’s Choice: National Day of Service,” where delegates held community service activities across the city.

 TSUNAA National President Charles Galbreath welcomes delegates during the opening ceremony of the 66th National Convention. (Photo submitted)

President Glover held a “fireside chat” to discuss strategies for the University’s sustainability. Her focus was preparing students for success. 

“As we continue to evolve as a university, we must continue to meet our objective of molding students minds through education and preparing them for the global marketplace,” President Glover said during the event.

“It is only with your help that we can assist so many students in achieving their academic dreams. With your continued support, we remain excited about what the future holds for TSU students of tomorrow.”

 TSUNAA National President Charles Galbreath said the goal of the national gathering of alumni is to provide networking opportunities updates on their alma mater, while fostering loyalty, interest, and university support.

Live entertainment at the Little Haiti cultural complex for participants at the 66th National Convention. (Photo submitted)

“We also have hope in bridging the gap by bringing inspiring and informative plenary sessions and luncheons for all age groups to enjoy,” Galbreath said. “We must continue to identify innovative ways to increase our membership, increase our alumni giving, and increase our impact within the undergraduate experience. The students need us as they are becoming us.”

Highlights of the alumni conference included an open ceremony, followed by plenary sessions and a power luncheon with keynote speaker, Author Candice Benbow, who is an ’04 TSU alum. There were also sessions with the world famous AOB and Athletics. This included a Roar City Live session with Dr. Mikki Allen, director of athletics, including head football and basketball coaches Eddie George, Brian ‘Penny’ Collins and Ty Evans.  

Debbie Howard, Director of Alumni Relations, makes a presentation during the convention. (Photo submitted)

The AOB and Industry session featured Director of Bands Dr. Reginald McDonald, Platinum recording artist and producer DUBBA AA, Grammy award winning producer Dr. Dallas Austin, and Multi-award-winning recording artist and producer Dr. Sir the Baptist. The latter two recently received honorary degrees from the university.

There was also a presentation by State Rep. and TSU alum  Dr. Harold Love Jr., and Charles Galbreath.

Panelist AVP Terrance Izard and Dr. Carjamin Scott discussed recruitment and admission, which was moderated by TSU alum Portia Johnson, while Microsoft senior executive and TSU alum Reginald Shareef served as the keynote speaker during Saturday’s power luncheon.

Award-winning TSU Aristocrat of Bands leaders and music industry representatives receive special awards at the 66th National Convention. (Photo Submitted)

TSUNAA closed out the three-day convention with an iHEART award ceremony followed by an all-white yacht party.

For more information about the National organization visit www.tsualumnionline.org/.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and seven 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<http://www.tnstate.edu/>.

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TSU alumna Debbi Howard rejoins university as new director of alumni relations

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University alumna Debbi Howard has returned to her alma mater as the new Director of Alumni Relations after nearly 30 years with the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

Debbi Howard

Howard, a native of Birmingham, Alabama, and lifetime member of the Tennessee State University National Alumni Association, and the President’s Society, earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from TSU in 1994. She also holds a master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.

Before assuming her new role at TSU on March 1, Howard spent 26 years as a civil/structural engineer with TDOT. During that time, she maintained active relationships with TSU by participating in events to increase alumni awareness and engagement, as well as outreach campaigns to raise funds for deserving students.

“I am excited about the opportunity to work with Debbi Howard,” says Jamie Isabel, TSU’s associate vice president of Institutional Advancement, Corporate Relations and Foundations. “She brings a fresh new set of eyes, and her exposure and experience will be a great benefit to Tennessee State University alumni. I am quite sure she will do great at solidifying and strengthening TSU’s alumni base.”

With a long lineage of more than 20 family members who have attended TSU, Howard says she is glad to be back to serve.

“I’m extremely excited and honored for the opportunity to be able to come back to my prestigious alma mater, Tennessee State University, to serve as your new director of alumni relations,” says Howard. “My goal is to not only recommence all of the wonderful traditions and alumni engagement events that are currently in place, but to galvanize our alumni base by creating partnerships, community engagement opportunities and incorporating exciting, innovative ideas and events that alums would enjoy and be proud of.”

In her other roles with the TSUNAA, Howard is co-chair and committee member of TSU’s Alumni Greek Society, and executive board member and event planner for the TSU Alumni Deltas (Absolutely AX) Greek Affinity Chapter.

Howard replaces Cassandra Griggs, who served in the position for eight years, and left TSU recently after serving the university in different positions for 25 years.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State UniversityFounded 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.