Tag Archives: Dr. Curtis Johnson

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Tennessee State University Mourns the loss of Dr. Curtis Johnson, executive administrator

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –Tennessee State University is deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Dr. Curtis Johnson, Chief of Staff and Vice President of Administration. TSU officials said Dr. Johnson was found unresponsive in his home on Tuesday night, leaving a profound void in our university community.

TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson remembered the late administrator for his commitment to the university.

TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson, left, and Dr. Curtis Johnson, right, at the Fall 2024 One Stop Shop event in Kean Hall.

“Dr. Johnson was the embodiment of the spirit that is TSU. His presence beamed with ‘Golden Sunshine’ and an unwavering commitment to our students, as well as an infectious love for inspiring, motivating, and engaging people,” recalled President Johnson. “I encourage everyone in our TSU community to embrace the essence of the wonderful blessing that Dr. Johnson has been. Let’s support each other as a family and offer our prayers of comfort to Dr. Johnson’s loved ones and close friends.”

Dr. Johnson was a dedicated administrator and a beloved figure on campus and worked closely with faculty and staff.

Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn

His commitment to enhancing the student experience was evident in his leadership of Auxiliary Services, where he oversaw vital areas such as Dining Services, the TSU Bookstore, and Emergency Management, among many others. News of his passing has left the campus family in shock and disbelief.

Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn said Dr. Johnson was one of the administrators she looked forward to working with based on her experience as SGA vice president last year.

“I am deeply heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dr. Curtis Johnson,” O’Quinn expressed. “Dr. Johnson never hesitated to uplift and prioritize the student voice. His presence was remarkable, with an infectious laugh and a smile that could light up any room.”

She added, “Johnson made everyone he encountered feel valued, seen, and heard, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of so many. He loved Tennessee State University with all his heart.”

Dr. Artenzia C. Young-Seigler

Dr. Artenzia C. Young-Seigler, immediate past chair of the TSU Faculty Senate and Board of Trustees member, said the loss has resonated among her peers as well.

The department chair and professor of Biological Sciences added that the faculty held Dr. Johnson in high regard and viewed him as the consummate team player.

“I was blessed to be able to work with him, members of the team he built, and those he has mentored over the years.  Sunshine or rain, you could always count on him.  His service at TSU has touched everyone.  His absence will be deeply felt by those who had the privilege of working directly with him or those fortunate to share a knowing “look” or “chuckle”.

 Dr. Curtis Johnson, left, and former Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover at the 2023 Inspire Change Changemaker Award ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans.

TSU is offering grief counseling to help those who may be struggling with Johnson’s passing. Students seeking assistance and support are encouraged to visit the Counseling Center in the Floyd Payne Campus Center.  TSU employees can participate in individual and group sessions on campus and at the Avon Williams Educational Center.

Johnson came to TSU in 2013 and served under former president Dr. Glenda Glover, until her retirement. The two first met during their tenure at Jackson State University.

“Dr. Johnson was a source of guidance, support, and inspiration, tirelessly working to foster a positive campus environment,” Glover said. “Dr. Johnson’s contributions extended far beyond his official duties. He was a mentor to many and a leader among his peers. Dr. Johnson was also a close friend.”

Dr. Curtis Johnson, left, assists a student during the first session of the Speak TSU initiative.

Interim President Johnson said, “Dr. Johnson has honored us and is a noble legacy of our beloved TSU. His impact on our community will be felt for years to come.”

TSU plans to hold a campus-wide gathering to honor Dr. Johnson’s memory. Details regarding the event will be forthcoming. Everyone is encouraged to participate as the university celebrates Dr. Johnson’s life and contributions to TSU and the HBCU community.

Tennessee State University Grief Counseling:

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Training Room 1: 10am – 2pm

 The Employee Assistance Program is also available for you 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The toll-free number is (855) 437-3486. For additional benefits and services, please visit the EAP Website using access code here4tn, if needed.

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SGA launches Speak TSU to elevate student voices

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) –  The Tennessee State University Student Government Association recently introduced the Speak TSU: Your Roar, Our Ears initiative. This platform empowers TSU students to elevate their voices and address any concerns within the campus community. Launched in August as part of Interim President Ronald A. Johnson’s 100-Day plan, the initiative aims to tackle the university’s pressing challenges and ensure it is well-positioned for future success.

Interim President Ronald Johnson speaks with students about his initiative to address the university’s pressing challenges.

Recently, TSU faculty, staff, deans, students, and Speak TSU executive members gathered for the initiative’s first session. The event featured an open conversation and Q&A with President Johnson and other university leaders.

President Johnson highlighted that Speak TSU aligns with the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI), a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation. “Our students are the heart of TSU,” Johnson told the attendees. “By empowering our students’ voices through Speak TSU, we will strengthen our institution and continue to do more to be more.”

Johnson encouraged students to use this platform to address concerns related to financial aid, maintenance, facilities, or academics. He emphasized that this initiative will foster effective communication and drive positive change across the campus. “This is essential in amplifying the student voice and advancing our goal of a future-ready TSU,” he said.

Dr. Daarel Burnette, newly appointed Senior Advisor and Interim Executive Vice President, helps a student during a Q&A session at Speak TSU.

SGA President Chrishonda O’Quinn explained that Speak TSU provides an effective way for students to voice campus concerns and receive timely responses. “The goal is for you to submit any student concerns with any department. We’ll compile this data, present it to faculty and staff, and provide you with accurate feedback,” O’Quinn assured. “It’s more efficient to get information directly from student government and the faculty and staff.”

College deans were also present to address any questions students had about their academic journey and advisement. During the Q&A session, students received answers from Dr. Curtis Johnson, Vice President for Administration and Chief of Staff, and new TSU leadership.

Dr. Daarel Burnette, newly appointed Senior Advisor and Interim Executive Vice President; Dr. Bridgett Golman, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students; and Darryl Thompson, Special Advisor for External Affairs, Infrastructure, and Major Projects, were all present to meet with students and discuss various topics.

Dr. Curtis Johnson, left, assists a student during the first session of the Speak TSU initiative.

Burnette spoke about the historical lack of resources from an HBCU or public school perspective and the challenge of maximizing impact with limited resources. “We need this platform to guide us in taking the appropriate actions to address campus concerns,” Burnette said.

Thompson added that Speak TSU efforts are aimed at setting new expectations and monitoring progress. “It starts with understanding standards and resetting expectations.” We’re establishing benchmarks to guide performance,” Thompson noted.

Regarding financial aid and scholarship delays, Golman highlighted the university’s commitment to working closely with students. She emphasized the importance of clear communication and staying informed about deadlines. Golman encouraged students to reach out for further clarification or assistance as needed, reinforcing that the administration is dedicated to supporting students throughout the process.

Dozens of students attended the first session of Speak TSU at the Humanities Building to have an open conversation with TSU faculty and staff.

As TSU student leaders collaborate with university leadership and administration, these efforts will shape a future where every Tiger’s voice is valued and celebrated.

Speak TSU Student Executive Members: Student Trustee Tyler Vazquez, SGA Vice President Anyah Sanders, SGA President Chrishonda O’Quinn, Miss TSU Chandler Holt, Mister TSU Chandler Cotton, Sr. Class President Erin Armstrong, Jr. Class President Tommy Applewhite III, and Sophomore Class President Trinity Clark.

To learn more about Speak TSU, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/activities/speaktsu.aspx.

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TSU extends One Stop Shop to assist students 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University extends the One Stop Shop days to help students who still need to enroll for the fall semester. The extension comes following two weeks of successfully assisting nearly 2,000 students through One Stop Shop. Located in the Kean Hall Gymnasium, students received services ranging from financial aid, course advisement, student IDs, meal plans, housing, and more in one convenient place. The extended dates are August 26-28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This extension aims to provide students with the opportunity to complete essential tasks for the new academic year, all in one convenient location. Dr. Curtis Johnson, Vice President for Administration and Chief of Staff, underscores the significance of this service and its extension.

“We want to make sure that the students who need assistance are able to receive that assistance as conveniently as possible,” Johnson said. “We decided it is in the best interest of the students to provide this service during the duration of registration.”

Students have until August 29 to register and enroll for the current fall semester. 

“We don’t want students to have to run from department to department to get their business taken care of. That’s why we’re keeping the One Stop Shop extended and centrally located,” Johnson added.

The One Stop Shop has assisted students like TSU freshman Mariah Ard of Oak Ridge, TN, who attended to get advisement assistance.

“I went over to the advisement team to get my classes taken care of,” said Ard, who is studying architecture engineering. “He (TSU faculty) helped me reset my password, and now everything is all set. I am ready to go to class and be very successful.”

Collier Smith of Memphis, a junior studying criminal justice, visited the One Stop Shop several times throughout the week to utilize multiple services. “I’ve been coming to the One Stop Shop since Monday,” Smith said. “I’ve gotten a lot of stuff handled. One thing I can say is, it’s been a success so far.”

Johnson noted that the most requested services initially included parking decals and ID badges, but later shifted to financial aid and advisement.

As the fall semester has begun, Tennessee State University encourages all students to take advantage of the extended One Stop Shop dates.


Please visit the link below if you still need assistance.  https://tnstateu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bgsrfEleIg1dluC

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Get Ready for Fall at TSU’s One Stop Shop!

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Still need to finalize your fall enrollment? Tennessee State University is offering a One Stop Shop at Kean Hall from August 13-23, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., giving students the chance to take care of essential tasks for the new academic year all in one location.

The One Stop Shop provides a range of services including setting up meal plans, receiving ID badges, getting parking decals, and book bundles and post office mailboxes. Advisors for classes, faculty from the Bursar’s Office, financial aid counselors, and more will be available to assist with any paperwork, including health immunization records.

Dr. Curtis Johnson, Vice President for Administration and Chief of Staff, underscores the significance of this service: “We’re excited that the One-Stop Shop will be open for our students this fall. It’s a great opportunity for students to complete their registration process and receive assistance with IDs, parking permits, academic advisement, or financial aid, ” he said.

“This centralized service eliminates the need to visit multiple departments and brings all the necessary resources into one location.”

For those unsure about required paperwork, Johnson said students should go online first. “We encourage students to go online, especially for parking. Bring your driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and student ID before getting in line. Preloading these items into the system will streamline the process when you arrive.”

Click the links below for additional service information:

Meal plan services. Book bundle information.

ID Card services Postal Service Parking/ Decals

The One Stop Shop will also offer COVID-19 resources, including masks and hand sanitizer, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Chrishonda O’Quinn, SGA President, highlights the value of the center as well from a student’s perspective. “It’s crucial for students to stop by the center because its goal is to assist with any challenges they may face during their time at the university. It’s a valuable resource for navigating your college experience.”

Trey Cunningham, a TSU spring 2024 graduate and former rep at large for the financial aid office said the one stop opportunity is for all students and even TSU employees. “The One Stop Shop is beneficial for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time freshman, returning student, transfer, graduate student, or even an employee,” Cunningham said. “It allows you to handle multiple tasks at once. My freshman year, getting my parking decal at Kean Hall was seamless. “I hope students utilize the resources available and take full advantage of what TSU offers.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to get everything done in one place at the One Stop Shop!

For more information about the One Stop Shop, visit www.tnstate.edu/campus_life/dates.aspx.

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TSU moving forward with plans for new alumni welcome center

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University already feels like home for many. But now when it is time to return to the university, alumni will have a 10,773 square-foot facility to welcome them. TSU is slated to have a welcome center on campus in the near future to serve as a home away from home for alumni.

Dr. Carletta Harlan, a Welcome Center Committee member and former Foundation Board member, states that the Center will be a facility that alumni will be very proud of when they return to the TSU campus.   

“We have such pride in our alumni,” Harlan, a TSU alumna, said. “Our alumni have set the stage in various areas, and we want to highlight them. The center will welcome alumni from far and wide to come home to the ‘land of golden sunshine.’ 

Rendering image of the backside of the TSU alumni welcome center

Harlan also said she looks forward to this facility drawing in even more alumni to come back home for major events throughout the year, especially homecoming. 

The proposed $4.5 million facility promises multi-faceted meeting and gathering spaces, offices, and creative workrooms for hosting a wide variety of educational and entrepreneurial programs. It will provide opportunities for social and civic interactions, and areas for displaying alumni achievements and University history. The facility will feature a rooftop terrace and deck, offering views of the campus.

“A facility of this magnitude is much needed on our campus,” Dr. Curtis Johnson, vice president for administration and chief of staff, said.  “It aids in the planning for the institution. It will be able to welcome alumni and serve as a beacon to attract alumni as well.”

The TSU alumni Association, foundation board and university established a committee to develop the proposal. Plans for the new alumni center began in 2019 and the physical site will be located off Dr. Walter S Davis Blvd, according to Johnson.

The facility will be funded with donations, with the lead gift of $1 million dollars donated by alumni Amos “Scoe” and Brenda Otis.  Mr. Otis is the founder, president, and CEO of SoBran, Inc. Mrs. Otis is a retired broadcast television production and management professional and published author. This welcome center will be the first privately funded building gifted to TSU by private donors. The Otis’s are partnering with the TSU Foundation in raising additional private gifts to support the creation of a space.

Johnson said the TSU Alumni Welcome Center project will be a testament to the vibrant community and shared history of our alumni.

TSU alumni, along with business and community partners are encouraged to help bring this vision to life, by making a donation to support the welcome center, at www.tnstate.edu/foundation/

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TSU goes solar with new power charging stations for mobile devices

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University students can now enjoy the outdoors and charge their personal electronics at the same time thanks to three solar-powered charging stations that have been installed on campus. 

Two of the stations are located outside of the New Residences Hall while the third station is located at the Gentry Center Complex. The university said solar charging stations play an essential role in promoting sustainability and providing access to clean renewable energy.

One of the three solar-powered charging stations located at Gentry Center.

Saniya Granberry, a freshman who lives in the New Residence Hall, said she is excited about the solar-powered seating areas as this addition will continue to build a sense of community. “These stations can benefit the campus by allowing students to interact with one another while charging their phones instead of having to go to their room,” Granberry of Nashville said.

“It allows students to charge their devices while completing their assignments outside. Overall it is extremely convenient and encourages students to get some Vitamin D.”

Dr. Curtis Johnson, associate vice president and chief of staff, said these environmental friendly stations are beneficial and give students more flexibility. “As we talk about becoming more of a pedestrian campus, we understand that students have resource needs,” Johnson said. “So putting these charging stations and connectivity points throughout the campus gives the students more flexibility so they don’t have to congregate in one location.”

Saniya Granberry charges her phone at a solar-powered station outside of her TSU dorm. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Johnson said the university is working toward installing more solar-powered charging stations across campus. The seating areas were donated to the university by Coca-Cola and Aramark.

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TSU unveils plans for historic $250 million from State, model for other HBCUs

By Kelli Sharpe, Alexis Clark

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – On the day the nation celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., MLK Day, Tennessee State University shared its plans for the historic $250 million from the State of Tennessee. It is the largest one-time investment to a historically black university by a state. The funds come at a critical time as states across the nation are being held accountable even more for underfunding HBCUs. The funds are for capital improvement projects only as outlined by the State.  

University officials say long overdue repairs and upgrades are now on the way, citing many of the campus structures have gone without improvements for decades. 

TSU president, student and university leaders, local lawmakers during an unveiling for historic $250 million campus-wide infrastructure projects. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

TSU President Glenda Glover says the much-needed funding will cover expenses for upgrades to several academic and student services buildings, in addition to the electrical and HVAC systems. 

“We are excited to share with you our plans for using this historic funding that will assist with TSU’s continued growth and campus development as we provide students with the best academic environment possible.” Glover adds. “This will allow us to enhance our campus for further sustainability as we continue our service to our students.” 

A total of six structures will see improvements, including: Boswell Science Complex, Davis Humanities Bldg., Elliott Hall, Jackson Hall, Harold Love, Sr. (LRC), and McCord Hall. University officials say they are beginning with buildings that have reached or are near their life expectancy. 

TSU student leaders spoke about the excitement of announcing the improvements to their campus as they reflected on the day honoring civil rights icon, Dr. King. 

Boswell Science Complex is one of six buildings that will be apart of structures that will see improvements at the university.

“Today we are seeing that dream come into fruition as we are seeing six buildings being renovated to uplift TSU,” says Student Government Association President Kenneth Rolle, II. “I am glad to be on this side of history to say I was here when we started this project.” 

SGA Vice President Aliyah Holmes shared the same sentiments and noted that one of the buildings slated for improvements is a major part of student life. 

“As a student … the building I am most excited about, is the Davis Humanities Building. We use that building a lot,” Holmes says. 

“We use that building for classes as well as events, and student engagement at TSU is such an important aspect. That is also another aspect that keeps students wanting to come here. I want to applaud Dr. Glover … and our executive cabinet for being able to advocate and listen to the student body.” 

During the unveiling SGA president Kenneth Rolle, II says he is glad to be on this side of history to say, “I was here when we started this project.” (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Gov. Bill Lee and lawmakers allocated the historic funding package in April 2022 for infrastructure developments and major improvements that also include outdoor lighting, HVAC system upgrades, and interior décor.  

President Glover thanked Gov. Lee and lawmakers and applauded State Rep. Harold Love, Jr. for his work to ensure TSU gets funds that had been withheld for decades. Love, who is also a TSU alumnus, believes the enhancements will play a greater role in attracting world-class students and faculty. 

“This is a start of a multi-year project to make sure we invest in facilities at Tennessee State University. If we are providing a high-quality education, we must provide the facilities that are state of the art,” says Rep. Love. “These upgrades and improvements will help to sure that all of our students are equipped with all they need to be able to be great scholars and our faculty to be able to be great instructors.” 

Rep. Love was joined by fellow Davidson County lawmaker Sen. Heidi Campbell and State Architect Ann McGauran.    

SGA Vice President Aliyah Holmes shares her excitement about buildings slated for improvements during the project unveiling on Jan. 16, 2022. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

TSU officials say the goal of the campus improvements is to eliminate life-safety issues, address deferred maintenance, and invest in academic buildings. 

“TSU is working to extend the life expectancy of our facilities to better accommodate our students and to enhance their college experience while here,” says Dr. Curtis Johnson, associate vice president and chief of staff. 

The historic funding is the result of a joint legislative committee’s research in 2021. It was revealed in April 2021 that TSU could be due $544 million, dating back to the 1950s, because of years of unpaid land-grant matches by the state. President Glover and Rep. Love, Jr., who served as chairman of the committee, commented then that the outcome was critical to the livelihood of TSU.  

Glover told the crowd during her final remarks at the unveiling that she appreciated the hard work from both sides of the political aisle to reach an agreement instead of being embroiled in a lengthy court battle like in Mississippi and Maryland with their HBCUs. 

Shaun Wimberly, who serves as the student trustee for the university, summed it up best when he proclaimed he’s already thinking about his future that will include TSU. 

“I’m excited for TSU’s future and what this funding and these upgrades will do for my school. I will be a proud legacy as my children will come here to get a quality education.”   

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TSU upgrades emergency call boxes for added campus safety 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is moving forward with a three-phased plan to upgrade the Code Blue Emergency towers, also known as call boxes, on campus and in parking lots. The call towers are a part of a safety system that is utilized to call TSU Police Department in case of an incident or emergency on campus. 

Marlah Green, the Assistant Director of Renovation and Construction for the University, said the upgrades are necessary to continue ensuring campus safety for everyone. “One of the enhancements we are making with the towers … we are putting cameras on them,” Green said. “The towers are important for the safety and security of the students, staff, and visitors to the campus.” 

Contractors installing an updated Code Blue Emergency tower with cameras in the visitors parking lot. (Photo by: Alexis Clark)

As a part of phase one, the University replaced the cameras located on campus buildings and say several will be equipped with a public address system. Phase two includes replacing call towers in the parking lots surrounding the campus. Green added that “360” cameras, capable of rotating in a full circle, will be placed on these towers.  

Currently, there are 26 towers on campus. Phase three of the project will consist of adding at least ten more call boxes.  

As of Sept. 2022, there are 26 towers on campus. The university plans on adding at least ten more call boxes.

Dr. Curtis Johnson, associate vice president and chief of staff, said the additional towers will be in locations that provide comprehensive coverage for safety.  

“Our plans are to strategically place them where … you can see the blue lights from almost every campus location,” Johnson said. “You will see the towers and know where they are, verses trying to find one at every building.”  

Johnson said this has been an ongoing project and reiterated the importance of safety for the students and hope to have the installations complete before homecoming beginning October 2.  

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TSU to continue COVID safety protocols with surge in cases and fall semester coming soon  

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The excitement of the upcoming fall semester at Tennessee State University will be coupled with concerns on managing the campus population due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across the country and in Tennessee.

University officials are optimistic based on the success of navigating through the pandemic over the last two years and are closely monitoring Davidson County and the City of Nashville.  

“We have put various protocols in place to assist individuals with safety to minimize the spread on campus,” said Dr. Curtis Johnson, associate vice president and chief of staff. “We will continue working with faculty and staff to have the necessary PPEs (personal protection equipment) available for students attending classes and for all offices.”  

TSU does not have a mask or vaccination mandate in place as outlined by state law, but university officials encourage campus family to wear masks, practice social distancing and to get vaccinated. (Photo: Aaron Grayson)

Recently, Davidson County had an uptick in confirmed COVID cases with an average of 2,842 cases within a seven day span, according to the state’s Department of Health. 

TSU does not have a mask or vaccination mandate in place as outlined by state law, but University officials strongly encourage the campus family to wear masks, practice social distancing and to get vaccinated and boosted.

Last year, the university even offered incentives, encouraging students, faculty and staff to get vaccinated by offering gift cards.

Dr. Wendelyn Inman, an infectious disease expert, professor and interim public health program director in the College of Health Sciences, is in support of the university safety protocols and recommend students to return immunized to keep COVID-19 case numbers low.  

“For people who need to, want to, and should wear a mask, they should wear them freely without question,” she said. “And people who aren’t immunized should get immunized.” 

Dr. Wendelyn Inman

 
Frank Stevenson, associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students, said the university will continue abiding by CDC protocol for the upcoming semester and will provide the COVID-19 vaccine to students at their requests. 

“We are asking all students to be both vaccinated and boosted,” he said, noting that students are required to report COVID-19 positive results to student affairs. “We know a whole lot more than we did two years ago,” Stevenson said. “And we feel good about being able to operate the campus in a safe environment.” 

Students who test positive for COVID-19 are placed in an area identified as IQ, or isolation and quarantine zone where they receive “round the clock” service, including a health professional, meal service delivered three times a day, laundry service, and medication if needed. 

Stevenson also encourages students to feel comfortable enough to continue taking online classes as an option as well. The university is currently offering discounts to students that take 100 percent of their classes online.   

All students, faculty and staff can get tested for COVID at the Campus Health Center. If you are experiencing coronavirus symptoms, contact the Campus Health Center at (615) 963-5291 or [email protected]. Students and faculty can visit the emergency management website to request supplies as needed at www.tnstate.edu/emergency/. 

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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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U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal discusses college affordability at TSU workshop

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal held a workshop on Feb. 18 at Tennessee State University to discuss college affordability. It was part of a daylong visit by U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona, to address teacher shortages and other educational needs.  

James Kvall, U.S. Under Secretary of Education, left; Dr. Jerri Haynes, Dean of the TSU College of Education; and Rich Williams, Chief of Staff of the U.S. Department of Education, participate in the discussion at the workshop. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

Organizers of the workshop said its main purpose was to allow Kvaal to hear directly from students about their concerns. They included the challenge of paying tuition and the effectiveness of Tennessee Promise, a state initiative that allows high school graduates to attend a community or technical college free of tuition.  

For instance, while Tennessee Promise takes care of tuition, students say they still have to pay for their books, which can sometimes be expensive.  

“They shared problems as students, and things they want to see happen in the future,” said Dr. Jerri Haynes, dean of TSU’s College of Education, and one of a number of educational stakeholders who also attended the workshop.  

Hartlee Hill, a first-year TSU dental hygiene major from Livingston, Tennessee, said she liked the fact that Kvaal took time to listen to their issues.  

“It was so good to be here and to hear everybody’s views and how to help improve the system,” said Hill.   

Accompanied by Rich Williams, chief of staff of the U.S. Department of Education, Kvaal said he wanted to gather information on the needs of students and educators, as well as make them aware of existing services. He said he was impressed by the level of “talented young people” at the workshop.   

“They were very sharp and very passionate about the issues they presented,” Kvaal said. “We talked a lot about the challenges of covering living expenses, books, and the challenges of student support services, such as mental health challenges and the difficulties first-generation college students face in navigating the system.”  

Dr. Curtis Johnson, TSU’s associate vice president and chief of staff, and Jessica Macy, senior director of student impact at Tennessee Achieve, a partnering organization to Tennessee Promise, were among stakeholders at the workshop.  

“This opportunity helped us highlight our students and all of their hard work and persistence, in attending college,” said Macy.  

Earlier in the day, the highlight of Education Secretary Cardona’s roundtable discussion was TSU’s Grow Your Own teacher pipeline initiative in the College of Education. TSU is the number one HBCU for producing teachers and a top institution in the field across the nation. 

“I’m really proud of what I see here,” Cardona told reporters after the roundtable. “We want to see more of this across the country. We know that with the American Rescue Plan funds, and what we’re pushing with Build Back Better, there’s going to be more support for this. It takes seeing programs like this to keep us pushing really hard because we know they work.” 

To learn more about TSU’s College of Education, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/coe/. 

For more information about the state’s Grow Your Own initiative, visit https://bit.ly/36oIgKN.