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TSU Wins ZeeMee Award for Innovative Student Engagement

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has received the prestigious ZeeMee Trailblazer Award for its exceptional efforts to foster an inclusive and engaging community for prospective students. TSU was one of only 20 institutions to earn this recognition this year.

Dr. Bridgett Golman

ZeeMee connects over 1,000 colleges and universities through an innovative app that enhances student engagement by promoting personalized connections between prospective students and the campus community. Launched at TSU in June, the app facilitates interactions among incoming and transfer students, allowing them to share experiences and build relationships even before they arrive on campus. By engaging students early in the recruitment process, ZeeMee nurtures a sense of belonging and community.

“Receiving the ZeeMee Trailblazer Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire TSU team,” said Dr. Bridgett Golman, Interim Vice President of Student Affairs. “ZeeMee is enriching the student experience by creating a vibrant community that attracts new interests and empowers students to take ownership of their college journey.”

Jai Lin Salas

Shonna Fulford, Director of Partner Success at ZeeMee, lauded TSU’s commitment to cultivating a welcoming environment. “This recognition reflects your dedication to enhancing the student experience at TSU,” Fulford noted. “Your students actively engage and build community, thriving in a space designed for connection.”

The ZeeMee Trailblazer Award acknowledges individuals and teams who have made significant contributions to their ZeeMee community, showcasing an exceptional commitment to establishing a meaningful environment for incoming students.

The app’s unique approach to recruitment is reshaping the experience at TSU. For students like Jai Lin Salas, an agricultural science major from Corona, California, ZeeMee proved pivotal in shaping their college journey before their arrival. “It helped me meet and learn from other prospective students interested in TSU, even before I completed my application,” Salas said. 

Prabesh Aryal

Prabesh Aryal, a computer science major from Caldwell, New Jersey, echoed this sentiment. As a transfer student, he utilized ZeeMee to connect with peers who shared his interests. “I already had friends before I stepped on campus,” Aryal stated. “It really helped me stay on track and understand what to expect.”

The impact of ZeeMee is evident in the swift increase in student engagement. Over 5,900 prospective students participated within the first week of the app’s launch, with 4,871 joining in just the initial four days. 

Harmonee Stoner, a criminal justice major from Champaign, Illinois, credits ZeeMee for her decision to attend TSU. “I found others on ZeeMee who shared similar sentiments, which greatly influenced my choice to come to TSU,” she reflected.

Dr. Portia Johnson, Executive Director of Recruitment and Campus Visits, emphasized the importance of community in fostering belonging. “Building connections through shared experiences empowers students to navigate their college lives with confidence,” she said.

Elmore J. Jones, Jr., Deputy Chief Operating Officer, added, “Integrating ZeeMee into our recruitment strategy reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive environment that resonates with today’s students. It’s more than just an app; it’s a gathering place for future leaders.”

ZeeMee is transforming the student recruitment and experience landscape at TSU. By cultivating meaningful connections even before students arrive on campus, TSU is not only enhancing enrollment but also nurturing a vibrant community where students can excel academically and socially.

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TSU Fortifies Cybersecurity Measures as Awareness Month Concludes

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As Cybersecurity Awareness Month wraps up, Tennessee State University has asserted its readiness against the rising tide of cyber threats targeting colleges and universities. With educational institutions experiencing a staggering 258 percent increase in cyber incidents and a 545 percent increase in data breaches in 2023 alone, TSU stands out as a beacon of proactive security.

Sterlin Sanders

“TSU is without a doubt extremely secured,” says Sterlin Sanders, TSU’s Interim Chief Information Officer. Sanders emphasizes the university’s commitment to comprehensive cybersecurity, which includes a range of protective measures across all points of entry, ensuring the safety of end-user devices and data systems throughout the institution.

One significant advancement in TSU’s cybersecurity strategy is a partnership with a leading 24/7 managed detection response (MDR) service, which provides both preventive and proactive measures against threats. Sanders highlights the introduction of multi-factor authentication (MFA) in 2023, requiring all users to maintain a minimum 16-character password, a significant increase from the previous requirement of eight characters. “This change reflects a cultural shift in our approach to security,” Sanders explains. “While some may find longer passwords cumbersome, the reality is that it fortifies our defenses against even the most advanced hacking attempts, potentially taking centuries to crack a well-constructed passphrase.”

In 2023, TSU transitioned to a minimum 16-character password requirement to further strengthen its defenses against cyber threats.

Dr. Bingdong Li, Chief Information Security Officer at TSU, adds that the university is rigorously applying national standards and best practices to improve its cybersecurity framework. This robust strategy is in direct response to the escalating challenge of cybercrime within the educational sector.

The educational landscape today faces increased vulnerabilities. However, TSU has positioned itself ahead of the curve. “We have a cybersecurity presence across multiple levels, actively collaborating on research and technology initiatives,” says Dr. Tamara Rogers, Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Computer Science. “Our Office of Technology Services works diligently to protect the university’s networks and promptly addresses vulnerabilities.”

Dr. Tamara Rogers

Students at TSU are also experiencing the benefits of these enhanced cybersecurity measures. Horace “Ace” Watson, a junior computer science major, reports that since the implementation of two-factor authentication and the new password policy, he has encountered no significant issues with the eLearn platform. “In my three years here, we’ve only experienced one minor breach, and since strengthening our password requirements, that hasn’t been an issue again,” Watson says.

Similarly, Daniela Birungi, a master’s student in computer science, acknowledges the improvements made in cybersecurity. “We faced issues in the past, but with enhancements like the two-factor authentication, we’ve seen a marked decrease in problems,” she reflects.

Daniela Birungi

Both Sanders and Li emphasize the importance of ongoing cybersecurity awareness training for users. They warn that cyber attackers are evolving, utilizing tactics such as phishing and pretexting to exploit vulnerabilities. “Completing cybersecurity training may seem tedious but investing just a few minutes can prevent significant financial and personal losses,” Sanders says. 

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month concludes, TSU is not only celebrating its achievements in cybersecurity but also reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the university community against ever-evolving cyber risks.

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TSU Hosts Two-day Conference of Tennessee College and University Housing Professionals

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University was the host of this year’s National Conference of the Tennessee Association of College and University Housing Officers (TACUHO) on the TSU Avon Williams campus. The two-day conference, held on Oct. 14-15, brought together nearly 80 housing practitioners from institutions across the state, focused on sharing best practices in campus housing through educational sessions, networking opportunities, and interactions with corporate partners dedicated to enhancing residence life.

Dr. Bridgett Golman

Dr. Bridgett Golman, TSU’s Vice President of Student Affairs, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of collaboration among institutions. 

“Tennessee State University is glad to be chosen for this all-important conference. It is all about building best practices and truly working together, and the best way to do that is to collaborate with our sister institutions around the state,” Golman said. “Our expectation is that participants will take these best practices and implement them for the continued improvement of services provided to our students.”

Robert F. Perkins

Robert F. Perkins, president of TACUHO, expressed gratitude to Dr. Golman, the TSU staff, and the university community for hosting the conference. He noted that the conference’s goal was to unite like-minded professionals in student affairs to brainstorm ways to enhance their institutions for the benefit of students and their housing environments. “The expectation is for everyone to learn from each other and take valuable insights back to their organizations and departments, which would ultimately benefit the students,” Perkins noted.

One of the highlights of the conference included a session led by Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s Vice President for Technology and Innovation. Melton, who also serves as interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, showcased immersive technology and artificial intelligence at the TSU SMART Center.

Joining Dr. Golman at the conference were Dr. Brent Dukhie, left, Executive Director of Residence Life and Housing , and Christopher Cribbs, Special Assistant to the Vice President. ( Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“We utilized state-of-the-art AI for teaching, learning, research, and workforce development, particularly within the housing area,” Melton explained. “Participants are given the opportunity to experience AI tools along with mixed reality, artificial reality, academic eSports, and digital podcasting, all while considering the legal and ethical implications of AI in the future of student housing.”

Dr. Brent Dukhie, Interim Executive Director of Residence Life and Housing and Assistant Dean for Student Support, expressed enthusiasm about hosting the TACUHO conference. “The conference will aid in the professional development of all housing staff by fostering workshops and discussions that cultivate skills and insights beneficial to campus living environments,” Dukhie said.

Some members of the TSU delegation enjoy a brief break during the conference. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The conference stood as a significant opportunity for networking, learning, and advancing best practices across Tennessee’s higher education institutions, committed to improving student housing experiences.

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New Mister and Miss TSU Crowned in Annual Homecoming Celebration

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Last night, amid a festive atmosphere of pomp, circumstance, and pageantry, Tennessee State University continued a Homecoming tradition with the coronation of the new Mister and Miss TSU and their Royal Court. The event took place in Kean Hall on the main campus, where hundreds of parents, friends, fellow students, and university officials gathered to witness the occasion.

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson, and his wife, Mrs. Irene Oakley Johnson, congratulate the newly crowned Mister. and Miss TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Chandler Carrington Cotton and Chandler Tiana Holt were crowned as Mister TSU and Miss TSU, respectively. Cotton, a senior biology major from Tulsa, Oklahoma, becomes the 34th Mister TSU, while Holt, a senior health science major from Birmingham, Alabama, is now the 94th Miss TSU in the university’s history.

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson officiated the ceremony, administering the university oath to the newly crowned king and queen. He congratulated Cotton and Holt, emphasizing the importance and legacy of their new roles. “Taking on the responsibility of Mr. TSU and Miss TSU is steeped in tradition,” President Johnson said, highlighting the significance of their titles.

Six former Miss TSUs congratulate Chandler Tiana Cotton on her coronation as the new Miss TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Following President Johnson, his wife, Irene Oakley, delivered the charge to the university’s royalty, encouraging them to embrace their roles with dignity and purpose.

Cotton expressed his gratitude for the support he received throughout his journey. “I credit my family, friends, and the caring culture at TSU, along with my deep faith in God, for my success,” he said, adding that his career goal is in medical sales.

The TSU Sophisticated Ladies perform at the coronation of the New Mister and Miss TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Holt, the daughter of two TSU alumni, shared her aspirations for the future: “My ultimate hope is to be able to impact at least one person in each room I step into.” She also acknowledged the vital role her family, friends, and university community played in her achievements. Holt aims to pursue a master’s degree in health sciences after graduation.

Former Mister TSU Naton Smith, Jr., and Former Miss TSU Mariah Rhodes serve as master and mistress of ceremonies at the coronation. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The new Mister and Miss TSU Royal Court includes:

– Mister and Miss Senior: Garrison Holland and Alaska Humphrey

– Mister and Miss Junior: Brandon Diggs and Kennedy Chambers

– Mister and Miss Sophomore: Tylor Miller and Tiona Roberts

– Mister and Miss Freshman: Tayten Waters and Jaylen Brunson

The coronation was a highlight of TSU’s Homecoming week (Oct. 6-11), celebrating the university’s spirit and fostering a sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.

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TSU’s Homecoming Parade a Celebration of Pride, Tradition, and Community Spirit

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – With all its pageantry, vibrant colors, and enthusiasm, Tennessee State University celebrated its annual Homecoming Parade Oct. 12 along historic Jefferson Street. As in past years, the parade drew thousands of enthusiastic spectators who lined the two-mile parade route from 14th Avenue to the main campus.

The Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands lead off the Homecoming Parade along Jefferson Street. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The parade showcased nearly 90 entrants, including floats, marching bands from across the nation, colorful dance troupes, and community leaders. Leading the procession was the Grammy-winning TSU Aristocrat of Bands, culminating with the highly anticipated Mister and Miss TSU float.

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson and Mrs. Irene Oakley Johnson wave to the crowd along the parade route. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Among the crowd were families spanning generations, former and current students, community members, and dedicated TSU supporters, many of whom have been fixtures at the annual event for years. TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson, who attended his first Homecoming as president, joined an entourage of university officials including Grand Marshalls Clarice Phelps, Class of 2003, and Jesse E. Russell, Class of 1972.

President Johnson expressed his excitement, stating, “The Homecoming Parade represents the spirit and unity of our university. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our rich history and the hard work of our students and alumni.”

TSU’s senior administrators, Homecoming Grand Marshals, and special invited guests acknowledge parade participants from the Presidential Viewing Stand. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

For the second consecutive year, the parade was livestreamed, thanks to the collaboration between the TSU Communications Department in the College of Liberal Arts, and Moment of Creation Studio. Gerald Davis, former head drum major of the Aristocrat of Bands and currently a fitness and conditioning trainer for the marching band, provided color commentary throughout the event.

Robert Churchwell, Jr., right, who has been part of the parade in different roles for decades, has been a fixture at the Judges’ Table for 16 years straight. Serving as judges with Churchill this year were, l-r, Peggy Earnest, Dr. Anita McGaha, and Seanne Wilson. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

One notable attendee was Robert Churchwell, Jr., a two-time TSU graduate (’72 and ’87), who has been part of the parade in various roles over the decades. From marching with the Aristocrat of Bands as a student to directing two separate high school marching bands that participated in the parade, Churchwell is a proud participant. He has also judged the annual event for the last 16 years.

For more than 40 years, Romona Perry has watched the parade from her favorite spot directly across from Hale Stadium. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“It’s an honor to come back to your alma mater, especially on our special day at Homecoming. I look forward to seeing all the students and the hard work they put into preparing for the day,” Churchwell said.

This year’s parade saw some fierce competition, with winners determined by Churchwell and his fellow judges. In the Marching Band Category, Cane Ridge High School secured first place, followed by Whites Creek High School in second, and Arabia Mountain High School from Stonecrest, Georgia, taking third. In the Floats Category, the AKAs claimed first place, with the TSU National Alumni Association in second, and Nashville’s General Hospital in third.

Mister TSU Chandler Carrington Cotton, and Miss TSU Chandler Tiana Holt, make their way along the crowded parade route atop the Mister & Miss TSU float. (photo by Aaron Grayson)

Longtime paradegoer Romona Perry, a TSU alum and employee since 1978, sitting across from Hale Stadium, reflected on the significance of the event, saying, “It is a family tradition. This is my usual spot, and I enjoy interacting with friends nearby. Even though my grandson has a football game, our family will be here to enjoy the after-parade festivities.”

Nearby, Cameshea Rucker attended with her 6-year-old twins, Chase, and Chloe. She reminisced, “I just love coming to the annual parade. Before the twins, I attended with friends, but I’ve brought them every year. I love the bands and the floats!” 

Parade color commentator Gerald Davis adds to the entertainment as he steps in with a dance group. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The TSU Homecoming Parade continues to be a cherished tradition that brings together the TSU community in celebration, pride, and nostalgia, ensuring that generations to come will also have their own memories of this vibrant event.

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TSU to welcome hundreds of students for Fall Preview Day

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Hundreds of high school juniors and seniors from across the nation, along with their families, are expected to attend Tennessee State University’s highly anticipated Fall Preview Day on Sept. 28. Considered TSU’s premier open house event, Fall Preview Day showcases the university to prospective students by highlighting its programs, offerings, campus life, and community.

TSU students and campus ambassadors gather for a group photo in support of high school students during last year’s Fall Preview Day. (TSU photo)

Fall Preview Day activities will kick off at 12 p.m., in Kean Hall Gymnasium on the main campus. Registration is now open.

“We warmly invite prospective students and their families to join us for Fall Preview Day and discover the exciting opportunities TSU has to offer,” says Dr. Portia Johnson, Executive Director of Recruitment. “This event provides a perfect platform for attendees to witness how TSU can foster their academic and personal development, and we look forward to welcoming them to our vibrant campus.” 

Organizers say Fall Preview Day will feature a diverse array of activities across campus. Participants will have the chance to engage with academic and financial aid advisors, as well as deans and chairs of various colleges, who will set up displays and exhibits representing their respective departments. Visiting students will also have the opportunity to interact with current students and gain insight into the campus culture and supportive learning environment.

Elmore J. Jones, Jr., TSU’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, highlights the significance of Fall Preview Day in giving prospective students and families a firsthand look at what sets TSU apart as a premier institution.

“Fall Preview Day provides students and their loved ones the opportunity to experience the exceptional programs, resources, and services we offer,” says Jones. “Participants will have the chance to interact with our outstanding faculty, advisors, and current students, who will showcase the transformative learning environment that TSU prides itself on.”

Last year, more than 500 prospective students and their families attended Fall Preview Day, which was held in the first week of December. Participants came from over 15 states, including California, Illinois, and Michigan.

For more information and to register for Fall Preview Day 2024 https://tnstateu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0vbRQEjZAlYuLsO?Q_CHL=qr

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Top-performing high school seniors commit to Tennessee State University

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Over 275 of the nation’s top high school seniors have chosen to enroll at Tennessee State University for the 2024 fall semester. These exceptional students, along with their families, made their commitments during Admitted Students Day on May 18 at TSU. Deja Milan Nickerson of Marietta, Georgia, and Alanah Ellis from Chicago were two of the students who committed to attend TSU for the upcoming fall semester as first-time freshmen. 

Deja Milan Nickerson (sporting her TSU Tiger T-shirt), a former drum major of her high school,  plans to play the clarinet with the AOB. She came to Admitted Student Day with her father, Emmanuel Nickerson, mom Latoya Freeman Nickerson, and younger brother Emmanuel Nickerson, Jr. (TSU Photo)

Nickerson, who will major in journalism and business communications, has a 4.0 GPA. The former high school band drum major received a band scholarship and is eager to join TSU’s acclaimed Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands, where she plans to play the clarinet.

“I am committed, very excited, and it’s an honor to be here,” said Nickerson, who, along with her mother, father, and younger brother, was among the first to check in on Saturday.

“I am excited to see what TSU has in store for me. We visited several schools, but when we came here, TSU just seemed to be the best place for me. In fact, the director of the AOB visited my school, and many of us tried out with the band and ended up getting scholarships.”

For Ellis, also with a 4.0 GPA, she will major in accounting. She cited the university’s reputable academic programs, the enriching HBCU experience, and the ideal distance from home as key factors in her decision. Additionally, Ellis has several relatives who are TSU graduates.

Alana Ellis, left, who will major in accounting, receives a welcome package from Veonka Sarr, Senior Admissions Associate, as her mother, Andrea Thomas, looks on. (TSU Photo)

“I am coming to TSU,” she declared. “I am anxious to get started. I heard a lot of great things about TSU, and I wanted to experience it for myself.” 

As the program kicked off, Deputy Chief Operating Officer Elmore Jones extended a warm welcome emphasizing the importance of starting the TSU experience on a positive note to foster success.

“We want to welcome you here today to make sure you start your TSU experience on the right foot,” Jones said. “We want you to enjoy college. For me, it was the best decision I ever made. So, I want you all to ask all the questions you might have. Get all the information you need. We want you to be successful. We have a lot of exciting things planned for you.”

Dr. Tasha Carson, Assistant Vice President of First-Year Students, admonishes the new Tigers, as Deputy Chief Operating, Elmore Jones, left, and Dr. Portia Johnson, Director of Recruitment, look on. (TSU Photo)

Dr. Tasha Carson, assistant vice president of First-Year Students, commended the students for their perseverance and welcomed them to a supportive community dedicated to their academic growth.

“I applaud you for persevering through middle school, high school, and now the decision to come to college,” Carson said. “I applaud your parents, and you too should applaud them for their support. At TSU, there are many programs and committed individuals who are here to help you succeed.”

 Dr. Coreen Jackson, left, Dean of the Honors College, and Holly Blakemore, Senior Scholarship Coordinator, speak to students and parents during a mixer for merit scholars, as part Admitted Students Day. (TSU Photo)

The day’s events included campus tours, program previews, information sessions on various student services, and a lively mixer for merit scholars hosted by the Office of Institutional Merit Scholarships. The events left a positive impression on students like Julian Kendrick from Champaign, Illinois, who expressed his conviction in choosing TSU, praising the culture and the welcoming HBCU environment that resonated with him.

“I like all I have seen today,” he said. “They heard our concerns and answered our questions. I love the culture. It is like family. I feel like I will fit right in.”

 Following the assembly in Kean Hall, the new Tigers and their families took in the beautiful weather and toured campus as part of the daylong activities. (TSU Photo)

Admitted Students Day, coordinated by the Offices of Recruitment, Admissions, and Enrollment, provided essential insights and interactions to ensure a smooth transition for the incoming Tigers.

Dr. Portia Johnson, director of Recruitment, emphasized the importance of addressing all inquiries before departing to equip students with the requisite information for a successful academic journey.

For further details on admission processes at TSU, prospective students can visit Tennessee State University Admissions at https://www.tnstate.edu/admissions/

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Hundreds Expected for Exciting Admitted Student Day at TSU on May 18

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As graduation draws near for Tucker Kyne from Knoxville’s Cannon County High School, the spotlight is on his aspirations to play football for the Tennessee State University Tigers. Excitement grows as Kyne prepares to take the next step toward his dream by committing to attend TSU.

More than 400 students and family members participated in last year’s Admitted Students Day, in Poag Auditorium. (Media Relations File photo)

On May 18, Kyne, who wants to major in human performance and sports sciences, will be closer to realizing his dream when he joins nearly 700 other first-time freshmen to participate in Committed Students Day at TSU. The event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Kean Hall on the main campus, promises to be a day filled with enthusiasm and possibilities.

“It will mean the world to me to play football for the Tigers and have the opportunity to earn a college degree as a student athlete,” says Kyne, as he expresses his eagerness to join the TSU community. “I am proud to be a TSU Tiger.”

For prospective participants, registration for Admitted Student Day opens on April 1. The program is designed to provide valuable insights into TSU’s academic offerings and campus life, guiding students toward a successful transition into their college journey. The day will be packed with engaging activities and informative sessions to address key questions and critical points for academic and student success.

LaMar-Octavious Scott, director of Admissions, encourages all interested students, applicants, and admitted individuals to participate in the event for Fall of 2024. He underscores the importance of the event in supporting students and their families through the enrollment process and ensuring a smooth and fulfilling start to their TSU experience.

“I want to invite all students that have interest, applied, and those admitted to join us at Admitted Students Day 2024,” says Scott.

Before participating in Committed Student Day, all invited students are provided with a Next Steps Checklist to ensure they comprehend the enrollment requirements. They are also urged to “Accept Admission,” register for New Student Orientation, apply for On-Campus Housing, as well as complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA form to apply for Federal Student Aid.

As the date approaches, families like Tucker Kyne’s parents eagerly await the chance to become part of TSU’s legacy of academic and athletic excellence. Paula Kyne, Tucker’s mother, says, “We are so thrilled for Tucker to attend a school with such rich tradition. Can’t wait to support the Tigers on Saturdays.”

For more information and to stay updated on Admitted Student Day, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/admissions/admitted.aspx.

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Student Advisor Nick Horton to join TSU Sports Hall of Fame

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University freshmen advisor Nick Horton is headed to the TSU Sports Hall of Fame. On April 12, Horton will join 24 other former athletes for the special recognition. The 2024 TSU induction class includes NBA star Robert Covington, former NFL star Dominique Rogers-Cromatie, and the late legendary Tigerbelle Mamie Rallins, who will be honored posthumously. Horton is being celebrated for his outstanding track career and continued contributions to his alma mater.

Nick Horton receives a block in his honor at the Olympic Statue on campus in recognition of his becoming  TSU’s first Male Athlete of the Year in 2004. (Submitted photo)

“I am overjoyed, happy, and I think it is well deserved, but also humbled,” Horton said. “When I came to TSU, all I wanted to do was run. But to know that I will be mentioned in the same room with esteemed athletes and coaches is truly a remarkable honor.”

Horton graduated from TSU in 2004, as a decorated member of the Flying Tigers men’s track team. The Milwaukee native ran the 200-meter and 400-meter dashes and served as team captain in his junior and senior years. His accolades consist of 10 gold medals as an OVC champion, Athlete of the Week, Male Track Athlete of the Year, and representation in national and regional competitions. In 2021, he was inducted into the Dominican High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his achievement in track and field.

Horton’s dedication to mentoring students and guiding them toward success exemplifies his commitment to serving his university and community, something that is celebrated by his freshmen students and colleagues.

Nick Horton talks to incoming freshman and public health major Jaden Snider, about selecting the appropriate classes for her first semester. (Submitted photo)

“Mr. Horton was very kind and very helpful in advising me to take the right classes for my freshman semester,” said Jaden Snider, a public health major from Detroit. “From how he interacted with me, I am not surprised that he is being honored this way. He is a good mentor.”

Olympic gold medalist Chandra Cheeseborough, who is TSU track and field head coach and HOF inductee, praised Horton’s accomplishments, calling him a valuable asset to the university.

“I signed Nick to TSU as a student athlete, and he came to do great things. He was an outstanding athlete in the conference, and I am proud to see him return to contribute to our university’s legacy of success.”

Nick Horton specialized in the 200-meter and 400-meter dash as a Flying Tiger. (Submitted Photo)

Isabelle Langham, executive director of the Office of Student Success, commended Horton’s success, saying, “We are proud of Nick and celebrate this deserving honor. Nick is not only a decorated athlete but an exceptional advisor who cares deeply about students and TSU. I’m lucky to have been an undergraduate student on the yard during his tenure with TSU athletics and privileged to see him come back home and continue an undeniable legacy of service and excellence. We salute him and all the honorees.”

Former TSU Men’s Track Coach Kelly Carter recalled that Horton had the skills, upon meeting the freshman, and predicted he would excel in the sport.  “I thought he was going to be really good. I knew once he got the training that he needed, with his attitude and the way he carried himself, I just knew he was going to be great.”

The TSU Hall of Fame induction ceremony on April 12 is at the Grand Hyatt on Broadway, in downtown Nashville, and is a part of the 2024 Coming Home Celebration.

PROFILE PHOTO
Nick Horton still holds records at Eastern Illinois Lantz Fieldhouse set in 2004, where he represented TSU in the NCAA Mideast Regional Championship. (Submitted photo)

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TSU kicks off spring semester with orientation for nearly 200 freshmen

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The spring semester at Tennessee State University began with a successful freshman orientation, which helped to prepare over 200 incoming students for life at TSU. The orientation, held a week prior to the start of classes, provided a platform for the new students and their parents to interact with enrollment and recruitment officials.  In the packed Forum on the main campus, discussions covered a wide range of topics, including financial aid, academic advising, class scheduling, residence life, and student activities.

Incoming freshman Amoree Alexander and her family tour campus during Freshman Orientation. From left are, grandmother Donna Alexander, Amoree, sister Phoenix Alexander, and mother Makalea Alexander.

For many participants, the orientation served as the starting point for their college journey. Amoree Alexander, from Clarksville, Tennessee, was one of those students. Alexander is majoring in civil engineering and is eager to continue the family legacy at TSU. She expressed her enthusiasm for the faculty and students following orientations.

“The faculty is super nice, and the students are very welcoming.  Besides, my grandmother came here. So, I am also here to get that HBCU experience.”

Davieon Moss’ mother, Dr. Effua Ampadu, right, holds two degrees from TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Davieon Moss, a native of Columbus, Ohio, was drawn to TSU due to the positive experiences his mother had at the university while earning her master’s and doctorate degrees. Moss, a music major, was particularly enticed by TSU’s world renowned music program and the Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands marching band.

“I am no stranger to TSU. With a great music program that has two Grammys to its name, this is the place I want to be.”

Davieon’s mother, Dr. Effua Ampadu, a former TSU instructor, praised the thoroughness of the orientation process and the institution’s commitment to taking care of its students. Recalling her personal experience as a graduate and former student, Ampadu said, “This institution was good to me, and I am sure it will be good to him as well.”

Chelsea Morgan, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions, urges the new students to make sure all of their questions are answered.

Chelsea Morgan, assistant director of Undergraduate Admissions and Transfer Enrollment, kicked off the orientation with a comprehensive slide presentation on various topics and advised students on how to navigate college life seamlessly. Morgan stressed the availability of support resources.

“We are here for you, so make sure you get your questions answered before you leave,” Morgan told students.

“Whether it’s selecting the right classes, understanding student conduct, or utilizing disability services, we are here to assist you.”

Dr. Brent Dukhie, left, Assistant Dean for Student Services, and Dr. Tasha A. Carson, Assistant Vice President of First-Year Students, give the new Tigers tips on seamlessly navigating campus life. (photo by Aaron Grayson)

Others speaking at the student orientation included Chief Operating Officer Jason T. Evans and LaMar Octavious-Scott, the director of Admissions. Evans extended a warm welcome to students and their families and encouraged them to make the most of the orientation by asking questions and seeking answers. Octavious-Scott coordinated the program and said the event was organized to effectively address the needs of the incoming freshmen.

For more information on admissions at Tennessee State University, visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions.