NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Chandler Cotton, a Tennessee State University junior biology major, has been selected as one of only five students nationwide to receive the prestigious 2024 Jordan Smith Undergraduate Student Fellowship Award. This highly competitive fellowship program aims to enhance the leadership skills and knowledge base of undergraduate students, empowering them to promote and cultivate first-year student development on their respective campuses.
Out of hundreds of undergraduate student nominations, Chandler, who is from Tulsa, Oklahoma, emerged as the sole recipient from a Historically Black College or University. He will receive his award at the 43rd National Conference on The First Year Experience, scheduled to be held in Seattle, Washington, in February 2024. As an award recipient, Chandler will have the opportunity to attend the conference, where he will meet and collaborate with faculty, staff, and students dedicated to serving first-year students. The fellowship award covers travel and hotel accommodations, as well as conference registration.
At TSU, Chandler has consistently demonstrated his commitment to supporting and advocating for first-year students. He has served as a stellar Tiger PAL (Peer Advocate Leader) mentor, a University Ambassador, and a student advisor and charter member of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society for First-Year Students. Most recently, he was elected by the student body to serve as the Representative at Large for First-Year Students in the Student Government Association.
Chandler’s exceptional achievements and dedication to student success was recognized by Dr. Tasha A. Carson, assistant vice president of First-Year Students, who nominated him for the award.
“Receiving this award is truly an honor, not only for my collegiate journey but also for my future career as a pediatrician,” Cotton said. “I am grateful to Dr. Carson for her recommendation and for igniting a passion in me for the first-year experience. As a reserved freshman, I have grown through my involvement and experiences, and I appreciate the opportunity to enhance my leadership skills through this prestigious award.”
Dr. Carson, thrilled with Cotton’s selection, expressed her pride and admiration for his accomplishments, stating, “I was very happy to nominate Chandler for this award and I’m really proud that he was selected,” Carson said. “He has remained a continuous support and advocate for first-year students through various roles.”
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – College lab classes should come easy for a group of incoming freshmen who recently attended Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture Summer Enrichment Program. The 23 students, with different majors, conducted real-world scientific and cutting-edge research during the four-week program. Activities included several laboratory and field experiments. The last day culminated with a closing ceremony where the students presented their finished works as scientific papers.
Jai’Da Le’Nae Seafous was one of four program participants awarded full scholarships to attend TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
Jai’Da Le’Nae Seafous, a senior from Summer Creek High School in Houston, expressed her excitement about attending TSU, saying that the program further fueled her passion for the university. Her research project focused on extracting fecal and different blood samples from goats to check for parasites.
“The program most definitely made my decision much easier to major in animal science,” Seafous said. “The hands-on experience was so helpful.”
Seafous was one of four program participants awarded full scholarships to attend TSU starting this fall.
Another high school senior, Christopher Dewanye McKay Jr., from Ridgeway High School in Memphis, conducted research on genetics and DNA, stating that he discovered many things he didn’t previously know about plants.
Christopher Dewanye McKay Jr., received insights in plant science during his research on genetics and DNA. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
“When I got here, I really didn’t know much about plant science. I was just looking for something to do,” said McKay, who wants to major in computer science. “But I am glad I did. Now I have a whole different appreciation for agriculture.”
Dr. Chanra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture, emphasized that the program, which has been held each summer for more than 10 years, provides students with exposure to different opportunities within the agricultural sector. He also highlighted the program’s success, with approximately 85 percent of participants choosing to continue their education at TSU.
“We are very happy about the success rate of the program. This teaches them about the STEM opportunities in the college,” Reddy said.
Dr. De’Etra Young, Program Coordinator, assists a group,p of students with their presentation at the closing ceremony. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
Dr. De’Etra Young, program coordinator, explained that students had the chance to work on various subjects, ranging from food and animal science to genetics, forestry, GIS, precision agriculture, nutrition, and child development.
“We tried to expose the students to the whole offerings in the College of Agriculture,” said Young, who is associate dean for academics and Land-Grant programs. “This provides exposure but also gives us the opportunity to serve as a bridge to help them prepare for college.”
A cross section of family members, faculty and staff attend the student presentation in the AITC on the main campus. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
The Summer Enrichment Program was funded through a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The program accepts high school sophomores through seniors and incoming college freshmen from across the country. This summer’s participants were from Tennessee, Mississippi, New York, Texas and Georgia.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University and Amazon have partnered to provide the company’s hourly employees an opportunity to take college courses as a part of the Career Choice tuition assistance program. Career Choice is part of Amazon’s $1.2 billion commitment to upskill more than 300,000 employees by 2025. The program offers opportunities for employees to earn associate and bachelor’s degrees or certificates for specialized training. TSU joins the growing list of historically black college and university (HBCUs) nationwide participating in the program and is the only one in Tennessee in the Career Choice network.
President Glenda Glover
“We are pleased that our existing relationship with Amazon has grown into this new partnership where Tennessee State University will train and educate hundreds of Amazon’s employees through the Career Choice initiative to help enhance job skills and advance their careers,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.
“TSU has the resources for Amazon employees to flourish and complete any of our academic programs with dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to seeing them succeed and graduate.”
Beginning this fall, Amazon will pre-pay tuition for employees to pursue courses – online or in person – from bachelor’s degrees to certifications at TSU that lead to in-demand jobs. The company accounts for nearly 30,000 employees in Tennessee, with several fulfillment centers. A new downtown office is expected to bring more than 5,000 tech and corporate jobs to Nashville.
“We’re looking forward to Tennessee State University coming on board as an education partner for Career Choice, adding to the hundreds of best-in-class offerings available to our employees,” said Tammy Thieman, Global Program Director of Amazon’s Career Choice program.
“We’re committed to empowering our employees by providing them access to the education and training they need to grow their careers, whether that’s with us or elsewhere. We have intentionally created a partner network of third-party educators and employers committed to providing excellent education, job placement resources, and continuous improvements to the experience. Today, over 130,00 Amazon employees around the world have participated in Career Choice and we’ve seen first-hand how it can transform their lives.”
Dr. Verontae L. Deams, with TSU’s Enrollment Management, said the new partnership is part of the University’s commitment to helping companies build their workforce and provide opportunities for professional growth and development.
“With this partnership, Amazon employees will have access to a range of educational programs designed to help them acquire new skills, enhance their existing skill set, and place them on the track of upward mobility through higher education,” said Deams, who serves as assistant vice president and university registrar.
“Whether an Amazon employee is enrolling as a first-time freshman or transfer student, TSU is here to help that individual obtain an undergraduate degree or certification. We are committed to all of our students from application to graduation.”
Since launching in 2012, Amazon Career Choice has connected with hundreds of schools across 14 countries to assist with its employees’ future career success. To date, more than 130,000 Amazon employees have participated in Career Choice.
LoLita Toney, TSU’s assistant vice president of Institutional Advancement, serves as the liaison for the partnership with Amazon. She said the Career Choice benefit addresses the barrier of cost that many students face in their pursuit of a college degree.
“We’re honored Amazon selected TSU as a partner,” she said. “Together, TSU and Amazon are providing educational opportunities that will have a lasting positive impact on individuals and their families. We’re excited about the collaboration and look forward to welcoming Amazon associates to Big Blue.”
Amazon employees interested in Career Choice should visit the company’s designated portal and complete a TSU application as well.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Two Tennessee State University graduate students have been selected for the Tennessee Hospital Association’s (THA) Agenda 21 Internship Program. J’la Jenkins, and Bege Mallam, both public health majors, were among 12 students from schools across the country who participated in a 12-week, paid supervised learning experience for qualified graduate students in healthcare administration or a related field.
A native of Alabama, Jenkins, who is pursuing her master’s degree in public health, will intern at Vanderbilt Medical Center, while Mallam, who is from Nigeria, and also pursuing his master’s degree in public health, will intern at West Tennessee Healthcare in Jackson, Tennessee.
Jenkins was not immediately available to comment on her selection, but Mallam said he is grateful to TSU for the support he has received and honored to be one of only 12 selected to be a part of the prestigious THA internship program.
“I’m humbled to be able to explore the opportunities in healthcare and to experience the practice of what we learn in class,” Mallam said. “Thank you for the recognition, and here’s to illuminating a path toward a brighter future in healthcare!”
Mallam said his long-term goal is to engage in medical outreach and health interventions among marginalized communities. TSU College of Health Sciences Dean Ronald Barredo said the public health program continues to produce quality students who will go on to excel in the field because of opportunities like this provided by THA.
“We are extremely proud of the selection of J’la Jenkins and Bege Mallam for the Tennessee Hospital Association’s Agenda 21 Internship Program,” said Dr. Barredo. “Their selection embodies not only the mission of the College of Health Sciences in preparing tomorrow’s healthcare leaders, but also — and more importantly — the institution’s motto of Think, Work, Serve.”
Dr. Wendelyn Inman is interim director of the TSU public health program. She said she is extremely proud of Jenkins and Mallam.
“Tennessee State University is noted for producing outstanding leaders,” Inman said. “With the training Jenkins and Mallam are getting from TSU, combined with their experience from the Tennessee Hospital Association’s Agenda 21 Internship Program, they get to step into leadership roles.”
Designed to increase diversity in hospital executive leadership, the Agenda 21 Internship Program provides selected candidates with additional exposure, knowledge and skills, that prepare them for a successful career in the healthcare industry. Through close work with administrators and staff, Jenkins and Mallam will gain hands-on experience as part of their hospitals’ leadership teams.
“The Agenda 21 Internship Program has operated for 28 years with the mission of providing learning opportunities in Tennessee hospitals for students who are from minority and under-represented groups in hospital executive leadership.” said Karizma Whitfield, Agenda 21 program manager at THA.
Applications for the Agenda 21 Internship Program are accepted in the fall semester each year and students are placed the following spring with THA member hospitals for their summer internships. Learn more about the Agenda 21 Internship Program at https://tha.com/focus-areas/agenda-21-internship-program/.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Nearly 150 first-time freshmen recently attended orientation to learn more about the “Land of Golden Sunshine.” The May 19 orientation was the first of several sessions Tennessee State University will hold to introduce new, incoming, and transfer students to campus academics and life at the university. Financial aid information, career development opportunities, student activities, disability services, and student conduct were among some of the areas available to provide information to students and their parents.
President Glenda Glover welcomes students and families to the first of several new student orientations in Kean Hall. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
“Welcome to Tennessee State University. I am glad you have chosen TSU for your college careers,” TSU President Glenda Glover told the gathering in Kean Hall on the main campus. “You join students and alumni who have gone on to be trail blazers. I was here at TSU and sat in these same seats in which you are sitting today. My charge to you is to be diligent, pursue excellence, be your best and do your best. You will enjoy being a student here, you will study, you will learn, you will excel. We will help you to be the best and to be successful.”
Rheagan Reid, from Charlotte, North Carolina, who plans to major in biology, and Elijah Ware, a commercial music major from Nashville, and their parents, were among the first who arrived for the orientation. They were moved by the president’s message.
Reagan Reid, with her father, Nate, left, and mom Cheyenne, right, said she was drawn to TSU because of the school’s family atmosphere. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
“She made me feel very comfortable,” said Reid, a graduating senior from Merancas Middle College High School in Huntersville, North Carolina, who said she was drawn to TSU because of its “family” atmosphere. “The first time I visited TSU I immediately fell in love with the school. I love their programs. I am ready to leave home and TSU is where I want to be.”
For Ware, he is coming to TSU on a full ride scholarship and plans to be a part of the university’s Air Force ROTC program. He was enlisted in the program in 2022 and will be going to basic training on May 31.
Elijah Ware, who’s coming to TSU as part of the Air Force ROTC program, gets advice on course selection from Terrance Felker, Academic Enrichment Programs Coordinator and Advisor. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
“I have always heard about this school. I come to homecoming and always enjoy myself and I am looking forward to what I can learn here to prepare me for my future,” said Ware. “Before I got my scholarship to come to TSU, they (Air Force) came to my school and talked to me about the military. So, I enlisted, and I have been going to the training since. I want to know all I can about the military while I am here TSU and see where that takes me.”
Terrance Izzard, associate vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Success, said orientation is intended to give students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with available resources, individuals, departments, programs, and activities that will help them in their college careers. On stage with him were individuals representing Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, First-Year Experience, and Admissions and Recruitment, among others.
Terrance Izzard, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, and scholarship coordinators, left, discuss funding opportunities with students and parents. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
“TSU is a family,” he said. “I want you to be very attentive. While you are here today, the people you see here today are the people who will help you along your journey while you are at TSU. So, when it comes to your classrooms, faculty members or anything that deals with your programs of study, even unto graduation, these are the people who will guide you. You will get to build relationship. It’s all about building relationships.”
Following a joint and then separate student and parent assemblies in Kean Hall, the two groups were escorted by student ambassadors on tours across campus, culminating with an “AMA (Ask Me Anything) Session” in various locations, where individuals received one-on-one interactions with academic advisors, deans, program leaders to get answers to questions that they may not have had the time to address in the group sessions.”
Isabelle Langham, Director of Advisement and Student Transition, speaks to a new freshman and her mother during a one-on-one meeting at the AMA session in the Health Sciences Building. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
Among many key areas of concern at the AMA was academic advising – making sure students make the right decision when it came to course selection. Officials said before Friday’s orientation, a lot of proactive efforts had been made to prepare students to be ready by the start of class. For instance, since early April, the Office of Student Success has been hosting in-person and virtual sessions with parents and students to get them better prepared.
“And so, the nature of our (AMA) meeting today was to give feedback, allow parents and students to ask questions, answer some of those questions that may not be clear from those virtual sessions,” said Isabelle Langham, director of Advisement and Student Transitions. “Today’s efforts were easier because of the proactive efforts we have made. I think that we are definitely headed in the right direction in making sure that they (students) are ready before Day 1.”
Undradge Jamison, an incoming architectural engineering major, says he plans to engage in competitive gaming at TSU. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
Another major attraction at Friday’s AMA session was a display by the university’s award-winning Academic eSports and Smart Technology Center, which set up video games and robotics for gamers and other enthusiasts, in the new Health Sciences Building, to the excitement of visiting students and parents.
“This is super exciting,” said Undradge Jamison, an incoming architectural engineering major, from Stewart Creek High School in Smyrna, Tennessee. “I have not gamed competitively in the past, but I think TSU is giving me the chance to do just that.”
Few visiting parents and new students test their skills at virtual reality gaming, at the eSports display. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
In November, a program developed by the university using 5G technology to recruit and retain underserved students in the STEM field, won first place in the inaugural T-Mobile “Unconventional” Awards for innovation in customer experience, in Nevada, Las Vegas.
The next orientation, for transfer students, is scheduled for May 26, also kicking off in Kean Hall.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – United States Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, the man who led the congressional investigation into the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, told Tennessee State University graduate school candidates to be aware of forces that are trying to change the course of democracy in the country by twisting facts and reality to suit their personal agendas.
President Glenda Glover and U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson lead the procession at the spring graduate commencement in the Gentry Center Complex. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
Before Congressman Thompson’s address in the Howard C. Gentry Complex, TSU President Glenda Glover congratulated the graduates, parents, relatives, and friends for their support.
“I applaud you for having reached this milestone,” said Glover. “Today is only a steppingstone. We thank you. We salute you.”
Thompson, a civil rights champion, who represents Mississippi’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, was the keynote speaker at TSU’s graduate commencement.
Now serving his 15th term in Congress, Thompson reminded the graduates to make the best of their education and remember to give back to their institution to ensure its continued growth and success.
More than 200 graduate students received advance degrees in various disciplines. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
“So, for this institution and other historically black colleges and universities to survive in these turbulent times, you are going to have to support it,” he said. “Some of you will become doctors, lawyers, or whatever, but unless you understand what you are faced with right now and what you need to do in this country it is all for naught, because if graduates don’t come back and help, these institutions are in trouble.”
Marque Griggs, who received his Ph.D. in psychology, took Thompson’s message to heart.
Marque Griggs, who received his Ph.D. in psychology, says there are no shortcuts in working for equality. (Photo by Ramona Whitworth)
“The Hon. Bennie Thompson spoke truth to power and did not mince words,” said Griggs, of Fort Valley, Georgia. “He reminded me of the work in my respective field that I do and must continue to do. There are no shortcuts in working for equality and equity for HBCUs and minority spaces.”
Gwendolyn Berry, a two-time Olympian, who received her master’s degree in public health, referred to Thompson as a “good fighter.” The St. Louis, Missouri, native is an American track and field athlete who specializes in the hammer throw. Her mark of 77.78 meter on June 8, 2018, ranks her #7 on the all-time list. She also holds the world record in the weight throw with a mark of 25.60-meter set in March 2017.
Friday was her first time marching in a graduation ceremony. From high school to college, her athletic commitment each time has not permitted to take part in previous ceremonies.
Gwendolyn Berry referred to Congressman Thompson as a “good fighter.” Photo by Ramona Whitworth)
“This is my first time marching, and I am excited that my family is here with me,” Berry said.
“Congressman Thompson is about a good fight and that is what he demonstrated in his speech. Although people don’t want to hear it, but it is always going to prevail because the people always prevail.”
For two years, Thompson led a bipartisan committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the facts, circumstances, and causes of the attack, and to ensure that it never occurs again.
“In that work, we outlined the dangerous symptoms that we have in this country when people tell things that are not true and repeated it often enough to sometime people believe that it is true,” Thompson told the graduates. “Some people even say what you saw on January 6th really didn’t happen. By obtaining your advance degrees, I compliment you on making sure that you understand the realities of what’s happening in our country.”
Following his address, President Glover conferred the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters on Rep. Thompson. More than 200 graduates received advance degrees in various disciplines.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Oprah! Oprah! Oprah! That was the deafening chant that permeated the 12,000-seat Hale Stadium on Saturday, as Oprah Winfrey, Tennessee State University’s most famous alumnus made her triumphant return to her alma mater as the spring undergraduate commencement speaker. The throng of exciting fans poured onto the field trying to touch, get a glimpse of Winfrey or take selfies with the former student who has gone onto to gain fame as a global media leader, philanthropist, producer, actress and author. Oprah’s speech later did not disappoint either, as many jubilant graduates, parents, alumni, and others spoke about being inspired by one of the most respected and admired figures in the world.
Lauren Graves, who graduated with honors, carries the banner for her college at the spring undergraduate commencement. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)
TSU President Glenda Glover, at end of Winfrey’s speech, conferred on her the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, as a mark of respect and honor from her university.
“Oprah is really here at my graduation, wow! This is the most exciting moment of my life,” said Lauren Graves, of Louisville, Kentucky, who received her degree in social work. “I think it is awesome to be able to see someone as successful as Oprah come back and celebrate and inspire the next generation of successful individuals. It was an honor to be able to see her today, and to know that I am part of an alumni that include her.”
Kenneth Rolle II, outgoing president of the Student Government Association and urban studies major, couldn’t hold his excitement.
Kenneth Rolle II says he is inspired by Oprah’s accomplishment and can’t wait to follow in her footstep. (photo by Aaron Grayson)
“I am motivated and inspired,” he said. “Dr. Winfrey just gave a great motivational speech about moving forward and how not to let obstacles get in our way. She gave her testimony about the obstacles she faced at TSU and how she was able to overcome them. I am very blessed to be able to follow in her footstep being a TSU alum. I can’t wait to have similar impact on the world post-graduation.”
“This has been a long time coming and to top it with Oprah, is mind blowing,” added Jada Carter, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who received her degree in accounting. “I am very excited. This feels so unreal. I love to see Oprah. She is very influential. I really look up to her. She is a very phenomenal individual. She gave an outstanding commencement speech.”
Jada Carter’s parents, mother Viola, left, and dad Henry, say bringing back Oprah as their daughter’s graduation speaker was an added motivation. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
Jada’s parents, father Henry, and mom Viola, made the long trek from Milwaukee to see their daughter walk across the stage, but knowing that Oprah would be the speaker was an extra motivation, they said.
“Tennessee State has been an incredible opportunity for our daughter and bringing back Oprah as the speaker for ger graduation, is incredible and awesome,” said Viola Carter. “It is amazing that she shows the students how many opportunities are available to them. This lets our children know the greatness that they can become.”
Regina Rogers says she will apply Oprah’s speech to her life. (photo by Aaron Grayson)
“Oprah’s commencement speech was inspiring and one that will help guide us to our next level of life,” added Regina Rogers, of Nashville. She earned her degree in arts and science. “I really love her speech. I am going to take her speech and apply it to my life from here on.”
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When Darius Boyd dons his cap and gown at TSU’s spring commencement on Saturday, he will receive his bachelor’s degree in business information systems with an extra level of hope and satisfaction. That’s because Boyd will hear inspiring words from TSU’s most famous alumnus, Oprah Winfrey, and have a job waiting on him once he crosses the stage. His early employment is also an indication of the bright jobs market many experts predict for 2023 college graduates.
Darius Boyd is expected to receive a starting salary of about $90,000 as a business analyst at Bank of America.
“I am very excited to have a job waiting for me right out of college,” says Boyd, who has been hired as a business analyst in the technology department at Bank of America. “I am excited and blessed to have the opportunity to have the skill set to work at a company such as Band of America, and to have Ms. Oprah Winfrey as my commencement speaker to end my college career at TSU is mind-blowing.”
Boyd is not alone with a job waiting and excitement as he awaits the ceremony. He is one of six yet to receive their degrees out of the spring graduating class who have already been hired by BOA in high-paying positions, with salaries ranging from $75,000-$95,000 and a guaranteed $10,000 signing bonus each. But that’s not all. Many others from the class of 2023, from internships, co-ops to fulltime employment, have jobs lined up.
Jackson Tyler Houston received his job offer as a consultant at CGI at the end of his internship.
Jackson Tyler Houston, of Brentwood, Tennessee, who will receive his bachelor’s degree in computer science, has a job offer waiting for him at CGI (Consultants in Management and Information Technology), one of the largest IT and business consulting firms in the world. He’s being hired as a consultant.
“It is fantastic leaving college with a send-off from the one and only Oprah Winfrey and having a job lined,” says Houston. “I can’t wait to hear her messages, but to have a job already was a huge relief off my shoulders going into my final semester and not have to worry about finding an employment.”
Houston, who interned with CGI up to his senior year of college, received an offer after he finished the program and credits TSU for the early employment.
Angela Davis, Assistant Director of the Career Development Center, says the center uses different platforms to connect students with employers. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
“I must thank TSU and my professors who gave me the opportunity to pursue the job in the first place,” he says.
While many analysts see a booming jobs market for 2023 college graduates, at TSU, students credit their success to rigorous classroom and field training, passionate professors, and a Career Development Center that is focused on preparing and exposing students to available opportunities.
Angela Davis, assistant director of the CDC, says in addition to career fairs, training and other events, the department utilizes different job search platforms such as Handshake to connect employers with students.
“We cover topics such as resume preparation, creating a brand, preparing for the interview, soft skills in the workplace, how to navigate a career fair, as well as opportunities that are available within those companies,” says Davis.
Jada Carter, who is receiving her degree in accounting, will work with Bank of America as an enterprise risk credit analyst.
“We also hold Table-Top sessions throughout the semester. Each event provides students the opportunity to engage with employers for employment opportunities.”
Overall, TSU students graduating this year are in a good mix when it comes to hiring. A study published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers shows that employers are looking to hire more 2023 graduates than in 2022. Another NAEC survey released just recently, shows that undergraduates are receiving an average of 1.14 job offers before graduation.
“This has been a long four years, but with a very exciting ending,” says Jada Carter, also eluding Winfrey and secured employment.
“I am ready to get out in the world and represent TSU because they have done a lot for me,” adds Carter. The Milwaukee native is also going to work for BOA as an enterprise risk credit analyst.
“The Career Development Center has been very helpful. I have worked very closely with them in the last four years. This helped me to build professional relationships with recruiters and business partners. I’m leaving TSU on the right track, with a job and the best commencement speaker you could hope for, and a fellow TSU graduate.”
Carter, and Boyd of Memphis, Tennessee, will be assigned at the BOA headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina. They will be among more than 800 undergraduate and graduate students who will receive degrees at the 2023 spring commencement.
Spring 2023 commencement
Tennessee State University alumna Oprah Winfrey is coming home to headline TSU’s Spring Commencement as the keynote speaker for the undergraduate Commencement on Saturday, May 6 at 8 a.m. CDT, in Hale Stadium. Due to demand, security and safety protocols, this is a ticketed event. The undergraduate ceremony will be moved to the Gentry Center Complex in case of rain. United States Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Miss-Second District, will address graduate students at an indoor ceremony on Friday, May 5 at 5 p.m. CDT, in the Gentry Center. Both commencement ceremonies will be live streamed from the TSU YouTube Channel, www.tnstate.edu/livestream.
For more information on TSU 2023 Spring Commencement and full bios on Ms. Winfrey and Congressman Thompson, visit www.tnstate.edu/commencement.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University New Direction Gospel Choir is gearing up for another exciting and eventful itinerary filled with performances and competitions. With a reputation as one of the world’s leading gospel choirs, the group is already in high spirits and eagerly preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
State Rep. Torrey Harris (D-District 19), left, reads a proclamation from the Tennessee General Assembly to New Direction in recognition of the group’s outstanding contribution to the arts. Receiving the proclamation are New Direction President Kendrick Noel, right, and Director Justin Butler. (Photo by John Cooper)
Last week, the award-winning choir capped off an eventful April with its Annual Spring Concert at the Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church in Nashville. Gospel great Kevin Davidson, of the contemporary gospel choir Kevin Davidson and the Voices, was the host of the packed evening of fellowship, singing, and entertainment. It featured the sensational Josh Bracy and Power Anointed.
On April 5, New Direction kicked off the month with an appearance at the Mr. Crimson Pageant on campus, sponsored by Delta Sigma Theta, where the choir sang its version of “My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord.” That event followed the group’s participation in the Good Friday Service on April 7 at Bridgestone Arena, featuring Christian music star Chris Tomlin.
Kevin Davidson, of the contemporary gospel choir Kevin Davidson and the Voices, was the guest host for the evening. (Photo by John Cooper)
“This is just the tip of the iceberg,” says Justin Butler, director of New Direction, about the series of events and performances leading up to this year’s How Sweet the Sound Choir Competition in Atlanta on June 3, where the group hopes to take the top prize since its first runner-up appearance in 2013.
“We are super, super excited about being there and representing Tennessee State University,” says Butler. “Hopefully, we can walk away with the first-place prize. We believe we are going to win. This year we are looking to do one better and come home with that prize.”
Tenor Reginald McCollum, a senior who has been with the choir since his sophomore year, is just as optimistic about TSU’s chances at the competition. “It is very exciting to know we are actually going to be competing in How Sweet the Sound,” says the psychology major from New York. “To be able to go against so many wonderful choirs is a challenge we are ready for because we put in the time, we are very dedicated to our work and to our craft and what we sing.”
The sensational Josh Bracy and Power Anointed was the featured choir at the concert. (Photo by JohnCooper)
Considered as one of America’s top gospel choir competitions, How Sweet the Sound features large and small choirs, solo performances, spoken word, and dance. TSU will go against some big-name groups in the large choir category, including Anthony Sutton and Fresh Wind from Raleigh, North Carolina, and Nashville Community Gospel Choir. Featured guests will include Hezekiah Walker, J.J. Hairston, Tamela Mann, and Donald Lawrence.
Now in its 26th year, New Direction Gospel Choir is comprised mainly of TSU students and university staff as advisers, serving as a platform for students from all disciplines who are interested in improving their choral and musical talent. The group has been distinguished as an “outstanding group among gospel choirs” around the country and the world, with awards and other recognitions.
In 2011, the group won first place in the Fourth Annual National Black Collegiate Alumni Hall of Fame Gospel Choir Competition in Atlanta. Four years later, in 2015, New Direction was voted the “Nation’s Best Gospel Choir” at the National College Choir Explosion in Louisville, Kentucky. In 2018, they spent 31 days touring and performing in different cities across Europe, including an appearance in the Vatican, where they met and performed for the Pope. The following year, the choir was featured on BET’s hit show “Sunday Best,” a reality television gospel music singing competition series.
Terrance Izzard, an adviser with the group and TSU’s Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, describes the New Direction Gospel Choir as a phenomenal group of performers who serve as university ambassadors.
“Through their talent and dedication, they help us recruit and retain the best and brightest students from across the country,” says Izzard. “They deserve all the accolades and recognitions. They work very hard, put in the time, and are always striving to be the best. This year, I have no doubt that they could walk away with the top prize at How Sweet the Sound.”
“To be a part of this group is still like a dream, and I cherish every moment I have been a part of them,” adds McCollum, who graduates this May. “People know you everywhere, no matter where you go, they know who you are and how you sound. I love this choir because it is such a unique group. I will miss them.”
For those interested in learning more about New Direction or how to become a member, inquiries can be sent to newdgc@yahoo.com.
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Spring Preview Day 2023 was a blast! Tennessee State University’s premier open house for prospective students this year brought together nearly 2,000 high school seniors and juniors and their families from across the nation to view and get information about the university’s offerings and programs. At the packed, all-day event in Kean Hall on Saturday, the visitors interacted with academic and financial aid advisors, as well as deans and chairs, who set up displays and exhibits from their various colleges and departments. Current student leaders were also on hand to tell the prospective newcomers about the benefit of a TSU education.
TSU President Glenda Glover welcomes students and their families to Spring Preview Day 2023 in Kean Hall. (Photo by John Cooper)
Amari Johnson, a senior with a 4.32 grade point average from Greenwood High Schools in Greenwood, Mississippi; and Undradge Jamison, from Stewart Creek High School in Smyrna, Tennessee, were among the first to check out the displays in Kean Hall and have made up their minds. They are coming to TSU. Johnson is interested in biology with a pre-med focus, while Jamison wants to major in architectural engineering.
“I love dancing. So, when I was younger, I followed the (TSU) Sophisticated Ladies,” said Johnson, who has set her eyes on the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute, a pathway program with Meharry Medical College for students interested in medicine and dentistry.
Amari Johnson, middle, came to Spring Preview Day with her mom, Tamnral Johnson, left, and dad, Cary Weaver. (Photo by John Cooper)
“Over the years I found out a lot of things about the school and its programs, and Ms. (Barbara) Murrell reached out to me about the institute, since I was interested in becoming a surgeon and majoring in biology.” Johnson will not be dancing at TSU.
For Jamison, who has a 4.0 GPA, coming to TSU fulfills a dream. He wants to follow in the footsteps of his family. His father, mother and several aunts and uncles came to TSU. His older brother, a sophomore, is a member of the Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands.
Undradge Jamison, left, is fulfilling a dream to attend TSU. His mom, Kinya Jamison, and a long line of relatives came to TSU. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)
“This school has a great impact on my family. Besides, they have a great engineering program,” said Jamison. “My mind is made up. This is where I want to be.”
Earlier at the kickoff ceremony for Spring Preview Day, TSU President Glenda Glover, greeted participants and reminded prospective students about the outstanding programs at the university.
“Welcome to Tennessee State University,” President Glover said. “As you decide to become official TSU Tigers, know that this is the right place to start your journey toward success. We have great academic programs; we are the home to the two-time Grammy award-winning Aristocrat of Bands. We have outstanding athletics programs and student life. As a TSU alum myself, I am committed to your success. We have people who will care for you while you are here. At TSU, you will meet great friends, faculty, and you will grow to become great scholars.”
Prospective students talk to academic advisors about future course selection, at Spring Preview. (photo by John Cooper)
Terrance Izzard, associate vice president of Enrollment Management and Student Success, added that Spring Preview Day is intended to give prospective Tigers and their parents a chance to experience for themselves what makes TSU the place to be.
“Today you get the fantastic opportunity to see a showcase of our remarkable programs, resources and services that make our university truly exceptional,” Izzard said. “Like President Glover said, you will meet outstanding faculty members, and advisors who will tell you about our offerings, scholarships, other programs, and the benefit of a TSU education. You will meet and talk with current students about their own journeys, campus culture and the learning environment that has helped them to be successful.”
Terrance Izzard, left, Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, welcomes the Ward family, who just relocated to Nashville from New York. Pictured are: Karina (mom), Kaitlyn (coming to major in biology), Keith Jr. (brother), Kai (sister, and Keith Sr. (dad). Photo by John Cooper)
Keith Ward and his wife Karina, of New York, who recently moved their family to Nashville, like TSU and think the university is a “good fit” for their daughter Kaitlyn, who wants to major in biology.
“We are very excited for her and the choice she has made to come to TSU,” Keith said. Kaitlyn, an academic standout from West Creek High School in New York, who wants to be a physician assistant, is also interested in the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute.
Brenda Collier, left, from the College of Health Sciences, talks to Maryn Mitchell and her family about kinesiology, her intended major. From right are Monet Mitchell, mom; Maryn; Mycah Mitchell, brother; and David Mitchell, dad. (Photo by John Cooper)
“In all of my choices for college, Tennessee State is the best choice for me,” Kaitlyn said. “It is close to home, and it is affordable.”
According to organizers, this year’s participants in Spring Preview Day came from more than 15 states, with some from as far as California, Illinois, and Michigan.
Registration for summer and fall classes are in full swing at TSU. Registration began March 28 and will continue through April 29 for summer classes, while registration for fall classes will continue through August 19. Online, students are asked to register for classes at MyTSU, by visiting tnstate.edu/register.
