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From the Classroom to the Globe: TSU’s Study Abroad Program Transforms Lives and Leaders

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – At Tennessee State University, the world isn’t just outside the campus—it’s a classroom brimming with opportunities. With its long-standing study abroad program, TSU empowers students to step beyond borders, not only broadening their academic horizons but also nurturing the leadership skills and global awareness that today’s employers demand. 

Dr. Bridgett Golman

As students traverse continents—from the vibrant streets of Ghana to the serene beaches of St. Croix—many are finding that the journey is as transformative as the destination.

This travel season, TSU has already sent 63 students and eight faculty members on international journeys, with trips spanning Africa, Australia, Europe, Asia, and South America. The 2024-2025 season promises further adventures in countries such as Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, and Spain. Recently, a cohort of 12 TSU students and faculty returned from a life-changing excursion to St. Croix, an experience that blended cultural immersion with academic exploration.

Kennedy Ann Lee Johnson

“Spring break of 2025, I was blessed with the opportunity to travel to St. Croix as a logistical coordinator,” said Kennedy Ann Lee Johnson, a junior biology major from Atlanta. “This experience helped me enhance my leadership skills by exposing me to a new dimension of global advocacy. It reshaped my perspective on the island, revealing its deep historical and cultural ties to Africa. I decided to pick up a double minor in Africana Studies to explore these connections further.”

On their recent visit to St. Croix, a group of study abroad students find time for photo by the Millennium Monument above Point Udall on the east end of St. Croix. The monument was built for the New Year’s celebration in 2000, marking the azimuth of the first U.S. sunrise of that year. (submitted photo)

Fellow student Christina Elaine Schwartz, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Columbia, Maryland, was on the journey with Kennedy. “Studying abroad in St. Croix was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. You’ll come back with new knowledge, confidence, and unforgettable memories.”

According to Dr. Bridgett Golman, Vice President for Student Affairs, the exposure TSU students gain from these experiences is invaluable.

Christina Elaine Schwartz

“The convenience of having a passport application acceptance facility directly on campus enhances our students’ ability to explore the world. We believe that engagement in international education is vital to their growth,” Golman said.

Mark Brinkley, Director of International Education and Global Learning, added, “The study abroad experience allows students to align their academic, career, and personal goals. It equips them with the skills necessary to initiate respectful, meaningful conversations across cultures. Our students have expressed a strong desire to explore their African heritage and the Diaspora, and we’re excited to cater to those interests.”

A group of TSU study abroad students, and other tourists visiting a wildlife reserve in Tanzania, observe a relaxed male lion enjoying the coolness provided by the visitors’ parked tour vehicle. (Submitted photo)

Freddie Louis Calhoun III, a first-year graduate student who participated in the study abroad program to Ghana, said, “It opened my eyes to new things. The connections I made and the perspectives I gained have been invaluable.”

As TSU continues its mission to cultivate global leaders, one message resonates louder than others: experience the world. The university invites students to embrace these unique opportunities for growth, advocating for a future where they not only aspire to lead but are inspired to serve. The world is waiting—take the leap and let it transform you.

For more information on the TSU Study Abroad program, visit www.tnstate.edu/business/international

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Nissan Fuels Innovation at Tennessee State University with Vehicle Donations

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a groundbreaking partnership aimed at propelling engineering students into the forefront of automotive innovation, Nissan has gifted two cutting-edge vehicles to the College of Engineering at Tennessee State University. This generous donation, featuring an electric Nissan Ariya Platinum+ e-4ORCE and an Infiniti AWD QX60, will empower students with hands-on learning experiences that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

Margaret Steele, right, Nissan representative and TSU graduate, presents the keys to the Ariya Platinum+ e-4ORCE to Dr. M. Saleh Zein-Sabatto, chair of the TSU Department of Electrical Engineering. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“Today marks a pivotal moment in the education of our future engineers,” said Dr. Lin Li, interim chair of the College of Engineering. “With these vehicles, our students are no longer confined to the classroom; they will dissect, analyze, and innovate with state-of-the-art technology that represents the future of the automotive industry.”

Dr. Muhammad Akbar, interim chair of the TSU Department of Mechanical Engineering, receives the keys to the Infiniti AWD QX60 from Nissan representative Margaret Steele, a 1995 graduate of TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The donation not only solidifies Nissan’s ongoing commitment to fostering educational opportunities but also reflects the deepening ties between the automaker and TSU. As a 1995 graduate of the College of Engineering, Margaret Steele, representing Nissan’s Supplier Diversity Development, highlighted the significance of this initiative. “We’re excited to support Tennessee State University and provide students with the tools they need to become the engineers of tomorrow,” Steele said, as she presented the keys to the vehicles during a ceremony at the college.

Devin Barnes

Students across various engineering disciplines, including mechanical and electrical engineering, will utilize these vehicles as invaluable teaching resources. For mechanical engineering students, the Infiniti QX60 will serve as a hands-on model to explore and understand design and manufacturing techniques. Meanwhile, the electric vehicle will give electrical engineering students a platform to study innovative battery systems, circuit layouts, and the intricacies of electric power management.

Junior mechanical engineering major Devin Barnes expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This opportunity is a blessing. It’s not every day that students get to work directly with real vehicles. It’s a chance to connect what we learn in the classroom with practical experience, which is essential for our future careers.”

Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering, checks out the Ariya Platinum+ e-4ORCE electric car, assisted by TSU alum and Nissan engineer Richard Bryant. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Dr. M. Saleh Zein-Sabatto, chair of the Department of Electrical Engineering, stressed the importance of hands-on learning in today’s rapidly changing automotive landscape. “These vehicles will allow students to engage directly with the technologies of both gas and electric vehicles, preparing them for the skills needed in an industry that is shifting toward sustainable solutions,” Sabatto said.

Deondre Davenport, coordinator of Recruitment and Student Services in the College of Engineering, noted the significance of this partnership. “Every school doesn’t have access to real vehicles for hands-on learning, and now we do,” Davenport said. “This not only enhances our students’ educational experience, but it also gives us a unique selling point to attract future students.”

Several TSU officials, faculty and staff join Nissan representatives for the car presentation on the steps of the College of Engineering. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

As the program unfolds, students will utilize the donated vehicles for hands-on projects, competitive challenges, and collaborative learning experiences that will enhance their engineering skills and prepare them to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s automotive landscape.

For more information on the TSU College of Engineering, visit www.tnstate.edu/engineering/

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TSU Expands AI Learning with Data Science Master’s, Offers Fall 2025 Incentives

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – As modern technology continues to expand across industries, Tennessee State University’s Master of Science in Data Science program is offering a special incentive for Fall 2025 enrollment.

Dr. Ali Sekmen

Launched in 2022, the program was created to meet the rising demand for data professionals in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, business, education, engineering, and more. Nearly every industry relies on data, and TSU’s program equips graduates with essential skills in artificial intelligence (AI) driven decision making to resolve day-to-day data science challenges.

The first 20 students admitted to the MS in Data Science program for Fall 2025 will receive a $1,000 incentive, according to program coordinator Dr. Ali Sekmen.

“TSU’s MS in Data Science program stands out for its flexibility, industry relevance, and comprehensive curriculum,” Sekmen said. “This program aligns with TSU’s mission by expanding educational opportunities in a high-demand field, advancing innovation, research, and workforce development. Its online format ensures accessibility for working professionals and career changers, making data science education applicable across industries.”

Jackson Bradds (Photo submitted)

TSU graduate student Jackson Bradds, who has four classes left in the program, said he has already seen how the curriculum will impact his career.

“Data science is broad enough that it can apply to any field,” said Bradds, who is interested in educational research. “I’ve loved all my classes so far. This program has been the best experience I’ve ever had in school at any level. I enjoy TSU a lot, and the data science professors have been great.” Bradds, who also earned his undergraduate degree at TSU, noted that the program provides real world experience, allowing students to immediately apply their knowledge to research and career opportunities.

Shawn Buford, a 2024 graduate of the MS in Data Science program, successfully completed her degree with a 4.0 GPA and echoed Bradds’ sentiments about the program. “The professors work hard to ensure students understand the material, and it’s more of a personal experience in the virtual setting,” Buford said. “I love my HBCU, and I support them wholeheartedly.”

Shawn Buford during her 2024 graduation before receiving her Master of Data Science degree. (Photo courtesy of Aaron Grayson)

With her degree, Buford looks forward to teaching data science development. She also utilized TSU’s SMART Global Technology Innovation Center to enhance her studies, as the center is a leading hub for AI applications. By the end of the master’s program, students gain expertise in data cleaning, exploratory data analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning, and more, Sekmen said.

“The MS in Data Science program strengthens TSU’s reputation as a leader in STEM and data-driven education, especially among HBCUs,” he said. “By producing skilled graduates in both data science and artificial intelligence, TSU reinforces its role in workforce development and innovation.”

The program also offers a limited number of teaching assistantships to qualified students on a competitive basis.

To learn more about the MS in Data Science program and what it has to offer, visit TSU Data Science.

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AOB Ends Year on High Note with Historic Coco Jones Performance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Room 164 of the Tennessee State University band hall was filled with pure, organic harmonies and an energy that couldn’t be replicated. More than 230 members of the Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands (AOB) fed off the vibe of R&B star and actress Coco Jones. Together, they created a historic and unforgettable moment.

Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands smile and play their instruments mid-performance in the band room for R&B star and actress Coco Jones. (Photo courtesy of Faith Miniard)

As a surprise, the AOB delivered a soulful rendition of Jones’ Grammy-winning hit ICU, moving her to tears. For TSU students like Adren Gilmore, who hosted the event, it was a dream come true. It was a powerful, end of semester performance no one expected.

The visit was part of Universal Music Group’s °1824 Behind the Business, a live-streamed educational series on Twitch sponsored by Discover. The initiative focuses on connecting artists and brands through storytelling. During her appearance, Jones opened up about her journey from Disney’s Let It Shine to becoming a platinum-selling artist, her upcoming debut album tour, and more.

Gilmore, a sophomore commercial music major and aspiring R&B artist, served as host for the event, which was presented by AOB.

“You could tell that Coco really loved the way the audience of the band was reacting to her, but the band also really loved the way Coco was reacting to them,” Gilmore said. “There was so much joy in the room, so much positive energy. Hosting this event and talking to Coco Jones was absolutely amazing.”

Professor Larry Jenkins, left, TSU student Adren Gilmore, center, and R&B star Coco Jones, who holds a framed copy of the sheet music of a special AOB arrangement. (Photo courtesy of Faith Miniard)

Since the livestream, portions of the hour-long event have received more than 2 million views on social media platforms, bringing even more national attention to the world-renowned band. “It shows that my HBCU is committed to giving people opportunities to learn and be seen,” Gilmore continued. “My HBCU putting on an event of this magnitude shows a commitment to blessing us with opportunities and experiences.”

Hailey Russell, a TSU senior who plays the piccolo for AOB, echoed those sentiments. She said the event was the perfect way to close out her final AOB performance before graduating this May.

“I loved every minute of the experience,” Russell said, adding that it was surreal to host someone she grew up watching on Disney Channel. “I was excited to host Coco Jones because growing up, seeing a Black woman on Disney Channel all the time gave me a better insight into life. It was a great representation and made me even more invested in her career journey.”

AOB member Hailey Russell before hitting the stage at the 2023 Country Music Association Fest (CMA), in downtown Nashville as the opening act.

Russell, a biology major with aspirations of becoming an OBGYN, said she connected deeply with hearing Jones perform a few of her favorite songs and listening to the advice the decorated artist shared with students.

“If it can be anybody, why not you?” Jones told the room. “I had this big version of myself as a kid. You only get one life, so you might as well live it and believe that you deserve everything that you desire.”

This year’s appearance marked Jones’ second visit to TSU. In 2023, the Def Jam artist was a guest speaker at a music business accelerator program.

Jones’ return was made possible through collaboration between AOB and Universal Music Group.

AOB Assistant Director and music professor Larry Jenkins, said the experience was powerful not just for the band, but for everyone who tuned in around the world.

Coco Jones and AOB member sings her Grammy Award winning hit ‘ICU” together during the Behind the Business, live-streamed event at TSU. (Photo courtesy of Faith Miniard)

“This is something we’ve dreamed of,” Jenkins said. “This shows that we have something special here at the AOB. Our students are special, and we have the kind of energy that you feel the moment you walk into the band room. The students are the core of that. When you let the music come alive with what you feel, it’s a beautiful thing.”

To close the show, AOB performed their heartfelt rendition of ICU, arranged by Professor Jenkins. Jones was then presented with a copy of the sheet music, a gift meant to commemorate the moment and the bond shared between her and the band.

As a child star who turned her dreams into reality, Jones left students with a final reminder:

“Your first intuition of what you should be doing and who you want to be that’s what you have to go with,” Jones said. “Keep in mind, in your core, who you started out being, and who you truly want to be. As you get there, you will see trends that come and go. People come and go. Don’t let anyone get you off track from what you want and who you really want to be.”

Click here to check out clips of AOB rendition for Coco Jones here.  

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Career Fair Provides Opportunities for Students to Connect with Top Employers 

By Ameera N. Buchanan   

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s Career Development Center hosted its annual Spring Career Fair for all majors recently, providing students with opportunities to secure internships and employment. 

The event, themed “Spring Into Your Career Success,” encouraged students to approach recruiters with energy and confidence. Held at TSU’s Gentry Complex Center, the fair featured over 100 companies, offering students an array of opportunities to network, learn, and potentially secure internships or job placements. Several students even participated in on-the-spot interviews with prospective employers. 

Companies from a wide range of industries including engineering, aerospace, banking and healthcare attend the Spring 2025 Career Fair.

Ashtyn McLucas, a junior majoring in mass communications, said he valued the variety of educational programs and professional development opportunities presented at the fair. 

“They [employers] had educational programs that help you in your field, as well as programs that place you in internships,” McLucas said. “It was encouraging to see recruiters genuinely interested in helping students prepare for their careers,” McLucas noted. 

While McLucas expressed his excitement for the recruiters and their efforts, Elijah Bryant, a TSU junior majoring in business information systems, emphasized the networking opportunities provided by the event. Bryant, who has attended career fairs at TSU in the past, stated that this is an event he looks forward to every year for internship opportunities.  

Elijah Bryant

“I really appreciate the TSU Career Development Center and everything that they do for us as students,” Bryant said. 

The Career Development Center hosted workshops and resume reviews leading up to the event to ensure students were well-prepared and confident. 

Among the career fair recruiters was Jada Carter, a recent TSU graduate who now works for Bank of America. Returning to her alma mater in her role as an employer, Carter saw familiar faces and spoke about the bank’s commitment to connecting with TSU students. “Bank of America has a long-standing partnership with TSU, and we’re always looking to bring more talent on board,” she said, encouraging students to apply early. 

Sydney Head, a Tuskegee University alumna, represented her employer, BWX Technologies, at the fair. The company provides nuclear components, fuel, and services to the U.S. government and commercial customers. 

TSU alumni Jada Carter, left, and Darius Boyd, center, with another Bank of America representative during the Spring 2025 Career Fair.

As a fellow HBCU graduate, Head expressed her passion for outreach and supporting HBCU students. “Coming back to an HBCU allows me to bridge the gap and create opportunities for students,” she said. “I am able to offer advice and tips that I would have appreciated when I was a student.” 

Head emphasized the importance of preparation in helping students stand out. “Your resume and interview responses help differentiate you from other candidates,” she said, urging students to develop both with their unique strengths in mind. 

The TSU Career Development Center continues to prioritize student success by hosting events that connect students with potential employers. With strong alumni support and participation from various companies, the annual Spring Career Fair remains a pivotal opportunity for students to take the next steps toward their professional goal. 

For more information about TSU Career Development Center, visit www.tnstate.edu/careers . 

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Dr. Vaidas Lukosius Named 2025 OVC Outstanding Faculty Award Recipient

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dr. Vaidas Lukosius, Associate Professor of Marketing in the College of Business, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award by the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC). The award is given to faculty members who exemplify exceptional dedication to student development, curriculum advancement, and community engagement, as determined through a rigorous selection process by the provosts of OVC member institutions.

Dr. Vaidas Lukosius

Lukosius, who has been a TSU faculty member since 2003, said he is grateful for the recognition.

“I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to receive the OVC Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award. This recognition is both humbling and affirming,” Lukosius said. “For more than twenty years, my teaching journey at Tennessee State University has been incredibly rewarding—both personally and professionally. I can honestly say that TSU has made me a better educator. The students, my colleagues, and the university’s leadership have all played an essential role in shaping the kind of professor I’ve become.”

In his classroom, Lukosius blends passion with innovative teaching methods, crafting engaging coursework that equips students for the challenges of the marketing industry. “Just last week, a student in my senior capstone class asked me, ‘Why are you so happy?’ I replied, ‘Because you’re about to present, and I can’t wait to see how much you’ve learned.’ Witnessing students grasp and apply marketing theories brings me genuine joy,” he said. 

Students are drawn to Lukosius’ unwavering commitment to curricular excellence and student engagement. “Dr. Lukosius has turned my time at TSU into a true exploration of the marketing industry. He has shown an authentic dedication to preparing students for what’s next,” said Jalen Chaz Baylis, a senior business marketing major from Nashville. “He’s challenged me to take on more responsibilities and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. Thanks to him, I’ve grown tremendously and feel ready to enter the real world with confidence.”

Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at TSU, praised Lukosius for his exceptional contributions. “Dr. Lukosius exemplifies the very essence of dedication to education and student success. His innovative teaching and commitment to professional development make him a standout faculty member in our university community.”

Colleagues also recognize Lukusius’ impact. Dr. R.M. Unni, a fellow professor of marketing, stated, “Dr. Lukosius is one of the most innovative educators I have known. He consistently delivers a balanced mix of theory and practical knowledge, enriching the student experience through live projects and industry collaborations that provide invaluable real-world insights.”

Dr. Vaidas Lukosius’ recognition reflects not just his individual accomplishments, but the collaborative spirit that defines TSU. His commitment to student success and educational excellence continues to inspire and transform the lives of students and the community at large.

For further information on the TSU College of Business, visit www.tnstate.edu/business

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Future Leaders in Action: TSU Students Make Their Mark as Legislative Interns at State Capitol

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Legislative internship programs have become a vital bridge between academic learning and political engagement for students across the United States, and students at Tennessee State University are seizing that opportunity at the Tennessee State Capitol. This spring, 16 TSU students in different majors are participating in the program, making them one of the largest groups of interns from a single institution in the state.

Jordan Riche

Participating students are immersed in the General Assembly’s complex policy-making landscape, where they assist legislators, engage in constituent services, and gain insights that will shape their future careers. The paid interns are not only learning the intricacies of government but are also honing their professional skills in a real-world setting.

Among the distinguished group of interns are Jordan Riche, Laianni Moore, Kendyl Jesslyn Fletcher, and Nehemiah DeMar—each majoring in political science. 

Laianni Moore

Riche, a senior from Huntsville, Alabama, who is interning with Sen. Jeff Yarbro, expressed her excitement: “I am absolutely thrilled to share that I’ve been assigned to Sen. Jeff Yarbro for a second time. This experience has allowed me to delve deeper into the workings of state politics and serve constituents effectively. My time here has solidified my aspiration to impact policy and advocate for my community.”

Moore, a junior also from Huntsville, Alabama, is interning with Sen. Mark Pody. “Through sorting Bill Books and assisting with constituent matters, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of preparation and negotiation,” she said. “My ultimate goal is a career in public policy where I can address societal issues, and this internship has been instrumental in helping me understand the legislative process.”

Kendyl Jesslyn Fletcher

State Rep. Harold M. Love, Jr., a TSU alum and strong advocate for the institution, underscored the importance of the internship program. He mentors Nehemiah DeMar.

“The Legislative Internship Program gives college students the opportunity to engage directly in the policy-making process from a unique perspective. TSU students are not merely sitting in offices; they are intricately involved in every aspect of the legislative work,” Love said. “I’m proud to have Nehemiah DeMar in my office—his professionalism and dedication have made a significant impact.”

State Sen. Charlane Oliver also celebrates the contributions of TSU interns at the Capitol, stating, “Every year, I am thrilled to have TSU students in my legislative office. They bring excellence, energy, and a unique perspective that enhances our work. Watching them grow and contribute to the legislative process is a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to mentor these bright individuals.”

Nehemiah DeMar

Kendyl Jesslyn Fletcher, a senior from Anniston, Alabama, is back for her second stint as a legislative intern with Rep. Jesse Chism. She said, “Shadowing my representative has taught me that politics encompasses much more than what we see in the media. This opportunity has deepened my passion for public service and reinforced my plans to pursue a Juris Doctorate.”

DeMar, a junior from Forest Park, Georgia, said he is gaining critical experience interning under Rep. Harold Love. “The connections I’m making here are invaluable to my future aspirations of becoming the United States Attorney General. This internship has opened doors and provided me insights that I will carry with me throughout my career.”

Shirley Frierson is the Director of the Tennessee Legislative Internship Program. She said the experiences and interactions with the students have a lasting impact.

“I’ve watched many students take what they learn in this program and move on to prestigious opportunities in law, lobbying, and government service,” she said. “TSU students consistently excel and leave a lasting impression in our offices. They come well prepared. Dr. (Brian) Russell and the political science department do a good job of getting them ready.”

For his part, Dr. Russell, coordinator of TSU’s Legislative Internship Program, highlighted the importance of the internships for students. “This program is about professional development and preparing students for roles in public service, law school, or graduate studies,” said Russell, who is assistant professor of history, geography, and political science. “It exposes them to all branches of government and fosters a greater understanding of our political landscape.”

As TSU continues to foster the growth of future leaders in public service, the impact of these internships resonates beyond the classroom, shaping the next generation of policymakers.

Other students participating in the internship program at the Capitol are Malik Abdullah, Alexis Bartlett, Kilyn Booker, Azana Bruce, Jadyn Cochrane, Thomas Draper, Alisha Dunham, and Destini Rainer. Also participating are Jonathan Robinson, Trinity Vann, Darryan Walker, and Cleveland Wilson.

For more information about TSU’s Legislative Internship Program, please contact Dr. Brian Russell at [email protected].

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Celebrating 61 Years of Excellence at the 2025 Spring Honors Convocation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University on March 28 celebrated its best and brightest at the 12th Annual Spring Honors Convocation. More than 2,800 students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements and overall success.

Themed “Achieving Academic Excellence Against the Odds,” the event celebrated 61 years of honors excellence and showcased the remarkable accomplishments of TSU students across all disciplines. The convocation spotlighted distinguished undergraduates from every college, including top graduating Honors seniors, outstanding honor society members, Dean’s List students, and President’s List honorees.

More than 2,800 students were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements during the 2025 Honors Convocation in Kean Hall, March 28. (Photo courtesy of Aaron Grayson)

Dr. Coreen Jackson, Dean of the Honors College, emphasized the importance of celebrating more than six decades of excellence.

“Through dedication and perseverance, these students have remained committed and focused on their path toward academic success,” Jackson said. “They have distinguished themselves through scholarship, research, service, and high achievement. The world has been the grateful beneficiary of the seeds of academic excellence planted right here at Tennessee State University.”

Among the honorees, more than 50 students achieved President’s List status, maintaining a perfect 4.0 cumulative GPA throughout their time at TSU.

President Dwayne Tucker, left, and Dr. Coreen Jackson, right, with TSU junior Courtney Caldwell, who received the Dr. McDonald Williams Highest rising Senior Award.

TSU junior Courtney Caldwell, of Locust Grove, Georgia, received the Dr. McDonald Williams Highest rising Senior Award, named after the first Honors Program director. A psychology major with a minor in communication, Caldwell has maintained a 4.0 GPA since her sophomore year of high school.

“It feels great being honored,” Caldwell said, expressing gratitude to the Honors College for the recognition. She credited her success to maintaining a healthy academic and social balance.
“If you can balance your time with family, friends, rest, and eating well, it all aligns with becoming a scholar.”

Mulbah Guilavogui

Mulbah Guilavogui, a first-year sophomore studying biology with a pre-med concentration, also has a 4.0 GPA and aspires to become a dermatologist. Guilavogui appreciated the ceremony’s acknowledgment of academic excellence across campus. “As a scholar and a member of the Aristocrat of Bands, I’m proud of myself,” he said. He added that witnessing so many students achieve their goals was inspiring. “That’s the biggest reason why I love my HBCU. They continue to honor those who are putting in the work.”

Dakasha Winton, Chair of the TSU Board of Trustees and Senior Vice President and Chief Government Relations Officer for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, served as the distinguished guest speaker. A TSU alumna who graduated cum laude, Winton went on to earn her law degree from the University of Memphis.

“The most important relationship you should have is the relationship with yourself,” Winton told the students during the event. “When you have a healthy, positive relationship with yourself, you’re better equipped to build and maintain beautiful relationships with others.”

Chair of the TSU Board of Trustees Dakasha Winton

She encouraged students to balance dreams with reality and emphasized self-awareness, financial literacy, and building a solid foundation beyond academics.

“Don’t ever underestimate the power of consistency,” she said. “You are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the world. May your achievements inspire others as you continue to shine bright.”

TSU President Dwayne Tucker, along with administrators, college deans, and other university leaders, joined in celebrating the students’ academic success.


Among this year’s honorees were 822 current members of the Honors College, representing majors from all eight colleges within the university. This group included Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute Scholars; Miss TSU Chandler Holt; Mister and Miss Honors College, Calvin Pickett Jr. and My’ria Wilbert; and SGA President Chrishonda O’Quinn, who received an Outstanding Leadership Award.

Mister and Miss Honors College, Calvin Pickett Jr. and My’ria Wilbert

To qualify for admission to Honors College students must have a minimum ACT score of 25 or SAT score of 1220, along with a high school GPA of 3.4 or higher. Current TSU students must earn a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or above to apply.

This year, 115 Honors seniors will graduate and be recognized with a gold Honors stole during the commencement ceremony.

The convocation also celebrated academic excellence through musical performances by TSU’s Saxophone Quartet and the University Meistersingers.

For more information on the TSU Honors College, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/honors/.

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TSU Enhances Access to Global Opportunities with Passport Facility

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University has been recertified as a passport application acceptance facility by the U.S. Department of State for another year. As a designated Passport Application Acceptance Facility, TSU is committed to preparing global scholars by making international travel more accessible to students and the North Nashville community. 

Mark Brinkley

The facility guides students through the passport application process, allowing them to explore a world of academic and cultural opportunities beyond the university.

“Having a passport acceptance facility on the TSU campus exemplifies our commitment to providing our students and the community access to the world,” said Mark Brinkley, Director of International Education and Global Learning at TSU. “A passport is not just a document; it is permission from the Department of State to explore new cultures, experiences, and opportunities. With our facility, we’re not just processing applications—we’re demystifying the experience of international travel for our students.”

The TSU Passport Acceptance Facility is open by appointment on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon. To make an appointment, individuals can call 615-963-5640. Located in Kean Hall on the main campus, the facility operates concurrently with the university’s academic calendar.

To apply for a passport, you typically need the following items:

– A completed passport application form

– A valid photo ID

– A passport-sized photo

– Proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate)

– The required fees

Christina Schwartz

Students are enthusiastic about the convenience of the facility. Christina Schwartz, a senior interdisciplinary studies major from Columbia, Maryland, who just returned from a study abroad program in St. Croix, shared her thoughts: “I like having a passport because it gives me the freedom to travel wherever I want and to explore opportunities like my trip to St. Croix. Having a passport acceptance facility right here on campus is extremely convenient—I no longer have to deal with the long waits associated with the passport agency.”

Freddie Louis Calhoun III, a first-year graduate student from Memphis, Tennessee, who previously traveled to Ghana on a study abroad program, echoed Schwartz’s sentiments. “Having the ability to go to Kean Hall for passport services would have made my experience so much smoother. It’s a quick and accessible way to identify yourself while traveling. I encourage all students to embrace this opportunity. Having a passport at this stage in life is invaluable.”

Freddie Louis Calhoun III

Dr. Bridgett Golman, Vice President of Student Affairs, emphasized the significance of the passport acceptance facility in shaping global scholars. “At Tennessee State University, we believe that education extends beyond the classroom. By facilitating access to the world through our passport services, we are not only enriching the academic experiences of our students but also empowering them to become engaged and informed global citizens,” Golman said.

TSU’s Passport Acceptance Facility has been in operation since 2014, having processed approximately 200 passports annually. 

For more information about TSU’s Passport Acceptance Facility or study abroad opportunities, please visit www.tnstate.edu/passport. 

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Dr. Jewell Winn Honored with Prestigious Fulbright Scholar Award During Women’s History Month

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dr. Jewell Winn, Senior International Officer and Associate Professor of Educational Leadership, has been awarded the prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program award in International Education Administration for the 2024-25 academic year. The award, granted by the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board, will allow Winn to travel to France and Senegal to further her expertise in international education.

Dr. Jewell Winn gives welcome remarks at the 2025 Mister and Miss Collegiate International pageant. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

With a career spanning more than 35 years in higher education and academia, Winn’s latest accolade adds to many other significant achievements, including her historic role as the first African American female President of the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA), and as an Advisory Board member of the Association of Public Land Grant Universities Commission on International Initiatives Abroad.

“In my role as the Fulbright Liaison and Student Advisor, I always encouraged others to apply for Fulbright opportunities. When I learned about this program specifically for HBCU administrators, I decided to apply without any expectation,” Winn said. “Being awarded this competitive Fulbright is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the unwavering support from the State Department and my university’s commitment to internationalization. This will be an eye-opening experience as I engage with international educators and expand my understanding of global education.”

Interim President Dwayne Tucker, and Dr. Jewell Winn welcome international education leaders to the Enhancement Workshop for Humphrey Fellows, a Fulbright and U.S. Department of State program, hosted by TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Winn’s two-week visits to France and Senegal will run from March through April 12.

Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at TSU, expressed her pride in Winn’s accomplishments.

“Dr. Winn’s recognition as a Fulbright Scholar highlights her unwavering commitment to the field of international education and her exceptional leadership within our academic community. We are honored to have her represent Tennessee State University on such a prestigious platform, further affirming our mission to cultivate a globally engaged learning environment,” Melton said.

Dr. Jewell Winn congratulates contestants representing their various countries at a past Mister and Miss Collegiate International pageant in Poag Auditorium. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Among other notable accomplishments, Winn established the Office of International Affairs at TSU, reinforcing the university’s commitment to global education. 

A Fulbright top-producing Historically Black College and University for the past four consecutive years, TSU has facilitated several global learning experiences, paving the way for the university’s continued leadership in international education. TSU recently hosted an Enhancement Workshop for Hubert H. Humphrey Fellows, a Fulbright program.

As Women’s History Month is observed, TSU honors Dr. Jewell Winn not only for her significant professional milestones but also for her role in empowering future generations of leaders. Her contributions serve as an inspiration to women and educators everywhere.