TSU Celebrates Fall Commencement with Reimagined Student-Centered Format

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University held its Fall Commencement ceremonies on Dec. 5 and 6, featuring a groundbreaking format that showcased the achievements of 628 undergraduate and graduate students. To reimagine the university experience and align with TSU President Dwayne Tucker’s vision for the future, student keynote speakers from each of the nine colleges, including the School of Graduate and Professional Studies, took center stage, representing their peers in their commencement addresses.

Nearly 630 undergraduate and graduate students received their degrees in various discipline, as their parents and other supporter packed the Gentry Center Complex for the fall commencement ceremonies featuring student speakers from each college and the graduate school. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The new approach to commencement underscores President Tucker’s commitment to enhancing student experience. “In my short time in this role, I wanted to approach commencement a little differently. Instead of bringing in outside speakers, I asked myself: Why not highlight the remarkable students who are already here? Their voices, achievements, and stories deserve to take center stage,” Tucker said.

The selected student speakers were:

– Aaliyah Cotton, Agricultural Science, College of Agriculture
– Alyssa Brown, Business Information Systems, College of Business
– Jaelyn Gipson, Early Childhood Education, College of Education
– Frida Magdiel Arias Meza, Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering
– Leslie Evans, Nursing, College of Health Sciences
– Jada Daniels, Mass Communications, College of Liberal Arts

Capt. Lewis Lawrence, a 13-year veteran of the TSU Police Department, received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, fulfilling a long promise. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

– Deja Story, Mathematics, College of Life and Physical Sciences
– Devon Caulk, Social Work, College of Public Service
– Michelle Harris, Master of Business Administration, School of Graduate and Professional Studies

Each speaker thanked their families and TSU for the support and preparation they received throughout their academic journeys. Alyssa Brown, representing the College of Business, reflected on her experiences as a first-generation college student, saying, “I’m proud to be graduating debt-free with a 3.9 GPA, thanks to donors who believed in students like me,” encouraging her fellow graduates to embrace their futures with confidence.

Lyndsey Harris celebrates her graduation with Baby Laila whom she conceived and born in her final year at TSU. L-r are Lyndsey’s father Robert Harris, Lyndsey, mother Raina Harris, and brother Robert Harris, Jr. (TSU PR & Communications)

From the College of Agriculture, Aaliyah Cotton spoke about the supportive environment fostered by TSU: “Tennessee State University has been that soil for us: rich, fertile, and full of support. As we step into the world, we will always remain rooted and grateful for this soil.”

Michelle Harris, a TSU alum and successful entrepreneur, added, “Success isn’t measured by what you gain for yourself, but by how you lift others along the way. Class of 2025, your journey doesn’t end here—it begins today. Think. Work. Serve.”

Devon Caulk, representing the College of Public Service, emphasized the importance of community engagement. He said, “I have learned the power of compassion, advocacy, and community engagement. I encourage everyone to get involved locally and lead with empathy, kindness, and courage. Congratulations to the December 2025 graduating class!”

The reimagined ceremony format received acclaim from graduates and parents alike. Raina Harris, a proud parent of graduate Lyndsey Harris, shared her appreciation for the student-focused approach. “It really shined a light on all the amazing students at TSU,” Raina Harris said, celebrating her daughter’s accomplishments and resilience in graduating despite significant personal challenges. Lyndsey conceived and gave birth to a child in her senior year.

In addition, TSU Police Capt. Lewis Lawrence shared his pride in achieving his degree, fulfilling a promise to his late son, and praised the new format for making graduates feel more comfortable and engaged.

Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s provost and vice President of Academic Affairs, emphasized the intentional shift toward a more student-centered approach, stating, “The reimagining is intentionally more student-centered, giving students greater input, leadership, and guidance as they approach graduation.”

As TSU looks to the future, with the continued commitment to reimagining the university experience, it remains dedicated to fostering excellence and empowering its students to thrive.

For more information about Tennessee State University and its programs, please visit www.tnstate.edu.