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Alumni, FACULTY, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, RANKINGS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU Recognized by Forbes as a Top HBCU for Online Programs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News) – Tennessee State University continues to distinguish itself as a national leader in virtual learning after recently earning a top ten spot on Forbes’ 2025 list of Best Online Programs among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

As a public, comprehensive land-grant institution located in the heart of Nashville, TSU offers affordable, accessible, and high-quality academic programs while adapting to evolving student needs. From working professionals to adult learners returning to finish their degrees, TSU’s digital platform is designed to meet learners where they are.

Dr. Cheryl Seay, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and Global Online, said the university has prioritized online education since launching its first program in 2001. “The objective is to broaden TSU’s impact across Tennessee, the nation, and internationally,” Seay said, noting that the success of TSU Global Online is a reflection of the dedicated faculty and staff. “By leveraging cutting edge technology and innovative teaching methods, the university ensures that students feel engaged and supported throughout their journey, regardless of location, reaffirming TSU’s role as a leader in online education.”

TSU was also awarded the 2024 Best Online Master’s in Tennessee designation by Online Master Colleges, reinforcing the university’s strength in graduate education. The university offers nearly 40 fully online programs, including undergraduate degrees, certificate programs, and graduate degrees such as the EdD in Educational Leadership, the PhD in Public Policy and Administration, and master’s degrees in Data Science and Business Data Analytics.

One standout program is the online accelerated Master of Business Administration, which allows students to earn their degree in 12 months while maintaining full-time careers. De’jah Hill, a recent graduate of the MBA program, said the Forbes recognition is well earned. “Being recognized by Forbes affirms that my alma mater is on the right path,” Hill said. “The online program gave me everything I needed. It was flexible, the professors were invested in our success, and I never felt like I was navigating it alone.”

TSU supports adult learners through its Pathway to Completion program, which assists those who have been out of school for two or more years in returning to finish their degrees online.

At the Avon Williams Off Campus Instructional Site, the SMART Center serves as a hub for academic innovation and research, offering online professional development courses that explore emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Dr. Robbie Melton, interim provost of academic affairs and vice president for technology and innovation at TSU, emphasized the university’s global reach. “Our online programs and classes are internationally recognized, with students across the globe seeking education access and career training,” she said.

Building on that momentum, Dr. Seay noted that combining TSU’s tradition of excellence with modern digital tools is what continues to drive national recognition. She emphasized the university’s commitment to expanding access, strengthening student support systems, and preparing learners for success in an increasingly digital world.

To learn more about TSU’s online programs and opportunities, visit www.tnstate.edu/online/contact.aspx.

Alumni, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES, Uncategorized

TSU Alumnus Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 for Transformative HBCU Leadership

NASHVILLE, TN — Aarian Forman, a two-time Tennessee State University graduate, has been named to Forbes’ prestigious 2025 30 Under 30 list, recognizing his groundbreaking work in education and leadership development through Xceleader, an organization he co-founded to empower HBCU students nationwide.

Aarian Forman

What began as a single Zoom call in 2017 to discuss student leadership at HBCUs has evolved into a transformative force in higher education. Under Forman’s leadership, Xceleader has impacted over 8,000 students and alumni through workshops, mentorships, and nonpartisan programs, securing nearly $1 million in funding to support its initiatives.

“This recognition from Forbes isn’t just a personal honor—it’s a testament to the power of HBCU education and the unique impact we’re making,” said Forman, who holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business from TSU. “We’re creating pathways for students to build intergenerational wealth and close the racial wealth gap through entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership development.”

During his time at Tennessee State University, where he served as Student Government Association President (2016-2017), Forman developed the foundation for his future impact. “TSU showed me that higher education isn’t just about earning degrees—it’s about developing leaders who can create lasting change,” Forman reflected. “The university’s motto of ‘Think. Work. Serve.’ continues to guide our mission at Xceleader.”

Xceleader co-founders Tevon Blair, left, Jade Agudosi, center, and Aarian Forman

Alongside co-founders Jade Agudosi and Tevon Blair, Forman has positioned Xceleader as a catalyst for student empowerment. Their organization focuses on three key areas: entrepreneurship development, civic engagement initiatives, and women’s empowerment programs. The organization’s latest initiative exemplifies its innovative approach. Recently five HBCU students were selected to serve as content creators at an upcoming HBCU conference in New Orleans, providing them with hands-on entrepreneurial experience relevant to today’s digital economy.

Former SGA President Aarian Forman during a TSU football game in the 2016-2017 academic school year.

“HBCUs are national treasures,” Forman stated. “Their contributions to the American and global story continue to unfold in powerful and inspiring ways. Through Xceleader, we’re amplifying these contributions while creating new opportunities for the next generation of leaders.”

Tennessee State University has served as a pipeline for producing leaders and innovators like Forman. As a future-ready institution, TSU continues to empower its students and alumni to excel on national and global stages.

Check out Forman’s 30 Under 30 recognition here.

About Xceleader

Xceleader is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering HBCU students through leadership development, entrepreneurship training, and civic engagement. Through its comprehensive programs and initiatives, Xceleader works to create sustainable pathways for success and economic mobility within the HBCU community.