TSU Celebrates New Beginnings at Freshman Convocation for Class of 2029

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Tennessee State University officially welcomed its Class of 2029 during Freshman Convocation Sept. 9, in Kean Hall. Nearly 450 first-time freshmen took part in the ceremony, marking the beginning of their academic journey and integration into the TSU community.

President Dwayne Tucker urges students to seek education for the greater good. (Photo by Aaron Grayson/TSU)

In his first convocation address as president, Dwayne Tucker inspired the new Tigers with a heartfelt message centered around the university’s motto: “Think. Work. Serve.” Drawing from his own experiences as a TSU student, Tucker encouraged the new Tigers to embrace their potential as future leaders and innovators. “You are not just students; you are the creators and builders of our future,” he said.

A humanoid is introduced as part of the Class of 2029 and a commitment to innovation at TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson/TSU)

Tucker shared his journey from a business-minded sophomore to the president of TSU, exemplifying how determination and guidance can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. “Your leadership is not just about what you know; it’s about how you serve others,” he urged, challenging the students to take their education beyond personal gain and contribute to the greater good.

Student Government Association representatives and university officials join President Tucker to welcome the new Tigers. (Photo by Aaron Grayson/TSU)

The ceremony featured a unique twist with the introduction of a humanoid robot as a new “classmate,” demonstrating TSU’s commitment to innovation and engagement in the educational landscape. Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robbie Melton invited the freshmen to participate in naming the futuristic addition, bridging the gap between tradition and cutting-edge advancement.

As part of the induction — females dressed in white with pearls, and males dressed in white shirts and dark-colored pants, sporting TSU blue and red ties — the students took the Freshman Pledge, committing themselves to academic excellence and service.

Alyssa Fulton says she is fully committed to be the best. (photo by Aaron Grayson/TSU)

First-year students Alyssa Fulton and Caleb Floyd both shared their excitement about the welcoming atmosphere.

“I love it! The message today really resonated with me,” said Fulton, a business major from Dallas. “Hearing about ‘Think. Work. Serve.’ in a deeper way helped me understand what it means to truly commit to these values. I’m ready to live up to that every day.”

Floyd, a human performance and sports science major from Nashville, echoed her sentiments. “It felt like a really warm welcome into TSU. The way President Tucker spoke, it was like a father talking to his kid, making sure we feel comfortable and know he has our backs. He’s pushing us to be better people.”

Caleb Floyd says President Tucker’s message was like a father speaking to his children. (Photo by Aaron Grayson/TSU)

“This convocation is just the beginning,” said Dr. Brent Dukhie, Dean of Students. “You are now part of a proud legacy, and we are excited to accompany you on this journey of growth and discovery.”

In addition to student representatives, speakers at the convocation included Dr. Erica Lewis, director of Student Engagement and Leadership, who presented the new students for their induction.

Featured Photo: First-time freshmen celebrate their induction during the 2025 Freshman Convocation in Kean Hall. Nearly 450 students participated in the ceremony. (Photo by Aaron Grayson/TSU)

About Tennessee State University

Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public land-grant university offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU’s campus spans 500 acres. The university is committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders. Visit tnstate.edu for more details.