TSU’s Homecoming Parade a Celebration of Pride, Tradition, and Community Spirit

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – With all its pageantry, vibrant colors, and enthusiasm, Tennessee State University celebrated its annual Homecoming Parade Oct. 12 along historic Jefferson Street. As in past years, the parade drew thousands of enthusiastic spectators who lined the two-mile parade route from 14th Avenue to the main campus.

The Grammy-winning Aristocrat of Bands lead off the Homecoming Parade along Jefferson Street. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The parade showcased nearly 90 entrants, including floats, marching bands from across the nation, colorful dance troupes, and community leaders. Leading the procession was the Grammy-winning TSU Aristocrat of Bands, culminating with the highly anticipated Mister and Miss TSU float.

TSU President Ronald A. Johnson and Mrs. Irene Oakley Johnson wave to the crowd along the parade route. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

Among the crowd were families spanning generations, former and current students, community members, and dedicated TSU supporters, many of whom have been fixtures at the annual event for years. TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson, who attended his first Homecoming as president, joined an entourage of university officials including Grand Marshalls Clarice Phelps, Class of 2003, and Jesse E. Russell, Class of 1972.

President Johnson expressed his excitement, stating, “The Homecoming Parade represents the spirit and unity of our university. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our rich history and the hard work of our students and alumni.”

TSU’s senior administrators, Homecoming Grand Marshals, and special invited guests acknowledge parade participants from the Presidential Viewing Stand. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

For the second consecutive year, the parade was livestreamed, thanks to the collaboration between the TSU Communications Department in the College of Liberal Arts, and Moment of Creation Studio. Gerald Davis, former head drum major of the Aristocrat of Bands and currently a fitness and conditioning trainer for the marching band, provided color commentary throughout the event.

Robert Churchwell, Jr., right, who has been part of the parade in different roles for decades, has been a fixture at the Judges’ Table for 16 years straight. Serving as judges with Churchill this year were, l-r, Peggy Earnest, Dr. Anita McGaha, and Seanne Wilson. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

One notable attendee was Robert Churchwell, Jr., a two-time TSU graduate (’72 and ’87), who has been part of the parade in various roles over the decades. From marching with the Aristocrat of Bands as a student to directing two separate high school marching bands that participated in the parade, Churchwell is a proud participant. He has also judged the annual event for the last 16 years.

For more than 40 years, Romona Perry has watched the parade from her favorite spot directly across from Hale Stadium. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

“It’s an honor to come back to your alma mater, especially on our special day at Homecoming. I look forward to seeing all the students and the hard work they put into preparing for the day,” Churchwell said.

This year’s parade saw some fierce competition, with winners determined by Churchwell and his fellow judges. In the Marching Band Category, Cane Ridge High School secured first place, followed by Whites Creek High School in second, and Arabia Mountain High School from Stonecrest, Georgia, taking third. In the Floats Category, the AKAs claimed first place, with the TSU National Alumni Association in second, and Nashville’s General Hospital in third.

Mister TSU Chandler Carrington Cotton, and Miss TSU Chandler Tiana Holt, make their way along the crowded parade route atop the Mister & Miss TSU float. (photo by Aaron Grayson)

Longtime paradegoer Romona Perry, a TSU alum and employee since 1978, sitting across from Hale Stadium, reflected on the significance of the event, saying, “It is a family tradition. This is my usual spot, and I enjoy interacting with friends nearby. Even though my grandson has a football game, our family will be here to enjoy the after-parade festivities.”

Nearby, Cameshea Rucker attended with her 6-year-old twins, Chase, and Chloe. She reminisced, “I just love coming to the annual parade. Before the twins, I attended with friends, but I’ve brought them every year. I love the bands and the floats!”

Parade color commentator Gerald Davis adds to the entertainment as he steps in with a dance group. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The TSU Homecoming Parade continues to be a cherished tradition that brings together the TSU community in celebration, pride, and nostalgia, ensuring that generations to come will also have their own memories of this vibrant event.