NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News) – Tennessee State University will celebrate homecoming from October 6-12, 2024. One of the highlights will be ESPN’s First Take live broadcast from the campus on Friday, October 11, at 9 a.m. The visit to TSU is one of three stops on the First Take HBCU Tour. While thousands are expected to attend the event during TSU’s homecoming, ESPN says its visit is more than just for a show.
“When COVID-19 hit, followed by the death of George Floyd, the company experienced a significant shift,” the company said in a statement to TSU.
“Disney began to focus on programming that truly embraced authenticity and change. From that effort emerged initiatives like Disney on the Yard, Drum Major Mickey, and a dedicated focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).”
Following America’s racial reckoning during the summer of 2020 and the hiring of David Roberts as the EVP of First Take, NBA, and College Sports, the sports network said making HBCUs a priority was a clear goal. With Stephen A. Smith’s background as a proud graduate of Winston-Salem State and his role as an ambassador for HBCU Week, the opportunity was perfectly aligned.
“As the show expanded with Shannon Sharpe, a Savannah State graduate, joining the team, we wanted to strengthen our commitment even more—especially as other companies began to move away from DEI programming. Last year, we spotlighted their alma maters, and this year, as a proud graduate of TSU and a director on the show, I was the first to push my BIG BLUE HEART to the forefront.”
First Take did its first HBCU live broadcast in Fall 2019 at Delaware State University. They explain that the notoriety of the show brings an added impact when they come to an HBCU. Students from TSU’s College of Liberal Arts will serve as production and technical assistants, including filming, lighting, and other set needs.
“We recognize the visibility and attention we bring, which directly translates to recruitment and funding—both of which are critical for every HBCU. Beyond that, we give students the opportunity to shadow our production team, providing them with firsthand experience of what it takes to make the show successful day in and day out.”
The global company says it sees itself as more than just a television network. As part of the Walt Disney Company, HBCU representation within the network is equally important.
Those planning to attend the live broadcast at TSU should arrive by 8:30 a.m. Public parking is at the intersection of Albion Street and Clare Avenue, behind Rudolph Residence Hall.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – This year’s Tennessee State University Homecoming Grand Marshals are two distinguished alumni whose groundbreaking careers began at TSU. Honorees Clarice Phelps and Jesse E. Russell will be recognized throughout the weekend, including at the Homecoming Gala and parade.
Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Dr. LoLita D. Toney, who is the Gala Homecoming Chair, emphasized that both Russell and Phelps embody TSU’s mission of excellence.
“When we think about a ‘Future Ready TSU,’ two distinguished alumni Jesse Russell and Clarice Phelps immediately came to mind,” Toney said. “Their contributions, from groundbreaking cellular technology to the discovery of new elements, are examples of how TSU produces leaders that impact the world.”
Phelps, a trailblazer in the scientific community, made history as the first African American woman involved in the discovery of an element. She played a key role in the discovery of element 117, Tennessine (Tn), and her passion for chemistry blossomed during her time at Martin Luther King Jr. Magnet High School in Nashville.
After earning her chemistry degree from TSU in 2003, Phelps joined the Navy and later completed a Master’s in Nuclear and Radiation Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. Her work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory helped enable deep space exploration through NASA’s plutonium-238 production project. In 2019, the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) officially recognized her as the first Black woman involved in element discovery.
Beyond her scientific accomplishments, Phelps is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scientists through her advocacy in STEM education, working with programs like Yo-STEM and Project G.R.A.D. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Her leadership in science and mentorship of underserved communities position TSU as a future-ready institution, championing excellence in STEM fields.
Similarly, Jesse Russell, known as the “Father of the Cellphone,” revolutionized the telecommunications industry. As the leader of Bell Laboratories’ team, Russell pioneered digital cellular technology, holding over 100 U.S. patents. His work in developing the first digital cellular base station and fiber optic microcell shaped the modern wireless networks we rely on today.
A 1972 graduate of TSU with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Russell earned a master’s in electrical engineering from Stanford University in 1973. Throughout his career, he has driven advancements in 4G, 5G, and the emerging 6G technologies. Russell’s contributions to telecommunications, as well as his role as chairman and CEO of incCOMMUNICATIONS Services Inc., have established him as a global leader in wireless communications.
In addition to his technical achievements, Russell’s leadership in policy and standards, including over 14 years as Chairman of the Telecommunication Industry Association (TIA) Wireless Communication Standards Organization, continues to shape the future of cellular networks. For his work, Russell received an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree from Morgan State University in 2019. His impact on next-generation technologies ensures that TSU remains at the forefront of innovation, fostering leaders in high-demand industries.
The Homecoming Gala honoring Russell and Phelps will take place Oct. 11 at 6 pm at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nashville.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Big Blue Experience will be on full display as Tennessee State University celebrates homecoming October 6-12, 2024. Thousands of alumni will return to their beloved alma mater and join current students, faculty, and staff for the weeklong celebration. While there is no specific theme, University officials say the big blue experience describes what homecoming is like in the Land of Golden Sunshine.
Dr. Andre Bean, Chair TSU Homecoming
“The TSU family can expect a homecoming that is intentional about being engaging,” says Dr. Andre Bean, homecoming chair. “This year, we are focused on engaging all our stakeholders – alumni, faculty, staff, students, and the Nashville community. We have done this by ensuring that there is something on the homecoming calendar for tigers of all ages to attend.”
Adding to the buzz of TSU’s homecoming is ESPN’s First Take coming to campus. The show, featuring Stephen A. Smith, Molly Qerim, and Shannon Sharpe, will broadcast live at the TSU Amphitheater on Friday, October 11, at 9 a.m. CST. The event is a part of the sports network’s HBCU broadcast tour. TSU will highlight the institution’s rich sports history, academic achievements, and noted alumni, including Super Bowl MVP Richard Dent and Ed “Too Tall” Jones among others.
This year’s grand marshals are trailblazing alumni who have had a global impact. They are technology expert Jesse E. Russell and scientist Clarice Phelps. The homecoming chair said that these two continue to fulfill the institution’s motto of Think, Work, Serve.
Coach Eddie George will lead the Tigers against the Eastern Illinois University Panthers at Nissan Stadium Oct. 12.
“Mr. Russell has committed his life’s work to technology, and with that his innovations contributed greatly to smartphones the way we know them today. He holds the patent for the mobile data phone and the wireless base station. Meanwhile, Ms. Phelps has committed her life’s work to the sciences and is the first African American woman to be involved with the discovery of a chemical element.”
Homecoming activities kickoff on Sunday, October 6, with the Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest followed by the Gospel Explosion Concert. The coronation of Mister and Miss TSU, on Wednesday, will hold all the glitz and glamour befitting Chandler Holt and Chandler Cotton. Holt is the 95th Miss TSU, while Cotton will reign as the 34th Mister TSU. Several other student events, including the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. White Coat Ceremony, the Pink Out, and parties, will lead to increased campus traffic. TSU Student Affairs encourages students to have a good time but also, be careful.
Dr. Bridgett Golman, Interim Vice President Division of Student Affairs
“We want students to have a great time but remain aware of their surroundings and put safety first,” says Dr. Bridgett Golman, interim vice president of Student Affairs. “If you see something out of order, please report it.”
Student Government Association (SGA) President Chrishonda O’Quinn shares why this homecoming is a special one for her.
“It feels like a full circle moment to return after serving as SGA Executive Vice President last year,” O’Quinn explains. “One of the greatest highlights of my role has been collaborating with students, alumni, and community partners. I’m grateful for the chance to serve again and eagerly anticipate what homecoming has in store.”
Chrishonda O’Quinn, President TSU Student Government Association
On Friday evening, American Idol winner Ruben Studdard will perform during the homecoming gala at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. The homecoming parade and football game are the main attractions, taking place on Saturday, October 12. For the second year in a row, individuals who cannot make it to Nashville can watch the live stream of the parade Saturday morning on the TSU’s YouTube Channel. Coach Eddie George will lead the Tigers against the Eastern Illinois University Panthers at Nissan Stadium that evening. Kick-off is 5 p.m.
Annual event to raise scholarship dollars for students with real needs
Lauren Wiggins
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Lauren Wiggins says she learned a life lesson in high school that continues to follow her even today. That lesson: people aren’t concerned about your excuses. The Atlanta native recalls a high school teacher telling her, at age 14, that she displayed the actions of a criminal because she skipped classes or arrived late. Wiggins says her explanations fell on deaf ears.
“Whenever I was late or missed class, I would let the teachers know I had been up all night taking care of my brothers or in the emergency room with them,” explains Wiggins. “I have a 19-year-old brother who is severely disabled, and a 15-year-old brother who is diagnosed with Autism and ADHD [Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder]. I’m the oldest of three, and I have been changing diapers since I was five years old.”
Wiggins says her oldest brother has cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a cerebral shunt.
“My brother has the mind of a six-month-old. His body has continued to grow since birth, but his brain hasn’t. At times all I could do was just hold him when he cried. He’s unable to communicate and is completely immobile. My choice was easy in high school, family is first.”
Today, the 21-year-old Wiggins is a rising senior at Tennessee State University with a 3.8 GPA as a Public Health major. She received a full music scholarship to TSU following high school. However, after her sophomore year, she had to make another tough decision regarding her education and family. Wiggins decided to give up the scholarship.
“Dropping out [of college] was never an option, but I was needed at home. This conflicted with my commitment to the marching band and wind ensemble. I enjoyed being in the band, but my parents are older and needed help taking care of my brother. I had to rush home several times when my mom called and said her back was out from getting him in and out of bed or his wheelchair.”
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Wiggins knew giving up the scholarship meant her family would have to struggle to pay tuition, but she was determined to stay at TSU. The University has been a part of her family for three generations. Through persistence, she found out about the TSU Foundation and was awarded a scholarship that covered nearly all her expenses for the upcoming fall semester.
“This scholarship has helped immensely, and heightened my desire to give back to Tennessee State, for other students who deserve a second chance.”
On Friday, Sept. 26, Tennessee State will hold its annual scholarship gala honoring long-time educators Drs. McDonald and Jamye Williams. Both have ties to some of TSU’s most notable alumni, including Oprah Winfrey. The event will also honor alumnus and former football player Claude Humphrey, one of the newest members inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Dr. Sharon Peters, Gala co-chairman, says while the event will honor these individuals, the primary mission is to raise funds to help students who need money to stay at the University. Students like Wiggins are one of many examples why the gala is so important.
“The gala provides the needed support for students to enroll at the University who may not otherwise have the funds to attend or who may fall short financially,” adds Peters, also director for TSU’s Community College Initiative Program. “A majority of our students need financial aid and without the help of many of our donors, these students would not have the opportunity to attend college.”
This will be TSU President Glenda Glover’s second scholarship gala while serving as the leader of one of the nation’s top HBCUs. Last year’s event had record attendance. According to University officials, more than 600 students were helped with $1.7 million worth of scholarships during the 2013-14 academic year. This represented a 76 percent increase in donations from the previous year and the University was able to award up to $965,000 in private scholarships.
“I am confident that our donors- employees, alumni, corporate partners, and friends of the University will continue to give and partner with us for this year’s scholarship gala,” says President Glover. “We have students with real needs, and the Foundation, along with the Office of Student Enrollment, has done a tremendous job in matching students with dollars. Every dollar counts and will make a difference in a student’s life. It begins with them receiving a quality education at Tennessee State.”
Wiggins says that’s exactly what she’s receiving at TSU – a quality education that has afforded her the opportunity to have internships with environmental watchdog Green Peace and the Centers for Disease Control. She beams with pride when asked what the future holds.
“I’ve lived my life around my brother’s health and wouldn’t change one single thing. I am happy to be alive and not a burden on my parents. I believe my future is bright and I owe it to my future alma mater TSU.”
Following graduation, Wiggins has her eyes set on Yale University where she plans on obtaining master’s degrees in Public Health and Environmental Science. Eventually, she hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in Cultural Anthropology.
Call 615.963.5481 or visit www.tnstate.edu/scholarshipgala for more information on how you can help students like Lauren Wiggins through the 2014 Scholarship Gala. The gala takes place at Music City Center and tickets are available now to purchase.
Department of Media Relations
Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331
About Tennessee State University
With nearly 9,000 students, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a comprehensive, urban, co-educational, land-grant university offering 42 undergraduate, 24 graduate and seven doctoral programs. TSU has earned a top 20 ranking for Historically Black Colleges and Universities according to U.S. News and World Report, and rated as one of the top universities in the country by Washington Monthly for social mobility, research and community service. Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University celebrated 100 years in Nashville during 2012. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University will hold a week full of exciting events September 21-27 as community members, alumni and friends of the University come to Nashville to celebrate Homecoming 2014.
Homecoming is a rich, always anticipated tradition of the TSU community. Each fall, Tigers of all generations return to campus to reconnect and share memories. This year, alumni, family and community members will take part in Celebrating the Tradition of Excellence.
“There’s nothing like a Big Blue Homecoming. We look forward to welcoming all of our distinguished alumni back to the University for an exciting week filled with special memories, camaraderie and cheerful giving,” said Cassandra Griggs, director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. “This is the opportunity for alumni to see how their alma mater continues to positively transform the lives of its students, and learn about the outstanding academic programs, talented students and campus enhancements.”
While TSU has cherished and maintained certain Homecoming traditions, it has also moved forward across the century, finding new ways to celebrate pride in the institution, its students and alumni. Innovations that have sprung up over the years include the parade, pep rally, Homecoming Court, tent parties and many additional campus activities.
The annual Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest will officially kick off Homecoming week on Sunday, Sept. 21 beginning at 3 p.m. in the Robert N. Murrell Forum in the Floyd Payne Campus Center. The Gospel Concert rounds out the evening, beginning at 6 p.m. in Kean Hall in the Floyd Payne Campus Center.
Student events highlight Monday, Sept. 22 when the Courtyard Show takes place in Welton Plaza starting at 11 a.m., followed by the Battle of the Residence Halls at 7 p.m. in the Floyd Payne Campus Center Keane Hall gymnasium.
The All-White Glow Tent party will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 23 in Welton Plaza beginning at 7 p.m. The Coronation for Miss TSU and Mr. TSU takes place Wednesday, Sept. 24 in Kean Hall. Wednesday’s activities conclude with the non-Greek organizations’ Yard Show beginning at 9 p.m. in the Averitte Amphitheater.
Homecoming continues Thursday, Sept. 25 with the Agriculture and Home Economics Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremony at the Farrell-Westbrook Complex at 7 p.m. A Homecoming concert in the Gentry Complex starts at 7 p.m. and features August Alsina and Juicy J. Hosted by Lil Duval. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door for the general public. The evening concludes with the Alumni White-Out Mixer at the Sheraton Music City Hotel Ballroom.
Friday, Sept. 25 kicks off with the traditional Charles Campbell Fish Fry at 11 a.m. on the President’s Lawn, followed by Pep Rally at 11:30 in Hale Stadium. The TSU National Pan-Hellenic Step Show begins at 5 p.m. at the Gentry Complex. Hosted by actress LisaRaye, tickets are $10 for students in advance, $15 at the door.
The evening concludes with the “Evening of Honors” Scholarship Reception and Gala beginning at 6 p.m. at the Music City Center. The night will honor TSU football great and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, Claude Humphrey, and Honors program educators Drs. McDonald and Jamye Williams, who have made advancing education and student success a priority during their more than 30 years at TSU. The evening will also address the needs of students to make sure they have the proper funding to acquire a college education to pursue their career goals and aspirations.
Saturday, Sept. 27 starts with the Homecoming Parade beginning at 9 a.m., followed by the Showcase of Bands at noon at Hale Stadium. The Homecoming football game between TSU and FAMU kicks off at 6 p.m. at LP Field.
View the 2014 Schedule and the campus map. For more information, contact the Office of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving at 615.963.5381.
Department of Media Relations
Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331
About Tennessee State University
With nearly 9,000 students, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a comprehensive, urban, co-educational, land-grant university offering 38 undergraduate, 22 graduate and seven doctoral programs. TSU has earned a top 20 ranking for Historically Black Colleges and Universities according to U.S. News and World Report, and rated as one of the top universities in the country by Washington Monthly for social mobility, research and community service. Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University celebrated 100 years in Nashville during 2012. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.
