Tennessee State University Remembers Founders During 2017 Homecoming

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) - Tennessee State University took time to remember its founders on Tuesday.

University President Glenda Glover led a gathering of students, faculty, staff and friends in a Founders’ Day celebration in Kean Hall. The celebration was part of activities marking Homecoming week, which kicked off on Sunday.

Members of the Student Government Association hold hands and join in to sing the Tennessee State University Alma Mater during the 2017 Founders' Day Celebration in Kean Hall. (Photo by John Cross, TSU Media Relations)

“This is a great day for Tennessee State University,” said Glover, as she recounted events in the university’s history from its founding in 1912 to the role it plays today as a major center of education in the nation. “Today we celebrate our founders and their contribution. Let us remember that if it hadn’t been for their foresight, we wouldn’t be here.”

The program’s keynote speaker was Joni McReynolds, president of the TSU National Alumni Association.

Like Glover, McReynolds also reminded students about the contribution of TSU’s founders, as well as the “critical roles” alumni play in the life of the university.

“If it had not been for the founders and alumni who have walked these fertile shores before us, many of us might not be here today,” said McReynolds, who is also a member of the TSU Foundation Board.

She said there are about 50 alumni chapters around the country and called on the students to get involved with local chapters in their hometowns.

“All chapters work to recruit and support the best students like you to attend TSU and be successful,” McReynolds said. “Alumni chapters offer scholarships, internships, and they hold fundraisers to help you go to school. All I ask is that  you don’t forget where you came from and don’t forget to give back.”

At the end of her presentation, McReynolds received a plaque for Dintinguished Leadership from President Glover.

Following today’s Founders’ Day celebration, TSU’s Homecoming events continue with the Coronation of Mr. and Miss TSU, Oct. 11; Ralph Boston Golf Tournament and Homecoming Concert, Oct. 12; and the Greek Step Show and Charles Campbell Fish Fry, Oct. 13.

On Friday evening, TSU has planned a stellar Scholarship Gala at the Music City Center. This year, Nashville Mayor Megan Barry will serve as honorary chairperson. Nationally syndicated radio show host, actor and comedian, Rickey Smiley, will be the gala’s master of ceremony. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships are used to provide financial assistance to students. The goal is to raise one million.

Homecoming will conclude Oct. 14 with the Homecoming Parade from 14th and Jefferson Street to 33rd and John Merritt Blvd., and the big football matchup between the Tigers and in-state rival Austin Peay State University at Nissan Stadium.

For more information about Homecoming 2017, visit http://www.tnstate.edu/alumni/homecoming/documents/HomecomingSchedule.pdf