Tennessee State University Alumni: A Legacy of Engagement and Benevolence

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a world where support and mentorship can often make the difference between success and struggle, Tennessee State University alumni are stepping up in extraordinary ways. With rising financial contributions and an unwavering commitment to student engagement through mentorship and outreach, these dedicated alums prove that once a Tiger, always a member of the family.

Katrina Kerr

In the last year alone, TSU alumni have increased financial contributions to their alma mater through pledges, endowments, and aid directly benefiting students. However, their impact extends far beyond monetary support. Alumni are actively fostering a nurturing environment for current and prospective students by sharing their experiences, mentoring the next generation, and passionately promoting their beloved alma mater throughout communities nationwide.

TSU students in the Atlanta area board a bus chartered by the alumni chapter to attend a conference. (submitted photo)

“This isn’t just about giving money; it’s about giving back in every possible way,” says Katrina Kerr, ‘94, national president of the Tennessee State University National Alumni Association (TSUNAA). “I am incredibly proud of our TSU alumni family and supporters for their unwavering dedication. Their efforts in recruitment, student engagement, and financial support significantly benefit our Big Blue family.”

In discussions with multiple TSUNAA chapter presidents from across the country and students directly benefitting from their outreach, various initiatives aimed at attracting new students and supporting current ones were highlighted.

Kenyon’Dre Boyd

“We’ve been a pillar in the Atlanta metro area for nearly 60 years,” says Danielle Wormley, ’09, president of the Atlanta Alumni Chapter. “Every summer, we host a fun cookout, creating an easygoing atmosphere for students to connect with alumni who have walked the same path. Our biggest fundraiser, the Dr. William Bill Harbour Scholarship Initiative Brunch, attracts over 350 participants and enables us to provide scholarships to incoming students.”

Students, like Keyon’Dre Boyd, a rising senior majoring in biology, echo this sentiment: “The alumni have been incredibly supportive. In one instance, they were instrumental in funding a bus for our cohort to attend a conference. They don’t just provide financial help; they genuinely care about our success, offering guidance, mentorship, and encouragement every step of the way. Knowing we have such a strong support system makes all the difference as we navigate our academic and professional journeys.”

Chicago Alumni Chapter members and students celebrate at the annual sendoff event as the students prepare to return to school. (Submitted photo)

In Chicago, LeRoy Craighead, ’99, president of the Chicago Alumni Chapter, emphasizes the excitement local students feel when they encounter TSU representation at career fairs. “It’s like a light bulb goes off. They’re eager to learn about the HBCU experience and already sense a belonging,” he shares. The chapter’s upcoming send-off event in August will give students an opportunity to connect and prepare for their journey at TSU, Craighead adds.

Samuel McClendon

Chicago native Samuel McClendon, a senior accounting major and past scholarship recipient, commends the alumni chapter for its intentional engagement: “They genuinely care about students and ensure that resources are available for those who need support.”

TSU President Dwayne Tucker, middle in blue vest, joins members of the Memphis Shelby County Chapter during the sendoff reception for students. (submitted photo)

In Memphis, where a significant number of students choose TSU, Constance Williams King, ’90, president of the Memphis/Shelby County Alumni Chapter, proudly says that their chapter has awarded over $30,000 in scholarships since 2018. “Since the end of COVID, we’ve re-established our new student send-off as an impactful event for students to connect with alumni and prepare for their journey,” she says. The upcoming HBCU Night with the Memphis Redbirds also showcases their commitment to uniting alumni for a good cause while supporting local sports.

Micaiah Jones

For student Micaiah Jones, a junior biology major and current scholarship recipient, the support is palpable. “The alumni chapter sends out emails at the start of every semester to check in and ensure we have what we need. Their help has been invaluable,” she shares, expressing her aspirations of becoming a pediatrician.

Debbi Howard, ’94, director of Alumni Relations at TSU, is deeply moved by the commitment of alumni.

Debbi Howard

“I am in awe of the commitment and unwavering support our alumni show toward TSU. Their hands-on approach in reaching out to current students fosters a legacy of support that will resonate for generations to come,” says Howard.

This remarkable display of alumni dedication highlights the ongoing commitment of TSU graduates to their alma mater. As the university celebrates these meaningful contributions and the support provided by its alumni, it’s clear that this spirit of engagement will continue to elevate the TSU community and empower future generations of Tigers.

For more information on Alumni Relations, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/alumni/.

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.