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) – The world of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve rapidly, with new discoveries affecting everyday life. When you step into the Tennessee State University SMART AI for All Research Center, you can experience some of these discoveries with the push of a button or by voice command. Touring the SMART Center feels like stepping into a sci-fi novel, but it is all real, from Blue, the AI robotic dog roaming the hallways, to the e-sports gaming room, and the latest tool – holograms.
Dr. Robbie Melton, vice president for technology and innovations
Dr. Robbie Melton, vice president for technology and innovations at TSU, leads the SMART Global Technology Innovation Center. Melton also serves as interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs and believes the use of AI holograms will play an important role in course delivery.
“The incorporation of AI holograms at the TSU SMART Center significantly enhances student learning and course delivery,” Dr. Melton explains. “These holograms create immersive and interactive learning environments, allowing students to engage with complex concepts in a more tangible way.”
According to Melton, the use of holograms helps retain students, keeping them at TSU through graduation. “This innovative approach not only makes learning more engaging but also aids in the retention of information by providing visual and experiential methods of understanding. Such advancements demonstrate the center’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve educational outcomes and prepare students for future challenges.”
TSU launched the AI center in 2023, with the goal of enhancing educational experiences and workforce readiness.
“The center has established itself as a hub for innovation by integrating AI technologies into various educational frameworks,” Melton said. “This includes the development of AI tools and resources that cater to both faculty and students, aiming to equip them with essential digital skills for the modern workforce.”
Local Middle Tennessee students work on high-tech computers at the TSU SMART Center during a summer camp focused on artificial intelligence systems.
In addition to education, the TSU tech hub is focused on bridging the technology gap for Black and brown communities, having trained over 3,000 individuals across various education levels, including Pre-K to higher education. Through global outreach across twenty-six countries and specialized curricula, TSU aims to ensure underrepresented groups have access to the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a digital world.
When asked what the future holds for TSU and the burgeoning world of AI, Melton says the sky is the limit, with plans to expand the institution’s technology footprint. She envisions TSU building upon its reputation as Tennessee’s and HBCU’s innovation and technology leader.
“The future for TSU and AI involves serving as a national center for promoting ‘AI for ALL,’ emphasizing open access and open educational resources (OER), conducting applied research, and offering outreach programs. The TSU SMART Center is well-positioned to lead these innovations, focusing on creating AI systems that tailor learning experiences to individual needs.”
Tennessee State University’s AI robotic dog Blue and his pup.
Melton sees TSU continuing its commitment to empowering underrepresented communities through partnerships with HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions. This vision positions TSU as a leader in fostering equitable technological progress and innovation. The university aims to revolutionize how students interact with information and develop skills. This forward-thinking approach will likely set new standards for AI-driven education.
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.
Nashville, TN, August 13, 2024 – Tennessee State University’s Interim President, Ronald A. Johnson, unveiled his First 100 Day Action Plan during the university’s Fall Faculty Staff Institute on Monday, August 12. The plan, which began on July 8, introduces the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI), a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation.
Dr. Johnson brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in higher education, having co-founded the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University and served in key advisory roles for national organizations. He is also an accomplished economist and investment manager, with a background in managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios and holding senior positions at major financial institutions.
Dr. Johnson’s First 100 Day Action Plan and the TCI are designed to address the pressing challenges facing TSU, ensuring that the university remains future-ready and poised for success in the years to come.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University Interim President Ronald A. Johnson has announced the addition of two seasoned higher education leaders, Dr. Bridgett Golman and Darryl Thompson, to his leadership team. These appointments mark significant progress in President Johnson’s First 100 Days Action Plan, which focuses on stabilizing operations, resolving critical issues, and positioning TSU for long-term success.
Dr. Golman and Mr. Thompson will play pivotal roles in advancing the university’s Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI)—a key component of the 100-Day Plan aimed at leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation. Their expertise and leadership will help drive the initiatives necessary to ensure that TSU remains future-ready and aligned with the strategic goals set by the Board of Trustees.
Dr. Bridgett Golman joins the team as the Interim Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students. In this role, she will provide transitional leadership across several key areas, including customer relations, disability services, enrollment services, strategy and effectiveness, and undergraduate recruitment.
Dr. Golman brings 28 years of experience in higher education, having worked at research universities, public universities, and community colleges, where she has been instrumental in enhancing academic performance, elevating the student experience, optimizing enrollment management, and driving institutional growth.
Darryl Thompson will serve as President Johnson’s Special Advisor for External Affairs, Infrastructure, and Major Projects. With over 30 years of experience, Mr. Thompson is recognized for his ability to lead comprehensive strategies for institutional advancement, resource acquisition, and strategic partnerships. His recent tenure at Kentucky State University saw him build strong relationships with elected officials and executive branch leaders, while also ensuring the effectiveness of infrastructure projects and operational efficiency.
“I am pleased to welcome Dr. Bridgett Golman and Darryl Thompson to the TSU leadership team,” said Interim President Johnson. “Their extensive experience and dedication to institutional excellence will be crucial as we continue to execute our First 100 Days Action Plan, meet the Board’s strategic goals, and prepare TSU for a successful future.”
These appointments underscore the progress being made in President Johnson’s efforts to improve TSU’s daily operations and align the university with the Board’s long-term vision. As TSU continues its journey through the 100-Day Plan, the addition of high-caliber leaders like Dr. Golman and Mr. Thompson is a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence and its readiness to face the challenges ahead.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Ronald Johnson to serve as the Interim President of the University, effective July 1, 2024. Dr. Johnson’s distinguished career in higher education spans nearly two decades, with significant leadership roles at some of our nation’s most distinguished historically Black universities (HBCUs).
He is known for his commitment to amplifying student success and strengthening the financial health and long-term sustainability of colleges and universities through a culture of accountability, shared governance, mentorship, and continuous improvement.
Johnson is the former President of Clark Atlanta University (CAU) from 2015-2018, where he successfully led the transformation and comprehensive turnaround plans for the University. He recently served as Interim President at Kentucky State University (KSU), where he managed the day-to-day operations of the university and leveraged his leadership and financial expertise to build a foundation for long-term sustainability and to address the financial challenges facing the university.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Ronald Johnson and have him join the TSU family,” said Board Chair Dakasha Winton. “Dr. Johnson’s distinguished higher education career, along with his accomplishments as an exceptional administrator, makes him the right fit for TSU at this time.”
Johnson, a well-respected and recognized leader in higher education, is also a former member of the President’s Advisory Board of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and served as the Chairman of the Consumer Advisory Board of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau of the United States. He is also a co-founder and Advisory Board Member of the HBCU Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) at CAU and a recipient of its inaugural Frederick S. Humphries Leadership Award.
“Fellow trustees and I look forward to collaborating with Dr. Johnson,” Winton added. “His proven leadership in strategically addressing complex issues, while developing innovative paths forward will further lead the University during this transition. I know working with our students, staff, alumni and fellow board members, this next chapter will cement TSU’s legacy of excellence.”
Retiring President Glenda Glover said Johnson’s experience and professional leadership will continue TSU’s legacy of excellence.
“Dr. Johnson is an excellent leader and did an incredible job at Clark Atlanta. I am especially proud because I had the pleasure of attending Clark Atlanta for business school. I will provide Dr. Johnson with any necessary support as he takes the helm of our great institution to continue the legacy of excellence that is the hallmark of Tennessee State University.”
Johnson has served as a faculty member at Texas Southern University, Florida A&M University, Howard University, and Northeastern University.
Johnson earned a PhD and MA in economics from Stanford University, after completing an MBA in finance and a BA in economics from Adelphi University.
Johnson will serve as Interim President for one year, while the Board of Trustees conducts a national search to hire a permanent President. Read more about Dr. Johnson here.
About Tennessee State University
Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a premier, historically Black university and land-grant institution offering 39 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs, and eight doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, along with the Otis Floyd Nursery Research Center in McMinnville, Tennessee. With a commitment to excellence, Tennessee State University provides students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders in every facet of society. Visit the University online at tnstate.edu.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University is bringing artificial intelligence to the masses. Starting June 5, 2024, the university will host the A.I. FOR ALL: Open Education Summit , at the Avon Williams Educational Site. The two-day technology event will explore the heart of innovation, with the goal of show casing how artificial intelligence is within reach for everyone.
Tennessee State University’s AI robotic dog Blue and his pup.
During the opening session, TSUs AI robotic dog Blue and his pup greeted the crowd. The AI dogs will be making appearances throughout the summit.
Some of the topics will include Ethics and Policies for A.I., A.I. Tools for Every Stage of Education, A.I. for Educational Equity, and Innovating Pedagogy with A.I. The summit will include industry giants Google, Apple, Oracle, T-Mobile, Comcast, Amazon, and Microsoft. National speakers, panels, interactive workshops, A.I. exhibits, plus art galleries and tools will also be on display. Prominent sponsors and partners include the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, T-Mobile Education, Merlot- Affordable Learning Solutions, and MIT-Open CourseWare. The summit is free and open to the public.
Dr. Robbie Melton, who is the Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, also serves as the Vice President for Technology Innovations and heads the TSU SMART Global Technology Innovation Center. Recently, she was appointed to the Southern Regional Education Board Commission (SREB) on Artificial Intelligence in Education. Melton’s appointment further solidifies her status as a top expert and TSU as a leading institution on artificial intelligence.
Dr. Robbie Melton welcomes the crowd to Day 1 of the A.I. For All: Open Education Summit.
“My passion lies in making A.I. accessible to everyone, amplifying voices that are often unheard, and breaking down the barriers that divide us,” added TSU’s Melton. “Together, we can shape a future where A.I. isn’t just a tool for the few, but a force for good that enriches all of our lives.”
Over 500 people are expected to attend the summit. Dr. Melton discusses the groundbreaking summit in detail below in our Q&A interview.
Q & A with Dr. Robbie Melton
Subject: A.I. For All: Open Education Summit
What does hosting the A.I. For All Summit mean for TSU?
“Hosting the A.I. For All Summit brings visibility, reputation, and networking opportunities to TSU. It enhances the institution’s standing as a leading A.I. authority, fosters collaborations, and attracts top talent. The event facilitates knowledge exchange, showcasing TSU’s research while learning from others. The summit’s economic impact benefits local businesses and generates revenue through sponsorships. TSU assumes a leadership role, influencing A.I. policy, ethics, and research. Overall, hosting the summit brings recognition, collaboration, talent, economic benefits, and the chance to shape the A.I. landscape.”
With that question answered, what do you hope to accomplish from hosting this technology event?
“The proposed outcomes and accomplishments for the A.I. For All Summit are threefold. Firstly, to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts, researchers, and policymakers, leading to innovative solutions and advancements in the field of artificial intelligence. Secondly, to inspire and empower students and young professionals by providing them with access to cutting-edge research, industry insights, and networking opportunities. Lastly, to shape the discourse on A.I. policies, ethics, and research priorities, influencing the global A.I. landscape and promoting responsible and inclusive development.”
What demographic or group has registered for the summit?
“The registered attendees for the A.I. For All Summit include educators from K-12 and higher education, policymakers, and community leaders, especially from minority serving institutions since the summit is to address A.I. for All.”
How will the summit benefit the State of TN, underserved communities, education?
“The A.I. For All Summit benefits the state of Tennessee by driving economic growth, providing educational opportunities, identifying guardrails and best practices for teaching and learning, preparing for the A.I. workforce, fostering collaborations, empowering underserved communities, shaping policies, and inspiring future innovators in the field of artificial intelligence.”
The title is A.I. for all, how does a regular, non-tech savvy individual benefit from the summit?
“The A.I. For All Summit benefits regular, non-tech savvy individuals by promoting awareness and understanding of artificial intelligence’s impact on society. It provides insights into ethical considerations, potential opportunities, challenges, and offers the opportunity to learn how to use A.I. tools, empowering individuals to engage with and leverage A.I. technologies, even without technical expertise.”
There are some big tech names associated with the summit; who are they and what are their roles?
“The A.I. For All Summit is supported by notable tech names such as Hewlett, Oracle, Microsoft, T-Mobile, Comcast, Code.org, BrainPOP, Adobe, SendSteps, and MIT. They play various roles, including providing resources, expertise, sponsorship, and collaboration to drive the success of the summit and advance the field of artificial intelligence.”
How significant is this for TSU?
“The A.I. For All Summit is a significant event for TSU, with its high attendance of over 500 participants and a waiting list. The global live streaming amplifies its reach and impact, positioning TSU as a leader in fostering A.I. education, collaboration, and innovation on a global scale.”
Will Blue be a part of the summit and other interactive displays and demonstrations can attendees expect?
“The A.I. For All Summit will feature Blue, the robotic A.I.-coded dog, highlighting the transformative capabilities of A.I. in education and business. Additionally, attendees can experience groundbreaking technologies like life-sized holograms, the first A.I. wearable Pin and glasses, and A.I. tools spanning various educational and business disciplines.”
Special Announcement for the A.I. for All Summit:
“We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of the TSU A.I. Applied Educational Research Center under our SMART Technology Innovation Center, in August 2024. This pioneering initiative aims to curate cutting-edge A.I. tools and best practices for teaching, learning, research, and workforce preparedness. With a specific focus on addressing underrepresented groups, the center will drive inclusivity and equity in A.I. education. By harnessing the power of A.I., we strive to empower learners, educators, and researchers with transformative resources, fostering innovation and bridging the digital divide. Join us in shaping a future where A.I. transforms education for all.”
Samantha Altodort and Jaden Knight are the first graduates of the university’s accelerated medical program and will enter Meharry Medical College in the summer
NASHVILLE, Tenn.(TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University reached a major milestone when the undergraduate class of 2024 walked the stage on May 4. Among the nearly 600 students were Samantha Altidort and Jaden Knight, the first cohort from the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Accelerated Pathway program to graduate. The two joined a prestigious list when they introduced retiring TSU President Dr. Glenda Glover, as the keynote speaker for TSU’s undergraduate commencement. The honor is given to the student with the highest GPA. For Samantha and Jaden, both 4.0 graduates and biology majors, they shared this coveted rite of passage.
Samantha Altidort and Jaden Knight, center, with Dr. Levi Watkins Institute, Meharry Medical College representatives during the first cohort’s graduation celebration.
“I was thrilled and deeply honored to introduce President Glenda Glover as the keynote speaker,” said Knight, a first generation college student who is on his way to Meharry Dental School. “It felt like a full-circle moment for me, starting from my first day on campus at Hale Hall, where I met President Glover. Her warm welcome and the unexpected joy of meeting the president in such a casual setting left a lasting impression.”
Jaden and Samantha set on stage and listened as President Glover presided over her final commencement and delivered the keynote address.
“There will be those who will tell you that it can’t be done, that it won’t be done,” Glover said. The crowd erupted with applause when she went on to say, “Don’t be discouraged by these dream assassins. If you want to kill your big dream, tell it to a small-minded person.”
The Memphis native and retiring president encouraged graduates to stay grounded in faith and that they could match and surpass the talent of anyone in any field.
TSU students make history as the first graduating class of the TSU Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Accelerated Medical and Dental program.
“During the times that I have heard President Glover speak, she has always shared a word that reminds students to keep the faith, persevere, and trust God, commented Samantha. “As a woman of faith myself, I am encouraged by her words and comforted knowing that TSU has been led by someone who has put her faith first.”
Samantha, a Nashville native who will enter Meharry School of Medicine this summer, and Jaden, a Dayton, OH native, are a part of the first graduating class from the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Medical and Dental Accelerated Pathway Program. They said introducing President Glover at her final commencement was the ideal way to cap off their historic moment. President Glover established the accelerated medical and dental program with Meharry Medical College four years ago and accepted the first applicants a year later.
“When I first came to TSU, as part of the inaugural cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute Accelerated Pathway program, President Glover was there in Hale Residence Hall welcoming us,” recalled Adltdort, who parents attended TSU. “Three years later, I am a graduate and she was my keynote speaker at commencement. I am grateful for the role that President Glover has played in helping establish the program that supported me during my undergraduate career.”
Jaden added that he was grateful for the president’s vision to begin the program.
Samantha Altidort, along with the entire first cohort received graduation stoles during the program’s celebration.
“Under her leadership, the accelerated program that has profoundly shaped my career was established. Without her vision and dedication, I would not be where I am today. I can never fully express my gratitude to her but introducing her at graduation felt like a meaningful gesture of my appreciation. President Glover is an extraordinary leader, whose accolades are as vast as her intelligence. As she prepares to retire, I am confident that her impact will continue to resonate not just at TSU but also around the world.”
TSU established the Dr. Levi Watkins Medical and Dental Accelerated Pathway Program in 2021 through a partnership with Meharry School of Medicine and Meharry Dental School. Since its inception, TSU has admitted four cohorts into the program. Samantha, along with 12 of the program’s first graduates, will go to medical school in various fields. Jaden is the sole dental student. The future internal medicine doctor and dentist agreed that they look forward to a new journey that will lead to their ultimate goal and will be forever grateful to TSU and President Glover.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – State lawmakers got a chance to see Tennessee State University’s excellence up close earlier this month.
Several legislators – from the Senate and House of Representatives – visited and toured the campus on Nov. 14 in what was termed, “Experience TSU: Tennessee General Assembly Day at Tennessee State University.”
This was a departure from the annual “TSU Day at the Capitol,” when university administrators, students, faculty, alumni and friends converge on Legislative Plaza to showcase TSU’s research and other innovative initiatives. The next TSU Day at the Capitol will be on Feb. 12.
TSU alums and state lawmakers, Rep. Harold Love, Jr.; and Senator-elect Brenda Gilmore, said it was important for their fellow lawmakers to visit the TSU campus. (Photo by Michael McLendon, TSU Media Relations)
Joining the lawmakers at TSU were the Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture, Jai Templeton, and representatives from the USDA’s Farm Service Agency, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and Rural Development.
“We are very pleased to welcome you to Tennessee State University and our beautiful campus on behalf of our President, Dr. Glenda Glover,” said Dr. Curtis Johnson, chief of staff and associate vice president.
“Many of you may be familiar with our campus and for some of you, this may be your first time, but we are just glad that you included us in your busy schedules to make this day possible and to see for yourselves some of the great things taking place at this institution.”
At a luncheon in the President’s Dining Room prior to touring facilities on campus, the lawmakers received briefings and slide presentations from administrators on the university’s 2019 Legislative Priorities for funding consideration by the General Assembly.
Lawmakers and USDA officials watch a computer animation in the CAVE presented by Omari Paul, a 2nd-year Ph.D. student in Computer Information Systems Engineering. (Photo by Emmanuel Freeman, TSU Media Relations)
The priorities include the creation of a STEM Institute, a Community Behavioral and Mental Health Center, the Cumberland Shores Research and Innovative Park, emergency funding for students, and safety and security.
“With the heightened demand for diversification in the STEM work force, an institute would provide research, professional development and training in recruiting and retaining minorities in STEM programs in Tennessee and nationally,” said Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, vice president for Research and Institutional Advancement.
With TSU one of only two HBCU’s offering a Ph.D. in psychology in the nation, Crumpton-Young told the lawmakers a community behavioral and mental health center would allow Ph.D. students in psychology to complete their clinical training on campus, instead of at Vanderbilt University, as they currently do.
A group of students from the TSU Career Development Center and the center director, Charles Jennings, right, make a presentation to the visiting legislators at the luncheon in the President’s Dining Room. (Photo by MIchael McLendon, TSU Media Relations)
Two TSU alums and state lawmakers, Rep. Harold Love, Jr., and Senator-elect Brenda Gilmore, were among those present. They said the presence of their colleagues on campus allows them to see “where the money is going.”
“This is so vital because when Tennessee State is engaged and asking for money for campus improvements, security upgrades and for general operation, oftentimes legislators have never been to the campus,” Love said. “By having them on campus, we get to highlight all the wonderful things that are going on at TSU.”
Gilmore shared similar sentiment.
“TSU has so much to offer. They have some of the best and brightest students,” she said. “I commend TSU for arranging this visit. This is a good start. TSU needs a greater presence, telling the story of what the university is and what the needs are.”
Following the luncheon, lawmakers toured various sites on campus, escorted by TSU’s Assistant Vice President for Public Relations and Communications, Kelli Sharpe, and Johnson.
Leon Roberts, coordinator of the TSU Dental Hygiene program, talks to visitors about the services offered by the Dental Hygiene Clinic. (Photo by Emmanuel Freeman, TSU Media Relations)
Stops included a round-table discussion with administrators and the Dean of the College of Agriculture, Dr. Chandra Reddy, as well as a tour of the Food and Biosciences and Technology Lab, a cutting-edge facility.
State Sen. Frank S. Nicely, 8th District, said he is impressed with work going on at TSU, especially in agriculture.
“I enjoy very much hearing about TSU as a land-grant university,” said Nicely, who is 1st vice-chair of the Senate Energy, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. “I am excited about the work you are doing with small farmers and reaching out to more counties with your extension program.”
Next, the group stopped in the College of Engineering, where they observed various animations in the CAVE or Computer Assisted for Virtual Environments, a facility for multi-disciplinary research, as well as the Advanced Materials Lab.
The group’s final stop was at TSU’s state-of-the-art Dental Hygiene Clinic, which provides a wide range of reduced-cost dental services to nearly 600 patients in the Nashville community a year.
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About Tennessee State University
With more than 8,000 students, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a comprehensive, urban, co-educational, land-grant university offering 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs and seven doctoral degrees. 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) – Nearly 50 Nashville business and community leaders visited Tennessee State University last week as part of the National Organization for Workforce (NOW) Diversity’s annual Diversity Bus Tour.
“The tour is to bring human resource leaders and business leaders out into the diverse communities for recruitment and advancement and engagement of their workforce,” said Jacky Akbari, president and national board chair of NOW Diversity.
She said the Diversity Bus Tour helps managers and supervisors better understand environments with which they may not have previously been familiar.
Business administration students, members of the TSU public relations office and Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, dean of the College of Engineering, greeted the tour participants on Nov. 8 with gift bags and brief testimonials when they arrived on the campus of Nashville ‘s only public university.
Dr. S. K. Hargrove, den of the College of Engineering with Business Administration majors Sydni Berkahlter of Cincinnati and Cordé Stewart of Nashville.
Hargrove, who serves on the board of NOW Diversity, said he believes the tour will help these professionals gain a better understanding of the impact historically black colleges and universities have on the community.
“I believe it is important that we display and share the great things that are happening at TSU to the Nashville community,” he said. “Too often many have a distorted view or perception of TSU, but our responsibility as employees is to promote the quality of education we provide and the outstanding students that matriculate at our institution. “
Akbari said for their employers to have a diverse engaged workforce population, they have to understand the culture of the students, where they come from, what they like to do and how they can contribute to the workplace.
“We know from Dean Hargrove that TSU does have some special programs that our employers are looking for,” she said. “The STEM programs that exist here at TSU are a unique opportunity for our employers to connect with students that are ready to make an early and significant contribution. We appreciate Dr. Hargrove’s leadership in connecting us with TSU, not only in his program, but across the campus.”
Kelli Sharpe, assistant vice president of University Public Relations and Communications, greets Jacky Akbari, president and national board chair of NOW Diversity, as the Diversity Bus Tour arrives on the campus of Tennessee State University.
The Diversity Bus Tour also included stops at Meharry Medical College, Fisk University, the Sri Ganesha Temple, the Islamic Center of Nashville, Historic Woolworth on 5th and Plaza Mariachi.
The National Organization for Workforce Diversity is a private, public and non-profit collaborative created to provide insight and leadership training to advance workforce diversity initiatives.
Department of Media Relations
Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331
About Tennessee State University
With more than 8,000 students, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public university, and is a comprehensive, urban, co-educational, land-grant university offering 38 bachelor’s degree programs, 24 master’s degree programs and seven doctoral degrees. 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.
For more information about International Education Week 2018, contact (615) 963-5640.
