NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Tennessee State University’s Student Government Association joined forces with student leaders from Fisk University to host the inaugural Jefferson Street Cleanup, a collaborative service initiative designed to strengthen community ties and promote unity between the two institutions.
The initiative, which began as a “Unity in the Community” concept, evolved into a large-scale cleanup and service project along the Jefferson Street corridor. Student leaders from both campuses began meeting every two weeks in August to plan the event, secure supplies, and engage local support.
“Our goal was to create something meaningful that brought both universities together in service,” said TSU SGA President Calvin Pickett. “Even though we share Jefferson Street, we don’t often get to collaborate in this way. This project allowed us to unite around a common purpose of giving back to the community that gives so much to us.”
Miss TSU Kennedy Chambers said, “The event was a beautiful demonstration of our potential when we come together. It’s important for us as students to take an active role in the community, showcasing the strength of our partnership.”
The cleanup took place on October 4, with nearly 300 student volunteers, including 198 from Tennessee State University and 101 from Fisk University. Participants collected trash and debris along Jefferson Street, beginning at the TSU campus and extending to the Fisk University grounds. Cleanup efforts also included areas near local businesses such as Kingdom Café and Helen’s Hot Chicken.
In addition to the cleanup, students organized a toiletry drive to benefit community members in need. Donations included soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and other hygiene items, which were distributed to individuals experiencing homelessness along the Jefferson Street corridor.
“This experience truly brightened my heart,” Pickett said. “I grew up understanding the importance of service, but seeing my peers come together in this way was inspiring. It was emotional to witness the support from both campuses and the impact we made together.”
Malachi Tate, a junior Human Performance and Sport Science major and a North Nashville native, expressed his satisfaction with the participation, saying, “I really appreciate the recognition, because it was truly a diligent and hard-working effort. Honestly, I feel relieved and amazed. Jefferson Street has always been a big part of my life. I remember watching the (TSU Homecoming) parades and playing for the Jefferson Street Bills football team when I was 10. Being able to come back and help clean it up, not just by myself but alongside people from all over the world, felt amazing.”
The Jefferson Street Cleanup marks the beginning of what organizers plan to make an annual day of service. The next TSU student-led volunteer effort will take place on Nov. 7 at Second Harvest Food Bank, where students will assist with food sorting and distribution.
“This collaboration represents the best of both our institutions — leadership, unity, and service,” Pickett added. “We look forward to continuing this partnership and building a stronger community together.”
For more on student activities at TSU, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/activities/.
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.