TSU’s Future Tiger Walk Attracts Nearly 200 Prospective Students and Families

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s Future Tiger Walk on Nov. 2 was a huge success, attracting nearly 200 high school juniors and seniors, along with their families. The recruitment event was specifically designed for students who cannot attend weekday campus tours, offering them a unique chance to explore TSU’s vibrant campus.

Laylah Dinwiddie, who came to Future Tiger Walk with her mother, Tiffany, and father, Earl, was one of 10 students admitted on the spot. (TSU photo)

Visitors participated in comprehensive campus tours, engaged with recruitment officers, and discovered the university’s diverse offerings and lively campus life. The day’s success was underscored by the number of immediate admissions granted, with 10 students receiving on-the-spot acceptance for the next fall semester.

Laylah Dinwiddie, a senior from Milan High School in Tennessee, was among the thrilled participants. Accompanied by her parents, she proudly displayed her admission certificate. “I am coming to Tennessee State University,” said Dinwiddie, who intends to major in criminology. “I love this school because it’s close to home, and I have friends who graduated from here, and they loved it too.”

Dr. Portia Johnson, Executive Director of Recruitment and Campus Tours, welcomes visitors to Future Tiger Walk. (TSU photo)

Tiffany and Earl Dinwiddie shared in their daughter’s excitement and surprise at the immediate admission process. “We thought we would have to wait for another trip to accomplish what we did today,” said Tiffany, while Earl added, “I am really impressed.”

During a welcoming assembly in the Forum, the prospective students and the families received valuable insights about the university and were encouraged to ask questions. Dr. Portia Johnson, Executive Director of Recruitment and Campus Tours, welcomed the guests, saying, “Today is your opportunity to ask any questions you have about Tennessee State University. Our wonderful Tiger Tour Guides are here to provide insights into our programs and campus life.”

Bryson Davis came to Future Tiger Walk with his mom. The 11th grader is interested in the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr., Pathway Program. (TSU photo)

The event also featured a group of 23 students from the Atlanta area, sponsored by the Lake Spivey, Georgia Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Their HBCU College Tour aimed to expose students to leadership opportunities while encouraging them to consider historically Black colleges and universities. Deidrea Collins, who led the group, was thankful for the weekend visit.

“We know that at HBCUs, our students will receive the support they need from professors and fellow students,” Collins said.

Among the Jack and Jill visitors was Bryson Davis, an 11th grader interested in agricultural sciences and the prestigious Dr. Levi Watkins Accelerated Pathway Program. Reflecting on his two visits to TSU, Davis said, “I want to do my undergraduate studies here and then go to Meharry for medical school.” The Dr. Levi Watkins Pathway Program, a partnership between TSU and Meharry Medical College, offers high-achieving students a pathway to study medicine or dentistry.

The Lake Spivey, Georgia Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., brought 23 students to Future Tiger Walk as part of the group’s HBCU College Tour. (TSU photo)

Elmore J. Jones, TSU’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the significance of the Future Tiger Walk, stating, “Our goal is to expand our application pool and provide students with an opportunity to determine if TSU is the right fit for them. We invite all high school students, with a particular focus on juniors and seniors.”

The next Future Tiger Walk is scheduled for December 20. For more information or to sign up for tours, visit https://tnstateu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eMcZNL3LdqTCMce.