Tag Archives: Smart Technology Innovation Center

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TSU’s Dr. Robbie K. Melton Named a 2025 Leading Woman in AI

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – In a celebration of groundbreaking women reshaping the technological landscape, Tennessee State University’s Dr. Robbie K. Melton has earned her place among the 2025 Leading Women in AI as recognized by The AI SHOW @ ASU+GSV.  Melton is among over 200 extraordinary women recognized for advancing artificial intelligence in education technology, research, and practical applications.

Melton, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, is also vice president for technology and innovation at TSU.

A visionary in mobile technology and education, Melton’s impactful work at TSU is transforming classrooms around the globe and inspiring the next generation of innovators in artificial intelligence. As a global researcher and international consultant on the Internet of Everything (IoE), she has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, integrating smart mobile technology into learning environments worldwide. Her contributions at TSU have led to the establishment of the SMART AI for All Research Center, and marking TSU as a center of innovation, and the first global coding hub for HBCUs through strategic partnerships with leaders like Apple.

TSU President Dwayne Tucker expressed his pride in Melton’s recognition. 

“Dr. Melton’s relentless pursuit of excellence in technology and education is inspiring. Her leadership sets a standard for us all, and this honor reflects not only her remarkable contributions but also the transformative impact of our institution on the future of technology,” Tucker said.

With a remarkable portfolio that includes being a former associate vice chancellor for emerging technologies at the Tennessee Board Regents, and recipient of numerous accolades, including the 2019 USDLA or United States Distance Learning Association Hall of Fame, Melton’s influence extends beyond academia. She currently serves as a UNICEF Teacher Education Technology Trainer in Malawi, empowering educators in regions with limited access to technology.

“I am deeply honored and incredibly excited to be recognized as the 2025 Leading Woman in AI. As a Black woman in technology, this award signifies not only personal achievement, but also a powerful symbol of representation and possibility,” said Melton. “This recognition serves as a beacon for young women, especially young Black women, to see what is possible. It is my hope that this inspires the next generation to dream boldly and lead with confidence in shaping the future of technology.”

Dr. Robert O. Hassell, senior executive director of the immersive technology division at TSU and a longtime protégé of Dr. Melton, spoke passionately about her legacy. “Her innovative mind and extensive vision have transformed educational practices and created opportunities for countless students. Dr. Melton is a rare leader whose impact will resonate long into the future.”

Dr. Melton and her fellow honorees were recently celebrated at the Arizona State University and Global Silicon Valley Summit in San Diego.  

For more information about the TSU SMART Center, visit www.ai-tnstatesmartcenter.org.

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 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research-intensive institution with an R-2 Carnegie designation, a downtown Avon Williams Off-Campus Instructional Site, and 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. 

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USAID Taps TSU to Lead AI Advancements in Semiconductors 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, recognized as a leading technology and innovation hub, has been selected by the U.S. Agency for International Development to spearhead advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), specifically in the semiconductor sector. The SMART ‘AI for ALL’ Research and Training Center at TSU and International Programs will play a crucial role in shaping future AI technologies and driving innovation within this essential field.

Dr. Robbie Melton, TSU’s Vice President for Technology and Innovations and leader of the SMART Center, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership.

Dr. Robbie Melton

“We are thrilled to embark on this innovative journey with USAID,” Melton said. “The SMART Center presents an exceptional opportunity not only to advance AI research but also to solidify our role in economic development and technology transfer that benefits diverse communities. This collaboration will empower our students and faculty to push the boundaries of technology and play a significant role in shaping the future landscape of AI applications in semiconductors.”

Clinton D. White, Agency Counselor at USAID, said, “We are excited about the innovative work being done at Tennessee State University in the realm of AI and semiconductors. This initiative not only strengthens our technological capabilities but also enhances our commitment to fostering sustainable economic partnerships.”

This designation as a premier training center underscores TSU’s commitment to enhancing research and development in AI applications for semiconductors, positioning the university as a cornerstone of technological progress. The partnership aligns with USAID’s mission to promote sustainable economic growth and development.

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 its advancements in AI, TSU is also recognized as a global coding hub for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as part of Apple’s Community Education Initiative. This further reinforces the university’s dedication to providing innovative educational opportunities and training in cutting-edge technologies.

By harnessing TSU’s expertise in AI, this initiative aims to establish a dynamic platform that facilitates bilateral and trilateral trade opportunities between American businesses and Caribbean enterprises. It will foster an environment ripe for procurement opportunities, philanthropic services, and strategic partnerships throughout the Pan-African diaspora.

Dr. Jewell Winn, Executive Director for the Office of International Programs and Academic Global Engagement at TSU, emphasized the inclusivity of the project and partnership.

“It is paramount that we leverage the power of AI to drive technological advancement while ensuring that every community can participate in this growth. Our objective is to prepare a new generation of skilled professionals equipped to utilize these technologies for the benefit of all.”

For more information about TSU’s SMART Center, please visit https://tsu-smartinnovationtech.netlify.app/

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TSU explores AI in education, will hold demonstrations

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University serves as the nation’s only HBCU Smart Technology Innovation Center, and has partnerships with tech giants Microsoft and Apple, along with T-Mobile, Amazon and several others.

Through these collaborations, TSU has worked to bridge the technology divide among HBCUs and communities of color. Now the University is looking to forge deeper into the field by exploring the opportunities and possibilities of integrating education with artificial intelligence (AI).

Dr. Robbie Melton

Dr. Robbie Melton, Vice President of Technology Innovation Strategies and interim provost and acting vice president of academic affairs, heads the TSU SMART Global Technology Innovation Center that researches the effective use of emerging technologies in education, that now includes AI.

Starting June 5, Dr. Melton will be available to conduct AI demonstrations that will include creating curriculum and lesson plans in under 4 minutes, along with art and music in less than 2 minutes.

“TSU has always been on the cutting edge of technology and it’s important that faculty learn more about AI because these tools are already transforming and disrupting the traditional methods of reading, writing, research, teaching and training,” says Melton.  

AI Generated Images as such are created by using text to image prompts, no photography required.

While the concept of artificial intelligence in education presents an array of unprecedented academic, ethical and legal challenges, Melton believes these technological advances have educational value and benefits that can’t be overlooked. 

“It’s important for TSU faculty to learn how AI works in enhancing teaching and learning before taking a stand to ban it or try to stop it in the classroom. AI pushes us to incorporate critical and higher order thinking skills, that go beyond basic observation of facts and memorization.” 

Melton recently conducted a national webinar for several historical black colleges and universities (HBCUs) regarding the educational impact of AI for underrepresented groups and cultures.

To register for this event:
Webinar: June 22ndor 29th1:00 – 3:00
Avon Williams SMART Center
Registration: https://forms.gle/wPBzCAzrGhtH2bjU8