Tag Archives: Tiara Thomas

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Vice President Kamala Harris leaves students inspired after powerful commencement address at TSU, telling them to be the change the world needs

May 9, 2022 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – “To know that she will forever be a part of my TSU history, and to be inducted as an official member of the Tiger family was a tremendous honor to witness.” That statement sums up how Derrick Sanders felt Saturday after hearing Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic and powerful commencement address at Hale Stadium on the main Tennessee State University campus. The Vice President told graduates to seize the opportunities afforded them to “shape the future of our country.”

Students flock to Vice President Kamala Harris’ side in jubilation to get selfies, as she enters Hale Stadium accompanied by President Glenda Glover. (Submitted Photo)

“Vice President Harris accepted not only the honorary doctorate degree but she accepted the love, worth and fellowship of this great institution,” added Sanders, outgoing president of the Student Government Association, who received his bachelor’s degree in English.

Sanders was not alone in his praise of the vice president’s visit and speech. From the rousing cheers that greeted her as the motorcade entered Hale Stadium, to her inspirational speech, and receiving an honorary degree, sentiments about the vice president have reverberated across the TSU family, graduates, and their families. All are still taking in the historic moment where they got to hear and see the vice president of the United States up close on their campus.

Derrick Sanders, of Cincinnati, Ohio, celebrates after receiving his bachelor’s degree in English. (Submitted Photo)

Sanders’ mother, Marlene Sanders, who came from Cincinnati, Ohio, to see her son receive his degree from the vice president, described the moment as life changing.

“I was really proud of what Vice President Harris and Dr. Glover did together – two Black women with one goal,” said the proud mother. “I appreciated that she stayed through unforeseen circumstances and took pictures with each graduate. Her words were receptive, appreciative, and encouraging.”

Vice President Kamala Harris congratulates Student Trustee Tiara Thomas after receiving her degree in political science. (Submitted Photo)

Tiara Thomas, of Olive Branch, Mississippi, whose parents were also in the audience to see her receive her degree in political science, added, “Having Vice President Harris as the keynote speaker was an incredible way to end my undergraduate experience. Her speech gave me chills as I was able to sit on stage with her and see my future possibilities in her.”

Frederick Parson, a TSU alum and Tiara Thomas’ father, said the vice president’s speech was genuine, relatable, and appropriate.

Tiara Thomas’ family traveled from Olive Branch, Mississippi, to celebrate her graduation from Tennessee State University. (Submitted Photo)

“It not only inspired the graduates but also those in the audience, like my two youngest daughters who look like she does. Kudos to the VP for sharing a special moment in time with us that we won’t forget,” Parson said.

The vice president’s visit to deliver the commencement address at TSU was historic, as it was her first at any university since taking over the second highest office in the land. Citing current domestic and global affairs, Harris reminded members of the Class of 2022 that they are “graduating in an unsettled world” but were equipped to be the change agents needed to make it better for all people.

That note struck a chord with Matthew C. Benton, of Atlanta, who received his bachelor’s degree in business administration.

It was all jubilation Saturday as students celebrated their graduation. (Submitted Photo)

“The speech was as inspirational and empowering as I imagined it would be, and was exactly what I needed to hear,” Benton said. “I’m thankful to have had a university President like Dr. Glover with the right connections and friendships to bring Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, to our campus to give the keynote address. I’m forever grateful to President Glenda Glover. My commencement day is a very special part of TSU history, thank you President Glover.”

Jacqueline Payne was also in the audience to see her son, Emmanuel Wallace, receive his degree in agribusiness.

“I was extremely proud to see my son along with his peers graduating, and seeing Kamala made me really feel Black Excellence in its rawest form,” Payne said. Her son, Emmanuel Wallace, agreed.

Emmanuel Wallace’s mother, Jacqueline Payne, was in the audience to see her son receive his degree in agribusiness. (Subitted Photo)

“Graduating among such a successful and ambitious class is very empowering,” Wallace said. “Having the first black female vice president of the United States deliver our commencement speech while encouraging us to be the change in the world was exceedingly inspirational.”

Jodyn White-Rowell, whose family members traveled from Delaware, Georgia, and Florida to see her receive her bachelor’s degree in agricultural science, said she was inspired.

Jodyn White-Rowell, who received her degree in agricultual science, celebrates with her mother Kimberly White-Rowell. (Submitted Photo)

“Seeing Vice President Kamala Harris, someone who pushes boundaries and inspires others to chase their dreams, come to speak to us encourages me to continue to follow my dreams and push boundaries that are set in front of me,” she said.

Jodyn’s mother, Kimberly White-Rowell, added, “We were so excited to see our daughter and the other graduates walk across the stage. We were also so inspired by President Glover and the commencement speech from VP Kamala Harris who spoke to the heart of all the students, calling the next generation of change agents to the world stage. I can’t wait to see what they all become as educated graduates of TSU.”

You can view the 2022 Spring Undergraduate Commencement on the TSU YouTube channel by visiting tnstate.edu.

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‘Long overdue,’ TSU weighs in on nomination of first Black woman to nation’s highest court

March 4, 2022 Lucas Johnson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When President Joe Biden nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson for the U.S. Supreme Court, for many it was more than just keeping a campaign promise. The historic move, in the eyes of civil rights groups and women’s organizations, is viewed as “long overdue.”

Biden nominated Jackson on Feb. 25. If confirmed, she would not only be the first African-American woman, but also the third Black justice and sixth woman to serve on the nation’s highest court.

Tennessee State University President Glenda Glover, who also serves as vice chair of the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), explains the nomination has been a longtime coming considering the contributions of Black women to the success of the country and their influence on the judicial system in general.

“It was 55 years ago in 1967 that Justice Thurgood Marshall — the first African American — was appointed to the nation’s high court and 40 years ago in 1981 when Justice Sandra Day O’Connor — the first woman ― was appointed to the Supreme Court. Rather than a long time coming, for many, this appointment is a long time overdue,” says Dr. Glover.

“There are countless Black women in the legal field who have distinguished themselves as brilliant jurists, fierce advocates, and venerable legal scholars who have made tremendous sacrifices to shape the laws of the land and help secure justice for all.”

Junior Brianna Lang is a political science major at Tennessee State University. The Atlanta native says she’s looking forward to seeing someone on the Supreme Court who looks like her.

“Since I was a kid, I have been interested in becoming a lawyer, or a judge,” says Lang. “So, seeing someone who looks like me, doing something that I want to do, just lets me know to keep going and stay motivated. And that anything is possible.”

Tiara Thomas, a senior majoring in political science from Olive Branch, Mississippi, says she’s glad to see the Biden administration continue the cycle of “breaking glass ceilings,” referring to Vice President Kamala Harris as the first Black woman to hold that position in the White House.

“The appointment of the first African American woman as a Supreme Court justice will be a great step toward placing public trust back into our judicial system,” says Thomas, who serves as the student trustee on TSU’s Board of Trustees. “Little girls everywhere will see her and dream, one day, to be her.“

Since 1790, there have been 115 Supreme Court justices. The confirmation of Jackson would also for the first time in history seat four women and two Black justices on the High Court. Judge Clarence Thomas is the current seated African American judge.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts at TSU and a Women’s Studies faculty member, says she’s also looking forward to the inspiration Jackson will provide young people aspiring to go into the legal or judicial field.

“I have had the privilege of working with many TSU students who have gone on to become successful attorneys,” says Morgan-Curtis. “I am eagerly awaiting the first one to become a judge. If confirmed, Judge Jackson opens up for all of those women in college to dream of even greater possibilities.”

TSU History Professor Learotha Williams says Jackson’s nomination helps to rectify a history of Black women being overlooked for positions for which they are qualified.

“These ladies have to be fearless because they’re working within a framework that’s still in many regards racist and sexist,” says Dr. Williams. “For their whole existence, Black women have been judged. Laws have been made that impacted them. But they’ve never been at the top where they could interpret the laws. Judge Jackson may soon change that.”

Jackson is expected to be confirmed before the Senate recesses in April, and she could be sworn in by early July. She would replace the retiring liberal Justice Stephen Breyer. The Supreme Court currently has a 6-3 conservative majority.

For information about Women’s Studies in TSU’s College of Liberal Arts, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/cla/programs/womensstudies.aspx.

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Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
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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 a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, 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.

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AOB thrills in 2022 Rose Parade; band wows many in ‘West Coast swing’

January 4, 2022 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s Aristocrat of Bands once again showcased its excellence to the world with a spectacular performance in the 2022 Rose Parade on New Year’s Day.

TSU President Glenda Glover receives rousing acknowledgement as her image is projected on the jumbotron in the Crypto.com Arena, during the AOB’s halftime show for the Los Angeles Lakers’ game. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

One of only four university marching bands and the only one from a historically black college or university (HBCU) to participate in this year’s parade in Pasadena, California, the AOB also captivated huge crowds and fans in a “West Coast swing” that included performances in Disneyland Park, the California African American Museum, and a halftime show for the Los Angeles Lakers in the Crypto.com Arena, formerly Staples Center.

TSU President Glenda Glover, who traveled to California with a large group of TSU supporters and alumni to cheer on the AOB, also received rousing applauses during the various stops, including a cheering acknowledgement when her image was projected on the jumbotron in the Staples Center.

The TSU Aristocrat of Bands march in the 133rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, to cheers from the thousands of spectators. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

“This is one of the most exciting moments for us and especially in the lives of these students to be able to represent the university at the Rose Parade,” said Dr. Glover before leaving for Pasadena. “This is so special to represent TSU, the state of Tennessee, and HBCUs. That is just phenomenal.”

The Aristocrat of Bands is celebrating 75 years of existence this year. Officials call the appearance in the Rose Parade the highlight of the anniversary celebration, themed “75 Years of Excellence.” TSU was invited to participate in the Tournament of Roses last year, but the parade was cancelled due to the pandemic.

President Glover joins the Los Angeles Chapter of the TSUNAA in presenting a plaque of appreciation to Director of Bands, Dr. Reginald McDonald. From left, are Charles Galbreath, TSUNAA National President; LaVonne Williams, President of the LA Chapter; Dorothy Thornhill, VP of the LA Chapter; Dr. McDonald; and President Glover. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

“In a perfect sense, us getting the opportunity to do the parade this year actually aligns well with this very significant year of the AOB,” said Director of Bands, Dr. Reginald McDonald, when the university received the reissued invitation. “This is the 75^th year of the existence of the Tennessee State University AOB. The capstone performance of the anniversary is definitely the Tournament of Roses.”

With the parade and the “West Coast swing” now under their belt, band members and students can’t say enough about the experience, excitement and opportunity afforded them to represent their university.

TSU alum and Tennessee State Rep. Dr. Harold Love, Jr., who traveled to California to support the AOB, makes a statement at the Tournament of Roses Parade celebration. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

“As a graduating senior, my California experience was an amazing way to end my time in the Aristocrat of Bands,” said Tiara Thomas, who plays the French Horn in the band. “Each performance was electric and allowed us to make our mark in California. This was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Fellow band member and lead drum major Travion Crutcher added, “My experience on the Aristocrat of Bands’ tour through California was truly amazing. We had the opportunity to showcase to the world what makes the AOB different from other marching bands. This trip was filled with memorable moments created with friends and with once-in-a-lifetime performances. Thank you to everyone who had a part in making this experience possible for me and my fellow band members.”

At the Crypto.com Arena, the AOB followed a longtime Lakers tradition, in which the HBCU selected to perform in the Rose Parade is also invited to perform at a Lakers’ game during the school’s visit. But this year, Lakers officials said the AOB’s performance was “out of this world.”

“No coincidence that both the TSU Aristocrat of Bands and the NBA are both celebrating 75 years of excellence and triumph,” said Kiesha Nix, vice president of charitable affairs and executive director of the Lakers Youth Foundation. “The Lakers count it a privilege to be a part of this epic moment in time and to make lifelong memories for the TSU students!”

Band members Travion Crutcher, lead drum major, left; and Tiara Thomas, French horn player and TSU Student Trustee, thank the audience on behalf of the AOB during the Tournament of Roses Parade Celebration. (Photo by Aaron Grayson, TSU Media Relations)

Overall, band director McDonald said he is grateful for the opportunity and support from fans and supporters, and glad that the “students gave it their all with outstanding and superb” performances in all of their appearances.

“The experience in California was really great. Our students were outstanding in their performances, and remarkable in how they conducted themselves. It says a lot about our students, our band staff and just everybody involved,” McDonald said. “We are still getting positive feedback from folks at all of our events. I must say thank you to our alumni. They came in droves like at Homecoming or at a classic game. Their support was overwhelming.”

The Sophisticated Ladies of the AOB strike a pose at the Tournament of Roses Parade Celebration. (Photo by Debbi Howard)

California is home to one of the largest concentrations of TSU alumni. Many attended the parade, while others, including fans from across the nation, traveled to cheer their “beloved AOB.”

Featured photo by Aaron Grayson
The TSU Aristocrat of Bands march in the 133rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, to cheers from the thousands of spectators.

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615.963.5331

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Rose Bowl-bound AOB receives rousing send-off from community as members depart for California

December 29, 2021 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University community gathered in front of the Performing Arts Center in the early hours Tuesday morning to celebrate as the Aristocrat of Bands prepared to depart for the Tournament of Roses in California.

President Glenda Glover arrives at the Performing Arts Center in the early hours Tuesday morning to personally bid band members farewell as they board buses for the airport. She flew out to California the next morning to join the students. (photo by Andre Bean)

President Glenda Glover, dressed in TSU blue and white, led a large group of cheering university officials, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and fans in a send-off celebration for the nearly 250 band members as they boarded buses for the airport on their way to the 133^rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, on Jan. 1.

“This is one of the most exciting moments for us and especially in the lives of these students to be able to represent the university at the Rose Bowl,” said Glover, who flew out the next morning to join the students.

“This is so special to represent TSU, the state of Tennessee, and HBCUs. That is just phenomenal. They worked so hard for this. They have earned the right to show the world who they are. So, we are just proud of them.”

AOB members board the plane at Nashville International Airport for their flight to California. (Photo by Andre Bean)

Sandra Hunt, president of the Nashville chapter of the TSU National Alumni Association, added: “This is extremely exciting for us as alums from across the nation. Not only that many of us will be glued to the TV watching with pride and cheering, but many will be there in Pasadena.”

The send-off was organized by alumni, staff, students and individuals who provided various support to help make the trip possible. TSU alum and State Rep. Harold Love, Jr., Director of Alumni Relations Debbi Howard; Miss TSU Mallory Moore, TSU Chief of Staff, Dr. Curtis Johnson; and Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Frank Stevenson were among those at the send-off.

“We’ve always gotten tremendous support from President Glover, the university, alumni, the community and the fans, so this is just another example of that support,” Director of Bands, Dr. Reginald McDonald, said.

Director of Bands, Dr Reginald McDonald, left, gives band members a final pep talk as they prepare to depart for their California trip. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“”It’s a great feeling that our supporters came out and showed us love before we set out for California,” added Tiara Thomas, student trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, who plays the French horn in the band.

The AOB, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, is one of only four university bands nationwide invited to participate in the Rose Bowl Parade this year. TSU is also the only band from a historically black college or university (HBCU) that will be performing.

President Glover and Band Director McDonald talk to the media, as other TSU officials and supporters watch. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Termed the “West Coast swing,” the AOB’s California visit also includes performances at Bandfest, a two-day exclusive field show for marching bands selected to participate in the Rose Bowl Parade; Disneyland Park; the California African American Museum; as well as a half-time show for the Los Angeles Lakers in the Staples Center.

Travion Crutcher, head drum major of the AOB, said he is looking forward to performing in the Rose Bowl, but also “experiencing Hollywood from up close.”

Band members celebrate as they prepare to leave for the 133rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“I am looking forward to experiencing in person what I see on TV shows and movies,” said Crutcher, a senior electrical engineering major from Huntsville, Alabama. “I am looking forward to embracing the culture in that part of the US.”

California is home to one of the largest concentrations of TSU alumni. Many are expected to attend the Rose Bowl Parade, while others, including fans from across the nation, are flying in to cheer for their “beloved AOB.”

Featured photo by Andre Bean
Dozens of OAB supporters, including students, staff, alumni and fans gather by a busload of band members to say good bye as the students prepare for the early morning ride to the airport, on their way to the Tournament of Roses in California.

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3500 John Merritt Boulevard
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TSU’s AOB celebrates 75 years with trip to Tournament of Roses, receives major Hollywood endorsement

December 13, 2021 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Tennessee State University world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands is celebrating its 75^th anniversary this year with an invitation to the 133^rd Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, California, on Jan 1, 2022.

The Aristocrat of Bands enter campus as they participate in the 2021 Homecoming parade on Jefferson Street. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

The band, the only one from a historically black college or university (HBCU) marching in the parade this year, was one of only four university bands selected nationwide last year to participate in the Tournament of Roses, but the parade was cancelled due to the pandemic.

This year’s reissued invitation comes with the endorsement of Emmy and Peabody Awards-winning actor and director Levar Burton, the 2022 grand marshal of the Rose Bowl Parade. Also known as an educator and lifelong children’s literacy advocate, Burton – with followers in the hundreds of thousands – endorsed TSU and the AOB on his Twitter page.

Dr. Reginald McDonald, Director of Bands

“Help the Aristocrats get to Pasadena and the Tournament of Roses Parade,” @levarburton tweeted.

Termed the “West Coast swing,” the AOB’s California visit is also packed with other exciting activities. Before the parade on New Year’s Day, the AOB will take part in Bandfest, a two-day exclusive field show for marching bands selected to participate in the parade, to showcase their musicianship and unique talents. Performances at Disney Land, the California African American Museum, as well as a half-time show for the Los Angeles Lakers in the Staple Center, are also planned.

And band members and students are exuberant.

Levar Burton, Parade of Roses Grand Marshal, endorses the Aristocrat of Bands. (Submitted Photo)

“I am definitely excited to have this opportunity after waiting for a year,” says Tiara Thomas, student trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, who plays the French horn in the band. She says the visit will be a major exposure for the university.

“I am very thrilled to be a part. We have a number of things lined up just for people out in California who have not seen us or do not even know where Tennessee State is,” she says. “So, to be able to make this trip with most of my friends, I am really excited and very grateful.”

Travion Crutcher, head drum major of the AOB, who will be going to California for the first time, says he is looking forward to performing in the Rose Bowl, but also “experiencing Hollywood from up close.”

Tiara Thomas says the West Coast visit will be a major exposure for TSU. (Submitted photo)

“I am looking forward to experiencing in person what I see on TV shows and movies,” says Crutcher, a senior electrical engineering major from Huntsville, Alabama. “I am looking forward to embracing the culture in that part of the US.”

Dr. Reginald McDonald, TSU’s director of bands, lamented the last-minute cancellation of the California visit last year, but is excited about the return, which he says aligns well with the 75^th year of the existence of the AOB.

“Like everybody else, I was extremely disappointed with us not being able to do the parade last year because of the pandemic, but at the same time I understood,” says McDonald, who announced “75 Years of Excellence” as the theme for the AOB’s anniversary.

“In a perfect sense, us getting the opportunity to do it (the parade) this year actually aligns well with this very significant year of the AOB. This is the 75^th year of the existence of the Tennessee State University AOB. The capstone performance of the anniversary will be the Tournament of Roses on January 1,” McDonald says, calling the appearance at the Rose Bowl a major recruitment tool.

AOB Lead Drum Major Travion Crutcher is looking forward to the Hollywood experience. (Submitted Photo)

About the invitation to perform for the Lakers, McDonald says while it is a challenge, it will be fun. “Whether it is the NFL, NBA or NHL, we have done it before.”

Dr. Robert B. Miller, president and chairman of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, who visited TSU in 2020 to officially invite the AOB, returned to TSU recently to reaffirm the university’s invitation for the 2022 parade.

“Only the best of the best are invited and the Aristocrat of Bands is one of them,” Miller said in 2020 when he first presented the band with the official tournament flag and invitation, at a ceremony in the Gentry Center Complex.

The band’s last practice, before leaving for their break and subsequently California, is Friday, Dec. 17.

For more information on the TSU Aristocrat of Bands, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/aristocratofbands/

Featured Photo Courtesy of DeShun Smith
TSU President Glenda Glover, along with university and band officials, receive the official Tournament of Roses flag during the halftime show of the 2021 Homecoming game at Nissan Stadium. From left, are Band Member Jordan Hampton; TSU Associate Vice President and Chief of Staff, Dr. Curtis Johnson; President Glover; President and Chairman of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, Dr. Robert B. Miller; Director of Bands Dr. Reginald McDonald; and Band Member Rameek Nelson.

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TSU Students, officials bury COVID-19 pandemic in time capsule, to be unearthed in 2041

October 27, 2021 Emmanuel Freeman

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – A TSU-inscribed face mask, a letter from the university president, and a Homecoming banner were among items recently laid to rest in a time capsule to remind those who open it 20 years from now of the COVID-19 pandemic.

President Glover, Associate VP Frank Stevenson and student leaders bury the time capsule on the main campus. From left, are Mr. TSU Mark T. Davis, Jr.; Miss TSU Mallory Moore; SGA VP Jevaria Jefferson; SGA President Derrick Sanders; Dr. Glover; Tiara Thomas, Student Trustee; and Stevenson. (Photo by Andre Bean)

President Glenda Glover, along with student leaders and university officials, buried the time capsule during a lively, socially-distanced ceremony on the main campus on Oct. 26. It will be unearthed in 2041. Tiara Thomas, Student Trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, conceived the idea for the capsule. She said it will tell future students about what it was like to live during COVID-19.

“The time capsule is to make sure people know and have our firsthand account of how we dealt with this moment,” said Thomas, to a loud cheer from the crowd, including the Aristocrat of Bands, that provided entertainment. Her presentation was in the form of a letter to fellow students summarizing the events of the time.

President Glover places an envelope in the time capsule containing a letter, a mask and an AKA pouch. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“There are going to be so many people writing history books, making documentaries, but we want to leave something that tells our story, to make sure it is as true and accurate as possible,” Thomas added. “We have been through so much and so many stories to be told from so many angles, and I just want to make sure we capitalize on that moment because, indeed, we are history makers.”

Like many students at the ceremony, Terrian Jefferson and Kershaun Barksdale agreed with Thomas.

Tiara Thomas, Student Trustee on the TSU Board of Trustees, conceived the idea for the time capsule. (Photo by Andre Bean)

“This means a lot to me because future students can actually see what we dealt with in today’s time,” said Jefferson, a junior health sciences major from Memphis, Tennessee. “And for even those of us here today, this will remind us that this really did happen.”

Barksdale, a psychology major from Holly Springs, Mississippi, added: “I feel like this burial is necessary because it puts us in a unique position to be able to accurately tell the story of what took place during this time.”

Besides the mask and students’ messages, the time capsule contains a banner from the AOB, an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. pouch from Dr. Glover, who is also international president of the sorority, press releases, news articles, and memorabilia from the Black Lives Matter Movement, among others. Tuesday’s event also marked TSU’s weeklong 2021 Homecoming, which kicked off Sunday with a gospel explosion.

AOB Drum Major Travion Crutcher places a banner from the marching band in the time capsule. (Photo by TSU Media Relations)

Frank Stevenson, associate vice president of Student Affairs and dean of students, thanked President Glover for her leadership, Thomas for her foresight in conceiving the idea for the time capsule, and the campus family for their support.

“As we bury this time capsule, let’s celebrate the brilliant leadership of President Glover during this pandemic; she was very intentional, and she required that out of all of her staff,” Stevenson said. “During the pandemic, we were left in the care of 2,200 students who stayed on our campus. We were the frontline workers. While other personnel were working from home, we had to be intentional about our presence. From our police department, health services to our residence hall staff, we were here, and we did it and we are excited to make this moment.”

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TSU students, fellow sorority members inspired by Vice President Harris and impact on HBCUs

January 21, 2021 Lucas Johnson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated chapter at Tennessee State University say they are proud to see Kamala Harris, a fellow member and HBCU grad, become vice president of the United States, but they’re even more excited about the attention she brings to historically black colleges and universities.

Harris was sworn in at a star-studded inauguration in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday with former Vice President Joseph Biden Jr., now the 46^th president of the United States. Harris is an alumna of Howard University, an HBCU.

“Senator Harris’ swearing in is a full circle moment for HBCUs and African-American Greek organizations that worked tirelessly to give the black community a voice from the turn of the century, through Jim Crow and the civil rights movement, to present day,” said AKA International President and CEO Dr. Glenda Glover, who is also president of TSU. “Vice President Harris’ ascension to a successful, dedicated public servant is a direct correlation to the philosophy HBCUs and our Black Greek organizations impress upon our students.”

Before the inauguration, Glover announced that the service organization would declare Wednesday, January 20, 2021 as Soror Kamala D. Harris Day.

“Like so many of you, I am simply beaming with pride as we witness the inauguration ceremony of a HBCU graduate, member of the Divine Nine, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kamala D. Harris, to the Office of Vice President of the United States,” said Glover.

Junior Tiara Thomas, a member of TSU’s Alpha Psi Chapter of AKA and student representative on the university’s Board of Trustees, said she was “overwhelmed with emotions” when Harris was sworn in by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first woman of color to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court.

“I am joyful to see a black woman elevate to such heights, especially during these racially divided times,” said Thomas, a political science major from Olive Branch, Mississippi. “VP Harris has done for little black girls what President (Barack) Obama was able to do for little black boys. Vice President Harris has broken the concrete ceiling for girls like me aspiring to succeed in politics. I could one day be the next Kamala Harris.”

AKA member Jeia Moore is a junior from Memphis majoring in business information systems. She said the fact that Harris graduated from an HBCU shines a spotlight on the 100-plus historically-black institutions.

“It shows that despite their struggles, HBCUs prepare students for success,” said Moore. “As an HBCU student at TSU, I’m ready for what comes after graduation.”

AKA member Ammria Carter agreed.

“It speaks volumes to how prepared you can be after attending an HBCU,” said Carter, a junior political science major from Cleveland, Ohio. “Vice President Harris has inspired me to work even harder.”

When Biden selected Harris to be his running mate, TSU Political Science Professor Brian Russell predicted Harris would cause more young people to consider attending HBCUs if she became vice president.

“It’s going to energize a lot of younger African-American students to look in the HBCU direction,” said Russell. “That’s going to be exciting.”

In a virtual address to TSU’s faculty and staff on Tuesday, Glover said she is among HBCU leaders who have personally met with Biden and Harris to discuss ways to help HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions. Glover said the Biden-Harris administration has pledged $70 billion to the institutions, including $20 billion that will help them increase research facilities they need to compete with larger universities.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State University

EVENTS, Featured, FEATURED, NEWS, Uncategorized

TSU’s famed Aristocrat of Bands to be part of Biden, Harris inauguration celebration

January 18, 2021 Lucas Johnson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands will be part of the “We Are One” virtual celebration for the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.

The celebration on Tuesday, Jan. 19, is an evening hosted by the Presidential Inaugural Committee, which will celebrate and honor the Black community and African Diaspora. The event will feature performances and speeches from distinguished guests, including TSU President and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated International President and CEO, Dr. Glenda Glover.

The celebration will be live-streamed from 8:00-9:30 PM Eastern (7:00-8:30 Central) at https://bideninaugural.org/watch/. It will also be broadcast

AOB participates in Battle of the Bands. (Submitted photo)

on Urban One, Revolt TV, and the Instagram pages of HBCU Grad, NowThis News, The Source, The Shade Room, BET, TheGrio TV, Daily Kos, Watch The Yard, Blavity, and on NBC Peacock’s The Choice.

“The Tennessee State University Aristocrat of Bands is very excited to be a part of the inauguration celebration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris,” says Dr. Reginald McDonald, TSU’s director of bands. “In the midst of a very challenging year, our band program continues to display the excellence of Tennessee State University.”

McDonald says the band submitted four videos for inauguration organizers to include in the celebration, and that footage from the videos will be used in some capacity.

Band member Tiara Thomas says the band’s inclusion says a “lot about the elite nature of the Aristocrat of Bands.”

“Although virtual, this is one of multiple appearances the AOB has made in Washington, D.C. over the years,” says Thomas, a political science major from Olive Branch, Mississippi. “However, I feel this one is as monumental as the performance for President Obama, because we are celebrating a fellow HBCU graduate, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris,“ a Howard University alumna.

Former President Barack Obama greets AOB band members during their visit to the White House in 2016. (TSU Media Relations)

In 2016, during the administration of President Barack Obama, the band was invited to Washington, D.C. to celebrate the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The band performed on the south lawn of the White House, the first HBCU band to perform for the Obama administration at the White House.

The AOB was the first band from a historically-black university invited to march in the inaugural parade for President John F. Kennedy. One of the students who marched in that parade was Edward L. Graves, who became director of bands from 1979 to 2014 (retired).

The AOB also returned to Washington, D.C. in 1993 and 1997 for the Inaugural Parades of President Bill Clinton.

To learn more about the AOB, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/aristocratofbands/.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 seven doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, 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.

FEATURED, Featured, Uncategorized

Bank of America contributes $1M in partnership with TSU to help students complete their degrees, find meaningful employment

November 19, 2020 Lucas Johnson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Bank of America is partnering with Tennessee State University and contributing $1 million, as part of an initiative to help students finish college and find employment in a competitive workforce.

TSU President Glenda Glover

The initiative is part of the bank’s recent $1 billion, four-year commitment to advance racial equality and economic opportunity, and its $25 million commitment to enhance up-skilling and reskilling for African Americans and Hispanic-Latino students.

Including TSU, the nationwide initiative includes partnerships with nearly two dozen community colleges that serve predominately Black/African American and Hispanic-Latino students, public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and public Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs).

“Tennessee State University is excited to be partnering with Bank of America, and for the $1 million contribution to help our students complete their degrees and secure meaningful employment opportunities in a global workforce, specifically here in Nashville, a city that has become a global leader in the healthcare, technology entertainment and hospitality industries,” says TSU President Glenda Glover. “At TSU, we strive for excellence, and this initiative will allow us to instill that mindset in students for generations to come, as we continue their professional development to be future leaders.”

“We know the best way to empower students is through education,” says Tyson Moore, Bank of America Nashville Market President. “We are excited about this partnership with TSU to equip all students, and particularly students of color, with the skills they need to get great jobs.”

Nashville Mayor John Cooper says initiatives like this will only make the city better.

“TSU is a key partner in helping us develop the type of high-tech workforce that our economy demands, so I’m grateful for opportunities like these to invest in our students’ success,” says Cooper.

Senior Jacob Bobinger, an agricultural sciences major from Kingston Springs, Tennessee, says the initiative will definitely benefit his peers.

“Increased funding will allow for more scholarship opportunities, which will make the most direct and meaningful impact to students who are financially struggling to finish their degree,” says Bobinger. “I’m thrilled TSU will continue to offer better and better opportunities to students because of the amazing partnership with Bank of America.”

Junior Tiara Thomas, who is the student representative on TSU’s Board of Trustees, says the attention given to the University by companies like Bank of America is refreshing.

“I am very appreciative of Bank of America for investing in Tennessee State University students,” says Thomas, of Olive Branch, Mississippi. “It is great to see companies began to build relationships with HBCU’s to ensure a brighter future after graduation.”

Freshman Elise Russ of Nashville agrees.

“As the Bank of America slogan states, ‘Life’s better when we’re connected,’” says Russ, a civil engineering major. “I am excited to see the changes ahead with this new program, as it will help students learn how to navigate through challenges, improve communication, and be prepared for life upon the completion of college.”

Recent TSU graduate Malik City knows firsthand what it is like to work for a top-tier company. The Nashville native and computer science major was hired by Bank of America as a software engineer and will earn $94,000 his first year, including a $10,000 signing bonus. City credits programs, like the Career Development Center at TSU, with getting him ready for the workforce.

“I feel very fortunate and very thankful to TSU for the preparation I received, which made all of this possible,” he said.

Antoinette Duke, associate director of TSU’s Career Development Center, says she’s looking forward to working with Bank of America.

“This partnership and job initiative with Bank of America allows us to continue in our pursuit of providing the highest level of support to students entering the work force following graduation,” says Duke. “We are preparing them for the next step; we are preparing them for their careers.”

To learn more about the Career Development Center, visit http://www.tnstate.edu/careers/.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

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 seven doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, 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.

Featured, FEATURED, Uncategorized

TSU Aristocrat of Bands committed to 100 percent voting, band director and members urge everyone to do the same

October 7, 2020 Lucas Johnson

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s world-renowned Aristocrat of Bands has a message for fellow HBCU bands and anyone else who will listen, vote!

AOB band members (l to r) Don Jones, Tameria Cole and Kayla Jenkins.

Dr. Reginald McDonald recently hosted a workshop with fellow band member Tiara Thomas on absentee voting to educate the band on how to ensure their ballots are counted for the Nov. 3 presidential election, and to register those who weren’t.

“We’re committed to getting 100 percent of our membership registered to vote,” said McDonald. “In 2020, you need to vote like your life depends on it.”

Thomas, a junior Political Science major and serves as the student trustee on the University’s Board of Trustees, was the main organizer and presenter of the voting workshop. Prior to the band’s event, she facilitated “The TSU Tiger’s Guide to Absentee Voting Virtual Seminar,” which was hosted by TSU Football Coach Rod Reed for his players. Since the seminar, the entire football team, including players and coaches are now registered.

“I was really inspired by the football team’s leadership in getting 100 percent of their players registered to vote,” said Thomas. “I didn’t want to stop with the football team. I wanted to hit the next biggest group on campus, which is the AOB. I just think that anytime you wear a Tennessee State uniform that you are automatically viewed as a leader. And I feel like right now it’s important for our Tennessee State University community student leaders to actively vote,” and encourage others to do the same.

In 2018, only 34 percent of the campus actively voted, said Thomas, who has been a crusader on campus for voter education and registration.

“As trustee this year, my goal is to double that turnout, if not 100 percent,” said the Olive Branch, Mississippi, native.

AOB drum major Julien Dooley said many students realize the importance of this year’s presidential election, in particular.

“A lot of my friends are very knowledgeable of who they’re voting for, and the importance of it,” said Dooley, a senior from Atlanta. “The things we want to happen depend on who gets in office.”

Visit this link (https://bit.ly/3nAkKP4) to hear a special message from Dr. McDonald and the AOB.

For information on deadlines for early voting, mail-in voting, and absentee ballots, visit the website of the Secretary of State in your state.

Department of Media Relations

Tennessee State University
3500 John Merritt Boulevard
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.963.5331

About Tennessee State UniversityFounded 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 seven doctoral degrees. TSU is a comprehensive research intensive institution with a R-2 Carnegie designation, and has a graduate school on its downtown Avon Williams Campus, 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.