Publix, UNCF Join Forces to Empower TSU Students with Scholarships, Enhance ‘Tiger Pantry’

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Tennessee State University continues to provide meaningful opportunities for its students through strong community partnerships. This dedication was on full display during the Publix Cares Recognition and Information Session, a collaborative effort between Publix and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). During the event, five deserving TSU students were awarded $5,000 scholarships each, while additional funds were donated to enhance the university’s Tiger Pantry, a food assistance program for students in need.

Publix Super Markets Manager of Associate Diversity & Inclusion LaTarsha Melvin, center, speaks during the Publix Cares Recognition and Information Session at TSU.

This year’s scholarship recipients were Ashlee Bailey, Olivia Blauser, Ceara Jackson, Stephanie Hayes and A’Kevian Anderson.

The awards were presented on campus on Nov. 3, with Publix generously matching the total amount by contributing an additional $25,000 to support the Tiger Pantry, which provides essential food and resources for students experiencing food insecurity.

For senior business administration major Ashlee Bailey from Chicago, a two-time the Publix Cares Scholarship recipient, the gift has been life changing. Bailey said the award has helped her manage her school expenses and stay focused on her goals.

Ashlee Bailey

“This opportunity has allowed me to pay my school loan back,” Bailey said. “I actually know that despite the economic struggles across the nation and beyond, it is significant that TSU is providing resources that students can put toward their financial account to continue their education.”

Olivia Blauser, a junior studying political science, shared a similar sentiment.

“I feel absolutely blessed to be a recipient of this scholarship,” Blauser said. “It is nice to be offered something through the UNCF. It just means the world that we have a partnership with Publix to provide scholarships for students like me.”

Olivia Blauser

Blauser added that Publix is not only awarding scholarships but also providing internship opportunities in various sectors, which helps students gain hands-on career experience.

Tiffany Baker, TSU’s director of Foundation Scholarships, said the partnership continues to make a lasting difference.

“This partnership with Publix honors the scholarship recipients they awarded to Tennessee State University,” Baker said. “They award five students $5,000 each year, and Publix matches that amount to our Tiger Pantry. Any time TSU students can receive an abundance of resources via scholarships and internships, it is a win-win for us. In this economy, it is invaluable to have partners that help students in need of additional resources.”

Tiffany Baker, TSU’s director of Foundation Scholarships

Lee Walker, a local Publix store manager, said this is the third consecutive year of Publix’s support to TSU through this initiative.

“The goal for Publix is not only to serve the community, but to also create opportunities for people to join the company and grow through its career pathways to access those benefits,” Walker said. “We want to give students opportunities they may not have otherwise. We want to help pay for school and help them understand that you have to keep learning. Do not stop growing, the opportunities are there for you if you are willing to put in the work.”

Walker added that Publix’s commitment to matching the scholarship funds for the Tiger Pantry reflects their dedication to empowering students and supporting the broader TSU community.

“I hope one of my kids comes to TSU,” he said.

The Publix Cares partnership, in collaboration with UNCF, continues to reflect TSU’s mission of ensuring access, opportunity, and support for its students both in and beyond the classroom.