NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University capped off an unforgettable Homecoming week filled with Tiger pride, tradition, and community celebration. From the annual parade through historic Jefferson Street to spirited alumni reunions and student-centered events, the campus was alive with excitement as thousands returned home to celebrate their beloved alma mater.
This year, TSU joined forces with SiriusXM and Pandora to host the HBCU Pop Out Celebration on campus. The high-energy event featured Grammy-nominated pop icon Jeezy, who performed during the Homecoming pep rally on Oct. 17 in Hale Stadium.
“It’s all about culture,” Jeezy said, highlighting the significance of events like the HBCU Pop Out and its connection to TSU. “Being able to come and celebrate Homecoming, it’s a classic. It’s about representing with pride and a connection to the culture.”
The week’s biggest highlight came at Nissan Stadium, where the TSU Tigers dominated the Howard University Bisons 24-7 in a commanding Homecoming victory.
“Homecoming is more than just a game or a week of events,” said University President Dwayne Tucker. “It’s a celebration of our history, our achievements, and the incredible community that makes Tennessee State University truly special. This year, seeing our Tigers dominate on the field and feeling the energy from students, alumni, and fans alike was unforgettable.”
Homecoming Chair Jerome Oglesby added, “Bringing in national partners like SiriusXM and Pandora for the HBCU Pop-Out Celebration really amplified the excitement. Coupled with the pep rally, the Aristocratic of Bands, and the Tigers’ victory, this Homecoming will be remembered for years to come.”
For many alumni, the week was more than a celebration. It was a return to the place where lifelong memories and friendships began.
Longtime alumni and fans shared heartfelt memories that highlighted TSU’s enduring impact across generations.
“There’s nothing like coming home to see the Big Blue spirit in action — from the parade to the stadium, it was electric,” said Cathy (Brown) Jones, ’77, spokesperson for the Golden Divas, a group of four alums and a friend who have been attending Homecoming together since the ‘70s. The group recalled their days living in Wilson Hall from where they would watch the homecoming game in Hale Stadium from their dorm rooms.
“I guess I’ve gone through quite a few homecomings, starting back in the ’70s,” added group member Patricia “Candy” Battle Taylor, 78. “My daughter was here from ’98 to ‘02, so I experienced that era too. She was a cheerleader back then, and now she’s part of the alumni squad.”
Sitting at her usual spot across from the Agricultural Complex, Sheila Hastings reflected on when the parade fell on Thanksgiving Day. “My mom had us all dressed up with hats and your name it, and we didn’t eat until after the game in the Hole,” recalled Hastings, who worked at TSU in Facilities Management for 37 years. “I didn’t attend school here, but I spent my career here, and it’s truly been a home for me.”
Longtime fan Wendy Williamson emphasized the importance of introducing younger generations to Homecoming events. “It’s special to bring young people to experience college life, especially at an HBCU. Homecoming is the perfect opportunity for that.”
This year’s parade saw some fierce competition, with winners chosen by a panel of judges. The top three float winners included the Nashville Metropolitan Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta in first place, followed by the Southern Movement Committee in second, and Phi Beta Sigma in third.
As the celebrations came to a close, Tennessee State University once again showcased what makes it truly special — a rich legacy, unmatched school spirit, and a community united in love for TSU.
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.