By Faith Miniard
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) — Tennessee State University students are immersing themselves in the professional sports industry through a growing partnership with key sports organizations in Nashville.
From March 2–6, students in TSU’s Department of Human Performance and Sport Sciences (HPSS) participated in unique consortium experiences with the Tennessee Titans, Nashville Predators, and Nashville Sounds. Each program offered students access to industry professionals, providing insights into the operations of professional sports franchises.
Organizers say these immersive experiences are designed to expose students to various behind-the-scenes career paths in professional sports. Senior psychology major Riley Warner reflected on the significance of these experiences. “One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of persistence and trusting the process,” he said. “Hearing from professionals across the organization reinforced how ongoing growth contributes to long-term success.”
Fellow student Kevon Jackson, also a senior majoring in exercise science, said, “This experience really clarified what it takes to work in professional sports and the level of professionalism that’s expected.”
Dr. Jason Smith, chair of the TSU HPSS department, highlighted the role these experiences play in student development. “Engaging directly with industry professionals builds our students’ confidence and helps them envision themselves as future leaders. They leave inspired and better prepared for their careers,” Smith said. “These collaborations are essential for extending learning beyond the classroom and positioning our students to compete and lead.”
Now in its fourth year, the Tennessee Titans consortium remains foundational to the program, with additional immersive experiences with the Nashville Predators and Nashville Sounds expanding student exposure. Throughout the week, TSU students learned from executives, staff, and department leaders, interacting with creative, marketing, and operations teams to gain a comprehensive understanding of franchise operations.
The initiative was developed with support from TSU alumni within the Titans organization, notably Johari Matthews, vice president and executive director of ONE Community and the Titans Foundation, along with Tina Ruffin, vice president of engagement. Their involvement has been critical in creating opportunities for students, especially those from historically Black colleges and universities.
A highlight of the week’s events was the tour of the construction site for the new Nissan Stadium, set to open in 2027. The visit offered students a rare glimpse into the complexities of planning and building a top-tier sports venue.
Additionally, participants in the Nashville Predators consortium saw a direct investment in their futures when Jaylah Milfort, a TSU Masters of Sports Administration scholar, was named the first-ever scholarship recipient through the Smashville Seminar, a weeklong program in partnership with Nissan Motor Corporation. The scholarship supports students pursuing careers in sports.
Smith added that participation in the consortium is also aimed at bolstering recruitment for TSU’s sport sciences programs. “This is just the beginning of our vision for our students. Through these partnerships, we’re creating pathways that empower them to enter the sports industry, lead, and make a lasting impact,” he said.
The experience concluded with students presenting their insights to leaders from the participating organizations, allowing them to engage directly with industry professionals and apply what they had learned throughout the week.
To learn more about TSU’s HPSS program, visit www.tnstate.edu/hpss/.
Alexis Clark contributed to this report.
