NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University witnessed one of its largest recruitment events in recent history as more than 1,200 high school juniors, seniors, and their families filled Kean Hall for Spring Preview Day. Themed “The Blueprint,” the all-day event reimagined the campus visit by merging the previously held junior preview and admitted student weekend to create a more robust, engaging experience. The gathering offered prospective students an insider’s look at what it truly means to be part of the TSU Tiger family, featuring interactive displays, campus tours, and testimonials from current students, faculty, and administrators.
TSU President Dwayne Tucker, a 1980 graduate of the institution, kicked off the event by sharing his own journey as proof of the university’s impact. “I came to TSU with confidence, but it was the faculty who helped me recognize my true potential. They challenged me to stay focused, earn my degree, and prepare for something greater,” Tucker said. “When you choose Tennessee State University, you’re choosing more than a college, you’re choosing a place that will challenge you, support you, and prepare you to lead.”
Among the eager visitors were Mariah Bell, a senior at Atlanta’s Langston Hughes High School with a 4.0 GPA, and Marshal Jenkins II, a pre-med chemistry major prospect. Both have committed to attending TSU this fall. Bell, a first-generation college student who plans to major in dental hygiene, noted that TSU’s reputation in health sciences confirmed it was the right fit.
“I’ve always wanted to attend an HBCU. When I came on my visit and met my tour guide, I just really felt at home here,” Bell said. Many parents shared this enthusiasm while reflecting on the bittersweet milestone of college enrollment. “I’m excited, but also a little sad,” said Diana Castillo, mother of Mariah Bell. “She’s ready, and I believe she’ll do great things. We’ll really find out when we drop her off and see her settle into this new chapter.”
Jenkins, who has a keen interest in the Dr. Levi Watkins Institute, an accelerated pathway for medicine and dentistry, spent the day speaking with staff and students at the program’s display. “I’ve heard incredible things about the Levi Watkins program, but actually speaking to the current cohort today made it real,” Jenkins said. “They explained how the program supports you every step of the way. Seeing that community firsthand confirmed that TSU is the best place for me to start my medical career.” Chase Brown, a member of the Levi Watkins Program, encouraged prospects like Jenkins to take full advantage of the support system, noting that the cohort feels like a family and genuinely prepares students for success in medicine.
Dr. Eric Stokes, vice president of Enrollment Management, emphasized that the record turnout was the result of strategic, sustained efforts, including national travel and alumni partnerships. “By intentionally combining our junior preview and admitted student weekend into one comprehensive experience, we achieved a more robust and engaging visit,” Stokes said. “The Blueprint is about showing them what their future can look like, and this weekend, that vision came to life.”
Dr. Portia Johnson, director of recruitment and the mastermind behind The Blueprint Preview Day, urged the visitors to fully immerse themselves in the opportunities available. “Our goal is simple: that every visitor leaves campus with no doubts and no unanswered questions about their future here,” Johnson said.
With participants hailing from about 20 states, including California, Michigan, and Illinois, the day concluded at Hale Stadium, where families watched the TSU Tigers in action during the Blue and White football game.
For more information on admission at TSU, visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions/
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.
