Local Governing Board


Arlene Nicholas-Phillips is the Executive Assistant to the President / Board Liaison of the university, reporting directly to the president. This position is primarily responsible for supporting the activities of TSU’s Board of Trustees by managing the work of the board and serving as the liaison between the board and the university administration. In consultation with general counsel, the secretary ensures that board actions are in compliance with legal requirements.

Key responsibilities:

  • Supporting the activities of the Tennessee State University Board of Trustees
  • Accepting documents on the university’s behalf and forwarding legal documents to general counsel
  • Attesting to the signatures of university official documents
  • Preparing letters and other correspondence