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- Nashville Entrepreneur Dr. Turner Nashe Jr. Inspires TSU Graduates to Forge Their Own Paths at Fall Commencement
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Dr. Turner Nashe Jr., a prominent entrepreneur and national technology leader, addressed nearly 600 graduates at Tennessee State University’s fall commencement ceremony held Dec. 7. Family and loved ones filled the Gentry Center Complex to be a part of the milestone event. As the keynote speaker, Nashe urged students to take ownership of their futures with the education they have received.
Dr. Turner Nashe, Jr., delivers the keynote address at the Fall Commencement Ceremony in the Gentry Center Complex. (Photo by Aaron Grayson) “Life’s journey is unpredictable. My own path is a testament to that,” Nashe said. “Not everyone around you will see your potential, but that’s okay. What matters is your belief in yourself. With faith, focus, and resilience, you can turn the darkest days into your brightest moments.”
Nashe, the founder and president of Innertainment Delivery System and a board member at Sonata, holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from TSU. He recounted overcoming skepticism from others, including his father, who believed college was not for him. “I had a choice: follow someone else’s dream or create my own. I chose to define my own success.”
TSU President Ronald A. Johnson, left, and Dr. Robbie Melton, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, present a plaque to Dr. Turner Nashe, Jr., following his commencement address. (Photo by Aaron Grayson) Before Nashe's speech, TSU Interim President Dr. Ronald A. Johnson, emphasized resilience and family support, remarking on the significance of the graduates’ accomplishments. “Your journey has reached a milestone today. Remember, no educational endeavor is worthwhile unless it strengthens you and your community,” said Johnson, who presided over his first commencement as president.
Nashe offered graduates five keys to success as they continue their journey. He told them: "Apply your degree to innovation, live below your means because being debt-free is freedom, run your own race and stop comparing your journey to others, keep fresh eyes to spot opportunities, and execute your ideas as true success comes from action. You possess the power to transform your life and others’ lives. Define your purpose and use your education to make a difference in the world."
Sandra Walker achieves her dream of earning her college degree after an 11-year journey. (Photo by Aaron Grayson) The ceremony celebrated a diverse group of graduates, including Sandra Walker, who received her bachelor's degree in business administration. After an 11-year journey, juggling work and family, Walker expressed gratitude for TSU's supportive environment. “This journey has taught me to use my education to make an impact on the world.”
Toby Gallant fulfills a promise to his late grandmother by earning his college degree after dropping out 38 years ago, six credits shy of completing his college work. (Photo by Aaron Grayson) Toby Gallant, who returned to TSU after 38 years to complete his degree, shared his personal triumph. “I made a promise to my late mother that I would walk across this stage. It feels amazing to fulfill that promise,” said Gallant, reflecting on the significance of his achievement.
Patrick Granberry, a TSU employee, earned his doctorate in educational leadership, marking his third degree from TSU. “TSU has been a huge part of my life; I met my wife here and found my passion. I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” Granberry stated.
Provost Robbie Melton congratulates Patrick Granberry, a TSU employee, after he received his doctorate in educational leadership, his third degree from TSU. (Photo by Aaron Grayson) Beyond their academic achievements, graduates were told to be proud of their TSU lineage because of the vital role the university plays in the broader Tennessee community. The university's impact to the City of Nashville community is well over $500 million annually, and serves over 586,107 residents across 63 counties, through the College of Agriculture's extension program. This engagement is providing valuable resources, education, and outreach to improve the local agricultural landscape and quality of life.
As the graduates embark on their next chapters, the messages shared today resonate with the promise and potential each individual holds. TSU congratulates its graduates and wishes them success in all their future endeavors.
- TSU Alumnus Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 for Transformative HBCU Leadership
NASHVILLE, TN — Aarian Forman, a two-time Tennessee State University graduate, has been named to Forbes' prestigious 2025 30 Under 30 list, recognizing his groundbreaking work in education and leadership development through Xceleader, an organization he co-founded to empower HBCU students nationwide.
Aarian Forman What began as a single Zoom call in 2017 to discuss student leadership at HBCUs has evolved into a transformative force in higher education. Under Forman's leadership, Xceleader has impacted over 8,000 students and alumni through workshops, mentorships, and nonpartisan programs, securing nearly $1 million in funding to support its initiatives.
"This recognition from Forbes isn't just a personal honor—it's a testament to the power of HBCU education and the unique impact we're making," said Forman, who holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in business from TSU. "We're creating pathways for students to build intergenerational wealth and close the racial wealth gap through entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership development."
During his time at Tennessee State University, where he served as Student Government Association President (2016-2017), Forman developed the foundation for his future impact. "TSU showed me that higher education isn't just about earning degrees—it's about developing leaders who can create lasting change," Forman reflected. "The university's motto of 'Think. Work. Serve.' continues to guide our mission at Xceleader."
Xceleader co-founders Tevon Blair, left, Jade Agudosi, center, and Aarian Forman Alongside co-founders Jade Agudosi and Tevon Blair, Forman has positioned Xceleader as a catalyst for student empowerment. Their organization focuses on three key areas: entrepreneurship development, civic engagement initiatives, and women's empowerment programs. The organization's latest initiative exemplifies its innovative approach. Recently five HBCU students were selected to serve as content creators at an upcoming HBCU conference in New Orleans, providing them with hands-on entrepreneurial experience relevant to today's digital economy.
Former SGA President Aarian Forman during a TSU football game in the 2016-2017 academic school year. "HBCUs are national treasures," Forman stated. "Their contributions to the American and global story continue to unfold in powerful and inspiring ways. Through Xceleader, we're amplifying these contributions while creating new opportunities for the next generation of leaders."
Tennessee State University has served as a pipeline for producing leaders and innovators like Forman. As a future-ready institution, TSU continues to empower its students and alumni to excel on national and global stages.
Check out Forman's 30 Under 30 recognition here.
Xceleader is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering HBCU students through leadership development, entrepreneurship training, and civic engagement. Through its comprehensive programs and initiatives, Xceleader works to create sustainable pathways for success and economic mobility within the HBCU community.
- TSU Doctoral Student DeeAnne Miree Wins 2024 National Distinguished Principals Award for Tennessee
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) - DeeAnne Miree, a dedicated doctoral student at Tennessee State University and the principal of Nashville’s Cambridge Early Learning Center, has been honored as the 2024 winner of the National Distinguished Principals Award for Tennessee. This prestigious award, presented by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), recognizes exemplary leadership among elementary and middle school principals nationwide, emphasizing their commitment to student achievement, character development, and fostering a positive school climate.
April Knight, right, President of NAESP, presents the National Distinguished Principals Award to DeeAnne Miree at the ceremony in Washington, D.C. (Submitted photo) With over 27 years of experience in education, Miree has served as the principal of Cambridge Early Learning Center for the past nine years. During her tenure, she has made significant strides in enhancing academic performance, positioning Cambridge as one of only four Pre-K schools within the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools system.
“I see this award as the pinnacle of my career. While no one does this work for accolades, it is gratifying to be recognized,” Miree said. “My focus has always been on celebrating my teachers and acknowledging the incredible work they do. This award reflects not just my efforts, but the dedication of my entire staff and the remarkable growth of our students.”
DeeAnne Miree will receive her doctorate in Educational Leadership from TSU next fall. (Submitted photo) In the nomination process, Miree was required to provide data highlighting student growth, including social and emotional learning developments. She expressed pride in possibly being the first principal of a Pre-K school in the state to receive this recognition, emphasizing the importance of supporting students for future success.
A proud three-time alumna of TSU, Miree holds bachelor’s, master’s, and education specialist degrees from the College of Education. She is expected to receive her doctorate in Educational Leadership next fall. "TSU has been my foundation. The education and support I received there were unparalleled, shaping the educator I am today,” she said.
Dr. Janet Finch, Dean of the College of Education, praised DeeAnne Miree for her commitment to academic excellence. (TSU photo) Dr. Janet Finch, Dean of the College of Education at TSU, commended Miree's achievement, stating, “As exemplified by Ms. Miree, TSU graduates embody our commitment to academic excellence and social justice, working to ensure quality education for all students and a positive impact on society.”
Miree's advisor, Dr. Kimanj Gundi, professor in the College of Education, praised her exceptional capabilities, noting, “DeeAnne exceeds expectations with her strong organizational skills and her passion for education. Her leadership qualities are remarkable, and we take great pride in her accomplishments.”
In addition to her role as principal, Miree also serves as president of the Tennessee Principal’s Association. Coming from a family of educators, her commitment to teaching and leadership is deeply rooted. Her achievements illustrate TSU’s vital role in training and supporting effective educators in Tennessee and beyond.
For more information on TSU’s College of Education, visit https://www.tnstate.edu/coe/.
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