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  • Bright Futures Await: Nearly 200 Students Attend Third New Student Orientation

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) - Tennessee State University welcomed nearly 200 enthusiastic first-time freshmen and transfer students at its third New Student Orientation (NSO) this summer. The exciting event in Kean Hall celebrated the commitment of students set to begin their academic journeys this fall, contributing to an impressive total of nearly 500 who have attended NSO so far.

    Dr. Bridget Golman, Vice President of Student Affairs, encourages participants to take full advantage of the resources available to them at NSO. (TSU PR and Communications)

    Among those participating in NSO were members of the new cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Accelerated Pathway Program, designed for exceptional students aspiring to pursue medicine or dentistry. Students in this program complete their undergraduate work in three years instead of the traditional four years.

    Darius Miller, a biology major from Atlanta, and his mother, Cashmere Miller, praised the prestigious program. “I’m trying to become a dentist, so when I found out about the accelerated program, that’s what I decided I wanted to go for,” Darius said. His mother, Cashmere, echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing how the program aligns perfectly with their goals.

    The newest cohort of the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Program and their parents participated in the dayong orientation. (TSU PR and Communications)

    This year’s orientation is designed to equip students with essential tools for success. Today’s gathering also featured eager participants like Ta’Vontae Flowers from Moline, Illinois, and transfer student Bria Stewart from Nashville, both joined by their supportive parents.

    “My older sister lives here, and I thought TSU was a good school,” Flowers reflected on his decision. “I was looking at a lot of other schools, but this seemed like the best fit for me. I have family in the area, and it’s going to be a very good time.” His mother, Sara, shared her pride despite her initial apprehensions about him leaving home, highlighting her confidence in her son's choice. “I’m excited for him to reach his goals and expand his horizons,” she said.

    Ta’Vontae Flowers and his mom Sara came in from Moline, Illinois. He will major in computer science. (TSU PR and Communications)

    Stewart, who will major in psychology, echoed a similar sentiment, sharing his deep connection to TSU. “TSU feels like home to me. Growing up around this campus, I learned about its values and opportunities from a young age, and I’m proud to continue my education here.”

    Inside the vibrant Kean Hall, set up with tables and displays from various university departments, students were greeted warmly by university officials, student ambassadors, and faculty eager to guide them through their upcoming college experience.

    Dr. Bridget Golman, Vice President of Student Affairs, urged students to take full advantage of the resources available at NSO, emphasizing TSU’s commitment to fostering holistic development. “Tennessee State University will be focused on growing you as young professionals,” Dr. Golman stated. “We intentionally create opportunities for social, cultural, emotional, and financial growth. Our mission is to help navigate and break down barriers to your success—because life happens.”

    Nearly 200 attended today's orientation in Kean Hall. (TSU PR and Communications)

    The NSO also unveiled innovative resources like the TimelyCare app, providing students with support for a range of needs, from health concerns to homesickness, ensuring a smooth transition as they embark on this new chapter.

    With sessions covering vital aspects of college life—such as financial aid, academic advising, and campus tours—the energy in Kean Hall was electric. As the countdown to the fall semester continues, excitement builds among the incoming class for what promises to be an unforgettable year.

    TSU’s next orientation is scheduled for July 14. For more information about the New Student Orientation and how to prepare for the upcoming semester, visit www.tnstate.edu/orientation or futuretiger.tnstate.edu.                                                                                               

  • Tennessee State University Reaches Agreement with State to Reallocate $96 Million for University Operations

    By Angela Mills

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee State University (TSU) and the State of Tennessee have reached an agreement that will enable the university to utilize $96 million over the next three years, previously allocated for deferred maintenance, to enhance university operations.

    The $250 million allocated by the State of Tennessee in April 2022 for capital improvements and infrastructure upgrades is making a difference at TSU. The initial $99 million is actively addressing deferred maintenance. The remaining $151 million is still available for use at TSU. Today, the State agreed to redirect a portion of these funds ($96 million) to support TSU's operational needs, while the remaining $55 million is designated for key projects, including $33 million for upgrading campus electrical grids and $22 million to finalize funding for the new Food and Animal & Environmental Science buildings in the College of Agriculture.

    Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration Commissioner Jim Bryson said, "This agreement provides TSU with the opportunity to solve its financial challenges and regain its legacy as one of our nation’s great, historic institutions of higher education. With this agreement and the current leadership team, TSU is once again on the rise."

    Interim President Dwayne Tucker stated, “I want to thank Comptroller Jason Mumpower, Commissioner Jim Bryson, and all the State legislators who partnered with us to provide a transformational opportunity for TSU.  It not only provides crucial cash flow to ensure the university’s financial sustainability but also allows us to invest in enriching the student experience and strengthening our capacity to attract both students and qualified employees.”

    Redirecting funding is pivotal in addressing immediate operational needs, allowing TSU to focus on long-term goals while ensuring a stable financial future. The additional investments in infrastructure will create a more robust learning environment, fostering innovation and growth for our students, faculty, and community.

    State Comptroller Jason Mumpower remarked, “Investing in education is investing in Tennessee’s future. The State is committed to TSU and is proud to support its legacy that advances workforce development and agricultural innovation. We are encouraged by the progress TSU has made in recent months and remain committed to its long-term success and promising path forward. I signed this agreement because I have confidence in TSU's current leadership team and their ability to understand and navigate the institution's challenges.”

    Under the newly appointed Board of Trustees and administration this year, TSU is working diligently with third-party State agencies to implement proper processes, reporting, training, and safeguards to strengthen financial oversight and compliance.

    Board of Trustees Chair Dakasha Winton added, “The support from the State to reallocate these funds underscores our commitment to providing a top-tier education and the necessary resources to cultivate global leaders. These vital improvements will modernize the campus infrastructure and enhance the college experience for today’s students and for future generations of Tigers.”

    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. 

  • TSU Hosts CARES Conference with Record Turnout, Focused on Elder Justice

    NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University, in partnership with the Adult Protective Services of the Tennessee Department of Human Services, hosted the annual CARES (Center on Aging Research and Education Services) Conference June 11-12 at the Avon Williams Campus. The event marked the largest turnout in 15 years, welcoming more than 250 attendees and over a dozen community vendors.

    Participants gather at Avon Williams Campus for the annual CARES Conference and welcomed more than 250 attendees in its largest turnout in 15 years and focused on financial exploitation and protecting older Tennesseans.

    This year’s theme, “Financial Exploitation: Investigations and the Need for Collaboration,” brought together national experts, frontline professionals, and local leaders committed to protecting older Tennesseans. Vendors included Nashville PBS, the Vanderbilt Memory & Alzheimer’s Center, and the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services.

    Chantelle Smith, a lawyer and consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative, with extensive experience prosecuting civil and criminal elder abuse cases, served as the lead facilitator for the conference. The conference also featured panelists and presenters from across the state, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Ascend Credit Union, and St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital.

    Dr. Cara Robinson, chair of TSU’s Department of Social Work and Urban Studies and co-director of CARES, emphasized that the conference not only benefits students in the College of Public Service but also provides vital resources for communities across the state. “Our biggest takeaway is understanding how stakeholders can work together when there’s a suspected case of financial exploitation,” Robinson said.

    Dr. Cara Robinson

    “Speakers presented real-world cases that showed how institutions collaborate to bring justice for older adults.” She added, “We plan to continue all our efforts through CARES. This is a great opportunity to showcase the impactful work being done at TSU. One of our main goals is to help students learn how to serve, lead, and engage with their communities.”

    Dr. Donna Dopwell, also a co-director of CARES, leads the center’s student mentorship efforts. Both Robinson and Dopwell believe the conference gives students a firsthand look at professionals in leadership roles, many of whom are on similar career paths.

    Breion ' 2'Live Bre' Dixon volunteered with the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition during the conference.

    Several TSU alumni participated in the conference, including Breion Dixon, a 2020 graduate who served as a volunteer for the Tennessee Caregiver Coalition. “I used to be a caregiver for my grandmother,” Dixon said. “It touched my heart to see how underserved communities are getting the resources they need.” Dixon noted the conference as a reflection of the university’s ongoing commitment to service. “TSU has always been a school of resources. When I stepped on campus, I realized it’s more than just education, it’s about community and family. This conference shows that TSU is all about sharing resources and giving back to the community.”

    Rita Fleming, a program leader for family and consumer sciences in TSU’s College of Agriculture, also attended the event to explore elder care resources. “This event was eye-opening and very informative,” Fleming said. “I learned how to resolve issues involving financial scams and how to report these situations effectively. TSU hosting this event reflects our commitment to community outreach both in urban and rural areas.”

    Rita Fleming attends the CARES conference to explore elder care resources.

    The two-day event covered topics such as: Understanding Financial Exploitation, Legal and Investigative Challenges, Prevention and Victim Protection, and Collaborative Action Efforts. This year’s programming centered around real-world case studies that explored the impact of financial exploitation on older victims. Key discussions focused on collaboration between law enforcement and community professionals, strategies to strengthen legal and investigative outcomes, prevention tools, and resources for coordinated local efforts across Tennessee.

    As TSU continues to lead in advocacy and education, the CARES Conference remains an example of how the university merges academics with community engagement to address real life issues.

    To learn more about the CARES Center, visit tnstate.edu/cares.

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