TSU is one of four HBCUs selected for this funding, to empower students with the skills essential for leadership in energy and environmental sectors. Over the next four years, the professorship will provide training and resources for at least 120 students.

“Today marks a powerful investment in the future of sustainability, innovation, and student success,” said Tiffany Callaway Farrell, vice president of operations at Atlanta Gas and Light and Chattanooga Gas, a Southern Company subsidiary. “Through the HBCU Sustainable Communities Initiative, we are proud to support this endowed professorship at TSU, an investment that will expand access, reduce financial barriers, and prepare students to lead in the rapidly evolving energy landscape. This partnership reflects our deep commitment to HBCUs and our belief that institutions like TSU play a critical role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.”

TSU President Dwayne Tucker expressed his appreciation for the long-standing support. “This investment from Southern Company, through the HBCU SCI initiative, reflects a partnership that began at a critical time for Tennessee State University and has never wavered,” Tucker said. “Their commitment to establishing an endowed professorship in sustainability not only strengthens our academic mission but also positions our students and faculty to lead in solving the environmental challenges of the future.”

Ron Houston, president and CEO of INROADS, said the investment represents more than a check. “it’s a long-term commitment to the future of HBCU students and the vital role these institutions play in developing the next generation of leaders,” he said. “Through our partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and UNCF, and with the support of the Southern Company Foundation, the HBCU Sustainable Community Initiative is creating meaningful pathways for students.”

TSU Students are enthusiastic about the announcement. Tarik Williams, a senior mechanical engineering major, said, “This isn’t just an investment in sustainability, it’s an investment in students. It gives us the access, the resources, and the confidence to lead in a future we’re helping to build right here at TSU.”

Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering, announced that the sustainability program will launch within a year as an interdisciplinary minor. “We are deeply grateful to Southern Company, through the HBCU CI nitiative, for this transformative $500,000 investment,” said Li. “This funding will enable us to build a program that prepares students across the university to lead in energy and sustainability. By launching this program as an accessible minor, we will equip a diverse cohort of students with the knowledge and skills needed to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.”

Dr. Erik Schmeller, interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, noted the academic significance of the gift. “This investment marks a major advancement in Tennessee State University’s commitment to academic excellence in high-impact fields. With support from Southern Company through the HBCU Sustainable Communities Initiative, this endowed professorship will strengthen faculty leadership, drive interdisciplinary innovation, and prepare our students to lead in addressing critical environmental challenges.”

Representing her company as a TSU alumna, Tondra Fields, talent and program manager at Southern Company, added, “It’s a privilege to return home and represent my alma mater, but it’s equally meaningful to bring my company back in a way that reflects our continued commitment. Leading the re-engagement of this partnership is something I’m especially proud of. It speaks to the strength of the relationship and the opportunities ahead.”

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.

Matthew A. Harris and many others are leading way. The senior computer science major has accepted an offer from Vanguard, one of the world’s largest investment firms, as an Artificial Intelligence and Automation Engineer. The role comes with a six-figure signing package. “Before graduating in May 2026, I had already secured a full-time offer, and that journey really started with my drive to seek out opportunities and mentorship early on,” Harris said.

For Amaru Hume, a business administration major, he turned a chance encounter into a definitive career path in a single afternoon at the Spring Career Fair. Hume was recruited as a Texas topper for the Texas Department of Public Safety. “TSU gave me the confidence, discipline, and opportunities to step forward when it mattered most, and that preparation turned a simple conversation into a career path,” Hume said. 

Sgt. Wendell Griffin, of the Texas DPS, noted that his team arrived on campus specifically to find top-tier talent: “Within hours of arriving and engaging the student through our testing process, it was clear he had everything we’re looking for.”

TSU officials say outcomes like the abundance of on-the-spot interviews is a direct result of a deliberate, campus-wide strategy to bridge the gap between education and employment. Dr. Kimkinyona Dale, executive director of Career and Counseling Services, noted that the presence of nearly 90 employers highlights the university’s reputation. “When a student can be hired on the spot, it shows our students are prepared, competitive, and ready to step directly into the workforce,” Dale said.

Dr. Bridgett Golman, vice president of Student Affairs, added, “Our students are showing up prepared, professional, and confident. That readiness is no accident; it’s the result of intentional preparation across campus.” She cited resources like the “Career Closet” and professional coaching.

This culture of preparation is frequently reinforced by TSU’s own alumni, who return as recruiters to hire the next generation of “Big Blue” leaders. Katrina Jones, assistant chief engineer for the Nashville Department of Transportation and a TSU engineering alumna, views her recruitment efforts as a “labor of love.” “It’s an opportunity to give back and to help prepare the next generation of engineers for meaningful careers in public service,” Jones said.

By combining intentional mentorship, alumni networking, and rigorous professional coaching, TSU is doing more than just awarding degrees; it is building a sustainable pipeline of career-ready graduates equipped to lead the moment they leave campus.

For more information on the TSU Career Development Center, visit www.tnstate.edu/careers/

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.

Held March 23–25, the summit focused on equipping faculty, administrators, and institutional leaders with the tools to implement AI strategies across their campuses. Designed to expand innovation and access, the initiative reflects a growing movement to ensure HBCUs remain at the forefront of emerging technology.

Hosted by TSU’s SMART Technology Center in partnership with the National Center for Digital Education, the summit builds on the university’s continued investment in research, workforce development, and digital transformation. Through hands-on sessions and collaborative discussions, participants explored practical applications of artificial intelligence in teaching, learning, and institutional leadership.

“At TSU’s SMART Center, we are proud to lead an ‘AI for All’ research model where innovation meets real-world impact,” said Dr. Robbie Melton, vice president for SMART AI initiatives and a global leader in the field.  “We are training the trainers. With partnerships like Dell Technologies and Microsoft, we are advancing AI with a focus on ethics and security. Every leader here will leave equipped to bring AI literacy and policy development back to their campuses, scaling impact across institutions and communities.”

Beyond faculty and administrators, the summit also created opportunities for TSU students to engage directly with leaders in the field and explore how AI is shaping future careers.

“This experience showed me that AI isn’t just the future, it’s something we can use right now,” said Bernard Nichols Jr., a graduate student in educational technology at TSU. “Coming from Tennessee State University, it’s powerful to see an HBCU leading in AI. It shifts perception, not just how others see TSU, but how we see ourselves as students at the forefront of innovation. Learning from national leaders right here is a game changer.”

The summit featured national and international experts who demonstrated how AI can support both instruction and strategy. Industry experts, including Sendsteps.ai CEO Mike Coumans, showcased practical applications of AI in the classroom. He demonstrated how real-time feedback tools can enhance engagement and support faculty instruction. 

Sessions also explored how emerging technologies can create more adaptive learning environments, improve student engagement, and assist faculty in research and content development.

Dr. Kris Alexander, a professor at Toronto Metropolitan University and internationally recognized speaker, emphasized the role of AI as a tool to enhance, not replace the human element in education. “AI isn’t about replacing teachers; it’s about empowering them to connect, adapt, and inspire like never before,” Alexander said.

Bringing the conversation closer to research and academic work, Dr. William Johnson, a TSU professor and author of four AI books, highlighted how AI can support scholars.

“AI didn’t write my books, it refined them,” Johnson said. “Its real power is in helping authors bring clarity, structure, and strength to what they already know.”

For many participants, the summit also underscored the importance of collaboration across institutions. Dr. Arletha McSwain, associate provost of Global Online Programs at Virginia Union University, said the experience provided valuable strategies that can be implemented immediately.

“Working with Robbie is always inspiring. She’s consistently ahead of the curve,” McSwain said, referring to Dr. Melton. “We value opportunities like this to bring back fresh, forward-thinking strategies to our faculty, staff, and administration.”

As the summit concluded, participants returned to their institutions equipped with new knowledge, tools, and strategies to implement AI on their campuses. Through initiatives like this, TSU continues to expand its role as a leader in innovation, helping position HBCUs to compete and lead in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

For more information, visit the TSU SMART Immersive Technology Center.

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.

LaFortune’s path is now supported through the newly launched Tiger Track Transfer Program, a strategic partnership between TSU and NSCC designed to create a seamless pathway from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.

“I’ve always wanted to attend an HBCU, and after hearing great things about TSU, I’m excited to give it a shot,” said LaFortune, a Nashville native studying psychology with a minor in Spanish. “I’m in my second year at Nashville State, and I plan to transfer to TSU to complete my bachelor’s degree and eventually pursue my master’s.”

LaFortune was among the students who attended TSU Day at Nashville State, held as part of the program’s launch, where all TSU academic colleges were on site to connect with prospective transfer students, answer questions, and provide a firsthand preview at programs and campus life.

“I’m excited to join you all this fall,” she added. “One of my cousins told me how great TSU’s psychology program is, and that really sparked my interest.”

LaFortune’s confidence underscores the purpose behind the new partnership between TSU and NSCC. On March 24, the two institutions formalized their collaboration with a Memorandum of Understanding, launching the Tiger Track Transfer Program.

Following the signing, the event transitioned into TSU Day at Nashville State, giving students direct access to the university faculty, staff, and admissions representatives, while reinforcing the message that their next step is within reach.

“This partnership ensures that students are supported, empowering them with clear pathways and confidence to reach their academic and career goals,” said Dr. Shanna Jackson, president of Nashville State and a TSU alumna. “Education is the strongest ladder to economic mobility. I am excited to take our partnership with TSU to the next level. This is a win for students, employers, and our shared community.”

 TSU President Dwayne Tucker said the program reflects the university’s commitment to removing barriers and creating opportunities for student success.

“Through this partnership, we are ensuring that Nashville State students have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to seamlessly transition to TSU,” Tucker said. “We are proud to provide a high caliber academic environment where students can complete their degrees and prepare to lead in a global workforce.”

University leaders emphasized that the Tiger Track program is part of a broader effort to strengthen Nashville’s higher education pipeline and expand access to TSU, the city’s only public land-grant institution.

Dr. Eric Stokes, vice president of enrollment management at TSU, said the collaboration strengthens the connection between the two public institutions and helps students visualize their academic journey beyond community college.

“It’s important for us to have a strong partnership as students move throughout the higher education pipeline,” Stokes said. “This gives students the opportunity to stay connected to TSU while they’re at Nashville State, so they can clearly see that next step.”

Through the Tiger Track Transfer Program, students who may not be ready to begin at a four-year university, whether for academic, financial, or personal reasons, can start at Nashville State while receiving ongoing advising, counseling, and support from both institutions.

Participants benefit from guaranteed admission to TSU, an application fee waiver, enrollment counseling, and access to scholarships, including a $3,000 annual award for students who meet academic requirements.

Students are encouraged to complete their associate degree before transferring, but the program is designed to support them at any stage, ensuring flexibility while maintaining a clear pathway forward.

For students like LaFortune, that pathway represents more than just a transfer. It represents a future already taking shape.

“For me, the process feels seamless,” she said. “I’m excited to learn and further my education.”

To learn more about applying and or transferring to TSU, visit www.tnstate.edu/admissions/transfer.aspx. 

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.

Featured Photo: TSU HPSS students celebrate the end of the week-long consortium by displaying jerseys they received from the various Nashville professional teams in the program. (Submitted Photo)

Hosted by the Centennial Park Conservancy as part of their ECHO “Chamber Music at the Parthenon” series, the concert had originally been scheduled for January 25 but was delayed due to inclement weather. Despite the wait, the performance showcased the versatile talents of TSU’s prestigious flagship chamber choir under the direction of Grammy-nominated Professor Jasmine Fripp.

“Music is a universal language, and tonight we are here to tell stories,” Fripp said as she welcomed the audience. The evening’s journey commenced with a stirring rendition of the Black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Right from the opening notes, the Meistersingers showcased their profound musicality and precision through Roland Carter’s powerful arrangement, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

The program, which included compositions by four Nashville-based composers, highlighted the Meistersingers’ remarkable ability to convey emotion. Their performance of Peter Louis van Dijk’s “Chariots” captivated listeners with its intricate polyphonic lines and dramatic narrative. “The way the members embody the text and interact with one another is nothing short of mesmerizing,” an audience member remarked. “It feels like each singer is sharing their own story.”

The ensemble’s ability to transition effortlessly between genres and styles was a testament to their versatility. They navigated pieces ranging from Ken Burton’s complex “A Prayer” to Rosephanye Powell’s poignant “To Sit and Dream.” One particularly moving moment unfolded during “To Sit and Dream,” where the choir extended their arms toward the audience, creating an intimate connection that left many visibly touched.

Showcasing individual talent, Cameron Jones delivered a breathtaking performance of the spiritual “Deep River,” resonating with depth that echoed through the hall. He later led a rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey,” featuring a standout solo from Brandon Hill that had the crowd cheering. “The honesty in their performances is what truly sets them apart,” Fripp noted.

As the concert ended, soprano Cerenity Holliday’s unaccompanied medley of hymns transformed the Parthenon into a sacred space, captivating the attention and hearts of every listener. Her ethereal voice filled the venue, creating a transcendent moment of unity.

The finale, a rousing performance of Kurt Carr’s “For Every Mountain,” led by soloist Sarah Evans, had the audience on their feet, culminating in a thunderous standing ovation.

“The Meistersingers have truly made their mark, and we are proud to bring a piece of Tennessee State University to the heart of Nashville,” Fripp said, highlighting both their stellar performance at the Parthenon and the prestigious Emmy nominations that attest to their hard work, dedication, and artistry.

For more information on the TSU Department of Music, please visit https://www.tnstate.edu/music/

Featured Photo: The performance at the Parthenon, and the Emmy nominations are a true testament to the hard work, dedication, and artistry of the TSU Meistersingers, the university’s esteemed flagship chamber choir. (Submitted Photo)

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.

The RAIVS Laboratory will integrate advanced robotics and artificial intelligence into existing curricula, with the goal of equipping students with hands-on experience and essential skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Engineering faculty at TSU say the focus is not only on enhancing technical knowledge but also on meeting the increasing demand for professionals who can operate and maintain sophisticated systems that blend human and machine capabilities.

Dr. Charles D. McCurry, the project’s principal investigator and interim associate dean of the College of Engineering, expressed his enthusiasm for the grant. “I am incredibly thrilled about this award, which represents a significant step forward in advancing engineering education and research at Tennessee State University,” McCurry said. “This project will provide students with access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning experiences, fostering critical thinking and collaboration skills necessary for addressing real-world challenges. By integrating HMT concepts into our curriculum, our faculty will prepare students to excel in the evolving technological landscape and contribute to national security and workforce development.”

Students like Ipek Ishmael, a master’s student in civil engineering, are particularly excited about the impact the RAIVS Laboratory will have on their education and research opportunities. 

“Conducting transportation research at TSU under Dr. Deo Chimba (Professor & Interim Chair of Civil & Architectural Engineering) has been invaluable. The support from the DoD will enable us to acquire an advanced driving simulator for our lab, marking a significant step forward in transportation engineering education,” Ishmael said. “The simulator will allow us to analyze critical traffic operations and to experience realistic driving environments, enhancing our understanding of driver interactions with roadway infrastructure.”

According to McCurry, the RAIVS Laboratory project will involve a collaboration among faculty in the College of Engineering – including Applied Industries and Technology, Civil and Architectural Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering – and will also explore the ethical implications of AI and automation. As the expected outcome, McCurry said the lab’s advanced equipment will enhance classroom instruction and contribute significantly to faculty research activities, enabling increased productivity and improved student recruitment.

Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering, emphasized the importance of the grant: “This funding is vital for the College of Engineering at TSU. It will enhance the infrastructure of the RAIVS Laboratory, fostering breakthroughs in robotics, AI, and visualization research. This interdisciplinary project will improve workforce training across various engineering disciplines.”

Dr. Saleh Zein-Sabatto, chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, added, “This unique award from the DoD will have a direct, positive impact on both our graduate and undergraduate students, exposing them to state-of-the-art equipment and providing skills they need to excel in Human-Machine Teaming technology.”

Through initiatives like the RAIVS Laboratory, TSU is enhancing the quality of education and research in engineering, significantly contributing to the nation’s technology workforce and ensuring students are well-prepared to meet future challenges.

For more information about the RAIVS Laboratory and the TSU College of Engineering, visit www.tnstate.edu/engineering/

Featured Photo: The RAIVS Laboratory will equip students with hands-on experience and essential skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. (Adrian Marcus)

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.

NASHVILLE, Tee. (TSU News Service) –The Tennessee State men’s basketball team has earned a berth in the 2026 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship and will face No. 15 seed Iowa State on Friday, March 20, at Enterprise Center in St. Louis in the Midwest Region.

The Tigers enter the NCAA Tournament after a historic season under head coach Nolan Smith, who was named Ohio Valley Conference Co-Coach of the Year. Tennessee State secured a share of the OVC regular-season championship and earned the No. 1 seed in the OVC Tournament, marking the program’s first top seed in 30 years.

Tennessee State is led by OVC Player of the Year Aaron Nkrumah, who paced the Tigers throughout the season while ranking among the national leaders in steals and serving as the team’s primary scoring threat. Nkrumah headlines a group of three All-OVC selections for TSU. Travis Harper II earned All-OVC First Team honors, while Dante Harris was named to the All-OVC Second Team and OVC All-Newcomer Team.

The trio combined to average 46.8 points per game during the regular season, helping power Tennessee State to one of its most successful campaigns in decades.

This appearance marks Tennessee State’s first NCAA Tournament berth since the 1993–94 season and the program’s third trip to the NCAA Tournament in the Division I era. The Tigers previously reached the tournament in 1992–93 and 1993–94, earning back-to-back OVC Tournament championships.

In 1992–93, Tennessee State entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 15 seed and faced No. 2 seed Seton Hall at Orlando Arena in Orlando, Florida, falling 81–59. The following season, the Tigers returned to the tournament as a No. 14 seed, matching up with No. 3 seed Kentucky in a game played in Knoxville, Tennessee, where TSU battled before falling 83–70.

Those teams were led by Carlos Rogers, who was named OVC Player of the Year in both 1992–93 and 1993–94 and remains the only two-time recipient of the honor in program history. Nkrumah joins Rogers as the only Tigers to claim the award.

Tennessee State has produced four All-OVC First, Second and Newcomer Team selections in a single season four times in the Division I era — 1992–93, 2010–11, 2015–16 and 2025–26 — marking the program’s highest single-season total of All-Conference honorees.

Smith’s impact in his first season has also been recognized nationally. He has been named a finalist for the Ben Jobe Award, Joe B. Hall Award and Hugh Durham Award, honors that recognize the nation’s top coaches at historically Black colleges and universities, first-year head coaches and mid-major programs.

Additional information regarding Tennessee State’s NCAA Tournament matchup, including game time and broadcast details, will be announced once finalized.

For updates and complete coverage of Tennessee State basketball, visit TSUTigers.com.

Featured Photo: A jubilant crowd of students, staff, alumni, and community members gathered at the Gentry Center for the Selection Sunday Watch Party, celebrating the men’s basketball team’s NCAA Tournament matchup announced by CBS Sports. (TSU Athletics)

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.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – For the first time in more than three decades, Tennessee State University men’s basketball is headed to the NCAA Tournament.

The Tigers (23-9) captured the 2026 Ohio Valley Conference Tournament Championship on March 7 with a commanding 93–67 victory over Morehead State at the Ford Center in Evansville, Indiana, securing the league’s automatic bid to March Madness and ending a 32-year drought for the program.

The TSU community will have an opportunity to celebrate the historic win and learn where the Tigers will compete during a Selection Sunday Watch Party.

The event will take place Sunday, March 15, at the Gentry Center. Doors will open at 4 p.m., and the NCAA Selection Show will begin at 5 p.m. Admission is free. The watch party will feature the TSU band and cheerleaders, a pep rally atmosphere, and the live NCAA Selection Show broadcast on the big screen as Tiger Nation awaits the team’s tournament destination.

Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters are encouraged to attend the Selection Sunday Watch Party.

Under the leadership of first-year head coach Nolan Smith, Tennessee State has put together a record-breaking season, improving to 23–9 overall and earning its first conference tournament title in more than three decades.

The Tigers’ championship victory was fueled by strong shooting and dominance on the boards. Tennessee State outrebounded Morehead State 44–29 and turned 14 offensive rebounds into 14 second-chance points.

Five Tigers scored in double figures in the championship game, led by Antoine Lorick III with 18 points and two blocks. Travis Harper II added 17 points, while Carlous Williams contributed 16 points off the bench. Dante Harris recorded a double-double with 16 points and a game-high 11 rebounds, and Aaron Nkrumah finished with 11 points and six assists.

Several Tigers also received conference honors following their standout performances throughout the tournament. Aaron Nkrumah was named Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year, while Dante Harris earned OVC Tournament Most Valuable Player honors. Nkrumah, Harris, and Travis Harper II were named to the OVC All-Tournament Team. Head coach Nolan Smith was also recognized as OVC Coach of the Year.

How It Happened

After playing to a 7-7 tie, Tennessee State went on a 13-0 run with 16:46 left in the first half, culminating in a three from Aaron Nkrumah, to take a 20-7 lead. The Tigers then added eight points to that lead by the end of the period and entered halftime with a 55-34 advantage. Tennessee State relied on its three-point shooting in the period, knocking down 12 shots to account for 36 of its 55 points.

Following intermission, Tennessee State kept widening that lead, expanding it to 87-65 before going on a 6-0 run, finished off by Jc Brooks’ three, to grow the lead to 93-65 with 1:05 to go in the contest. The Eagles narrowed the margin somewhat before the game was over, but the Tigers still cruised the rest of the way for the 93-67 win. Tennessee State got a boost from its bench in the period, as non-starters accounted for 15 of its 38 total points. 

Dante Harris was named the OVC Tournament Most Valuable Player, while Aaron Nkrumah and Travis Harper also earned spots on the OVC All-Tournament Team.

Alexis Clark contributed to this story.

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.

Brenda’s passing on Feb. 22 follows closely after that of her husband, Amos Otis, on Nov. 14, marking a profound moment for a family that has significantly contributed to the university and the community. Brenda and Amos Otis made history as the first alumni couple to donate a $1 million gift to TSU, reflecting their steadfast dedication to the university and its students. Their lifelong commitment to mentorship, student recruitment, and philanthropy continues to motivate future generations of scholars.

TSU President Dwayne Tucker said, “Brenda Otis was a remarkable individual whose impact on our university and the community is immeasurable. Together with her husband, they championed the causes of education and advocacy. Her enduring commitment will inspire countless students and future leaders.” 

A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Brenda was profoundly influenced by the Civil Rights Movement. At just 16, she took part in critical protests led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a formative experience that ignited her passion for equality and social justice.

Brenda began her academic journey at TSU before completing her degree in English at the University of Arizona. She became a respected English teacher and ESL instructor, renowned for her innovative teaching methods. Her impressive 18-year career in television included roles as an on-air public affairs moderator, an Associated Press-winning news producer, and an award-winning programming executive at PBS.

After her successful media career, Brenda supported her husband in building their family business, SoBran, Incorporated, where she served on the Board of Directors. Brenda was also active in community service and philanthropy, particularly in Fairfax County, Virginia.

Brenda Otis leaves behind not only her professional accomplishments but also a legacy as a devoted mother, grandmother, and community advocate. Her recent work as a first-time novelist exemplifies her lifelong passion for storytelling.

As the TSU community mourns the loss of Brenda Otis, the significant contributions she made to the university and the legacy of service, advocacy, and excellence she leaves behind will be remembered.

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.