The excitement surrounding this historic turnaround is best felt through the voices of the incoming students. Among the new class is a tight-knit group of academic standouts from Nashville’s John Overton High School: twin sisters McKenzi and Kendall Solomon, Chanelle Lowe, and Amina Muday. All four are attending TSU on Trailblazer Scholarships, a partnership program between TSU and Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, that covers tuition and fees. These students are also TN Hope Scholarship eligible.

“My scholarship brought me to TSU, and I also have family who have attended, so I’ve heard a lot of good things about it,” said McKenzi Solomon, who will study business marketing alongside Lowe. “The award played a major role in my decision.”

Lowe echoed that excitement, noting that TSU offered both community and independence. “I came to Tennessee State University because I really liked the sense of community. It’s a very interactive environment,” Lowe said. “I also wanted to branch out and experience a new place. I wanted somewhere that was far from home, but not too far, and TSU felt like the perfect middle ground for me.”

Rounding out the Overton group, Kendall Solomon will major in business management, while Amina Muday plans to study criminal justice.

The draw of TSU spans far beyond local boundaries, attracting top talent like Madison Harris, an academic standout from Clinton High School in Jackson, Mississippi. Harris, who plans to study nursing, is continuing a multi-generational family legacy.

“Several generations of my family attended Tennessee State, including my aunts and godmother, and I wanted to continue that tradition,” Harris said. “When I first visited campus during Homecoming, I immediately understood what everyone meant when they said TSU feels like home. The welcoming environment, the strong sense of community, and the genuine kindness of the people made me feel like I belonged.”

This dramatic influx of students has energized the entire campus, with nearly every department lending a hand. Officials say the turnaround highlights the strategic leadership of TSU President Dwayne Tucker and the Division of Enrollment Management.

During the freshman orientation session on June 3, Dr. Eric Stokes, vice president of Enrollment Management, welcomed families and detailed the year-long, university-wide effort centered on leadership and strategy.

“President Tucker established an ambitious enrollment goal and made recruitment a personal priority,” Stokes said. “He traveled alongside our team, engaged directly with students, parents, counselors, and alumni, and demonstrated the level of commitment needed to achieve results. Enrollment growth required support from every corner of the university. Our academic deans, faculty, student success teams, campus partners, and enrollment staff all played critical roles. 

He said the university also restructured its scholarship model to make it more sustainable for the institution while remaining attractive and competitive for prospective students. “We expanded our recruitment team, allowing us to reach more high schools and college fairs across Tennessee and the region. Alumni also became key partners, helping us connect with prospective students and families,” Stokes said. Today is a celebration not only of our incoming students, but also of the parents, and family members.”

Charlie Folsom, director of Recruitment and Orientation, also energized the incoming crowd. “You are the first New Student Orientation group for Fall 2026. Give yourselves a hand,” Folsom said. “We have more than 1,500 students coming through this summer, and you are our first group. This campus is excited to have you here. Our Tiger Ambassadors will be with you throughout the day, helping you navigate campus, answer questions, and give you a student perspective on what it means to be a Tiger.”

Ensuring that every newcomer experiences that immediate connection is the goal of the orientation team. “There’s nothing like seeing students step onto our campus and begin to imagine themselves here,” said Zaria Hobbs, coordinator of Campus Visits and Student Events and a proud TSU alumna. “We want visitors to leave feeling welcomed, inspired, and excited about the possibility of becoming part of the TSU family.”

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) — Tennessee State and Jackson State will renew one of HBCU football’s most storied rivalries at Vanderbilt University’s FirstBank Stadium when the teams meet in the 2026 John A. Merritt Classic, presented by the Tennessee Titans and ONE Community, on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 7:30 p.m.

Tennessee State 2026 single-game tickets, including the John A. Merritt Classic, will go on sale Monday, June 15, at 9 a.m. CT.

The game will be played at FirstBank Stadium due to NFL scheduling, which has the Tennessee Titans hosting the Chicago Bears in their preseason finale at Nissan Stadium that weekend. Vanderbilt University stepped forward to host the event, ensuring the Classic could remain in Nashville. The Titans will continue their longstanding support of the game as presenting sponsor alongside ONE Community.

“We are excited to bring the John A. Merritt Classic to FirstBank Stadium and honor Coach John Merritt’s legacy at a venue where he enjoyed tremendous success,” said Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen. “We appreciate the partnership of Vanderbilt University and the Tennessee Titans in helping make this special event possible for our student-athletes, alumni and fans.”

The move returns TSU to the venue where legendary coach John Merritt enjoyed tremendous success during one of the most dominant eras in program history.

“We are honored to partner with Tennessee State University to host the 2026 John A. Merritt Classic at FirstBank Stadium,” Vanderbilt Vice Chancellor for University Affairs and Athletic Director Candice Lee said. “Coach Merritt led many memorable victories at Dudley Field, making it especially meaningful to welcome this game and TSU back to campus. We are proud to support an event that celebrates Coach Merritt’s legacy and the rich tradition of HBCU football, and we look forward to welcoming Tennessee State and Jackson State fans for what promises to be a special evening.”

Merritt posted a 14-4-1 record at Vanderbilt’s Dudley Field, including a 2-1 mark against Jackson State. His first game at the facility came on Oct. 23, 1965, when Tennessee State defeated Florida A&M, 50-8. Among the most memorable victories was a 20-3 triumph over top-ranked Florida A&M on Oct. 20, 1979.

Tennessee State has compiled a 23-15-1 record at Vanderbilt when playing opponents other than the Commodores. Under Merritt, the Tigers earned victories against Florida A&M (3-2), Middle Tennessee State (5-1), Grambling State (1-0-1), Southern (2-0) and Nicholls State (1-0) at the historic venue.

Tennessee State and Jackson State met three times at Dudley Field during Merritt’s tenure, with the Tigers posting a 2-1 record. Following a 35-24 setback in 1978, Tennessee State responded with consecutive shutout victories, defeating Jackson State 20-0 in 1980 and 21-0 in 1982.

The game also carries added significance given Merritt’s ties to both institutions. Before becoming the winningest coach in TSU history, Merritt spent 11 seasons as head coach at Jackson State, where he posted a 63-37-5 record and led the Tigers to an Orange Blossom Classic victory during his final season in 1962.

The matchup renews a rivalry that has largely been played in Memphis, Tennessee in recent years. Each of the last 19 meetings between TSU and JSU has been contested as part of the Southern Heritage Classic.

The Tigers hold a 30-23-2 advantage in the all-time series. The most recent meeting came in 2022, when Jackson State earned a 16-3 victory. The last matchup played in Nashville was Nov. 17, 2001, when Tennessee State defeated Jackson State, 64-33.

The 2026 contest will mark TUS’s first game at Vanderbilt as the designated home team since Sept. 21, 1996, when the Tigers hosted Florida A&M.

Single-game parking will be available in Vanderbilt University’s 25th Avenue Garage through advance purchase and the West Garage on game day. Tailgating will not be permitted inside parking garages.

Additional details regarding tailgating, premium hospitality experiences and game-week festivities will be announced later.

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.

Opening his speech with the phrase, “What a difference a year makes,” Tucker painted a picture of tangible operational growth, thanking the faculty and staff for their resilience and collective efforts.

“Today, I want to revisit the vision I shared when I became president of the university,” Tucker said. “When I arrived in 2025, I outlined three priorities that would guide our work: culture, transparency, and accountability.”

Tucker detailed how the university reshaped its campus culture to prioritize student success, pointing to reimagining the graduation process, where student experience is now the focus. He also reinforced TSU’s renewed focus on customer service, announcing systems to reward good work. These include the newly instituted annual Impact Awards for exemplary employees, and a specially minted coworker appreciation coin.

On his core pillars of transparency and accountability, Tucker said, “Whether speaking with students, faculty, staff, alumni, legislators, or community partners, we must be honest about both our successes and the areas where we need improvement… Sustainable transformation requires accountability at every level.”

The president’s address included detailed presentations from Chief Financial Officer April Robinson, and Dr. Eric Stokes, vice president of Enrollment Management.

Robinson, who joined the university on Jan. 2, gave a candid assessment of the university’s fiscal status, aligning her presentation with the president’s mandate for open communication.

“As I stand before you today, I want to continue the theme of transparency,” Robinson said, pointing to a comprehensive financial reset launched within her first 30 days to address historical audit findings.

Robinson outlined the difficult economic realities facing the institution, noting that TSU operates in one of the state’s most expensive metropolitan areas while remaining one of its most affordable universities. To offset rising utility and operational costs, a slight tuition increase has been recommended, and is awaiting final approval, she said.

Robinson also announced major progress toward stabilizing TSU’s finances through disciplined spending and a successful Voluntary Separation Plan. The personnel program drew 43 applicants, with 40 meeting eligibility, projecting a $4.3 million payout this fiscal year but generating an estimated $4.8 million in long-term savings next year.

Shifting the focus, Dr. Eric Stokes shared highly optimistic news regarding the university’s upcoming recruitment cycles, invoking the Kwanzaa principle of Ujima, collective work and responsibility.

“The success we’re seeing today is the result of a community effort,” Stokes said, thanking campus staff for their roles in outreach, tours, and system management.

Stokes said that recruitment efforts are yielding massive returns. To date, 1,853 prospective students have paid enrollment deposits for the fall semester, and 1,515 have already registered for New Student Orientation, which begins its freshman sessions this week.

Supported by a successful transfer orientation and an innovative personal postcard campaign driven by academic deans, Stokes projected an incoming fall class of between 1,800 and 2,000 students if current trends hold, significantly outplacing previous enrollment numbers.

Closing his address, Tucker expressed confidence in TSU’s upward trajectory. “By aligning our fiscal responsibility with our passion for student excellence, we aren’t just stabilizing this institution, we are positioning TSU to thrive as a premier destination for higher education.” Tucker said. 

Featured Photo: In a special address to faculty and staff a little over a year in office, President Dwayne Tucker revisits his priority areas – culture, transparency, and accountability – that he said would guide his vision for the university. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

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 timing is perfect. This year, the Stellar Awards, referred to as the “Grammys of gospel music,” has introduced a brand-new category: “HBCU Choir of the Year.” The addition celebrates the excellence, tradition, and voices of Historically Black Colleges and Universities nationwide. For New Direction, the category feels like a custom-built opportunity to showcase its three-decade commitment to musical brilliance. The anticipation on TSU’s campus is real, as the official nominations are scheduled to be announced on June 3.

“When the opportunity arose to apply for this new Stellar Awards category, we knew it was a chance to showcase who we are as an organization,” said Justin Butler, the director of New Direction. “After submitting our performance materials, choir history, and accomplishments, we felt confident that our students deserved to be in the conversation. They work just as hard as any choir in the country, and this nomination reflects the excellence, passion, and commitment they have demonstrated throughout the year.”

The push for a Stellar Award nomination is a natural next step for a choir that has spent years racking up major accolades. New Direction captured national attention as the overall winner of the 2025 How Sweet the Sound gospel competition, where they also took home the inaugural HBCU Choir category and the People’s Choice Award. That win earned them a coveted spot on last year’s 40th Annual Stellar Awards stage, where they captivated audiences as a featured Emerging Artist. On special occasions, the choir has even combined its vocal talents with TSU’s world-renowned, Grammy-winning marching band, the Aristocrat of Bands.

The group’s resume is vast. Over its nearly 30-year journey, generations of students have traveled the world, performed on BET’s Sunday Best, sang for Pope Francis during a European tour, and graced the stage at the Essence Festival.

“Every achievement has been built on the dedication, sacrifice, and faith of generations of TSU students,” Butler said. “This Stellar Award nomination is more than recognition for one year of work, it reflects nearly three decades of excellence, ministry, and perseverance. It honors not only the students who are in the choir today, but also the alumni, directors, advisors, and supporters who helped build this legacy.”

For those who have watched the students practice late into the night while balancing rigorous academic schedules, the potential award represents years of poured-out devotion.

“If the Tennessee State University New Direction Gospel Choir were to win a Stellar Award, it would be a moment of tremendous pride and gratitude,” said Dr. Deborah Chisom, who has served as an advisor to the choir for more than 15 years. “This accomplishment would represent the dedication, faith, talent, and perseverance of generations of students who have used music as a ministry and a platform for excellence. It would affirm the hard work that has been poured into this organization over the years.”

Chisom added that for TSU, the achievement would transcend a simple trophy. “It would be a national recognition of the excellence, culture, and rich musical tradition that exists at our institution. A Stellar Award would shine a spotlight on TSU’s commitment to developing students spiritually, academically, and artistically.”

As June 3 approaches, the choir waits with faithful optimism, knowing they have already left an indelible mark on gospel music.

“Whether we win or not, we are proud to be recognized among the nation’s top gospel choirs,” Butler said. “To bring a Stellar Award to TSU would be a tremendous achievement for our choir, our music program, and the university as a whole.”

Featured Photo: The vast resume of the nearly 30-year-old New Direction Gospel Choir includes performance for the Pope, appearance on BET’s Sunday Best, and gracing the stage at the Essence Festival. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

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.

From STEM-focused institutes to music programs and athletic clinics, TSU’s summer lineup spans a wide range of interests and age groups, giving students across Middle Tennessee and beyond opportunities to learn in hands-on environments outside the traditional classroom.

Metro Nashville families are among those preparing for the start of camp season as thousands of students finish the school year and look for structured summer activities that blend learning and fun. One of the university’s signature academic offerings this summer is the National Summer Transportation Institute, a four-week residential program hosted through TSU’s College of Engineering. Supported by the Tennessee Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. The program introduces high school students to transportation, engineering and STEM-related careers through hands-on learning and leadership development.

College of Engineering dean Lin Li said the program is designed to expand students’ academic exposure while helping them better understand future career opportunities. “The NSTI program aims to introduce STEM to high school students and foster their interest in science, engineering and mathematics,” Li said. “It enhances understanding of transportation challenges, exposes students to career opportunities and develops problem-solving and leadership skills.” Li added that the program integrates faculty expertise, lab access and industry partnerships to create a meaningful summer learning experience. This year’s cohort of 20 students is already full.

In addition to academic programs, TSU is also offering several athletic camps this summer, including a series of free volleyball camps led by TSU Head Volleyball Coach Donika Sutton. “It’s very important for us to reach and connect with the youth in the community, but it’s also our job to introduce them to organized sports and the sport of volleyball,” Sutton said.

This year’s volleyball programming includes three separate camps designed for different age groups and skill levels, ranging from beginners to advanced players preparing for competitive play.

“We’re starting with our Cubs Camp for ages 6 to 11,” Sutton said. “That’s basic skills, games and fun, just introducing them to the sport. Then we move into our skills clinic for ages 11 to 18, and our elite camp, which is much more fast-paced and runs close to a college practice setting with a lot of competition and repetition.” Sutton said accessibility remains a major focus for the program, noting that the camps are free this year to help remove financial barriers for families. “We don’t want financial barriers to stop anyone from experiencing camp,” she said. “We’re pretty much at capacity for all volleyball camps.”

Beyond academics and athletics, TSU’s summer programming also includes arts-based experiences such as the Edward L. Graves Band Camp featuring the Grammy Award-winning Aristocrat of Bands. The camp provides young musicians with instruction in performance, technique and ensemble development under TSU music leadership.

The university is also preparing for the HBCYouth Program, a flagship summer experience designed to reflect the spirit, values and excellence of HBCUs across the country. Local students can also look forward to the Joe Gilliam Football Camp, a non-contact camp for boys and girls ages 12 to 18 that focuses on skill development, teamwork and mentorship.

Leah Granderson, executive director of Planning, Design, Construction and Operations, said the wide variety of camps reflects TSU’s commitment to serving the community through education, engagement and collaboration.

“These camps show the energy and reach of TSU across academics, athletics and the arts,” Granderson said. “It’s exciting to see young people on our campus learning, exploring and building confidence in different fields. For many of these students, this may be their first time visiting a college campus, so we want it to be a memorable and positive experience that inspires them to see themselves in higher education.”

She added that the success of the programs comes from collaboration across the university. “From faculty to facilities, it truly takes a campus-wide effort,” Granderson said. “These programs reflect who we are and the impact we want to continue making in the community.”

With camps beginning this week, TSU officials say the summer season is off to a strong start, with programs expected to serve students across multiple disciplines while keeping campus active throughout the summer.

For more information about TSU summer camps, visit TSU Summer Camps.

Featured Photo: Campers and counselors during last year’s Camp HBCYouth at Tennessee State University. The summer program provides students with hands-on experiences, mentorship and exposure to HBCU culture through engaging academic and enrichment activities. (photo submitted)

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.

Central to his early assessment of the university was a belief that great student experience is built on the foundation of exceptional customer service. Tucker identified critical bottlenecks in daily operations, noting that inefficiencies and outdated processes frequently hindered institutional progress.

“We need to ensure our operations are efficient and responsive to the needs of our students and staff,” Tucker emphasized, calling for immediate actions and creative solutions to enhance operational capacity. For Tucker, a transformative, student-first approach meant that every department had to prioritize being responsive, professional, and accessible.

A year later, those efforts are yielding clear results. Citing improvements across campus, he insists there is an immediate need to recognize and reward the campus workforce driving this evolution.

“Transforming an institution requires shifting our day-to-day culture to one of accountability and appreciation,” Tucker said. “When our faculty and staff go the extra mile to serve our students and colleagues, that dedication deserves to be celebrated. This is how we build a truly responsive university.”

To turn this philosophy into action, Tucker assembled a team of senior executives to devise a formal employee rewards and recognition initiative. The result of their collaboration is the newly minted TSU Impact Awards program. The awards are designed to honor employees who are making meaningful and measurable contributions toward transforming the university.

According to university leadership, the Impact Awards target individuals who excel in four core pillars: driving transformational results, delivering exceptional customer service, demonstrating servant leadership, and receiving outstanding feedback from the campus community.

On May 5, the vision became a reality. Ten individuals from various areas of campus operations, each selected by their peers for their exceptional service and leadership, became the inaugural class of Impact Awards honorees. The group was celebrated during a special luncheon held in Kean Hall.

The 10 inaugural recipients of the Impact Awards are Jennifer Brown Mayes, Dr. Ashanti Chunn, Dr. Poliala Dickson, Dr. Angela Duncan, Leah Granderson, Vonetta Johnson, Dr. Erica Lewis, P. Danielle Nellis, Chief Gregory Robinson, and Keona Smith.

For Granderson, the executive director of Planning, Design and Construction, the award represents both a professional milestone and a personal duty.

“I am incredibly honored and humbled by this recognition,” Granderson said. “Tennessee State University is truly a special place, and to be acknowledged during this important time of growth and transformation means a great deal to me. As a graduate of TSU, I view this work as an opportunity to simply pay it forward to the generations of people who remain committed to the excellence and bright future of our university.”

Chief Gregory Robinson of the TSU Police Department, also an alumnus, echoed that sentiment. “Protecting and serving this campus is a collaborative effort, and being recognized with this inaugural award is a testament to our department’s shared commitment to accountability and the well-being of the TSU family,” Robinson said. “It inspires us to keep raising the bar in how we serve our community.”

The celebration extended well beyond Kean Hall. At the TSU Board of Trustees meeting on May 15, President Tucker formally presented the 10 honorees to the board. The room erupted into a standing ovation as trustees and administrators congratulated the staff members for their contributions to the university success.

Dr. Erik Schmeller, interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, called the initiative a perfect culmination of the academic cycle.

“It was inspiring to see so many qualified nominees and winners of the inaugural Impact Awards,” Schmeller said. “Recognizing and celebrating faculty and staff who go the extra mile is essential to what makes TSU unique. Now that our inaugural recipients have set the bar, I look forward to seeing whom we will recognize next year.”

According to President Tucker and the organizing executive team, the Impact Awards will be given out annually.

Featured Photo: Ten employees were recognized as the inaugural Impact Awards honorees for making meaningful and measurable contributions toward transforming the university. They are from l-r, P. Danielle Nellis, Dr. Angela Duncan, Keona Smith, Dr. Ashanti Chunn, Vonetta Johnson, Chief Gregory Robinson, Leah Granderson, Dr. Erica Lewis, Jennifer Brown Mayes, and Dr. Poliala Dickson. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

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 honor, presented through a formal proclamation from Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton and State Rep. Torrey C. Harris, highlights Williams’ vital role in a profession where Black men represent only two percent of educators nationwide. The proclamation noted that Williams “represents a powerful and essential presence in the classroom, serving not only as an instructor but as a role model, leader, and source of inspiration.”

“This recognition celebrates your outstanding leadership and dedication,” said State Rep. Harris. “Your work is truly making a difference, and we are proud to honor you.”

The state-level honor follows Williams’ recent appointment by Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell as the Davidson County Historian, making Williams the first African American to hold the position. Mayor O’Connell praised Williams for making Nashville’s history “come alive,” specifically citing his leadership of the North Nashville Heritage Project and his work with the annual Nashville Conference on African American History and Culture.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts, lauded her colleague’s impact. “Dr. Williams’ role as an educator does not end at the classroom door, he brings history to life and makes it relevant by taking students where the history happened,” Morgan-Curtis said. “His recognition by the General Assembly is a testament to his ability to bridge the gap between academic rigor and community engagement. He ensures history remains a living part of our campus culture.”

For Williams, history is a fundamental human requirement. “History is necessary for us to function as human beings on this planet,” he said. “If someone doesn’t know their name or can’t remember any information about themself or their past, we call it amnesia. The same applies to societies. Without history, you aren’t properly equipped to move forward.”

At TSU, Williams teaches students to examine history through the lens of Black experiences, centering voices from across the diaspora. He encourages students to connect these narratives to their own lives. “Whether we’re discussing Africa or African American history, I want them to understand how those stories relate to Memphis, Chicago, Nashville, or wherever they come from,” he said. “History should have meaning.”

A native of Tallahassee, Florida, Williams earned his doctorate from Florida State University. His career includes service as a Historic Sites Specialist for the State of Florida and coordinator of African American Studies at Armstrong Atlanta State University. Currently, he serves on the Metro Historic Zoning Commission and the board of the Friends of Fort Negley, a UNESCO Memory Site.

Williams’ work often involves reclaiming spaces of historical trauma to highlight resilience. “We reclaim spaces where painful things happened and tell the full story,” he said. “We remember the suffering, but we also remember the strength and resilience of the people who endured it so we could be here today.”

Reflecting on his appointment as Davidson County Historian, Williams said he initially hesitated but saw the potential for impact. “I realized it was an opportunity to elevate the voices of other marginalized groups and expand the work I’ve already been doing,” he said. “I didn’t fully understand how important that moment was to many people in the city, but I am grateful for the chance to make a lasting difference.”

Featured Photo: Earlier this year, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell appointed Dr. Learotha Williams Jr. as Davidson County Historian. The professor also serves on the Metro Historic Zoning Commission and the board of the Friends of Fort Negley. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

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.

This milestone highlights a unique regional collaboration, as Tennessee State University serves as the host institution for cadets from various universities across Middle Tennessee, including Austin Peay State University, Belmont University, Fisk University, Middle Tennessee State University, Tennessee Tech University, and Vanderbilt University, among others. This year, four of the 11 cadets commissioned as second lieutenants are TSU students.

The ceremony featured the pinning of second lieutenant ranks, first salutes, the official presentation of the new second lieutenants, and the administering of the oath of office. Additionally, senior tribute videos showcased graduating cadets who are set to enter active duty as officers in the United States Air Force and Space Force.

Lt. Col. Stephen Cash, commander of AFROTC Detachment 790 at TSU, oversees the recruitment and preparation of officer candidates through the comprehensive AFROTC program that serves TSU and 11 cross-town universities. Cash said commissioning ceremonies symbolize far more than the completion of a college program.

“TSU is playing an incredibly important role as the host of this detachment and in helping develop the next generation of leaders for our nation,” Cash said. “This ceremony marks the transition from cadet to second lieutenant … a pivotal moment in their careers where family, friends, mentors, and fellow cadets come together to celebrate years of dedication, sacrifice, and achievement.”

Cash noted that AFROTC cadets balance rigorous military training and leadership development alongside the demands of college life.

“From medical qualifications and physical training to academic excellence and conduct standards, these students are held to an incredibly high level of expectation,” Cash said. “This moment reflects not only their hard work, but also the village of people at TSU and beyond who poured into them throughout their journey.”

The four TSU cadets commissioned during the ceremony were:

• Kavonae Jewell, a health administration major from Memphis, Tennessee, who will serve as a 13N Nuclear and Missiles Operations Officer
• Jayln Pridgen, a political science and urban studies/public policy major from Chesapeake, Virginia, who will serve as a 64PX Contracting Officer
• Madison Taylor, a mechanical engineering major from Memphis, Tennessee, who will serve as a 32EXF Mechanical Civil Engineer
• Mallory Taylor, a nursing major from Memphis, Tennessee, who will serve as a 46N Clinical Nurse

“Attending Tennessee State University made this opportunity possible for me,” said Kavonae Jewell. “I’ve always wanted to pursue Air Force ROTC, but being able to do it at an HBCU was especially important to me. TSU gave me the opportunity to achieve that goal while being part of a supportive environment and culture that truly felt like home.”

Jayln Pridgen added, “Tennessee State University gave me more than an education. It gave me the space to grow, lead, and see African American women thriving within DET 790 and ROTC. Being commissioned as a second lieutenant after completing the Air Force ROTC program is an honor I will carry with me forever. Looking back, I would choose this journey all over again. From awarding me a full-ride scholarship to opening doors that transformed my future, TSU has shaped the woman I am today.”

As the host institution for AFROTC Detachment 790, TSU continues its longstanding legacy of preparing students for leadership and service at the highest levels. Cash said programs like AFROTC reflect TSU’s commitment to producing future-ready leaders equipped to serve their communities and the nation.

“Our cadets are making a commitment to the ideals and service of this nation. Regardless of world events happening around the globe, this represents leadership, integrity, sacrifice, and service in its purest form,” Cash said.

The roots of military training and leadership at TSU date back more than a century. The Tennessee Historical Commission established a historical marker on campus recognizing the university’s Reserve Officer Training history and legacy. Since its founding in 1919, the program has evolved into an organization dedicated to developing military officers and expanding opportunities for future aviators and leaders.

In 1951, the United States Air Force established a Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps detachment at TSU under the instruction of two of the first Tuskegee Airmen, Colonel Hannibal Cox and Lt. Col. Howard Baugh. The program was created to recruit and train Air Force officers while expanding the pipeline of military leadership and aviation excellence.

Today, the program continues to evolve with modern resources and opportunities for cadets, including a state-of-the-art flight simulator added in 2018 to enhance training experiences for future officers.

Dr. Erik Schmeller, TSU’s interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, was among those who attended the commissioning ceremony.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – When Dr. Andrea Ringer walks into a classroom at Tennessee State University, the energy is instantly different. Her history courses aren’t just about dates and documents they’re living discussions where students connect their experiences to America’s ongoing story. That vibrant approach to teaching, paired with her compassion for students, recently earned Ringer the Ohio Valley Conference’s Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award.

For Ringer, who joined the faculty at TSU in 2018 as an associate professor of history, the recognition highlights what she values most: building relationships that help students discover their own voices.

“This award is such an honor,” Ringer said. “Student-athletes bring so much to the classroom community, and I always feel so fortunate when they join my classes. I also keep telling people that I’m considering this my first NCAA sports trophy.”

Her enthusiasm for teaching runs through every class she leads. Whether it’s American History or The African Diaspora, she takes pride in working with students across all majors — especially sophomores who are just beginning to connect academic knowledge to real-world understanding. By emphasizing dialogue and inclusivity, she ensures each student feels seen and heard.

“I love teaching general education courses,” Ringer explained. “We get every major in our classes, and they all bring unique knowledge to our discussions.”

That inclusive spirit has made Ringer a favorite among TSU student-athletes, who often find in her courses an environment where intellectual curiosity meets empathy. Her teaching style blends creativity and rigor, encouraging students to think critically about history in ways that directly relate to modern social issues.

Dr. Erik Schmeller, TSU’s interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, said Ringer’s impact has been evident since her first semester.

“I was delighted to learn that Dr. Ringer was recognized by the OVC and our student-athletes for her outstanding teaching,” Schmeller said. “When she first offered her America Behind Bars course, I sat in on several sessions. It was one of the most creative and compelling history courses I had seen in years, particularly for the way she integrated service-learning.”

That combination — imaginative curriculum design and a deep empathy for students — is what defines Ringer’s teaching. Her work consistently bridges scholarship with service, allowing students to understand history not just as a subject, but as a tool for engagement and change. Schmeller added that Ringer’s scholarship covers “a wide range of timely topics” and contributes meaningfully to TSU’s mission.

Beyond academics, Ringer’s authenticity resonates with students navigating college life. Whether they’re balancing classes with athletics or exploring their identities through history, her classroom becomes a space where students can bring their full selves. That’s the kind of environment the OVC seeks to honor with this award — one built on respect, curiosity, and commitment to student success.

As Ringer reflects on her achievement, she sees the award not just as recognition of her work, but as a celebration of the students who make teaching worthwhile. “Every class reminds me how fortunate I am,” she said. “The students inspire me as much as I hope to inspire them.”

Featured Photo: Dr. Erik Schmeller, left, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, congratulates Dr. Andrea Ringer upon receiving the OVC Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award. (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.

“I actually wanted to be a model growing up,” James said with a smile. “But my parents instilled in me the importance of education, business, and financial stability. Over time, accounting became more than a career, it became a purpose.”

That purpose was recently validated on a national stage. For the second consecutive year, James, the Controller at Tennessee State University, has been named to the prestigious Forbes Best-In-State CPAs list. After being named to the inaugural list in 2025, her repeat appearance in 2026 solidifies her standing as one of the top financial minds in the country.

For TSU, James’ success is more than a personal accolade; it is a critical component of the institution’s future. Appointed last November by TSU President Dwayne Tucker, James was brought on board to stabilize and strengthen the university’s fiscal operations. Her arrival marks a pivotal moment in Tucker’s multi-year transformation strategy, aimed at elevating the university’s financial integrity and operational efficiency.

“Julie’s leadership represents the level of expertise and innovation we’re building across every area of TSU,” President Tucker said. “Her background in financial management and organizational transformation will help us strengthen internal operations and continue advancing the university’s mission.”

James’ resume reads like a roadmap of professional excellence. A proud alumna of Jackson State University, where she earned both her Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Professional Accountancy, she arrived at TSU with over two decades of experience. Beyond her CPA license, she is a Certified Information Systems Auditor and a Certified Internal Auditor. Not one to rest on her laurels, she just graduated with her Executive MBA from Vanderbilt University.

Despite the high-level titles and the founder status of her own firm, Bekah Consulting, James views her role through a lens of service.

“I realized how important it is for communities of color to have trusted advisors in spaces involving finances, leadership, and integrity,” James said. “My work today is fueled by service and mentorship as much as professional success. I’ve always believed that whatever gifts or talents we have should be poured back into the world.”

At TSU, those talents are being utilized to modernize financial systems and enhance transparency. Since joining the executive team on Nov. 10, she has focused on overseeing all accounting operations, ensuring that the university’s “Big Blue” legacy is supported by a rock-solid financial foundation.

The recognition from Forbes, while humbling, serves as fuel for the work ahead.

“It’s humbling because you spend years pouring into people and organizations without expecting recognition,” James said. “But it also reminds me that there’s always another level of possibility. If I can make a Forbes list, what else can I accomplish, and how can I use that platform to elevate others?”

That desire to elevate others is seen in her commitment to mentoring students and serving mission-driven organizations. Whether she is in the classroom as accounting faculty or in the controller’s office at TSU, her goal remains the same: helping people navigate paths that are not always clear.

As TSU continues its journey toward long-term excellence and growth, James stands at the helm of its fiscal ship, guided by resolve and integrity. For the girl from Jackson who once dreamed of the runway, the path she chose may be different, but the impact is undeniably more significant. She isn’t just balancing books; she is helping to secure the future of a historic institution.

Featured Photo: Julie James was one of 54 CPAs selected from Tennessee for the Forbes recognition. She is also a 2023 TSPApex Impact Award recipient, presented by the Tennessee Society of CPAs, and was previously named a CPA Practice Advisor 40 Under 40 honoree. (Photo by PR & Communications)

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.