Coccodrilli, accompanied by Special Advisor Samuel Fiely, evaluated the program established with an $800,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. The minor in mining engineering, which launched coursework in fall 2025 following an initial funding kickoff about a year and a half ago, is the only mining engineering program at any institution in the southern region and the sole program offered at a Historically Black College or University in the United States.

Representing TSU President Dwayne Tucker, Dr. Erik Schmeller, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for the federal investment.

“We are deeply grateful to the Department of Energy for their strategic investment in Tennessee State University,” Schmeller said. “This collaboration not only expands academic opportunities for our students but also positions TSU at the forefront of vital workforce development in engineering.”

The visit featured a roundtable discussion with university leadership, College of Engineering faculty, industry partners, and students, followed by a tour of engineering laboratories. Conversations focused on ongoing federal support, faculty development, scholarships, and internship pipelines designed to connect students with public and private sector jobs.

Officials also explored the potential of elevating the minor into a full major degree program to meet growing national demands for critical minerals and domestic supply chain security.

The visit significantly elevates the national visibility of TSU’s program, strengthening public-private partnerships and positioning the university as a key hub for future federal research and workforce development grants. Industry partners participating in the discussions included Luck Stone, Rogers Group, and Crucible Tennessee Mines.

“We’re here to learn more about the mining minor, how the funding is being used and what plans are in place for the future,” Coccodrilli said. “TSU is off to a remarkable start. With 15 or 16 students already in the program, a growing internship pipeline and strong industry partnerships, I see tremendous potential for these laboratories to grow into a major degree program.”

Coccodrilli noted that federal programs help bridge the gap between research and commercialization as the nation works to strengthen domestic supply chains through mining, processing, and recycling. “There’s no better place to start than right here in Nashville,” he added.

Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering, detailed the origin of the program following a DOE call three years ago to diversify the mining engineering workforce. The grant funded curriculum development, student scholarships, an industry advisory board, and $200,000 in lab equipment.

“With the current grant ending next year, we hope this visit will open the door to another funding opportunity to sustain the program and continue preparing a more diverse mining engineering workforce,” Li said.

The program currently enrolls 16 students under its lone faculty member, Dr. Kate Brown Requist, assistant professor of mining engineering.

“Tennessee State University is home to the state’s only mining engineering program and the nation’s only mining engineering program at an HBCU,” Requist said. “Today’s U.S. Department of Energy visit is an important opportunity to showcase our program, engage industry partners and explore opportunities that can support its growth.”

Students shared their enthusiasm for the high-level federal engagement.

“Having someone from the U.S. Department of Energy speak about our mining engineering program is exciting and eye-opening,” said Jolie Tungamirai, a junior mechanical engineering major minoring in mining engineering.

Mark Gray, a junior civil engineering major also minoring in mining engineering, highlighted TSU’s collaborative strength. “The Department of Energy could invest anywhere, but it chose TSU because we have the opportunity, ambition and ability to execute,” Gray said.

Also in attendance were Dr. Charles McCurry, associate dean of the College of Engineering, and additional college faculty members.

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.

NEW YORK (TSU News Service) – The NBA today announced that the 2027 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T will feature the Howard University and Tennessee State University men’s basketball teams on Saturday, Feb. 20, at Hardwood Central within Jam Session (Phoenix Convention Center), as part of NBA All-Star 2027 in Phoenix.  

TSU will make their first appearance participating in the Classic, while Howard University will compete for the second time after capturing a win in the inaugural NBA HBCU Classic in 2022.  The 2027 NBA HBCU Classic will air on ESPN and NBA TV at 12 p.m. MT and fans can purchase tickets at NBAEvents.com.

“Howard University and Tennessee State University have longstanding connections to the NBA and basketball traditions that span generations,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum.  “The NBA HBCU Classic at NBA All-Star 2027 will celebrate these institutions’ contributions to our game while giving their student-athletes a global platform to showcase their talent and share their schools’ proud histories with fans around the world.”

The 2027 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T is a continuation of the NBA’s commitment to increasing support and awareness for athletics and advancing educational, career and economic opportunities in partnership with HBCUs.  As part of the commitment, the NBA and AT&T will jointly donate $50,000 each to Howard and TSU.  Since 2021, when the NBA expanded its commitment to HBCUs, the NBA family has contributed more than $5.8 million to HBCU institutions, partners and scholarships.

“I am very excited for my players first and foremost.  They have an opportunity to play on a big stage, one set up by the NBA, and it will be a special moment for them all,” said Nolan Smith, TSU Head Men’s Basketball Coach.  “To represent Tennessee State on a national platform puts our university, our city, and our alumni in the spotlight – and our school deserves that opportunity.  I cannot wait for us to go to Phoenix and represent Tennessee State University.  I am incredibly thankful to my NBA family for making this opportunity possible.”

“It is an honor for Howard University to participate in NBA All-Star Weekend for the second time.  We are grateful to the NBA for creating a platform that celebrates HBCUs and connects our students with a global audience,” said Kenny Blakeney, Howard University Head Men’s Basketball Coach.  “This experience extends beyond the basketball court and gives Howard students the opportunity to engage with one of the most significant events in sports, culture and entertainment.  It allows them to learn, build relationships and experience firsthand the energy and possibilities surrounding NBA All-Star Weekend – not simply as student-athletes, but as members of the Howard community.  We look forward to contributing to this special weekend and representing our university, alumni and community with gratitude and pride.”

Notable NBA alumni with ties to both universities include five-time NBA All-Star John Wall (Howard University Men’s Basketball President of Basketball Operations), 11-year NBA veteran Robert Covington (Tennessee State University Men’s Basketball Chief Basketball Officer), and Nolan Smith (Tennessee State University Men’s Basketball Head Coach and former NBA player).

As part of Foot Locker’s continued support of the NBA HBCU Classic, Foot Locker will once again host an introductory event for the teams during NBA All-Star 2027, inclusive of a competition between each school’s bands and cheer teams.  Tickets for the NBA HBCU Classic also grant fans admission to NBA Jam session on Saturday, Feb. 20.

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.

As the walk/run began, TSU’s famed Aristocrat of Bands led the way around the track, setting an energetic tempo as participants celebrated the moment.

The afternoon featured special tribute recognizing two cancer survivors as the 2026 Miles of Hope Special Honorees: Dr. Tracey Harris, assistant director of assessment in the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Research and Assessment; and Cassandra Williams, purchasing manager in the College of Agriculture.

“Today, we have the special privilege of recognizing two of our very own members of the Tennessee State University family, Dr. Tracey Harris and Ms. Cassandra Williams, as our 2026 Miles of Hope Special Honorees,” university officials said. “Our Miles of Hope Walk is more than an event. It is a celebration of life, and a demonstration of love. Today, we honor your stories, celebrate your strength, and remind you that you are never walking alone.” 

Harris, who has worked at TSU since 2005, is a mother of three and grandmother of eight. She rang the bell on Feb. 18, marking the end of her cancer treatment.

“As a breast cancer survivor, this means the world to me,” Harris said. “Many people who have gone through this journey didn’t make it, so I don’t take this moment, the love or the support for granted. I thank God and my village for helping me get through it all. It means so much to see my university continue to support breast cancer awareness and survivors. I’m truly grateful.”

Williams, who completed her treatment on Aug. 31, reflected on keeping her journey private while maintaining routine. She encouraged others to seek immediate medical help if they feel anything unusual in their body.

“I was surprised by the recognition because I’m a very private person, and I didn’t want many people to know what I was going through,” Williams said. “But I feel honored and respected to have my journey acknowledged. Throughout my treatment, I prided myself on maintaining a sense of normalcy. I didn’t want people to feel sorry for me or make special allowances. I simply wanted to continue living my life as normally as possible, with the flexibility to attend my medical appointments. That sense of normalcy helped me tremendously.”

The event’s success highlights a growing tradition on campus. 

“We brought the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Walk and Run back to campus two years ago, and it’s wonderful to see the community embrace it,” said Yalanda Parr, resident director for Ford and NRC housing and coordinator of the event. “Thanks to our Residence Life social media team, we’ve had a tremendous turnout. Breast cancer touches so many lives, whether personally or through a family member or friend, and this event gives our community an opportunity to come together in support of those affected.”

Students were equally glad to participate and celebrate the courage of survivors and help spread the word about breast cancer. Soma Kamara, a junior finance major from Minneapolis, and member of the TSU women’s basketball team, attended alongside several of her teammates.

“It’s great to see the community come together for such an important cause, supporting cancer patients, survivors and everyone affected by cancer,” Kamara said. “Someone I grew up around was diagnosed with cancer. She’s been fighting hard and doing well. Seeing the entire community come out and walk for something so meaningful is truly inspiring.”

Representatives from Ascension Saint Thomas also attended the rally, providing valuable resources and raising awareness. They distributed brochures, pamphlets, flyers, and cards to equip participants with information on prevention, early detection, and community support.

Featured Photo: Hundreds of TSU students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members packed Hale Stadium Oct. 9 for the third annual Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Walk/Run, celebrating survivors and raising awareness for the fight against breast cancer. (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.

The recruitment initiative comes as the Division of Enrollment Management begins its push to build the university’s next freshman class for fall 2027 following a banner year that saw more than 1,700 freshmen enroll this fall, well above the university’s original goal of 1,200 to 1,500 students.

The Big Blue Explosion will officially kick off at 9 a.m. in Kean Hall on the main campus. 

Dr. Eric Stokes, vice president of Enrollment Management, said the challenge now is to match that momentum while building a stronger and more strategic recruitment operation.

“We had a tremendous year, enrolling 1,737 freshmen and exceeding our goal,” Stokes said. “Now the challenge is to do it again. We know what worked, we have a roadmap and we’re starting earlier and with more strategy.”

Big Blue Explosion will give prospective students and their families an opportunity to explore academic programs, campus resources and student experience while getting a firsthand look at what it means to be a Tiger. Nearly 1,700 people have registered for the event, including about 500 prospective students, according to Stokes.

Unlike a traditional preview day, Stokes said TSU designed Big Blue Explosion to combine information with the energy and traditions that distinguish the institution.

“We call it an explosion because we bring a lot more energy to it than your basic preview day,” Stokes said.

Prospective students will interact with representatives from academic colleges to learn about programs, scholarships, financial aid and campus resources. Tiger Ambassadors will lead campus tours, introduce visitors to TSU traditions and share their personal experiences. The event will also feature live culture highlights, including performances by the Aristocrat of Bands and participation from TSU’s Divine Nine Greek organizations.

Following the morning events, prospective students and their families are invited to attend the Tigers’ football game at Nissan Stadium, with TSU Athletics providing free game tickets to registered students and discounted tickets for guests.

For Stokes, the overarching goal goes beyond simply providing information.

“What we really want is for them to walk away feeling good about their experience here, how they were treated, the culture and the environment on campus, and to begin visualizing themselves as students here,” Stokes said.

The effort is part of a broader, proactive recruitment strategy. Admissions counselors have already visited high schools and communities across the country, including Chicago, St. Louis, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and throughout Tennessee.

A key element of this expanded outreach is active involvement from top leadership. TSU President Dwayne Tucker is taking an active, hands-on role in supporting the university’s enrollment goals. As part of the broader campaign, President Tucker and senior leaders are directly engaging with high school counselors and student influencers through Big Blue Breakfast events in Memphis and Nashville to share TSU’s vision and build lasting academic pipelines.

Stokes emphasized that this presidential leadership and all-hands-on-deck leadership strategy sets a new standard for TSU.

“It’s like winning the championship and then trying to repeat,” Stokes said. “Not a lot of teams do that, but it takes brand new work to do that.”

Zaria Hobbs, coordinator of campus visits and events, noted that the energy surrounding this year’s event highlights growing momentum.

“Student interest in TSU is stronger than ever, and we’re seeing that excitement reflected in Preview Day registration, which is already up by about 200 students from last year,” Hobbs said. “As a TSU alum, it’s exciting to see students eager to experience the Big Blue family. Preview Day gives them an inside look at what makes TSU special, from our world-renowned band and Greek organizations to our Tiger Ambassadors and the energy of our campus.”

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.

Billboard highlighted TSU’s advantageous location in Nashville, which provides students direct access to the music industry through internships, field trips, networking events and practical programming.

The publication also praised the program’s evolving curriculum, noting courses such as Music Business and Law, which that gives a comprehensive foundation in intellectual property rights, artificial intelligence integration in audio and video production, contract negotiation, and revenue generation.

To bridge academic learning with real-world practice, the program regularly hosts industry leaders. Recent industry guest speakers include Mechanical Licensing Collective CEO Kris Ahrend and Sweetwater Sound Vice President of Talent Acquisition and Human Resources Business Partner Jordan Applegate.

Dr. Mark Crawford, professor and coordinator of the Commercial Music Program, said the continued recognition reflects the work of faculty members, students and industry partners to ensure the program evolves alongside the music business.

“To again have TSU’s Commercial Music Program included in this list for the fourth year in a row is certainly an honor,” Crawford said. “It reflects the continuous concern and evolution of our faculty and music industry partners as we educate our students. Their successes are a measure of our program’s effectiveness, and inclusion in the Billboard list validates everyone’s efforts.”

Now in its 28th year, TSU’s Commercial Music Program prepares students for careers across the music industry by combining academic coursework with opportunities to engage directly with music business professionals and organizations.

“We are grateful to Billboard for recognizing the outstanding work of our faculty, students and Commercial Music Program,” said Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. “Dr. Crawford continues to provide students with valuable hands-on experiences by connecting them with industry leaders, facilitating internship opportunities and identifying innovative ways to keep the program at the forefront of music industry education.”

Morgan-Curtis noted that the program’s collaboration with the TSU SMART Center has expanded digital training opportunities for students.

“Four recognitions is a historic achievement, but our sights are already set on number five,” Morgan-Curtis said. “Being the only public university in Nashville, Music City, gives us the location, but our people make the true difference.”

As the program approaches its 30th anniversary, its continued presence on Billboard’s roster reinforces TSU’s commitment to training the next generation of music industry professionals in the heart of Music City.

Billboard has spotlighted premier music industry leaders for more than a decade. According to the publication, its selections are informed by industry recommendations, alumni information, its reporting on educational options and information provided by the schools themselves.

Featured Photo: Students in TSU’s Commercial Music Program receive real-world preparation for careers across the music industry by combining academic coursework with opportunities to engage directly with music business professionals and organizations. (Photo by Aaron Grayson)

The student ensemble delivered a powerful performance alongside Dove and Grammy Award-winning gospel sensation Tasha Cobbs Leonard, captivating the audience with their rich vocal harmonies and spiritual energy.

“Last night was pure magic,” said Justin Butler, director of the New Direction Gospel Choir. “The energy from the crowd was radiating, and bringing that worship experience to life alongside Tasha Cobbs Leonard was an incredible milestone for our students. We are deeply grateful to represent TSU on such a big stage.”

Tuesday’s production marked the choir’s fifth appearance on the Dove Awards broadcast. New Direction’s history at the ceremony includes past high-profile performances alongside Brian Courtney Wilson in 2014, Kirk Franklin in 2019, KB in 2021, and Pastor Mike Jr. in 2023.

The performance adds to New Direction’s history of artistic achievement. Beyond its regular appearances on national broadcasts, the ensemble has built an international reputation through global tours and multiple championship titles in national choir competitions.

The Dove Awards invitation underscores TSU’s continuing legacy as a cultural and artistic pillar both in Music City and across higher education.

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 University alumna and former faculty member Dr. Gearldean Johnson has established a $100,000 endowed scholarship to support undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the College of Agriculture’s Department of Human Sciences.

The Dr. Gearldean Johnson Endowed Scholarship creates a permanent source of financial assistance for students following in her footsteps. Johnson, who earned her degree from TSU in 1966, later served as an assistant professor and eventually chair of the Department of Human Sciences, guiding the program through years of growth.

Her decision to establish the endowment stems from a deep personal connection to the university and a conviction that alumni giving must expand.

“I decided that I needed to increase the amount of money that I give Tennessee State,” Johnson said. “I’ve been giving $1,000 to $5,000 a year, but it was not enough. We’ve got to do more to support Tennessee State, like all other schools.”

Johnson’s motivation to ease student financial hardship is rooted in her own journey. Enrolling at TSU in 1962 as a home economics education major, she faced immediate financial hurdles that interrupted her studies.

“I didn’t have enough money to even complete a year’s study,” Johnson recalled. “We didn’t have the scholarships. We didn’t have a lot of the grants that you have now.”

After two quarters, she left TSU to work and save money. She returned the following fall and completed her bachelor’s degree in four years.

“So you know you can do it,” she said. “You just have to be motivated.”

Throughout her time as a student, Johnson found critical encouragement from faculty and academic advisors. That guidance inspired her to pursue graduate studies, earning both a master’s degree and a doctorate before returning to TSU in 1975 to join the faculty.

“I had great advisors who helped me when I was in need, who encouraged me,” Johnson said. “I really appreciate the support that I got at Tennessee State, and I’m hoping that others will too.”

University leaders noted that Johnson’s gift addresses a vital need for undergraduate retention and completion.

“Dr. Johnson’s generous $100,000 endowment is a meaningful investment for our students,” said Dr. LaPorchia Davis, interim chair of the Department of Human Sciences. “Scholarship support can make a tremendous difference in a student’s ability to remain focused on their education, pursue professional opportunities, and successfully complete their degree.”

Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture, worked alongside Johnson during her six-year tenure as department chair. He described the endowment as a continuation of her lifelong advocacy for students.

“As dean, I am incredibly moved by the profound generosity of Dr. Gearldean Johnson,” Reddy said. “Having had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Johnson, I witnessed firsthand her unwavering passion and fierce advocacy for student success. This remarkable gift ensures that her legacy of support will continue to empower future generations of Human Sciences students, breaking down financial barriers and opening doors to excellence.”

Reddy emphasized that gifts like Johnson’s serve as a catalyst for broader institutional support.

“Dr. Johnson’s commitment is truly inspiring,” Reddy said. “We invite our alumni, friends, and community partners to join her in investing in the future of our students. Your support, at any level, will create a lasting impact on the lives of those who will go on to shape our world.”

Johnson sees the endowment as both a gift and a call to action.

“I think we all have a responsibility to give more and to encourage others to give to Tennessee State because we deserve it and our students deserve it,” Johnson said.

Featured Photo: Dr. Gearldean Johnson, center, presents a $100,000 check to Dean Chandra Reddy (right), and Dr. LaPorchia Davis, Interim Chair of the Department of Human Sciences.(Photo by Zekeya Harrison)

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’s College of Engineering, in partnership with the STEAM Sports Foundation, hosted the 2026 Women in Automotive and Motorsports (WAM) Career Summit from Sept. 24–26 on the university’s main campus. The event brought together students, industry executives, and aspiring engineers from institutions across the country, including Purdue University, Georgia Tech, Kettering University, and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

What began as a conversation between Dr. Charles McCurry, associate dean of the TSU College of Engineering, and Bob Dickinson, CEO and founder of the STEAM Sports Foundation, quickly materialized into an industry-backed movement. Supported by companies like Cummins, Bristol Motor Speedway, Honda, Nashville Superspeedway, and HBCU GO, the summit focused on the barriers in an industry where entry has traditionally depended on legacy connections and early access.

“I founded the STEAM Sports Foundation to help underserved communities see the opportunities available in motorsports and the automotive industry,” Dickinson said. “As we looked at the industry, we saw a significant void. It remains largely male-dominated, with too few women, minorities, and especially women of color pursuing engineering careers. We decided to address that gap directly by creating scholarships for students who need an opportunity to get their foot in the door.”

Over three days, participants discussed topics such as “Entry Paths to an Automotive Career,” “Breaking Barriers,” and “Your Next Move.” Featured speakers represented major motorsports entities, including IMSA, NASCAR, INDYCAR, the Music City Grand Prix, and Nashville Superspeedway. The event also included an interactive Engineering Career Fair.

For TSU students, the summit provided a clear line of sight into an industry that once felt out of reach. De’Vyne Wills, a junior architectural engineering major from Indianapolis, Indiana, and a STEAM Sports Foundation scholarship recipient, spoke on a panel highlighting her unexpected path into racing.

Her introduction to motorsports began in high school with NXG Youth Motorsports, an organization exposing underrepresented youth to racing careers. That initial spark led directly to an IndyCar internship, where she mastered technical operations, including timing and scoring.

“It was just sparked into my life,” Wills said. “I’m not one of the people that’s a mechanical engineer and initially wanted to go into motorsports. It just kind of evolved.”

Wills emphasized that building genuine equity requires tackling both gender and racial gaps simultaneously. “Some of the drivers, their dad owns the company, so they drive for them,” she noted. “And it’s like, well, how am I supposed to get into that type of thing?” Programs like NXG and the WAM Summit help answer that question by offering early technical exposure and professional mentorship.

That theme of belonging resonated deeply in the Day Two keynote, “Built for More,” delivered by TSU alumna April Guest, director of Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence at Cummins. Recalling how a TSU Presidential Scholarship changed her life over two decades ago, Guest urged students to lean into their curiosity.

“TSU saw me when I didn’t see myself,” Guest said. “You belong in the room. You might be the ‘only,’ but because you’re there, you’re supposed to be there.”

Following a closing keynote by veteran automotive executive Angela Henderson, Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering, reiterated the summit’s mission to equip women with the confidence, technical knowledge, and networks needed to excel.

TSU leaders plan to make the WAM Career Summit an annual staple.

“Access creates opportunity,” McCurry said. “Diversity drives creativity and innovation, and our engineering students have demonstrated that they can excel. Our goal is to expand industry participation, increase visibility, and ultimately create scholarship opportunities for more young women.”

Featured Photo: De’Vyne Willis, a TSU junior architectural engineering student and motorsports enthusiast, speaks on a panel, “Scholarships, Internships, Immersion Tours Opportunities,” during the motorsports summit. Other panelists are, l-r, Andrear Turner, moderator, Nissan; Fatou Tunkara, Georgia Tech; Wills; and Kimberly Betty, Kettering/Oakland/Lear. (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.

The weeklong celebration of academic legacy, HBCU culture, and athletics will culminate on Saturday, Oct. 17, when the Big Blue Tigers take on the Morgan State University Bears at Nissan Stadium.

“We are thrilled to welcome our Big Blue family back home to celebrate our rich traditions, outstanding achievements, and the lifelong bonds that connect us across generations,” said Jerome Oglesby, chair of the Homecoming Organizing Committee. “‘The Blue Never Fades’ is a powerful testament to the enduring strength, pride, and resilience of Tennessee State University.”

This year’s festivities feature high-profile performances from national recording artists. Grammy-winning rapper and actor T.I. will headline the annual NPHC Step Show. The student excitement continues Friday night at the annual Homecoming Concert, featuring a lineup of hip-hop stars including Loe Shimmy, YTB Fatt, Queen Key, and Domani, who will join his father T.I. on the weekend roster.

TSU will also honor a group of distinguished alumni whose contributions span world athletics, business leadership, and university administration. Among the featured Honorees are legendary Tigerbelle and 1976 Olympic long jump silver medalist Kathy McMillan ’84, exceptional Tigerbelle sprinter and U.S. Olympian Brenda Morehead, and Olympic champion, Hall of Fame athlete, and longtime TSU coach Chandra Cheeseborough ’82.

Leading the week’s processionals as Grand Marshals are prominent business leader Sedrick Turner ’93, distinguished executive John R. Dodds ’62, who has commuted from Chattanooga for every home football game as a season ticket holder for over 45 years, and former Chief of the TSU Police Department Arthur R. Lawson ’63, who has dedicated over six decades of service to the university. Joining them is university legend Homer R. Wheaton ’48, who turned 100 years old this year after serving TSU for over five decades as Director of Financial Aid and Vice President of University Relations, during which he helped orchestrate the recruitment of legendary football coach John Merritt.

The festivities officially kick off Sunday, Oct. 11, with the annual Robert N. Murrell Oratorical Contest, followed later that afternoon by the inspirational Gospel Explosion at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Midweek activities will lead into traditional student and alumni gatherings, including the pep rally, coronation, and alumni class reunions. Saturday morning, Oct. 17, will feature the historic Homecoming Parade along Jefferson Street before fans head to Nissan Stadium for kickoff against Morgan State.

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.

Students explored internship and full-time employment opportunities, with some even landing interviews on the spot. Employers included Southern Company, Bank of America, Boeing, Metro Nashville Public Schools and TSU graduate programs, along with sponsoring companies such as Enterprise Mobility, Teach For America, and Unum.

Making an appearance at this year’s career fair, the Nashville Predators also connected with students through a welcome booth featuring employment opportunities with the organization. Students could learn more about internships, as well as full-time and part-time positions, while also meeting Gnash, the Predators’ mascot.

For many students, the career fair provided an opportunity to begin building professional connections early in their college careers.

TSU freshman Briana Gray, a Milwaukee, Wisconsin, native studying business administration, said she was excited to attend the career fair as a freshman.

“Going to the career fair early creates partnerships, community and an overall good feeling of being prepared for internships and life after college,” Gray said.

In preparation for the career fair, students were encouraged to take advantage of campus resources designed to help them prepare for professional opportunities, including the Career Closet, which provides free professional attire, and the Writing Center, which offers resume assistance.

“To prepare for the career fair, I went to the Writing Center and got help with my resume. I also made sure I looked business professional, and I had a great experience,” Gray said.

Leigh Oliver, director of the Career Development Center, said the event underscored the university’s commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

“It’s wonderful that students have opportunities like this,” Oliver said. “Our goal is to make sure we partner with our alumni and ensure that all our students are fully employed. I’m grateful that these employers are coming here wanting to hire our graduates.”

Oliver noted that many employers specifically seek out TSU talent and emphasized the Career Development Center’s year-round efforts to prepare students for the workforce.

“We make sure TSU students are set up for success,” she said. “We host events across campus to help them dress for success, perfect their elevator pitches, and ensure their digital business cards and LinkedIn accounts are updated for recruitment opportunities.”

Among the recruiters at the fair were several TSU alumni who returned to campus to represent their companies and connect with the next generation of Tigers.

One of those alumni was Jade James, who graduated from TSU last fall and now works as a supply chain development associate with Kimberly-Clark. James spoke about how TSU helped launch her career and said she was eager to pay it forward by offering job and internship opportunities to current students.

“TSU prepared me for the success I was able to take to Kimberly-Clark,” James said. “Being able to pour back into TSU as this university did for me is a great opportunity. My advice? Be prepared and be yourself. These companies want to know what they’re investing in, so be you and be prepared to put your professional self forward.”

For students like sophomore Omari Neal of Lebanon, Tennessee, the career fair was an opportunity to gain a valuable experience with employers while exploring potential internships for next summer.

“This is a great opportunity for hands-on experience and that face-to-face interaction,” Neal said. “It also gives me the push that I need seeing our alumni here with their companies.” Neal said he was particularly interested in opportunities with Cummins and Boeing.

Oliver also encouraged students to keep an open mind about their career paths and embrace opportunities with both large corporations and small businesses. “I want to remind students to be optimistic,” Oliver said. “Companies are looking for all of our students across the board, regardless of discipline. Going to the event to network is good practice in general and an important part of their career journey.”

The 2026 Fall Career Fair provided students with opportunities to network directly with employers, learn more about potential career paths and receive immediate feedback on their qualifications and professional presence.

To learn more about career resources and upcoming opportunities, visit www.tnstate.edu/careers/.

Featured photo: TSU students connect with employers during the university’s Fall 2026 Career Fair, which brought together more than 100 employers offering internships, full-time and part-time employment opportunities. ( (Photo courtesy of A’Kevian Anderson)

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.