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 Tucker identified critical bottlenecks in daily operations, noting that inefficiencies and outdated processes frequently hindered institutional progress.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.

For the Class of 2026, graduation was less a finish line and more of a launchpad into high-stakes industries and elite graduate programs. Christopher Brown, an Atlanta native who spoke for the College of Business, personified the “no excuses” grit of a TSU Tiger. After navigating high-level internships with Deloitte and Walmart Technology, Brown is heading to Walmart Technology as a technical product manager while concurrently pursuing a master’s degree at UC Berkeley. He credited his success to the discipline of “showing up when nobody is watching,” reminding his peers that their degrees represent purpose rather than just academic achievement.

The momentum continued with Morgan Gill of the College of Public Service, who is taking her urban studies degree to the leading edge of infrastructure. She will join KCI Technologies in Nashville to focus on intelligent transportation systems before heading to the University of California, Irvine, for a fully funded Master of Science in civil engineering. Similarly, Memphis native Alvin Cole, who earned two degrees in urban studies, and public administration, is transitioning from a high-profile congressional internship with State Sen. Rusty Crowe to the Master of Public Administration program at TSU.

The university’s commitment to healthcare and research was equally prominent. The Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Accelerated Pathway program saw 13 graduates, with 11 accepted into medical school and two destined for dental school. Among those moving into the clinical field is Delany Bradford, who earned her doctorate in biological sciences. A POTUS Fellow, Bradford announced her transition from collegiate teaching to medical school, fueled by a desire to expand her impact from education to healing. For Travis Owen Ducksworth, the nursing graduate who spoke for the College of Health Sciences, the path was deeply personal. After watching his parents struggle with illness, Ducksworth worked his way from a patient transporter to a resident nurse on the cardiac floor at TriStar Centennial Medical Center, where he will return to serve his local community.

The 2026 ceremonies also highlighted that the TSU family bond is often literal. Nashville native Delilah Rhodes celebrated a rare triple-family graduation, crossing the stage alongside her two children, Eric Lee and Gabrielle, as all three received their graduate degrees. Perhaps the loudest ovation was reserved for Charles Whitman Dabbs. At 85 years old, the Navy veteran earned his doctorate in higher education leadership. Proving that the pursuit of knowledge has no expiration date, Dabbs has no intention of slowing down, planning instead to transition into leadership and mentorship roles at an HBCU.

The spirit of leadership was further echoed by Calvin Picket, the outgoing president of the Student Government Association, who spoke for the College of Liberal Arts. Picket plans to return to TSU to earn a master’s degree in public administration before attending law school, with a goal of a career centered on justice and impactful service. Other student speakers who shared their unique stories and academic journeys included Olivia Whitmore for the College of Agriculture, Taylor Winn for the College of Education, Bryanna Bissainthe for the College of Engineering, and Nyla Simone Battles for the College of Life and Physical Sciences.

As the final tassels were turned, the message remained clear: TSU has moved beyond the traditional role of a university to become an incubator for the next generation of global leaders. From the honors students recognized at the April 30 gala to the doctoral candidates ready to transform their fields, the Class of 2026 left the Gentry Center not just with diplomas, but with a mandate to lead. Their journeys reflect a university that prioritizes engagement and empowerment, ensuring that while their time on the main campus has concluded, their impact on the world is only just beginning.

Featured Photo: Dr. Delany Bradford, the speaker for the School of Graduate and Professional Studies, who earned her doctorate in biological sciences, announced her transition from collegiate teaching to medical school. (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 life-changing performance has been nothing short of a “Thriller.”  Henderson earned his bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from TSU in 2011 and later completed his master’s in civil engineering in 2013.

Opening on  April 24, the  film grossed $97 million domestically and $217 million globally in its first weekend, setting the record for the biggest debut of all time for a biopic. A West Virginia native, Henderson took acting classes in the Nashville area before moving to Los Angeles to jumpstart his acting career. He described his time at TSU as identity-defining, having remained active on campus as a member of the men’s track team, the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., and Collegiate 100.

“TSU taught me what it meant to be independent,” Henderson said. “It was my first time away from the comforts of my home, so I developed a strong sense of self-reliance and confidence in my own ability to adapt to any challenges that arose.”

This growth in independence, courage and pride has positioned Henderson for the biggest opportunity of his career so far. “I may or may not have run laps around my apartment in jubilation, screaming yes!” Henderson recalled, joyful at the memory of the moment he landed the role.

Once he received the call, Henderson immediately began studying Jermaine Jackson’s mannerisms and movements by analyzing performances and interviews. He also took bass guitar lessons for a couple of months to prepare for the role.

“The standout moment for me was my first day of rehearsal, when we saw Jaafar (Jackson) rehearse ‘Billie Jean’ for the first time,” Henderson said, referring to the actor who plays Michael Jackson in the biopic.

“It was electric and I couldn’t help but smile and bob my head as I watched him (Jaafar) glide across the floor. The feeling in the room was magical, and I knew I had to work twice as hard to ensure I wouldn’t let him or anyone else down on this project.”

Henderson believes his 10-year acting career has prepared him for the moment.

“I truly can do anything I set my mind to,” he said. “I learned to play bass, sing, and dance simultaneously. But I also recognized the importance of teamwork, as I couldn’t achieve this without all of the grace and belief from others – the support of our crew, of our director, and my fellow cast members.”

Before landing the role in “Michael,” Henderson appeared in commercials and television films, including “South Central Love” in 2019 and season two of “Mindhunter.” Those experiences further shaped his approach to acting and storytelling.

“That was another opportunity to deepen my desire to keep growing and learning more about the craft of not only acting, as well as storytelling from both the creative and business and/or production sides,” he said. He added that patience has been key to navigating his career and achieving long-term goals.

Henderson also credited mentors from TSU of laying the foundation for his journey, including former men’s track coach Kelly Carter, architectural engineering professor Dwight Martin and head cheerleading coach Dwight Pope. “All of these men pushed my mentality beyond my comfort zone and instilled within me a trust in myself and my abilities that I did not know I possessed.”

When asked about lessons from TSU that have stayed with him throughout his journey, Henderson pointed to the importance of self-love and cultural pride. “The history that is woven into the melanin of my skin has given me such an internal sense of pride and encouragement to push forward in any direction that my mind can imagine. Wherever my heart leads me, I will follow,” he said.

While “Michael” showcases the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a global legacy, Henderson hopes his own journey resonates with others pursuing their goals.

“I just hope I can inspire others to keep learning, about themselves and about the world. Embrace the path you lead, and it will lead you to love.”

Feature photo: Alumnus Jamal Henderson, who portrayed Jermaine Jackson in the film “Michael,” earned a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from TSU in 2011 and a master’s degree in civil engineering in 2013. The proud Tiger now brings more than a decade of acting experience to the big screen, continuing to represent his alma mater with excellence. (Photo by Christopher Patey)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University’s College of Agriculture (TSUAg) is celebrating a landmark achievement after its chapter of MANRRS was named the 2026 National Chapter of the Year. The honor was announced during the organization’s 40th Annual Conference in Dallas, April 9–12.

This recognition caps an extraordinary showing for the TSUAg chapter, which finished first out of 78 participating chapters, following two consecutive third-place finishes in recent years. With this award, TSUAg became the first chapter from a historically Black college or university to win the MANRRS Chapter of the Year.

The group’s success reflects the strategic leadership of chapter President Omari Mason and Vice President Jhanya Chenault, as well as the tireless preparation of its members.

“This recognition speaks volumes about the talent, discipline, and commitment of our students,” said Dr. De’Etra Young, TSUAg associate dean and advisor to the MANRRS chapter. “To see our students rise to this level on the national stage is a proud moment for Tennessee State University and the College of Agriculture. Their achievement demonstrates the excellence of our students and the strength of the support system behind them.”

In addition to the top honor, the TSUAg group also received a prestigious Chapter Enrichment Grant, further enhancing its ability to serve its members. Moreover, the travel costs and registration fees for seven students attending this year’s conference were covered through MANRRS scholarships. The students were: Jhanya Chenault, Karmen Bowen, TeMarcus Harris, Kaylin Hughes, Jeffrey Jackson, Jayla Silver, and Todd Stansberry.

Farm Credit Mid-America, an agricultural financial services cooperative, is also credited with facilitating the group’s trip to the conference through its support of the chapter throughout the year.

“We are deeply thankful for the continued support of Farm Credit Mid-America,” Young added. “That investment helps create meaningful opportunities for our students to grow as leaders and return with experiences that inspire our entire community.”

For TSUAg, the Chapter of the Year recognition signifies more than just a major award; it stands as a milestone moment for student leadership, institutional excellence, and the expanding impact of one of the university’s most accomplished student organizations.

For more information on TSUAg, visit www.tnstate.edu/agriculture/

Featured Photo: More than 20 TSU undergraduate and graduate students attended this year’s MANRRS conference in Dallas, where they proudly received the 2026 Chapter of the Year Award. (Photo by Sarah Tyler)

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 facility, funded by the State of Tennessee, will be constructed on the site of the former Clay Hall. It is scheduled for occupancy by the start of the 2027/2028 academic year. This project represents the second major campus expansion under TSU President Dwayne Tucker since taking office a little over a year ago. Last June, the university broke ground for a $90 million agriculture facility that is currently under construction.

“Today represents a transformative moment in the history of Tennessee State University,” Tucker told the assembled crowd. “TSU has long been committed to expanding access, driving innovation, and preparing leaders who shape the future. The promise of a new engineering building stands as a bold reflection of our mission. This facility will unify our engineering and applied technology programs into one interdisciplinary hub, designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and discovery across all levels of learning.”

Inside the facility, students will engage in hands-on experiences that mirror the industries they will soon lead, Tucker added. He expressed deep gratitude to the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), and the Tennessee Legislature for their investment, while also acknowledging the vital presence of alumni and faculty.

Dr. Julie A. Roberts, chief academic officer at THEC and a former TSU staff member, emphasized the regional impact. “Engineering has long been a cornerstone of excellence at TSU, and today’s groundbreaking marks an exciting new chapter in that legacy. This state-of-the-art facility will expand opportunities for students, strengthen workforce readiness, and support the kind of innovation that will shape Tennessee’s future,” Roberts said.

For current and former students, the ceremony was a moment of immense pride. Mark Gray, a civil engineering student and member of the inaugural cohort of a mining engineering program, said, “What we’re experiencing right now at TSU feels like a true revolution. This moment reflects the vision, innovation, and commitment of our faculty and leadership. I’m proud to be part of something historic.”

Tarik Williams, a mechanical engineering and computer science major, called the building a “declaration.” He noted, “This will be more than classrooms and labs. It will be a space where ideas are tested, where collaboration thrives, and where future engineers discover what’s possible.”

Dr. Lin Li, dean of the College of Engineering, detailed the academic impact of the facility, which will replace Torrence Hall, the program’s home for decades. Dr. Li offered a deep appreciation to the partners who moved the project forward, specifically the State Building Commission, THEC, and the Tennessee General Assembly.

“The facility will serve as a hub for innovation and cutting-edge research, while reflecting TSU’s commitment to sustainability and leadership,” Li said. “While the building will serve the entire college, it will provide a particular emphasis on ‘The Engineering Experience,’ with the intent to recruit and retain future engineers. This is not just an investment in a building; it’s an investment in people, in ideas, and in the belief that engineering can change the world.” He noted the building includes adaptive learning labs, a welcome center, 7 classrooms, 19 teaching labs, and 6 research labs, covering fields from Robotics and Drone Flight to Mechatronics and Transportation Simulation.

Will Radford, assistant vice president of Campus Operations and Planning, Design and Construction, provided an overview of the technical and strategic vision. He described a facility intentionally designed to inspire, strategically positioned to foster academic engagement across and beyond the campus.

“Every element of this facility has been thoughtfully designed to support what we call ‘The Engineering Experience,’ an immersive, hands-on approach that prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving technological world. But just as important as what this building will contain is how it will come to life.”

Radford said the facility will feature more than 30 teaching and research laboratories, dedicated maker and prototyping spaces, modern computer labs, and a centralized hub for academic leadership. He explained that the architecture promotes an open, collaborative atmosphere, anchored by an open atrium that serves as the heart of student interaction. By integrating high-tech simulation environments with traditional academic spaces, Radford noted that TSU is setting a new standard for campus infrastructure that directly translates to industry readiness.

For more information on the College of Engineering at TSU, visit www.tnstate.edu/engineering/.

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.

Charles Whitman Dabbs, 85, will walk across the stage at the Gentry Center Complex to receive his Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership, proving that the pursuit of knowledge has no expiration date.

Dabbs is one of nearly 1,400 graduates, the university’s largest class in several years that will be honored during the two-day ceremony on May 1 and 2. While the class includes 1,200 undergraduates, it is the 200 graduate students like Dabbs who underscore TSU’s commitment to lifelong excellence.

“I’m not the kind of person who can just sit at home and do nothing,” says Dabbs. “I’ve always wanted to earn a doctorate, but the time was never right. When the pandemic slowed everything down, I finally had the time, and I took it.”

A Los Angeles native, Dabbs’ journey began at age 17 when he joined the U.S. Navy. Serving as a hospital corpsman, he found the discipline that would fuel a 50-year career in federal service, including roles with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. Along the way, he earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and two master’s degrees from UCLA, all while working full-time.

For Dabbs, education is a “family DNA” forged by his father, who grew up in the Jim Crow South without access to formal schooling. Today, Dabbs celebrates 63 years of marriage, two highly educated children, and five grandchildren. His bond with TSU is a legacy of its own; his son earned an MBA from the university, and Dabbs was inspired by a neighbor who attended TSU in the 1950s.

Despite the age gap between him and his classmates, Dabbs found a home at TSU.

“I thought I might be overlooked, but it was just the opposite,” Dabbs recalled. “The students embraced me. They helped me with technology, and in return, I shared perspectives from living through history they had only read about in textbooks. There was a beautiful intergenerational connection.”

With his Ed.D. in hand, Dabbs has no intention of slowing down. He plans to transition into leadership at an HBCU, focusing on mentorship.

“Many students just need someone in their corner,” he said. “I want to help them see that with focus and resilience, they can succeed. It’s never too late to do something meaningful.”

Note: The ceremony for the School of Graduate and Professional Studies, including Charles Whitman Dabbs, will be on May 1, beginning at 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.tnstate.edu/records/commencement/.

Featured Photo: Dr. Charles Whitman Dabbs says next on his agenda is to transition into leadership with a focus on mentorship at a historically Black college or 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.