FOUNDATION
FORWARD TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
VOLUME 2
Welcome New Board Members
Tennessee State University Foundation Board welcomes four new Board members this month.
WHAT’S INSIDE Welcome New Board Members page 4 Alumni Tigers Who Shine: Jerel McCants page 8 A TSU Foundation Board Members’ Ascent to Success: Reggie “ Cool Mill” Shareef page 10 Quarterly Reception Rewind page 12 Financial Forecast page 14 Your Invitation to Excellence Becoming a President’s Society Supporter page 17
LETTER FROM THE CHAIR Greetings TSU Alumni, Family and Friends, “In a society that functions optimally, those who can should naturally want to provide for those who can’t. That’s how it’s designed to work. I truly believe we’re here to take care of one another.” – Levar Burton In my role as Chair of the TSU Foundation Board, I have the awesome opportunity to work alongside my fellow Board members who truly embody the words of Levar Burton. And, I’ve had the opportunity to witness overwhelming examples of giving from so many of our alumni, family and friends. For that, we say THANK YOU! Through the generous donations of our Alumni, Friends and external sponsors/donors, we can continue to execute on the mission of the Foundation, which is to promote and support literacy, scientific, educational, scholarship, research, charitable and development purposes and goals at TSU. The Foundation Board is committed to doing the work to ensure current and future students attending our beloved university have the resources needed to attend and graduate from our beloved university with a goal of paying it back as alumni donors. It’s through intentional connections and collaboration that we can make meaningful impact and change. I am so proud of the work the Foundation Board and University Leadership Team are doing to strengthen our working relationship and partnership so that we are better able to be of service to our students. When we work together towards a common goal, there is nothing we can’t achieve – we are unstoppable! That’s why WE all must take advantage of the opportunity to give back and live lives of generosity. We all have the power to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life by giving. We must be the change we all want to see. We should all feel a sense of responsibility to make systemic change by giving of our resources – time, money, goods and advocacy to help others. As we continue to give, let’s encourage others to give as well. Now more than ever, we need everyone working together to support the efforts of our university. I encourage each of you to continue your annual giving and I ask you to reach out to fellow alumni, friends, family and potential sponsors to solicit their annual donations. “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?” —Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Let’s go forward…TOGETHER! In Tiger Spirit,
Valerie R. Love
Chairman, Tennessee State University Foundation Board TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION
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Welcome New Board Members Tennessee State University Foundation Board welcomes four new Board members this September. “We are honored to have four engaging new members joining us on the Board this month,” said Valerie Love, TSU Foundation. “It is through the dedication of new members like these, as well as our current Board members, that we can continue to provide the support and guidance to ensure TSU continues to grow and serve its unique community now and in the future.”
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Alexis Johnson Alexis Johnson is an experienced Area Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. She is skilled in Commercial Lending, Customer Service, Banking, Private Banking, and Branch Management. A strong operations professional, Johnson earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a focus in Management from Tennessee State University.
April M. Robinson April Robinson is a proven strategist and leader. April graduated from Tennessee State University in 2006, with a BBA in Accounting. She started her professional career and then matriculated to St. John’s University where she completed her MBA in 2018, with an emphasis on Global Leadership. She has excelled both professionally and personally as a Sales Performance Director for Diageo Public Limited Company and with previous, progressive-growth roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP.
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Laveil Allen, MD Laveil Allen, M.D., is a native Nashvillian. He completed his undergraduate studies at Tennessee State University prior to enrolling at Meharry Medical College, where he earned his medical degree with honors. Following Meharry Medical College, Dr. Allen completed a transitional intern year at Harvard, Cambridge Hospital and served as a clinical fellow at Harvard Medical School. He completed his residency in Diagnostic Radiology at Tulane University Hospital. In 2015, Dr. Allen joined Vanderbilt University Medical Center as an Emergency Radiology faculty member while simultaneously completing his fellowship training in Musculoskeletal Radiology. In 2023, he was promoted from Assistant to Associate Professor and given the role of Executive Vice Chair. Dr. Allen is a dually appointed faculty member in the Departments of Emergency Medicine and Radiology & Radiological Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He serves as the Executive Medical Director and Division Chief of Emergency Radiology. Dr. Allen also proudly serves as the Faculty Advisor to the Meharry Medical College - Vanderbilt Student Alliance. He holds an appointment at Meharry Medical College as an adjunct professor, where he serves as the senior director for the Meharry Medical College Diagnostic Radiology Clerkship Program. Dr. Allen has served in many leadership roles with Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Department of Radiology, including multiple years as the Assistant Residency Program Director. He is a member of the Alpha Phi Omega Honor Society, American Board of Radiology, American College of Radiology, American Society of Emergency Radiologist, American Roentgen Ray Society and the Radiological Society of North America.
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Rick L Stevens Rick L Stevens is a quality-focused, technology-savvy Senior Healthcare Executive, with a 20+ year history of deploying evidence-based data to drive profitability and patient, physician, and employee satisfaction at multi- and single-hospital health systems. He has strategized and delivered multimillion-dollar turnarounds through aggressive cost-cutting and revenue enhancement initiatives. Stevens is a high-energy leader known for eliciting top performance from direct reports through goal setting, mentoring, and accountability. He is an out-of-the-box thinker who makes order out of chaos and meets challenges with “get-it-done” enthusiasm. As president, Rick Stevens is responsible for positioning Christian Hospital as a provider of quality critical health care services in north St. Louis County. He provides strategic leadership and oversees daily operations of the 220-staffed-bed hospital. Prior to joining BJC in 2016, Stevens was with Sutter California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC) St. Luke’s Hospital in San Francisco, where he served for four years as chief administrative officer and vice president for CPMC. Stevens has more than 25 years of health care experience, having served in executive roles at Methodist McKinney Hospital in McKinney, Texas; Jewish Hospital & St. Mary’s Healthcare in Louisville, Ky.; and University Medical Center, Inc. in Dallas, Texas. Stevens holds a master’s degree in public health from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn., and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Tennessee State University. He has received a number of awards throughout his career, including the 2019 Stellar Performer in Health Care Award from St. Louis American Foundation; the St. Louis Business Journal’s 2017 Diverse Business Leader Award; the 2006 Louisville YMCA Black Achievers Award; Modern Healthcare’s 2005 Up and Comers Award; and the National Association of Health Services Executives’ 2002 Young Healthcare Executive Award.
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TS U AL UMNI S P OTL IG HT
JEREL McCANTS
Alumni Tigers Who Shine Inspiring the next generation with visionary leadership and mentorship This month we are shining the spotlight on TSU alumni Jerel McCants, whose firm Jerel McCants Architecture, Inc., has won multiple design awards while working on projects along the East Coast, from Florida to New York. McCants is a 1996 TSU graduate who gained hands-on experience while earning his undergraduate degree in architectural engineering by interning at construction and architectural firms. His career, education, and desire to give back has taken him around the world and made a huge impact on the lives of those around him, including in his hometown of Tampa, Florida.
Pursuing excellence abroad and closer to home One of McCants’ defining characteristics throughout his life and career has been the desire to expand his worldview. After his undergraduate success at TSU, he earned a Master of Architecture from the University of South Florida (USF) in 2001. During his graduate studies, Jerel had the opportunity to study in Paris, France with the USF Overseas Study Program. This unforgettable experience was part of a life-long passion to learn from other cultures and gain new experiences. This desire began in high school, where he was honored to become a Student Ambassador to the Soviet Union under Dwight D. Eisenhower’s “People to People for Understanding” Program. Mr. McCants’ successful career began at a small firm in his hometown Chattanooga, TN. His work continued with leading architectural firms in Atlanta and Tampa. He had the opportunity to work on high profile projects throughout the early years of his career and in 2010, Jerel launched Jerel McCants Architecture, Inc. The full-service boutique architectural firm specializes in Municipal, Educational, Cultural, Residential and Federal markets. As the firm’s leader, Mr. McCant has focused on architecture as an action, a feeling that expresses new ideals displayed through exposed
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materials, showing their true nature in an efficient, honest, and sustainable manner that benefits both the client and our environment.
Giving back to inspire the next generation Jerel McCants has never slowed in his pursuit of higher education, professional development, and career excellence – as well as expanding his world view. He earned a certificate in Community Real Estate Development in 2010 from the USF Florida Institute of Development. His impactful volunteer work, both abroad and here at home, includes serving as a volunteer with Haiti Relief Mission, where he joined his church in traveling to Haiti after the 2010 earthquake to build emergency shelters. McCants is a past president of the American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) Tampa Bay Chapter. He is an active youth mentor as part of the ACE program that connects high school students to STEM careers, including in the fields of architecture, construction, and engineering.
He volunteered in multiple states as part of President Obama’s ‘Get out the Vote’ campaigns and even met then-Senator Obama during a campaign stop in Tampa. McCants was elected to serve as a Delegate for the 11th Congressional District at the Democratic National Convention in 2008 and as a Precinct Committeeman for two terms. He currently serves as VP of The Friends of Tampa Union Station, a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring the historic landmark. He is a Board Member of CDC of Tampa and also served for two years on the Hillsborough County Affordable Housing Advisory Board. His accomplishments have been featured in many news outlets, including The Manual’s “Four Black Architects You Need to Know” and Fox 13 Tampa’s “What’s Good in Tampa Bay.” In 2010, Jerel received the AIA Tampa Bay’s President Award. Under his leadership, Jerel McCants Architecture, Inc. won the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce 2015 Small Business of the Year Award.
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Reggie “ Cool Mill” Shareef
TSU Foundation Board Members’ Ascent to Success Pioneering Excellence: The Journey from Cool to Smart and Corporate Leader to Philanthropist
In the bustling heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Reggie “Cool Mill” Shareef began a transformational journey, from humble beginnings to a visionary technology leader and philanthropist. Born and raised in the Steel City, he found his life’s calling at Tennessee State University (TSU). Today, the Class of 2000 TSU alumnus is blazing his own trail and in doing so, inspiring others to embrace their own passion and celebrate their intellect.
A Vision Beyond: It’s Cool to be Smart Movement In 1995, amidst the backdrop of TSU’s vibrant campus, Shareef began laying the foundation that would last a lifetime. He was a stand-out academic and student leader during his time in the University Honors Program, and as Mr. TSU 98-99, SGA President 99-00, and Charter Founder of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. in Spring of 1999. His charisma, ability to relate to others, and dedication to TSU resonated deeply within the university community, and helped to establish in him his personal mantra to achieve success. After earning a degree in software engineering, Shareef worked for 23 years with Fortune 500 companies Lockheed Martin and Microsoft, and as a broker for Kumbaya International Realty Group (KIRG). The defining moment of his legacy, however, came when he decided to step out of the corporate world and channel his talents and unwavering commitment to live the TSU motto and “Think, Work and Serve his community.”
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His journey from Pittsburgh to TSU, through the corridors of Corporate America to the innovative field of entrepreneurship and the impactful realm of philanthropy, is inspiring. The success of his “It’s Cool to be Smart” movement is a testament to the unrelenting determination to challenge norms and redefine success. Today, the work continues through adult learning workshops, documentary films, keynote speaking opportunities, youth technology camps, and It’s Cool to be Smart student days from the EDGE Foundation and Millennium Enterprises Group. He established the Reggie “Cool Mill” Shareef scholarship to pay homage to his TSU roots, and in doing so, jump started an inspirational movement. Shareef decided to harness his platform to challenge conventional notions of coolness. He created the E.D.G.E. Foundation, dedicated to uplifting others, and birthed the “It’s Cool to be Smart” movement to reframe the narrative surrounding intellect and curiosity. His bold mission is to dismantle stereotypes and foster an environment where
A screening of the “It’s Cool to be Smart” documentary docu series on TSU campus is planned for this fall, along with workshops for students and faculty on the importance of living your mantra and being in control of your Mission in life, through sound understanding of your Goals, Passions, and Superpowers (GPS). Through his indomitable spirit, mission focus, and tireless pursuit of excellence, Shareef will continue to shape the TSU community and inspire generations to come.
intelligence is celebrated. Armed with passion, resilience, and an unyielding belief in the power of education, he has helped to awaken a generation of students and adults to the boundless potential that lies within them.
Legacy and Beyond: Championing Philanthropy In 2021, Shareef became an engaged member of the TSU Foundation Board. His commitment to the TSU community exemplifies his full-circle journey from student to benefactor. Today, he embodies the spirit of giving back that TSU tirelessly instills in its students. His story underscores the transformative power of education, leadership, and community.
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Q UA RTER LY R EC EPTIO N R EWIND The President Society receptions offer both an opportunity to show gratitude to those who give $1,000 or more annually, and recruit new members to expand and diversify our foundation. Our goal is to obtain 2,000 President’s Society members by the end of 2025!
TSU Foundation: Atlanta Reception (June 2023) The second-quarter gathering took place in Atlanta, Georgia, partnered with the TSUNNA Southeastern Regional Chapter, and assembled a diverse group of attendees, including both current members and those interested in the advancement and leadership of Tennessee State University. During the event, the board unveiled the launch of the Capital Campaign, a strategic initiative aiming at ensuring sustainable success for the University. Board members also highlighted the successful efforts in bridging financial disparities for deserving students who have demonstrated dedication and hard work.
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TSU Foundation: Nashville Reception (September 2023) Gathering on the rooftop of TSU’s Health Sciences building, our September reception was a special occasion that brought together President Society members and their guests. They were united by our shared enthusiasm for the ongoing growth of your beloved University. During this event, we had the pleasure of introducing four new additions to our board: Laveil Allen, Alexis Johnson, April Robinson, and Rick Stevens. Each of them brings a wealth of unique perspectives that will be a great asset in continuing to enhance Tennessee State University’s future.
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F I N AN CIA L F O R ECAST F I N AN CIA L F O R ECAST
$98 million
The TSU Foundation represents $98 Million as of May 31, 2023
1,303
The Foundation have provided financial support to 1,303 students, totaling nearly $5.8M.
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During the spring semester, the Foundation provided financial assistance to 127 students with a GPA of 2.5 or above, who were experiencing hardship because of debt owed to the University.
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DID YOU KNOW The TSU Foundation represents $98 Million as of May 31, 2023. The Foundation has provided financial support to 1,303 students, totaling nearly $5.8M for fiscal year 2022-2023. During the spring semester, the Foundation provided financial assistance to 127 students with a GPA of 2.5 or above, who were experiencing hardship because of debt owed to the University. This was a new effort taken on behalf of the Board and Finance Committee. As a Foundation, we are only able to take actions like these because of the unwavering support of our alumni, friends, and supporters who have given generously to our scholarship program and in support of the mission of the University. Let’s continue to do our part and most importantly, encourage others as well. Together, we can help the program continue to grow and provide financial support to even more students. Encouraging others to join the President’s Society is an excellent way to help. It is the Finance Committee’s responsibility to ensure the financial health of the organization, and we appreciate all of the contributions from the TSU family we have received this year.. We are pleased with the number of scholarships distributed this fiscal year and believe that we are headed in the right direction to increase our overall support in the future.
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Our Board Laveil Allen Robert Blalock (Treasurer) Traci Otey Blunt James Claiborne Curtis Collier (Judge) Leslie Coleman Charles Galbreath, Jr. Dr. Glenda Glover (TSU President) Alexis Johnson Valerie Love (Chair) Roosevelt Luster III (Vice Chair) Amos-Leon’ Otis (Immediate Past Chair) Mario Payne Deddrick Perry Lesia Riddick (Secretary) April Robinson Reginald Shareef Cynthia Snyder Rick Stevens Charles Traughber Laron Walker
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Your Invitation to Excellence Becoming a President’s Society Supporter President’s Society members are instrumental in the mission to ensure the sustainability and growth of TSU, its students, and its programs. Their support transcends mere financial contributions; it represents a resounding endorsement of our dedication to excellence. To become a member of the President’s Society, individuals are asked to contribute a minimum of $1000 annually to the university fund of their choice. This collective generosity serves as the cornerstone of our ability to empower students, foster innovation in our programs, and drive meaningful change throughout our institution. We invite you to reflect on the TSU motto, “Think, Work, Serve.” Your contribution is not just a financial pledge; it’s a commitment to these ideals. By making a contribution this fiscal year, you are thinking about the future of TSU, working to empower the next generation of leaders, and serving as a beacon of inspiration for all. Your continued dedication to TSU exemplifies the spirit of the President’s Society, and we hope you will make a pledge to uphold our shared mission. Together, we will continue to think, work, and serve to create a brighter future for our university and its remarkable students. Thank you for your unwavering support, and we look forward to another year of transformative impact.
C L ICK H ERE
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