FOUNDATION FORWARD
TSU’s Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute: Transforming the Future of Health Care
The Impact of Giving: How the TSU Foundation Supports Student Success in Agriculture
BOARD OUR
Laveil Allen, M.D.
Robert Blalock (Treasurer)
Traci Otey Blunt
James Claiborne (Vice Chair)
Hon. Curtis Collier
Leslie Coleman
Brandon Foley
Charles Galbreath, Jr.
David Green
Curtis Hollis
Alexis Johnson
Andrella Kenner
Katrina Kerr (TSUNAA President)
Valerie Love (Chair)
Roosevelt Luster III
Amos-Leon’ Otis (Immediate Past Chair)
Mario Payne
Deddrick Perry
Lesia Riddick (Secretary)
April Robinson
Reginald Shareef
Cynthia Snyder
Rick Stevens
Charles Traughber
Dwayne Tucker (Interim TSU President)
Laron Walker
LETTER from
the CHAIR
Greetings TSU Alumni, Family and Friends,
Spring is a season of renewal and celebration, and at Tennessee State University, it marks one of the most exciting times of the year—graduation season! In just a few weeks, our students will walk across the stage, proudly receiving their diplomas, ready to embark on new journeys. These moments are made possible through the unwavering support of our alumni and friends, who believe in the power of a TSU education.
As we prepare to welcome a new class of graduates into our esteemed alumni network, I encourage you to reflect on the impact TSU has had on your life. Your generosity has helped pave the way for countless students, ensuring they have access to scholarships, resources, and opportunities that shape their future.
This April, I invite you to continue this tradition of giving by making a gift to the TSU Foundation. Every contribution, no matter the size, strengthens our university and empowers the next generation of leaders. Together, we can ensure that our students achieve their dreams and carry forward the legacy of excellence that defines TSU.
Join us in celebrating our graduates and in making a lasting difference. Your support matters now more than ever.
Make your gift today and be a part of their success!
Warm regards,
Valerie R. Love
Valerie R. Love Chair, Tennessee State University Foundation Board of Directors
Cultivating Success: TSU’s Role in Shaping Agricultural Leaders
The Tennessee State University Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping the futures of its students, providing essential financial support that enables them to focus on their academic and professional growth. Associate Dean for Academics and Land Grant Programs in the College of Agriculture, Dr. De’Etra Young, emphasizes that scholarships make education more accessible and improve student retention, ensuring that more students achieve their degrees.
Beyond financial support, TSU fosters an environment that nurtures student success in various ways. With over a decade of experience at TSU, Dr. Young has witnessed numerous students flourish. One standout example is Alexius Dingle, a first-generation student who actively participated in student organizations, conducted undergraduate research, and successfully transitioned from a bachelor’s degree to a Ph.D. at Texas A&M. She exemplifies the well-rounded, academically excellent students that TSU produces. Alumni such as Kourtney Daniels, Justus Watson, and Justin McKinnie have also gone on to achieve success in their respective fields, demonstrating the lasting impact of their time at TSU.
For many students, TSU represents more than just a university; it is a place that provides stability, community, and a pathway to a better future. According to Leigh Oliver, the
Interim Student Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator, many students view TSU as a transformative experience that has steered them away from potential hardships and provided them with invaluable personal and professional development.
Alumni support is critical in maintaining and expanding these opportunities for students. Contributions from former students help shape future leaders, breaking financial barriers and ensuring that students have access to crucial resources. Donations directly fund professional development opportunities, scholarships, and networking experiences that prepare students for their careers beyond TSU. Transparency in fund allocation is a priority, assuring donors that their contributions are making a meaningful difference.
Giving back to TSU is more than a donation; it is an investment in future generations. Alumni and stakeholders alike play a pivotal role in fostering the next wave of leaders across various fields, including agriculture, business, and beyond. Whether through financial contributions or mentorship, their involvement ensures that TSU continues to cultivate excellence and create opportunities for students to thrive.
TSU’s Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute: Transforming the Future of Health Care
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep challenges within the American healthcare system, including a significant shortage of medical professionals from underrepresented backgrounds. These shortages contribute to gaps in healthcare access and outcomes, including higher mortality rates and limited trust in medical care.
Tennessee State University is working to address this issue through the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute and its Medical/Dental Accelerated Pathway Program. Established in 2020, the program creates a clear and supportive pathway for students to pursue careers in medicine and dentistry, helping to strengthen the healthcare system by increasing the number of highly trained professionals.
ADDRESSING THE HEALTHCARE GAP
The shortage of doctors and dentists contributes to lower healthcare access and poorer health outcomes in many communities. For example, many infants die before their first birthday, and these communities often face barriers to receiving preventive care and treatment.
Expanding the pool of medical and dental professionals is critical to improving healthcare outcomes nationwide. TSU’s Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute is helping to meet this need by preparing students with the academic foundation, professional training, and financial support needed to succeed in medical and dental fields.
TSU’S LEADERSHIP IN HEALTHCARE EDUCATION
TSU has a long-standing tradition of preparing students for successful professional careers. The Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute is designed for highly motivated students interested in earning an M.D. or D.D.S. degree. Students selected for the program spend three years completing a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biology at TSU’s College of Life and Physical Sciences. After graduation, they can pursue medical or dental degrees at partnering institutions, including Sidney Kimmel Medical College in Philadelphia, Meharry Medical College and the newest partnership Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine in Nashville.
The University’s partnership with Meharry Medical College, which dates back more than 50 years, has produced hundreds of successful medical and dental professionals. The partnership allows for five students to attend medical school and five students to attend dental school. Frist College of Medicine will admit five students, and Sidney Kimmel will admit two students. These partnerships and collaborations ensure that students receive the training and guidance necessary to excel in healthcare.
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT FOR FUTURE MEDICAL LEADERS
The Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute provides students with a structured support system designed to help them succeed academically and professionally. The program includes five key components:
• Accelerated Pathway Program – Allows students to complete their undergraduate degree in three years and transition into medical or dental school.
• Healthcare Scholars Program – Provides financial and academic support to help students focus on their studies and career goals.
• Society and Lecture Series – Offers mentoring, professional development, and networking opportunities with healthcare professionals.
• Endowed Scholarship – Reduces financial barriers by covering tuition, housing, meals, and other expenses.
• Commitment to Service – Encourages graduates to work in underserved communities, expanding healthcare access.
“By covering the cost of tuition and living expenses, the program allows students to focus fully on their academic and professional development. Reducing financial stress and ensuring graduates are well-prepared for medical school.”
- Dean Barbara Murrell
HONORING DR. LEVI WATKINS, JR.’S LEGACY
Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. was a pioneer in medicine whose achievements opened doors for countless others. After earning a degree in biology from The University, he became the first Black student to attend and graduate from Vanderbilt University Medical School. He later performed the world’s first successful implantation of an automatic heart defibrillator at Johns Hopkins Hospital in 1980.
In addition to his groundbreaking medical achievements, Dr. Watkins was a passionate advocate for expanding opportunities in healthcare. His efforts at Johns Hopkins helped increase minority representation in the medical program by 400%, leaving a lasting impact on the healthcare field. TSU’s institute reflects his commitment to excellence, innovation, and mentorship.
Support the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute
You can make a meaningful impact by supporting the Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute in the following ways:
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE
The Dr. Levi Watkins, Jr. Institute is more than an academic program — it’s a strategic effort to strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve healthcare outcomes across the country. By preparing the next generation of doctors, dentists and public health professionals, TSU is helping to close healthcare gaps and build a stronger, more effective medical system.
With a solid academic foundation, comprehensive financial support, and a focus on service, TSU is equipping students to become leaders in healthcare. The next generation of medical professionals is already taking shape — and it starts at Tennessee State University.
Recruit Students – Encourage students in your area to apply for the Accelerated Pathway Program and help expand the pipeline of diverse medical professionals.
Give to the Institute – Make a gift to the Levi Watkins Institute through the Tennessee State University Foundation. No gift is too small, and every contribution makes a difference. Donors will be recognized on the program’s website as a Friend of the Program.
Maximize Your Impact – Check with your employer to see if they offer matching donations to amplify your support.
Mark Your Calendars!
The Foundation is excited to announce that the “Land of Golden Sunshine” is being held biannually. The next gathering is scheduled for Coming Home Weekend, April 10-12, and it promises to be even more impactful.
Get ready for the next chapter of inspiration and impact this spring! Building on the success of the recent event, the upcoming gathering will once again bring together scholars, donors, and board members for engaging sessions, transformative learning, and unparalleled networking opportunities. This event will serve as a platform to strengthen relationships, share new insights, and celebrate the collective impact of our community’s generosity.
In addition to the biannual event, the Foundation plans to introduce new ways for donors and students to engage throughout the year. On-campus seminars and smaller receptions will provide intimate settings for meaningful conversations and
foster stronger relationships within the university community. These gatherings will allow donors to witness the direct impact of their support while giving students valuable opportunities to network and learn from successful alumni and benefactors.
Stay tuned for more details as we continue our journey of empowering futures and creating meaningful connections. We can’t wait to see you there!
TSU Foundation Hosts Successful President’s Society Reception in Dallas
The TSU Foundation, in partnership with the TSU Alumni Association, proudly hosted the March President’s Society Reception in Dallas.
The event served two key purposes: to express gratitude to donors who contribute $1,000 or more annually and to engage prospective members to help grow and diversify the TSU Foundation. Expanding the President’s Society is a strategic priority, with a goal of reaching 2,000 members by the end of 2025.
This growth is vital to increasing the Foundation’s capacity to award more scholarships, providing financial support to deserving students and empowering them to succeed academically. Strengthening the President’s Society will enhance the University’s ability to foster a thriving, inclusive academic community.
The Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this event. Your support continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of TSU students.
Financial Forecast
The Tennessee State University Foundation continues to make remarkable strides, reaching an impressive $120 million in endowment funds as of December 2024. This milestone underscores a strong commitment to supporting TSU students and advancing the Foundation’s mission. These funds are managed with strategic foresight, ensuring sustainable growth and alignment with the Foundation’s core values.
As members of the President’s Society, there is great excitement in sharing an update on the Foundation’s progress in enhancing student support and fostering campus development.
STRATEGIC FUND MANAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY
Last year, the Foundation made several key allocations, including support for the “Close the Gap” initiative, which directly addresses student indebtedness. Every decision is made with a focus on maintaining strong oversight and transparency.
Additionally, the Foundation is expanding its impact by establishing new endowed scholarships providing even more opportunities for deserving students.
CALL TO ACTION
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025
As the Foundation moves into Spring 2025, its commitment to strong governance and financial stewardship remains unwavering. Key initiatives for the upcoming year include:
Enhancing financial policies and improving documentation for greater transparency
Continuing collaboration with university leadership to ensure that priorities remain aligned with the evolving needs of students
Persisting in efforts to grow the endowment and expand scholarship opportunities
Now, more than ever, the Foundation invites alumni to engage by joining the President’s Society. By expanding this network of dedicated supporters, we can further strengthen our ability to empower students and ensure their success for years to come.
Thank you for your unwavering generosity and commitment to TSU. Together, we are making a lasting, meaningful impact on the lives of students and setting the stage for their success for generations.
The Tennessee State University Foundation is the official charitable organization authorized to accept private contributions for Tennessee State University. Established in 1970, the mission of the Tennessee State University Foundation is to promote and support literary, scientific, educational, scholarship, research, charitable and development purposes and goals at Tennessee State University.
The Foundation is designated as a 501(c)(3) organization by the Internal Revenue Service and is therefore authorized to issue tax-deductible receipts for charitable donations received to support Tennessee State University. Gift acknowledgements are mailed out promptly for all contributions received.
