InsideTSU - May 11, 2022 (Corrected Links)

Welcome to InsideTSU, the weekly newsletter of Texas Southern University!

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

(NOTE: SEVERAL LINKS WERE NOT WORKING PROPERLY IN THE ORIGINAL SENDOUT AND HAVE BEEN FIXED. WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE!)

SPECIAL COMMENCEMENT EDITION

891 Tiger graduates to cross stage at Spring Commencement

Saturday, May 14, marks Commencement Day at Texas Southern University. Not only is it a day of transformation for our graduating students, but it is also the first Spring Commencement at TSU for President Lesia L. Crumpton-Young. For this special Commencement edition of InsideTSU, we take a look at our our valedictorian and salutatorian, the ceremony speaker, Kenny Smith, as well as the special hooding ceremonies conducted by the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, both of which take place on the eve of Commencement - Friday, May 13.

There will be two ceremonies on Commencement Day, the first at 8:30 a.m. and the second at 12:30 p.m., both in the Health & Physical Education Building. The 8:30 a.m. ceremony includes graduates of the Jesse H. Jones School of Business, Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, College of Liberal Arts & Behavioral Sciences, and Thurgood Marshall School of Law. The 12:30 p.m. ceremony includes the School of Communications, College of Education, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, and College of Science, Engineering & Technology.

For those unable to attend either Commencement ceremony, they will be livestreamed on the TSU website. For more information about TSU’s Spring 2022 Commencement, visit http://www.tsu.edu/commencement/.

Congratulations to all of our graduates, as well as the faculty, staff and administration who contributed to their success.

TSU valedictorian is a storyteller – with an inspirational story of her own

Ashley Gillis loves telling a story. So much so, that she is making a career out of it.

The senior radio, television and film (RTF) major, who was recently announced as Texas Southern University’s valedictorian for the Spring 2022 graduating class, will travel to Bristol, CT, headquarters of ESPN, next month to become an audio operator for the international cable sports channel.

“I hope to someday become a senior producer,” said Gillis, who prefers working behind the camera rather than in front of it. “I love creating content and combining audio and video to make a story engaging.”

It is the start of a dream come true for Gillis, a Houston native who graduated from Westside High School in 2013. Her aspiration to become a musician took an unexpected turn after she initially enrolled in a small, private, music-focused college on the East Coast. She lost her drive to pursue music during her first semester, ultimately leaving school and taking a series of part-time jobs that “were more focused on making money rather than shaping a career,” she said.

Five years later, with a renewed interest in broadcast journalism, Gillis enrolled at Texas Southern University and hasn’t looked back.

“During that five-year break, I found myself,” she said. “I grew and matured, and it gave me perspective that I otherwise wouldn’t have.”

In addition to graduating Summa Cum Laude with an impressive 3.94 grade point average, Gillis has taken advantage of the many resources and opportunities that the University offers to its students. In 2019, she was selected to serve as an intern with ABC News during the Democratic Presidential Debate that was held on campus. Throughout her time at TSU, she has worked at KTSU2, a student-run radio station that has given her experience as a production manager, incorporating audio and video in her work. She also worked as a producer and editor for a local show called “The Yard,” hosted by fellow TSU student Janathan Henson.

"As the production director for KTSU2, I really get the freedom to create whatever content I can imagine and post it whenever I like," said Gillis. "It was the greatest practice tool I could have ever asked for."

Gillis credits several professors who assisted her along the way.

"Professor Val Wilson and Cliff McBean really helped to mold my creative style. Val taught me the ins and outs of radio and always encouraged me to do more. McBean not only taught me how to edit, but also how to create my own style. I can’t forget about Professor Arthur Murray who gave me some direction and motivation.

“TSU has provided so much for me,” added Gillis. “It is a special place, and it has helped me grow professionally and personally. I will tell anyone, especially those just getting their start at TSU, to make a plan in your mind and then execute it. Keep going and get to the next level. It (your plan) may come in small pieces, but don’t be afraid. It will happen if you pursue it.”

When she walks across the stage as one of 891 graduates at Commencement on Saturday, Gillis will have fond memories of TSU.

"I had an interest in sports media and my parents told me that TSU would be a good option because it has a great communications program. So, I just went all in. On the very first day I remember sitting in a classroom with nothing but people that looked like me and that made me feel really warm. From that moment, I knew I was in the right place."

TSU salutatorian means business as she pursues her career ambitions

When faced with adversity, such as a global pandemic that impacted three of her four years at Texas Southern University, graduating senior Joy Lewis found transitioning from in-person to online to hybrid instruction a challenge. However, with the help of her professors, she was able to overcome and succeed.

Succeed, indeed. This Saturday, Lewis will graduate Summa Cum Laude as TSU’s salutatorian with a 3.92 grade point average.

“It (the pandemic) caused a lot of transition,” said Lewis. “Not only was it new for us students, but for the faculty as well. But our instructors made it work. They want us to succeed, and during my time at TSU, I really feel like we became a close-knit family.”

Lewis is a management major who will receive a Bachelor of Business Administration degree when she crosses the stage during TSU’s Spring 2022 Commencement ceremony. She plans to continue her education at TSU in the fall as she pursues a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) degree. Her goal is to become a training and development manager for a company, working in a human resources department.

“I want to help trainers and employees become better through professional development,” said Lewis, who says her human resources classes were her favorites. “They helped me to understand how business works in corporate America – and how important it is to develop people.”

Lewis isn’t all business, however. During her four years at TSU, she found time to get involved in a variety of organizations and activities. She served as treasurer for the TSU Dance Company, financial secretary for the Delta Gamma chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority during her senior year, and was a member of Baptist Student Ministry.

Her favorite activity at TSU was SpringFest in 2022.

“As part of the ‘Divine 9’ through my sorority, as well as helping to plan SpringFest, there was a sense of unity among the organizations that was unmatched. We were all doing something for a common cause. It was very special.”

Lewis, who attended Garland Lakeview Centennial High School outside of Dallas, has always had an idea that she wanted to pursue a career in business. Several instructors helped to reinforce those aspirations.

“My Principles of Accounting professor (Dr. Joseph Boyd) and my Business Law instructor (Mr. William Saunders) both pushed their students to succeed,” said Lewis. “They were always there to help, and they gave really good life advice, which allowed me to grow as a leader. They became my mentors.”

Lewis has some words of wisdom for underclassmen at TSU working to achieve academic excellence: “It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to admit what you don’t know. It’s not okay, however, to give up.”

Houston Rockets legend and NBA on TNT analyst Kenny Smith to serve as Spring 2022 Commencement speaker

Texas Southern University has announced the speaker for the Spring 2022 Commencement ceremony will be Houston Rockets great Kenny Smith.

“Texas Southern University is pleased that Kenny Smith will be on our campus to deliver an inspirational keynote address for commencement,” said President Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young. “He has excelled on the screen as a commentator for TNT, on the court as an NBA championship-winning point guard, and in the classroom at the University of North Carolina. He demonstrates his commitment to the advancement of HBCUs and TSU every time he uses his platform, increasing the exposure of HBCUs and elevating the profile of our institutions to his audience. Just as he’s been outstanding, the students he will address are outstanding in their disciplinary fields. It is our pleasure to welcome him to our esteemed campus.”

Earlier this week, Smith opened a special "Commencement speaker invitation box" on the Inside the NBA studio set, recorded on video and shared via TSU social media. The box was filled with TSU swag, as well as his Commencement cap and gown.

Smith, known as “The Jet,” won back-to-back NBA World Championships with the Houston Rockets in 1994 and 1995. He played nine seasons in the NBA for the Rockets, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings, and Atlanta Hawks. Smith is the Rockets’ all-time leader in three-point field goal percentage. Prior to his successful career in the NBA, he played college basketball at the University of North Carolina and graduated in 1987 with a degree in Industrial Relations (Economics).

“To have a speaker of Mr. Smith’s caliber who excelled academically, succeeded in his career, and thrives in a second career while remaining committed to the Houston community is an excellent opportunity for our graduates,” said Dr. Lillian B. Poats, acting Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “We are excited about the encouragement, motivation and enthusiasm he will provide our graduates as they move from college to career.”

For the last 21 years, Smith has served as an Analyst for TNT’s Inside the NBA. In 2021, he received the National Civil Rights Museum Sports Legacy Award for his dedication and contributions to civil and human rights, the social justice movement, and for laying the foundation for future leaders through their careers in sports.

"I’m excited to be the commencement speaker at Texas Southern University this year,” said Smith. “Hopefully I will provide some insight to our future world leaders to help them navigate through their future journeys. As an Historically Black University, Texas Southern University has always been at the forefront of positive change and I hope to influence that change in the graduates."

Hooding ceremonies mark finish line for graduates of Thurgood Marshall School of Law, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

Thurgood Marshall School of Law and the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences will hold hooding ceremonies for their graduates in separate events Friday evening.

The TMSL Hooding Ceremony, commemorating the successful completion of juris doctor degree requirements by the graduates, begins at 6 p.m on Friday, May 13, in H&PE Arena, with the Honorable Chukwe Antar Lumumba, major of Jackson, MS, as the featured speaker. The Hooding Ceremony will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person, with the link to be provided on the TMSL website.

After graduating from TMSL in 2008, Lumumba returned to Jackson, MS, to serve with his late father, former Mayor Chokwe Lumumba at Lumumba, Freelon, and Associates. He litigated criminal and civil cases and represented various sports and entertainment clients for the firm. In 2013, he launched his own firm—Lumumba and Associates—a firm “Dedicated to Community. Invested in Justice.” Lumumba has a history of pro bono work as part of his commitment to providing community members with quality representation regardless of the ability to pay. He is a member of the Mississippi Bar Association as well as the Magnolia Bar Association.

On July 3, 2017, Lumumba became the 53rd mayor of the City of Jackson. He was 34 years old, making him the youngest mayor in Jackson’s history.

The COPHS Hooding and Culmination Ceremony for the Class of 2022 will be held Friday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m. in Sawyer Auditorium. Graduates will be recognized and masters and doctoral candidates will receive their hoods.

The keynote address will be given by TSU alumnus Alexander C. Okwonna, Pharm.D., M.Ed., who currently serves as Provost of San Jacinto College - North Campus. Dr. Okwonna has been with San Jacinto College since 2005, initially as a professor, then serving as program director of the Pharmacy Technician program, department chair of Health Sciences, and dean of Health and Natural Sciences.

Republic Airways becomes latest to partner with TSU Aviation Science program

In what has been a year filled with new, exciting partnerships for TSU's Aviation Science and Professional Pilot program, Republic Airways has designated $20,000 for student scholarships.

"It is with great pleasure that we accept your contribution to our program," said Dr. Terence Fontaine, TSU's director of aviation. "TSU aviation strives to be best in class in terms of programming and student success. We understand partnerships are an essential part of making these goals a reality. This gift from Republic Airways will go directly to four student's pursuit of their four-year degree in either Aviation Science Management or Aviation Science Management, Professional Pilot."

Pictured presenting the scholarship check to TSU President Lesia L. Crumpton-Young are (holding the check, l. to r.): Bradley Murphy, Republic Airway's campus recruiter; Darrell Morton, Jr., Republic Airway's senior manager of diversity programs and education; TSU President Crumpton-Young; and Rhonda Arnold, chief community relations officer with Houston Airports. Also pictured are TSU aviation students, program advisory committee members, faculty and administration.

Founded in 1974 and based in Indianapolis, IN, Republic Airways is one of the largest regional airlines in the U.S. Republic operates a fleet of 200 Embraer 170/175 aircraft and offers scheduled passenger service with nearly 1,000 daily flights to 100 cities in 40 U.S. states, Canada, the Caribbean and Central America.

"TSU in the News" snapshot:

TSU mentioned as partner in course sharing initiative by University Business magazine (May 5):

TSU poll from School of Public Affairs highlights issues important to Black Texans (May 4):

Dr. Michael Adams gives perspective on state representative special election (May 8):

Photo gallery from the Inaugural President's Tiger Ball (May 3):

Congressional Black Caucus meets at University Museum, announces $50 million fundraising goal (May 9):

TSU Jazz Combo, Ensemble earn honors at national HBCU jazz festival

The Texas Southern University Jazz Combo and Jazz Ensemble participated in a competitive national HBCU jazz festival put together by Carter’s Jazz Clinics. The jazz ensemble took second place in the Big Band category and the jazz combo placed first in the Small Group category.

The competition included jazz ensembles from the top HBCUs across the nation. The festival also featured clinics from some of the top performers in the country including Wynton Marsalis, Vincent Gardner, Camille Thurman and Wyclef Gordon. Some of the presentations included the history of jazz at HBCUs and the importance of continuing that legacy today.

Also featured at the clinic were speeches by relatives of the great Miles Davis and Clark Terry. Not only were the students able to showcase their talents but they were also able to receive mentorship from some of the top performers in the world and make connections with their peers across HBCU institutions.

“I think that, coming out of the pandemic where there are so many opportunities to come up short yet going on to compete and win on a national level, really speaks to the professionalism and dedication of the students in the ensembles," said Dr. Brian Perez, director of Jazz Studies at TSU (pictured above, front/center, with members of the TSU Jazz Ensemble). "I couldn’t be more proud of my students.”

TSU students eligible for summer scholarship from Thurgood Marshall College Fund

TSU students interested in attending summer classes at the University and in need of scholarship support have a resource to assist with funding. Interested students should apply to the 2021-2022 Thurgood Marshall College Fund's (TMCF) Summer School All-Around Scholarship. This scholarship is open to students meeting the following criteria:

Attending an HBCU
Enrolled in school for the 2021-2022 Summer School
Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Any Major
Have a current cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher
Be a U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident with a valid permanent resident card or passport stamped I-551.

The scholarship application closes on Monday, May 16, 2022, at 11 a.m. For more information, visit the TMCF scholarship information/application page.

10th annual Tiger Camp registration underway

The Department of Campus Recreation & Wellness is set to host its annual Tiger CAMPus Rec summer camp in June and July.

The summer camp has reached a new milestone, celebrating 10 years of Tiger Camp. It is an activities camp geared toward keeping youth active and away from their electronic devices.

The camp dates are from June 6-July 29. Campers can reserve their spot today by submitting a camp application and placing payment in-person or visiting our website. Faculty and staff may utilize payroll deduction forms, which must be submitted by May 15 (restrictions may apply).

The Open House for the summer camps is June 2, at 6:30 p.m., with the camp session dates as follows:

Session 1 June 6-10

Session 2 June 13-17

Session 3 June 20-24

Session 4 June 27-July 1

Session 5 July 5-8 (No Camp on July 4th)

Session 6 July 11-15

Session 7 July 18-22

Session 8 July 25-29

Age Groups:

Group 1 5-8 (Crazy Cubs)

Group 2 9-11 (Raging Tigers)

Group 3 12-14 (Sabers)

If you have any further questions on our camp, please use this link for all your tiger camp inquires: Tiger Camp Registration Link.

Contact the Campus Rec department txsucampusrec@tsu.edu or call the summer camp hotline at 713.313.1845.

TSU alumna and dedicated researcher marks 50 years of service with the federal government

In April, one of the National Human Genome Research Institute’s (NHGRI) founding staff members and current leaders, Bettie Graham, Ph.D., celebrated 50 years of service in the federal government. NHGRI is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the largest biomedical research agency in the world.

Graham has been a member of the NHGRI Extramural Research Program since its inception, becoming deeply woven into the fabric of all aspects of NHGRI’s extramural operations. It is hard to overstate the importance of her contributions to NHGRI’s successes over many years.

Graham graduated from Texas Southern University with a B.S. degree in Biology in 1962. At that time, Dr. Robert Terry, former TSU president and for whom the Terry Library was named, was chairman of the department.

"On April 24, 2022, I celebrated 50 years of federal government service - two years as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Nigeria teaching math and the remaining years as an employee at the National Institutes of Health (NIH)

At NIH, Graham first served as a Postdoctoral Fellow and then as an extramural program manager.

"TSU provided my springboard to a fruitful career in science," said Graham.

More information about her story can be found here.

Photo courtesy of the National Institute of Health.

Former Tiger basketball standout invited to NBA G League Elite Camp

Brison Gresham, a member of TSU's basketball team from 2019-2022, was recently invited to participate in the NBA's G League Elite Camp later this month in Chicago, IL. The NBA G League is the NBA's official minor league, preparing players, coaches, officials, trainers, and front-office staff for the NBA.

Gresham, who led the Tigers in rebounding and blocks this past season, helped TSU earn a SWAC championship and NCAA Tournament berth. He was also selected to play in the HBCU All-Star Game held in New Orleans, LA, in April, where he was one of the top performers in the game.