Dear TSU College of Agriculture Stakeholder,
April has arrived, the dogwoods are blooming and the beautiful TSUAg campus is alive with the spring semester. With graduation less than a month away, it's an exciting time on campus and its an exciting time for TSUAg in general.
From the continued progress on our new Food and Animal Sciences and Environmental Sciences buildings to the growth represented by our new Agribusiness wing in Humphries Hall, to the 13 different construction projects underway at our Agricultural Research and Education Center, our College continues to move forward in important ways. These successes reflect the energy, vision and hard work of our entire community.
This issue arrives to you a bit late, as TSUAg was locked in on the 22nd Association of 1890 Research Directors Research Symposium at the turn of the month. Read about that important event and more in this issue of the Land-Grant Ledger. Thank you for your support of TSUAg and for taking time to read this issue. I hope you enjoy these stories!
Sincerely,
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Dr. Chandra Reddy
Dean - Tennessee State University College of Agriculture
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The Winter '25-'26 Issue of AgLink is Out Now!
The latest issue of AgLink, the Tennessee State University College of Agriculture magazine, is out now. This edition highlights the people, programs and progress shaping TSUAg, with stories that reflect the College’s continued impact in academics, research, Extension and student success.
| | | | | Grad. Student Hughes Leads Impactful Tree Planting MLK Day of Service Event | |
Earlier this spring, the Tennessee State University College of Agriculture took part in an MLK Day of Service tree-planting event that brought together service, environmental stewardship, and student leadership. Led by graduate student Kaylin Hughes, the effort reflected the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by turning service into meaningful action for the campus community and beyond. Participants joined in planting more than 50 trees across campus, trees that will provide long-term environmental benefits while also serving as a visible reminder of the importance of caring for shared spaces.
The event also highlighted the hands-on learning and leadership opportunities that define the TSUAg experience. With Kaylin Hughes helping guide the effort, the project demonstrated how students in the College of Agriculture are applying their knowledge in ways that connect science, service and community impact. Tree planting is both symbolic and practical, supporting greener landscapes, stronger ecosystems, and a healthier future. TSUAg is grateful to everyone who participated in making the day a success and proud to see student leadership at the center of such meaningful work.
| |  | TSUAg Showcases Innovation, Outreach at Ag Day on the Hill at Capitol | |
Tennessee State University College of Agriculture had a strong presence at Tennessee Ag Day on the Hill in March, joining agricultural leaders and organizations from across the state at the Capitol for one of Tennessee’s longest-running agriculture advocacy events. Despite frigid morning temperatures, TSUAg faculty, staff and students brought energy and enthusiasm to the day, using the opportunity to highlight the College’s impact in academics, research, and Extension.
With five exhibit tables on site, TSUAg showcased a wide range of programs and experiences, from research and academic offerings to Extension outreach and work from the Otis L. Floyd Nursery Research Center.
Visitors had the chance to see innovative technology, interact with live poultry, and meet the students, faculty, and staff who help carry out the College’s land-grant mission across Tennessee. College leadership, including Dean Chandra Reddy and the associate deans, also took part in the day’s activities and attended the Tennessee Congressional Agriculture Committee meeting held that morning. The event offered a valuable chance to connect with lawmakers, agricultural stakeholders and industry partners.
| | TSUAg Advisory Board Meeting Highlights Progress, Partnership and Student Success | |
The Tennessee State University College of Agriculture was grateful to welcome members of its Advisory Board to campus in March for a meeting that highlighted both the College’s momentum and the strong partnership it shares with leaders across the agriculture industry. The visit offered board members a closer look at the people, programs, and priorities shaping TSUAg’s future, while also creating space for thoughtful discussion about opportunities ahead.
A major highlight of the visit was the tour of the new Food and Animal Science and Environmental Science facility currently under construction.
Board members were able to see firsthand the scale of the investment being made in the College’s teaching and research infrastructure and the exciting possibilities it will create for students, faculty, and programs in the years ahead. The meeting also featured presentations from students and Extension personnel, giving board members a meaningful look at the real-world impact of TSUAg’s land-grant mission. Together, the meeting and site visit underscored the value of industry engagement and the College’s continued commitment to academic excellence, applied research and service to communities across Tennessee.
| | | TSUAg Students Attend Farm Credit Mid-America Leadership Program | |
In March, TSUAg students traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, to take part in Farm Credit Mid-America’s Pathways to Professional Success program for MANRRS leaders. Joining students from other universities, the group spent two days engaged in learning, networking, and professional development designed to prepare emerging leaders for success in agriculture and beyond.
The program featured workshops and breakout sessions focused on communication, career readiness, financial skills, professional etiquette, and intentional networking. Students also had the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and build relationships with fellow student leaders from across the region.
Experiences like this play an important role in helping students grow beyond the classroom while expanding their understanding of the many career and leadership pathways within agriculture. TSUAg is thankful to Farm Credit Mid-America for investing in students through such a meaningful program and extends special thanks to Mike Tutt and Jeiel Ballard for helping lead and support the College’s contingent on the trip.
| | TSUAg Delivers During 22nd Association of 1890 Research Directors Research Symposium in New Orleans | | |
The Tennessee State University College of Agriculture was proud to be well represented at the 2026 Association of 1890 Research Directors Biennial Research Symposium in New Orleans, one of the premier research gatherings for the nation’s 1890 land-grant institutions. Held March 28 through 31 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, the symposium brought together researchers, students, and leaders from across the 1890 system to share new knowledge and highlight innovation in food, agriculture, health, and the environment. This year’s event was expected to draw more than 1,500 participants and feature more than 500 research papers and posters.
TSUAg showed up in a major way, with students, faculty, and staff contributing to the exchange of ideas that defines the symposium experience. The College’s presence also included leadership in a special session through Tennessee State University’s Center of Excellence for Land, Water and Resource Management, which highlighted cross-disciplinary research and collaboration across the 1890 network.
| | | Photo credits: Kelsey Whitefield | | TSUAg Welcomes Tennessee 4-H Congress
Participants to Campus During Nashville Visit | | |
In March, Tennessee State University helped welcome nearly 300 students from across the state for the 79th Tennessee 4-H Congress, held under the theme “Grow with Green.” While the annual event was based in Murfreesboro, delegates traveled to Nashville for important parts of the experience, including a visit to Tennessee State University’s Avon Williams Campus. There, students explored how municipal and state government function and took part in discussions about civic leadership and public service.
The visit helped bring the legislative process to life as students stepped into the roles of congressmen and senators, drafted their own legislation, and presented bills during a special session at the Tennessee State Capitol. Throughout the week, delegates also took part in service, history, and leadership activities across Middle Tennessee. TSUAg is grateful to support opportunities like Tennessee 4-H Congress that help young people build confidence, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of civic engagement.
| | Cumberland County Extension Brings Hands-On Learning to STEAM Night | |
TSU Extension in Cumberland County helped bring science to life for local students and families during a recent STEAM Night at North Cumberland Elementary School. Representing Tennessee State University were Sophie Hassler and Samantha, who introduced participants to 4-H programming through a fun, hands-on activity that combined creativity with scientific learning.
One highlight of the evening was a “101 Dalmatian slime” activity that gave students the chance to explore measurements, chemical reactions, and changes in physical properties in an engaging and memorable way. Events like this reflect the strength of TSU Extension’s community-centered approach, using interactive experiences to spark curiosity and connect young learners to science in ways that are both accessible and exciting. The College is grateful to its Extension professionals for continuing to create meaningful educational opportunities for youth and families across Tennessee.
| | | Franklin County 4-H Team Wins National Title at 4-H Soccer Cup | |
TSUAg proudly celebrates the Franklin County 4-H youth who returned from Washington, D.C., as National Champions in the National 4-H Soccer Cup. Their achievement came after competing against teams from across the country and pushing through a wide range of conditions, from warm sunshine to cold rain and near-freezing temperatures. Through it all, they stayed focused, supported one another, and earned a championship that reflects both talent and teamwork.
The experience offered much more than competition. Through Ignite by 4-H, students took part in leadership development, career exploration, and meaningful conversations about their futures. They also met with national leaders, including Dr. Jaye L. Hamby and National 4-H Council CEO Jill Bramble, while proudly representing Tennessee on a national stage. The trip included time to experience historic sites in the nation’s capital and a special Senior Signing recognizing five graduating participants. TSUAg also celebrates Hunter’s service on the National Design Team, helping shape the experience for youth from across the country. The Franklin County team comes home not only with a national title, but with new confidence, broader perspective and lasting memories.
| | White County 4-H Air Rifle Team Earns Top Honors at State Jamboree | |
TSU Extension proudly celebrates the White County 4-H Air Rifle Team following an outstanding showing at the recent Air Rifle Jamboree. The junior team captured first place in the state, with three junior members finishing among the top 10 competitors.
White County also saw one senior team member earn a top 10 finish in the senior division, marking an impressive weekend for the program.
The achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of the youth participants as well as the strong support system behind them. TSUAg extends special thanks to volunteers Terry and Kelly Speck for their leadership, time, and commitment to helping these young people grow through 4-H shooting sports. The College is proud of the White County team for representing their community so well and demonstrating the focus, discipline, and teamwork that define 4-H at its best.
| | | Cheatham County 4-H Shooting Sports Members Shine at State Jamboree | |
After months of preparation, Cheatham County 4-H members turned in a strong performance at the State 4-H Jamboree in both BB and air rifle competition. The Tennessee 4-H Shooting Sports Program helps youth build confidence, focus, responsibility, and STEM-based skills through safe, hands-on instruction, and Cheatham County’s students put those lessons into action.
Cheatham County brought 10 youth competitors in BB and four in air rifle. In the written test on shooting knowledge and safety, Isaac Knox and Silas Chandler each earned a perfect score, and every local participant scored above an 80. In air rifle, first-time competitor Evelyn Terrell placed 10th in the state and earned an invitation to the Tennessee Invitational, a qualifying event for the National 4-H Shooting Sports competition. TSUAg is also grateful for the county’s dedicated volunteers, whose leadership continues to support youth success.
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New Season of the Tennessee New Farmer Academy
Gets Underway Across the State
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A new season of the Tennessee New Farmer Academy got underway in March, launching another seven-month journey for new and beginning farmers across the state. The long-running TSU program continues to provide practical training for agricultural entrepreneurs through a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on learning, and guidance from agricultural professionals. TSU’s 2026 registration materials show the academy’s workshops cover topics such as business planning, agricultural production practices, marketing, regulations, and farm equipment, all designed to help participants build strong foundations for successful farm enterprises.
As one of the College’s signature Extension programs, the Tennessee New Farmer Academy reflects TSUAg’s commitment to supporting the next generation of producers with knowledge, confidence, and community. The College is grateful to the faculty, Extension personnel and program partners who continue to invest in new farmers and help strengthen agriculture across Tennessee.
| | Academic Departments at the College of Agriculture: | |
About Tennessee State University
For 110 years, the Tennessee State University College of Agriculture has advanced the land-grant mission through excellence in teaching, research, Extension and service. The college offers two undergraduate degrees with multiple concentrations, four master’s programs and one Ph.D. program, supported by 37 state-of-the-art research laboratories and three working research farms, including one on TSU’s Nashville campus. Through hands-on learning, innovation and outreach, the college prepares future leaders and delivers solutions that strengthen agriculture, communities and the environment. Visit tnstate.edu/agriculture for more details.
| | TSU-26-153(A)-12a-17095 – Tennessee State University is an EEO employer. | | | | |
