This Year We Are Honoring 10 Years Of
Tennessee State University Royalty from 1999-2009
1999-2000
SGA President - Reginald Shariff
Mr. TSU - Reginald Shariff
As the youngest African American male in Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Business Development, Reginald Shareef consistently delivers results by bringing new business and innovative solutions to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Marietta, GA. Due to his efforts, Reginald has assisted in the capture of $1 billion worth of business, contributing to the biggest backlog in the history of the C-130J program. Currently, he serves as the domestic and international deputy/integrator, responsible for serving the United States Armed Forces & Africa Region. Reginald is a mission-focused professional, seeking to enhance his contribution to society by utilizing his breadth of knowledge to develop win-win solutions for customers, and demonstrate his learning agility. From his vast technical achievements to his considerable contributions to both engineering and business development, Reginald continuously demonstrates his ability to help shape the future of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics and stands out as one of the most considerable talents in our organization.
Mr. Shareef is a graduate of the Business Leadership Development Program, Engineering Leadership Development Program, and is currently in the EDGE Program. His excellent blend of communication, leadership, and technical skills helps LM solve the complex business problems of today.
Throughout his academic and professional careers, Reginald has seized every opportunity to serve others. While at Tennessee State University (95-00), he was not only the University’s Student Government President (99-00), and Mr. Tennessee State University (98-99), but Honorary Member of The Student Union Board of Governors, Chairman of the University Peer Counselors, Founder of Men of W.U.A.N., and Pep Club President. In 1999, Reginald founded the Tennessee State University Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. and currently serves as the fraternity’s Marketing Deputy and Chair on a national platform.
After achieving the University Honors Program Scholarship and completing his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a minor emphasis in Communications at Tennessee State University, Reginald continued his service in the community and currently fosters youth development at throughout the country. Since 2000, Reginald has served in various capacities:
Professionally, Reginald is known for his enthusiasm, proactive approach and unique ability to connect with people. Over the years, he has established some very positive mentoring relationships with several senior corporate executives as well as customer officials and continues to mentor other young engineers through sponsored programs and other local and national community organizations. His passion and commitment to diversity has also resulted in him being credited for increasing the representation of minorities and females in the workplace. Through his involvement at national and collegiate events, he has directly recruited over ten new hires from Tennessee State University to Lockheed Martin within the past several years.
For most of his life, Reginald has always dared to be different. His passion for helping others and belief in a limitless existence is reflected in every area of his life as he effortlessly manages the challenging roles of husband, father of Jaida, engineer, businessman, musician/artist, leader, mentor, teacher and community activist. From his numerous professional honors and awards to mentoring at-risk males and facilitating artistic expression and cultural development for youth through music, Reginald continues to exhibit the values and behaviors of a true role model and illustrates what it really means to live a life of authenticity.
He currently writes and performs progressive hip-hop around the world with his “Emcees with Degrees Movement”. He serves as the CEO/Partner of the label “Tri-State-Unitainment”. His music can be purchased and heard at: www.coolmill.net and www.tristateunitainment.com. He has made a serious impact on the lives of young adults and parents, as this progressive hip-hop movement gains steam. His newest project “Diverse-City” is a masterpiece, and is sure to make TSU proud.
He also owns his own company called “One Stop Shop Consultants”, where he specializes in Real Estate, Finance, and Marketing. He is an active Realtor in the State of Georgia, and works to serve friends, family, and clients in the Real Estate business. He can be reached at onestopconsultants@earthlink.net.
Miss TSU - Myshel (Robinson) Wilkins
Myshel made her debut as a singer at the tender age of seven. Today she has emerged as a multi-dimensional artist, having penned dozens of insightful songs designed to move the listener. "Music is a beautiful gift, but it must be used wisely," reveals the Kentucky native. "Music is too powerful. It has to say something and speak life." A life filled with culture carried her on travels abroad with her missionary father and Ghanaian mother. She graced the stage, singing in countries such as Trinidad & Tobago, El Salvador, Venezuela, Johannesburg and Ghana.
Myshel has won many crowns-not for the glamour-but to inspire thousands of women to look beyond the surface and see a radiant queen inside themselves. Myshel reigned as Miss Tennessee State University and in that same year, she received the title of Miss National Alumni Hall of Fame after competing against queens from the nation's top Historically Black Universities and Colleges. As her love, people and music grew she caught the attention of several opportunities. Myshel has worked with Kelly Price and toured as a background singer for R&B singer Tamia and American Idol's Mandisa Hundley.
Myshel creates from the soul. The music world eagerly awaits the rich colorful sounds of Myshel. The stage is set. The curtain is up and into the spotlight steps an illustrious, gifted musical gem. Her electrifying lyrics echo truth and spark untapped emotion. She is honest, focused and completley Relentless...
2000-2001
SGA President - Chris Berry
Chris J. Berry attended Tennessee State University where he graduated with a degree in Business Information Systems. During his matriculation at TSU he served in a number of student leadership postions. In particular, he served as a student leader in the Honors program and as SGA President for the student body. Chris is a faithful member of the Schrader Lane Church where he has completed missionary work in Belize, Central America and Nigeria, Africa.
Chris has added to his academic achievements by completing graduate work at Belmont University where he earned a Master of Business Administration. Today he currently works at Caterpillar Financial as an IT Analyst and is the Polemarch of the Hendersonville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Within the fraternity, Chris has served in various leadership positions and committees. He was the Chair for the South Central Province C. Roger Wilson Leadership Conference and is the current SCP Political and Social Action Chair.
Chris has always enjoyed traveling and meeting new people from all walks of life. His aspiration and interests include: project management, event planning, developing youth in preparation for tomorrow and actively pursuing opportunities in real estate as an affiliate agent.
For projects that Chris is working on, click the following links: www.progressivenupes.com, www.smoothjazzerlythornton.eventbrite.com, www.kappac.org
Mr. TSU - Tony Forte
Tony Forte, has made a career and hobby of impacting & marketing to youth culture. Mr. Forte is keen on exposing young adults to their untapped potential and uncharted opportunities. As a regional manager for Nike Inc., Tony specializes in emerging fashion opportunities with youth and young adults. He currently resides in New York and has been working in the Fashion capital of the world for the last 10 years.
Mr. Forte started his career in fashion with Sean “Diddy” Combs, as an employee of Sean John, he contributed to one of the most historic corporate rises in fashion history, as Sean John became the fastest clothing line to reach sales in excess of $100 million. During his tenure at Sean John, he serviced accounts in the Northeast, International, national Big & Tall specialty, and was the Director of Special Projects. As Director of Special Projects, he oversaw commerce for projects such as the highly influential “Vote or Die” campaign of 2004. Upon his departure at Sean John, Forte worked with yet another highly acclaimed entertainment mogul, Russell Simmons. Though short in tenure, Tony used his specialization in youth culture fashion to catapult him from employ with Phat Farm, to growing an emerging business within the industry leader in marketing to youth culture, Nike. Since being at Nike, he has been the recipient of several highly acclaimed company awards including Nike “Rookie of the Year”.
Before moving to N.Y.C., he attended Tennessee State University located in Nashville, TN. As an alumnus of T.S.U., Tony is an extreme advocate for pioneering your dreams, and utilizing adversity as an asset for resilience. Forte, has since utilized his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business to expose others to less visible opportunities within the highly sought after entertainment industry. As a specialist in fashion and youth trend culture, Tony is a frequent guest speaker and consultant on the business to community and corporate entities. Forte has been a guest speaker on public image and personal branding for companies and various universities such as the National Basketball Association, Howard University, Tennessee State University, Winston-Salem University and various others. He is a consultant on youth culture trend patterns for various hedge funds. He values being a catalyst for young adults pursuing lofty, yet attainable ambitions. Mr. Forte lives in West New York, NJ adjacent to New York City.
Miss TSU - Tamara (Moore) Goff
Tamara, currently resides in her hometown of Indianapolis, IN. She is now a wife and the mother of two year old Kenadi (Kennedy) Goff. Understanding the importance of an education; Tamara is the Assistant Director of Admissions at a private college that targets students who want to pursue a career in the medical field. With the knowledge that 60% of the current job market is made up of the medical field; she enjoys empowering non-traditional college students by helping them to understand that the best way to predict their future is to create it. She understands that the main difference between having a career and having a job is longevity and the since of self-fulfillment. In the near future she plans to begin Dental Hygiene classes at her place of employment and ultimately become the Director of the Dental Hygiene Program.
Tamara finds her greatest enjoyment when she is spending quality time with her family. Living by the philosphy of "If you don't use it, you will lose it;" she still finds the time to stay in touch with her creative side by assisting others with their wedding planning/decorating; and maintaining her license as a Cosmetologist.
2001-2002
SGA President - Damyon Thompson
Damyon furthered his education by attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute after Tennessee State University. Damyon is currently working as the program lead for IBM Worldwide Banking Center of Excellence.
Mr. TSU - William Taylor
After graduation, William furthered his acting education by graduating from Depaul University's Theatre School in 2007. He is currently living in California with his daughter and granddaughter. He runs a successful lawn care service called The Yard Barber.
Miss TSU - Mia Evans
Mia's ambition was to become a broadcast journalist and a world-renowned motivational speaker. She went on to become a producer and reporter for The Christian Broadcasting Network in Nashville, TN.
2002-2003
SGA President - Jamie Riley
Since graduating from TSU in 2003 with my Bachelors in Health Care Administration and Planning and in 2004 with my Masters in Education Leadership, I have been working in the field of Higher Education/Student Affairs. In 2005 I began working on a M.A.T. (Masters in the Art of Teaching) at Clark Atlanta University, when i landed my 1st job in Higher Education as the Coordinator for Leadership and Volunteerism programs at Western Kentucky University. After about a year at WKU, I moved to Atlanta, GA and started a job with DeVry University-Georgia as the Director of Student Activities/Coordinator of Student Life. In 2007, I left DeVry-Georgia, and took a job in Residential Life at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. After a year long stent at Morehouse, I decided that it was time to go back and finish my educational journey, so I applied to a few PhD programs at various institutions, and ended up choosing The University of Georgia. Currently, I am a second year, full-time PhD student in the College Student Affairs Administration program at UGA. I hope to complete my degree in May 2011. After completing my degree, I plan to get back into the field of higher education, and pursue a director or dean level position at a major university. My ultimate goal is to become the president of an HBCU, which hopefully will be TSU.
Mr. TSU - Reco Chapple
With his larger then life personality, Reco Chapple, in his tenth year as creative director of The House of Chapple, has risen to the name of fashion mogul and kicked down doors and built his small fashion empire brick by brick. Owner of Studio 423 of Chattanooga and the creative director of Atlanta based House of Chapple, this small country town man has not only built a clothing label, but a brand which he always refers to as “a lifestyle”. Studio 423 of Chattanooga, a subsidiary company under The House of Chapple’s umbrella, provides elite clients with an array of high designs from luxurious gowns to sexy swimsuits. Most recently, Reco is enlarging The House of Chapple dynasty to include fragrances, jewelry, and even resource books aimed at helping young entrepreneurs entitled “How to Make Money in The Fashion Biz”, which will launch this summer.
Reco’s most recent endeavor was competing as a designer on The Fashion Show, which premiered May 7, 2009 on Bravo Thursday nights at 10 p.m. ET/PT. He was a top four finalist of Fifteen professional designers are competing in this fashion creative competition series for a chance to have their designs sold in the retail market and win a $125,000 prize. Internationally acclaimed designer Isaac Mizrahi shares hosting duties with four-time Grammy Award-winning performer and actress Kelly Rowland. Mizrahi and Rowland will also serve as judges alongside fashion luminary and Senior Vice President of IMG Fashion, Fern Mallis. Each week the designers will be put to the test and will have to face off in two challenges the Harper's Bazaar Mini Challenge, judged by the magazine's Special Projects Director Laura Brown, and the elimination challenge.
Miss TSU - Rashida Mingo
Rashida Mingo graduated from Tennessee State University, Cum Laude, in 2003. After graduating, she went on to Vanderbilt University to pursue Graduate Studies, where she was published in The Vanderbilt Review in 2005. In 2006, she began a Banking Career as a Jr. Loan Officer, competed in The Miss Tennessee USA Pageant and published her first book, The Journey Through Myself: A Collection of Inspirational Works.
In 2007, she solidified her Banking Career by completing professional certifications from The Southeastern School of Banking at Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School of Management & Tennessee Real Estate Commission. In 2008, Rashida became a mother of an amazing 1-year-old son, Lincoln Adonijah Mingo-Loveless. Currently, she works for Wells Fargo, Inc. as a Mortgage Real Estate Underwriter. And, has just recently been selected to participate in The PhD Project. She is very involved in community, political, and educational projects. Mingo enthusiastically supports the fight against Domestic Violence with her Soul Survivor’s Domestic Violence Awareness Program. Rashida & Lincoln, her son, reside in Charlotte, NC.
2003-2004
SGA President - Shawntaz Crawford
Shawntaz Crawford is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. He was educated at Tennessee State University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Art with a minor in English. While at Tennessee State University he was the President of the Student Government Association, President of the College Democrats and President of the Collegiate 100 Black Men. He was one of 61 students selected by the President of the University, Dr. James Hefner, to be considered “Who’s Who among College Students”. He has also studied and taught graphic design, digital media and marketing at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, New York. In addition to his academic success, Mr. Crawford has developed many successful marketing campaigns and promotional strategies for various clients in the surrounding Nashville area.
He is the publisher of Stayonthego Magazine - an African American bi-weekly magazine www.stayonthego.com and is the executive director and co-founder of the Nashville Black Expo (www.nashvilleblackexpo).
Mr. TSU - Charles Galbreath
Charles H. Galbreath Jr., a rising star in the new generation of professional speakers, speaks directly to the hearts and the experiences of diverse audiences and individuals; student leaders, educators, mentors, business professionals, graduating classes, religious congregations, civic organizations, entertainers, athletes and government officials. Charles speaks passionately about "Empowered Living." Empowered living requires that we develop and incorporate the necessary attitude, strategy, and strength to succeed daily. Charles believes that through upscale learning and living you can gain great confidence in your own abilities, become more aware of your strengths and limitations, and create a life of personal success. Follow Charles on his journey in becoming one of the "HOTTEST SPEAKERS IN THE SPEAKING GAME!"
Charles H. Galbreath, Jr. Links
www.charlesgalbreath.com
http://twitter.com/RISINGSPEAKER
http://www.youtube.com/CharlesGalbreathJr
Miss TSU - Carla Stitt
After graduating from Tennessee State University, Carla studied at Interdominational Theological Center and graduated with a Master of Divinity in Womanist Theology. She is currently working for Overbrook Entertainment as an Executive Assistant in Los Angeles, CA.
2004-2005
SGA President - Chauncey Davis
After graduating from Tennessee State University, Chauncey enrolled at Meharry Medical College and is expected to graduate in 2010. She is currently a 2nd lieutenant in the United States Air Force. While at TSU, Chauncey seved as a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.'s Alpha Chi chapter. Chauncey was the 5th woman of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Alpha Chi chapter to successfully win the SGA presidency.
Mr. TSU - Antwan Suttle
Antwan C. Suttle received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from TSU in 2005. While at the university, the Memphis, Tenn. native, served as a member of Alpha Kappa Psi, professional business fraternity; Phi Alpha Delta, pre-law fraternity; and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. He also held the titles of Mr. Tennessee State University, 2004-2005, and representative-at-large for the Student Government Association.
After taking his reign as Mr. HBCU, Suttle along with two college friends began restoring abandoned homes for lower-income families in his hometown. Recently, he was featured as one of Essence magazine’s “Do Right Men 2007.” Antwan is currently a law enforcement officer in the city of Memphis, TN, fulfilling a passion he's had since he was a child.
Miss TSU - Yolanda (Robinson) Elston
I am an energetic Georgia Peach that loves the Lord. I am what some peeps would call-----------an extrovert!!!!!!!!!!!! :) I sing with Will & The Krazi Praizers (check out our MySpace page) and I am a member of the Mount Zion Baptist Church here in Nashville where Bishop Joseph W. Walker, III is my pastor. I am the proud wife of William Elston and we're excited about what this new year will bring and the revelations that will come to pass...
2005-2006
SGA President - Josef Robinson
Josef Robinson has joined Finacial Products Division of Caterpillar, Inc. as an Associate New Business Representative for FCC Equipment Financing Inc. His job responsibilities include inside sales and acting as a liaison between outside sales representatives and the credit department. Prior to joining FPD, Josef worked in various professional development internships, and held leadership position in many civic and campus organizations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Economic and Finance from Tennessee State University.
Mr. TSU - Andre Parson
While at Tennessee State University, Andre was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.'s Beta Omicron chapter. He is currently living in his home town of Memphis, TN.
Miss TSU - Tomeika Dobson
I, Tomeika Rashel Dobson, Miss Tennessee State University 2005-2006, bring you greetings from the "Crossroads of America," Indianapolis, Indiana, the Hoosier state. Since my reign, I have been afforded numerous life changing opportunities. In the Fall of 2006 I attended Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania, where I completed a one year Post-baccalaureate program. I was then accepted to Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Blacksburg, VA where I am currently a 3rd year medical student. While at VCOM, I participated in a medical missions trip to Honduras in which we provided medical, pharmaceutical, and spiritual assistance for more than 3000 people in five (5) rural villages. Last year, I was the Chair of my medical school's Multicultural Show in which we showcased the talents and diversity amongst my fellow colleagues and the community. Currently I am completing my clerkship at Virginia's Danville Regional Medical Center. I am eagerly looking forward to the vast opportunities God has in store for me in my future.
2006-2007
SGA President - Ayodeji DJ Olojo
Ayodeji “DJ” Olojo is a Consultant with Gallup Healthcare. Olojo’s consulting experience focuses on healthcare clients with an emphasis in workplace improvement, organizational development, leadership, recruitment, retention and employee, nurse, patient and physician engagement. He works closely with Gallup’s healthcare partners and scientist to develop comprehensive performance management solutions for healthcare organizations that improve business and clinical outcomes. Olojo joined Gallup in 2007 as Director of Marketing for the Healthcare Practice. Previously he was responsible for maintaining the image of Gallup, increasing brand awareness, developing relationships with healthcare professionals, and informing the industry of best practices in human capital management.
Olojo received his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in e-business and supply chain management from Tennessee State University and has a background in the automotive, telecommunication, hospitality, and healthcare industries. His graduate studies includes courses towards an executive masters in business administration with an emphasis in executive leadership & strategy. He regularly works with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the National Association for Health Services Executives.
Mr. TSU - Darrius Brooks
While in school Darrius was a member of G.E.M.(Generation of Educated Men) and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Theta Chapter. Darrius is currently working in Mount Vernon, IL as a computer specialist for the Walgreens Corporation. He is the only Mr. TSU to date in TSU's history to have won the title of Mr. Tennessee State University, two years in a row.
Miss TSU - Dairanetta Spain
Dairanetta currently serve as the Community Affairs Coordinator for the Houston Astros Baseball Club. Within this capacity, she manages player community relations, garners media coverage for team off-field events, manages complimentary ticket programs, trains department interns all while maintain existing programs and seeking out new and innovative ways to impact the Houston community.
Professional, Civic and Community Involvement:
Houston Chapter Development team member for the National Association of Black Sports Professionals (NABSP)NABSP is the nation’s only professional organization comprised of black sports professionals and those practicing in sports-fields.
Member of the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals (HAULYP). As an auxiliary of the Houston Area Urban League, HAULYP engages young men and women in the movement towards the achievement of professional development, social and economic equality, and community service.
Actively involved in the Higher Dimension Church Club INC Youth Ministry. Through this commitment to mentoring youth, she works alongside ministry workers to implement and plan special events aimed at encouraging youth to grow in Christ and effectively utilize their God-given abilities.
2007-2008
SGA President - Xandelyn Wright
Xandelyn is currently living in her home town of Houston, TX and she plans to enroll in Howard's MBA program in the spring 2010. During her time at Tennessee State University, Xandelyn was crowned Miss Black and Gold 2005-2006.
Mr. TSU - Darrius Brooks
While in school Darrius was a member of G.E.M.(Generation of Educated Men) and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Theta Chapter. Darrius is currently working in Mount Vernon, IL as a computer specialist for the Walgreens Corporation. He is the only Mr. TSU to date in TSU's history to have won the title of Mr. Tennessee State University, two years in a row.
Miss TSU - Orna Jones
Currently I am working as a substitute teacher while continuing to pursue my dreams as an entertainer, playwright and director. I have developed my own production company "TLT 12 Productions" in conjunction with my family's record label "O.M.A.YZ Records while working towards creating a training grounds for local Detroit Talent. My first full-length production "Daughters of Deception" is going to be used as a launching pad into more opportunities involving entertainment along with a few other projects that are underway. Check out my website at www.DODtheplay.com OR www.daughtersofdeception.com
2008-2009
SGA President - Patrick Walker- Reese
I am Patrick Walker-Reese, from Nashville, TN. I am a 2005 graduate of Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet High-School. I am the second oldest of six children. My ultimate goal in life is to be the president of a university , hopefully Tennessee State University. I am a firm believer that only a life lived for others is a life worth living. I have been devoted to service at Tennessee State University through my role as representative –at- large on student government Association (SGA), and as a member of the student Union board of governors (SUBG) for two years. I currently work with the Martha O’Bryan center as the recreations coordinator, along with coaching a 10-14 year old little league team at the Northwest YMCA.
Mr. TSU - James Alderman
James a St. Petersburg, FL native, is a 2009 graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was crowned Mr. Tennessee State University 08-09 and Mr. Historically Black College and University 09-10. James is currently working in the Aerospace and Defense Industry, as an Electrical Engineer, currently located in Tucson, AZ. He wants to continue his education by completing his MBA while continuing to work in the defense industry.
James was involved in the following organizations while enrolled at TSU: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc, Alpha Theta Chapter, Founder of Allure Modeling Troupe, Student Government Association, Student Union Board of Governors, University Honors Program, Co-Founder of D.R.E.A.M. Project, Aristocrat of Bands, and Tennessee State University’s Jazz Collegians.
Miss TSU - Cecelia Friday
Since graduation I moved back to my hometown in Detroit, MI and am a Mortgage Banker at Quicken Loans in Livonia, MI. I plan on returning to graduate school in August 2010 to receive my MBA, while assisting a friend open up a School of Dance here in Detroit.