By Emmanuel Freeman
Prominent entrepreneur and national technology leader Dr. Turner Nashe Jr. On December 7, he spoke to nearly 600 graduates at Tennessee State University’s fall commencement ceremony. Family and loved ones packed the Gentry Center Complex to be a part of the momentous occasion. As the keynote speaker, Nashe urged students to take ownership of their future through their education.
“Life’s journey is unpredictable. My own path is a proof of this,” Nashe said. “Not everyone around you will see your potential, but that’s okay. What matters is your confidence. With faith, focus and resilience, you can turn the darkest days into the brightest moments.”
Nashe, founder and president of Innertainment Delivery System and board member at Sonata, holds bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from TSU. He said he overcame skepticism from others, including his father, who believed college wasn’t for him. “I had a choice: follow someone else’s dream or create my own. I chose to define my own success.”
Before Nashe’s speech, the interim president of TSU, Dr. Ronald A. Johnson emphasized resilience and family support, noting the importance of the graduates’ achievements. “Your journey has reached a milestone today. Remember, no educational effort is worthwhile unless it empowers you and your community,” he said.
Nashe offered the graduates five keys to success as they continue their journey. He told them, “Apply your lessons to innovation, live below your means because debt-free is freedom, run your own race and stop comparing your journey to others, look with fresh eyes to see opportunities, and implement your ideas as real success comes. from action. You have the power to change your life and the lives of others. Define your purpose and use your education to make a difference in the world.”
The ceremony celebrated a diverse group of graduates, including Sandra Walker, who received a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After 11 years of travel, juggling work and family, Walker is grateful for TSU’s supportive environment. “This journey taught me how to use my education to impact the world.”
Returning to TSU after 38 years to complete his degree, Toby Gallant shared his personal triumph. “I promised my late mother that I will pass this stage. It feels amazing to fulfill this promise,” Galant said, reflecting on the significance of his achievement.
Patrick Granberry, a TSU associate, earned a doctorate in educational leadership, marking his third degree at TSU. “TSU has been a big part of my life; I met my wife here and found my passion. I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” Granberry said.
Beyond their academic achievements, graduates were told to be proud of TSU generations for the important role the university plays in the broader Tennessee community. The university’s impact on the greater Nashville community exceeds $500 million annually and serves 586,107 residents in 63 counties through the College of Agriculture’s extension program. This engagement provides valuable resources, education and outreach to improve the local agricultural landscape and quality of life.
As graduates embark on their next chapters, the messages shared today resonate with the promise and potential each person holds. TSU congratulates its graduates and wishes them success in their future endeavors.
