Tennessee State University (TSU) is taking significant steps to enhance its fundraising efforts and improve donor engagement, as discussed during the recent Board of Trustees meeting on June 12, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the university's strategy to streamline its fundraising processes and better categorize donor contributions.

Trustee discussions highlighted the importance of leveraging the university foundation's investment opportunities, which have seen notable increases in recent years. Interim President Tucker was credited for his role on the foundation board, which has helped in managing funds more efficiently. However, concerns were raised regarding a decrease in donations from alumni associations, prompting a review of donor classifications to ensure accurate reporting and engagement.

Trustee Smith Knight questioned the reasons behind the decline in alumni donations despite a stable number of donors. It was revealed that some contributions may have been misclassified, leading to discrepancies in reported figures. The university plans to address these issues by refining its categorization system and ensuring that all donations are accurately recorded.

The meeting also touched on the university's outreach to various organizations, including religious groups, to boost support. A proposed "TSU Day" at local churches aims to rekindle interest and donations from these communities. Additionally, the board discussed the need to consolidate fundraising requests to avoid overwhelming potential donors, suggesting that alumni hold onto their contributions until a larger campaign is announced.

Overall, the TSU Board of Trustees is committed to enhancing its fundraising strategies and improving donor relations, with a focus on transparency and effective communication. As these initiatives unfold, the university anticipates a more robust financial foundation that will support its mission and growth in the coming years.