TSU Plans New Engineering Building to Boost Enrollment and Industry Partnerships

In a recent meeting of the Tennessee Joint Committee, discussions centered on the ambitious plans for a new engineering building at Tennessee State University (TSU), aimed at enhancing the institution's capacity to train future engineers. The committee expressed optimism about the project's budget and timeline, with hopes to break ground in November and complete the building by June 2027.

As the conversation unfolded, Speaker Sexton raised a critical question regarding how TSU's new facility would compare to engineering buildings at other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Will Radford, assistant vice president of campus design, clarified that while TSU's new building would be smaller than the one at North Carolina A&T, it is designed to accommodate the current student population of approximately 945 engineering students, with plans for a 5% increase over the next five years.

The committee emphasized the importance of this new building not just as a physical structure, but as a catalyst for growth in TSU's engineering program. The goal is to increase enrollment and improve the university's standing among HBCUs known for engineering. Currently, TSU ranks in the lower third of the top ten HBCUs for engineering, with North Carolina A&T and Howard University leading the pack. The discussions highlighted a commitment to not only attract more students but also to strengthen partnerships with industry leaders, which had waned due to outdated facilities.

Radford noted that rekindling relationships with companies like Raytheon and Lucent is crucial for TSU's future success. The university aims to leverage its new building to enhance its appeal to prospective students and industry partners alike. The committee's discussions underscored a shared vision: to elevate TSU's engineering program into the top tier of HBCUs, ensuring that in five years, the university can proudly report significant growth and achievement in its engineering enrollment and partnerships.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members left with a sense of purpose, eager to see how this new initiative would unfold and impact the future of engineering education at TSU. The commitment to fostering a new generation of engineers is not just about numbers; it’s about building a legacy that aligns with the evolving demands of the industry and the aspirations of students across Tennessee.