Tennessee State University has named alumnus Dwayne Tucker as its ninth president, following an official appointment by the TSU Board of Trustees on Tuesday, August 5. Tucker has been serving as the university’s interim president since December 2024. The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) celebrates President Tucker’s appointment.

TSU Board Chair Dakasha Winton stated, “On behalf of the TSU Board of Trustees, I am pleased to announced the appointment of Dwayne Tucker as the new President of TSU. His leadership through continued uncertainty and turbulent times with dignity, grace under fire, and a strong resolve to put students first made him the obvious choice.”

Prior to Tucker serving at interim president, he served as the CEO of LEAD Public Schools, a network of public charter schools in the Metro Nashville area.

“I thank the Board of Trustees, students, faculty, staff, and our alumni for their support as we continue this journey,” said President Tucker. “My focus remains on putting TSU on the path of sustainability. With the help of our State legislators, the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, the Tennessee Board of Regents, and other supporters, we will extend the legacy of TSU.”

Tucker’s diverse business background and turnaround work with underperforming businesses brings a broad understanding of corporate functions, including sales, operations, marketing, public relations, information technology, legal, human resources, and finance/accounting to the university.

“We commend the Tennessee State University BOT for their timely and thoughtful selection of alumnus Dwayne Tucker as president during such a pivotal moment in TSU’s history. What an inspiring way to begin the new academic year—it’s always powerful to see one’s own return to lead the institution they once called home. President Tucker brings a profound understanding of what it means to put TSU first and is committed to soaring TSU as the premier HBCU it is both in Nashville and across the nation. We are confident in his vision and look forward to supporting his leadership every step of the way. Our heartfelt congratulations go out to President Tucker. We’re excited to witness TSU’s continued growth and success under his guidance. See you all at the John Merritt Classic in just a few weeks, as we kick off HCF’s 9th Annual HBCU Football and Recruitment Tour!”

— Demetrius Johnson, Jr., Founder, President & CEO, HCF

Tucker brings wealth of executive experience, having held leadership roles such CEO, chief human resource officer, chief administrative officer, and president with companies including First Data. Northwest Airlines, and Alliance Data.

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