by Alexis Clark
The new academic year at Tennessee State University began with renewed enthusiasm at the TSU Faculty and Staff Institute (FSI) for 2024-25. The event marked Interim President Dr. Ronald A. Johnson’s first formal appearance before faculty and staff. Dr. Johnson was warmly welcomed by over 300 employees as he introduced key leadership additions and launched his 100-Day Action Plan, the Trajectory Change Initiative (TCI). This initiative is designed to address current challenges and ensure TSU remains future-ready and poised for success.
“I am here. I am ready, and I am prepared to pilot the trajectory of this institution,” President Johnson declared to the faculty and staff, who donned TSU blue to show their Tiger spirit.
The 100-Day Action Plan is a year-long effort focused on leadership transition, operational stabilization, and university transformation. The plan also includes addressing operational leadership, assessing and resolving issues, strategic alignment, and financial stabilization.
Dr. Johnson brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience in higher education and has a distinguished career in the HBCU community. Johnson is the former president of Clark Atlanta University and served in key advisory roles for national organizations. He is also an accomplished economist and investment manager, with extensive experience in managing multi-billion-dollar portfolios and holding senior positions at major financial institutions.
“To be more, we must commit to doing more,” he told the audience, outlining his approach to leading TSU. “And the road ahead will not be easy.” He emphasized the importance of understanding internal stakeholder needs and tailoring cross-organizational alignment and execution strategies.
During the event faculty, and staff engaged in a ‘question and answer’ session with President Johnson. He highlighted TSU’s achievements, such as the state-of-the-art SMART Global Center and the significant research efforts within the College of Agriculture. He also acknowledged the unprecedented challenges the university has faced and discussed his plans to enhance communication and success across the campus.
President Johnson noted that improving TSU’s services is essential for understanding and meeting student needs, and for integrating delivery channels to provide a seamless student experience across all touch points.
He also announced the addition of two seasoned higher education leaders to his team. Dr. Bridgett Gilman, who will serve as ‘interim vice president’ of Student Affairs and dean of Students, and Darryl Thompson, who will serve as special advisor for External Affairs, Infrastructure, and Major Projects.
“Their extensive experience and dedication to institutional excellence will be crucial as we continue to execute our 100-Day Action Plan, meet the board’s strategic goals, and prepare TSU for a successful future,” President Johnson stated.
The annual event also featured brief remarks from every TSU college dean, welcoming President Johnson. Faculty and staff heard from Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Robbie Melton, chair of the Faculty Senate Dr. Artenzia Young-Inveigler; Director of Engagement and Visibility Reginald Cannon; and others. Student Government Association leaders, along with newly appointed student trustee Tyler Vazquez, were also present.
At this year’s FSI, Dr. Johnson set the foundation for TSU’s journey toward becoming a ‘Future-Ready’ institution, ready to meet the challenges of the next decade and beyond.
