As a first-generation, low-income student, one of the
qualities of Tusculum that I am most proud of is the outstanding support it
gives to all students. Access to college is important, but access to
graduation is just as important. Many students who would not have succeeded
at other colleges have not only graduated but gone on to successful careers.
The Power of TRIO
This week I wrote an op-ed for the
newspaper in support of TRIO programs, such as Upward Bound, Talent
Search, and Student Support Services. These are federally funded programs
that have help pave the way to college and then provide support to
graduation. Tusculum has had TRIO programs for over 50 years, and Tusculum
currently has one of the largest TRIO programs in the state. As I write this,
we have a hundred Upward Bound high school students on our campus who are
being equipped and prepared to go to college. High school students who go
through TRIO programs are significantly more likely to attend college, and
students who participate in Student Support Services are nearly twice as
likely to graduate from college. Thousands of students who have gone through
TRIO and then graduated from Tusculum have gone on to become successful
professionals, including business leaders, researchers, professors, and
doctors. Unfortunately, the currently proposed federal budget has removed all
funding for all TRIO programs. For every $1 invested in TRIO it has produced
$13 in return through increased salaries, economic impact, and taxes paid.
We are very grateful for Congresswoman Harshbarger who has strongly voiced
her support for TRIO. If you would like to express your support for TRIO you
can do it here: TRIO Supporters.
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Thigpen Named Host City Director for 2026 FIFA
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Tusculum University alumna Brandy
Thigpen has been named host city director for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Los
Angeles, just a week before earning her Master of Sport Management degree.
Thigpen will
oversee operations for both the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 FIFA Club World
Cup, playing a key role in managing logistics across 70+ functional areas.
Her leadership will support the execution of the largest sporting event in
history, and she credits her Tusculum education for preparing her for this
high-profile role.
Read
more: Tusculum University News Article
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Brandy Thigpen stands in the stadium where the 2020 Super
Bowl was played
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Cooper Earns College Degree Before High
School Graduation
Tusculum
University student Mary Anne Cooper earned her Associate of Arts in General
Studies just one week before graduating as valedictorian from Gibbs High
School in Knoxville.
Through Tusculum’s dual enrollment program, Cooper
completed college and high school coursework simultaneously, graduating summa
cum laude. She is now on track to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing
in just 2½ years and is only the second student in Gibbs history to earn a
college degree before finishing high school.
Read more: Tusculum
University News Article
Arnett
and Cavanaugh Inducted into SAC Hall of Fame
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Former
Tusculum University tennis coach Tommy Arnett and men’s basketball standout
Kyle Cavanaugh have been named to the South Atlantic Conference (SAC) Hall of
Fame, becoming the 11th and 12th inductees from Tusculum. Cavanaugh also
received the Distinguished Alumni Award, the first in Tusculum’s history.
Arnett, who led the Pioneers to 12 NCAA Division II Tournament appearances
and a 439-152 record over 14 seasons, is recognized as the most successful
coach in TU athletic history. Cavanaugh, a 1980 graduate, has built a
prestigious career in administration, currently serving as President of
Administration for the NBA, overseeing operations across its global leagues.
Their achievements reflect excellence both on and off the court.
Read more: Tusculum
University News Article
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Tusculum Alumni Night at Flyboys
June 24th at 6:30 PM
Join us for a fun-filled evening of
networking and camaraderie at Tusculum Alumni Night on June 24th
at 6:30 PM at Flyboys Game at Pioneer Park. Reconnect with fellow
alumni, meet new faces, and reminisce about your time at Tusculum, all while
enjoying great food and drinks. Whether you're local or visiting, this is the
perfect opportunity to make new memories, strengthen connections, and celebrate
your Pioneer pride. Don’t miss out, come for the fellowship and stay for the
fun!
Cost:
$5 per person, which includes your ticket and all-you-can-eat access at the Niswonger
Suite.
We can’t wait to see you there!
RSVP today: Register Online!
For
More Information or Questions?
Contact
Melissa Bryant at alumni@tusculum.edu or (423) 636-7407.
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Tusculum Students
Recognized at Spring Commencement Ceremony
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Nearly 200 students were honored during Tusculum University’s spring
commencement ceremony on May 10, celebrating the completion of their
associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.
Representing 11 countries and 20
states, graduates gathered in Pioneer Arena to mark their academic and
personal achievements. Tusculum President Dr. Scott Hummel praised the class
for their hard work and commitment, noting the university’s dedication to
preparing students to be career-ready and civically engaged professionals.
Read more: Tusculum
University News Article
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Golden Pioneers
Return to Celebrate 50 Years Since Graduation
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Tusculum University welcomed a special group of alumni, the Golden Pioneers,
who graduated 50 years ago and returned to walk the stage during Saturday’s
commencement.
The honored alumni included Larry Bible, Angelo Botta, Jane
Campbell, John Eiskamp, Sharon King, and Jacki Rose, commemorating a milestone
in their lives and reconnecting with their alma mater.
Read
more: Tusculum
University News Article
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Join the Celebration!
Golden (’75) & Silver (’00) Pioneers
Reunite at Tusculum
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If
you are a Golden Pioneer (class of 1975) or Silver
Pioneer (class of 2000) and want to participate in upcoming events,
learn more and register here:
Golden &
Silver Pioneers Participation
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Mentor a Tusculum Student
Are
you a Tusculum University alum looking to make a meaningful impact? We are
thrilled to announce the launch of our new mentor program designed to connect
experienced alumni with current students, creating a powerful network of
support and guidance. This program aims to help students navigate their
academic journey, explore career paths, and prepare for life after graduation.
Join us in building the "Bridge to Success" for future
generations of Tusculum Pioneers!
Why
Become a Mentor?
Your
experience and knowledge are invaluable resources for Tusculum students. By
becoming a mentor, you can:
• Share your professional insights and help students explore various career
opportunities.
• Provide guidance on academic success and skill development.
• Forge connections with the next generation of Tusculum leaders.
• Give back to the university and support our students in their journeys.
• Connect with the Tusculum community in an engaged and rewarding way.
Are
You a Good Mentor Candidate?
We’re
seeking Tusculum University alumni from all backgrounds and industries who are
passionate about supporting students. No formal mentoring experience is
required; a genuine desire to share your experience and expertise is what
counts! If you’re excited to connect with current students, we encourage you to
join our program.
Have
Questions?
If
you have any questions about the program or interested in become a mentor,
please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at alumni@tusculum.edu. We’re
happy to help!
Ready
to Make a Difference?
If
this sounds like you, please complete the Mentor Interest Form.
Become a mentor and help guide a Tusculum student toward success!
PLANNED
GIVING NOTE! We buy life insurance to help provide financial assistance and
security for loved ones upon our death. As life unfolds for many of us,
however, the original beneficiary no longer requires financial support. What
then? There are various ways of managing this situation, and it’s always wise
to consult a financial planner before acting on your own. But one
excellent way is to re-designate as beneficiary a non-profit whose
purposes have been near and dear to you in life. Such as Tusculum
University! Yes, you can designate all or part of the life insurance benefit to
Tusculum. Again, consult with your financial planner to assure that this change
is processed correctly and in the most advantageous way for all concerned. But
generally, this is a fairly simple and generous strategy by which your gratitude
for Tusculum’s blessings in life may continue to bless others after our earthly
life and work are finished.
Contact:
Richard D. Raum
PCUSA Pastor, retired
Planned Giving
Specialist, Tusculum University
rdraum2@gmail.com
701-226-2084
The Power of Investment.
In honoring Marion Edens
and his legacy of service to students, we are pleased to announce that the
scholarship honoring Mr. Edens, a longtime member of staff of then Tusculum
College, has reached official endowment status. With many “Edens stories”
circulating among alumni of the 50’s and 60’s, this scholarship honoring the
impact by one man into so many lives seems a fitting tribute. Thanks to
generous support, the Edens Scholarship Fund has surpassed $46,000 in
donations, and with your continued help, we are well on our way to reaching the
$100,000 goal to further honor Mr. Edens’ enduring legacy.
Read more: Tusculum
University News Article
Make your gift
to the Marion Edens Scholarship.
Frontiers, A Campaign for the support of
First-Generation Students
Since
our founding in 1794, Tusculum University’s core mission has been to provide an
outstanding education on the frontier that prepares students for their lives
and careers. Even from our earliest days, providing education to
First-Generation Students has always been at the heart of what we do. Two
hundred and thirty years later our mission remains the same; only the frontiers
have changed.
Today, Tusculum’s
student body includes 58% first-generation – meaning neither of the student’s
parents or guardians have completed a bachelor’s degree. In addition,
more than 98% of our traditional undergraduate students receive some form of
financial aid. Earning a college degree is vital for young men and women
to develop into career-ready professionals, but various costs can be an
obstacle on the path to graduation. This is where a special scholarship
supporting first-generation students can have a significant and lasting impact.
We
are proud to announce the launch of a special campaign focused on raising
scholarship support for our first-generation students. Frontiers, A
Scholarship Campaign for the support of First-Generation Students, will
run throughout 2025. In the months to come, we will be highlighting this
unique part of our history and sharing stories from many of our first-gen
students and alumni. Our Goal is $125,000.
EVERY
FRONTIER NEEDS A PIONEER! Make a gift; share your
story; answer the call……YOUR FRONTIER AWAITS!
Bring Tusculum Closer to Home – Start an Alumni
Chapter in Your Area!
Are you passionate about staying
connected with fellow Tusculum alumni in your region? Alumni Chapters are a
great way to gather informally with others who live or work nearby—no special
requirements or membership fees needed.
As an Alumni Chapter Leader,
you’ll work alongside the Tusculum Alumni Association to host one signature
event each year in your area. You’ll also be invited to attend our annual
Volunteers’ Conference on campus—a special opportunity to connect with other
alumni leaders and stay up to date on what’s happening at Tusculum.
Interested in starting a chapter or want to learn more? We’d love to
hear from you! Reach out to discuss how you can get involved by emailing alumni@tusculum.edu.
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Tusculum University coaches offer a variety of sports camps
for boys and girls of all ages. Camps range from beginning/recreational to
advanced skill training for competitive teams. Some dates listed are
exclusive for team training. Tusculum sports camps are owned and operated
by individual coaches and interested persons should contact the coach
directly via the information listed below or go to the provided link for
registration information. For more information, contact Dom Donnelly,
Associate Athletic Director for Communications at: ddonnelly@tusculum.edu.
2025 TUSCULUM SUMMER SPORTS CAMP INFORMATION
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We mourn the loss of members of our alumni community. Though we may not
have all the details, we remember and honor those who have passed. Each
person’s contribution to our community, in their own way, has left a
lasting impact that will continue to resonate with us.
Our
thoughts are with their families, friends, and all who were fortunate to
know them. Their memories will forever be cherished, and their legacies
will live on in the hearts of those they touched.
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Be sure to Like and
Follow our Alumni Facebook page!
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Tusculum
University Magazine
Hey, Pioneers!
Please take a moment to click the buttons below to update your contact information
and to submit class notes. I would love to include your information in
the next digital magazine.
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Dear Alumni and Friends!
Hello, Tusculum family! I’m honored to return to my alma
mater in a role that allows me to give back to the university that shaped
my personal and professional journey. As a proud Tusculum graduate, I
know firsthand the lasting impact of a Tusculum education.
With over a decade of experience in leadership, program
development, and service to diverse communities, my focus has always been
on creating spaces where people feel supported and empowered. As a wife
and mom of two, the values of connection, compassion, and resilience
guide both my life and my work.
In this role, I’m excited to strengthen ties between
alumni, students, and campus partners through meaningful outreach,
events, and storytelling. I look forward to reconnecting with you and
building a vibrant, inclusive alumni community.
As always, please feel free to email me at mebryant@tusculum.edu or
call at 423.636.7407.
Kind Regards,
Melissa Bryant '18 '19
Director of Alumni & Community Engagement
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