Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Strategic Communications
New Tuskegee University students and their parents spent Monday on campus learning important details about the college experience that awaits them in the fall.
The immersive full day began with a program in the University Chapel, nearly full to its 1000-seat capacity, followed by Q&A sessions across campus with all eight undergraduate colleges and schools at Tuskegee University, campus tours and lunch. Two previous sessions, also highly attended, were held virtually.
Tuskegee is set to enroll a record number of freshman students in the fall and continues to make the case that a Tuskegee education is a smart investment in career-readiness, as evidenced by recent Class of 2026 graduate outcomes: 70 percent of graduates were already moving into full-time roles to begin careers in areas of their choice, accepted into graduate schools or serving the nation as newly commissioned military officers.
“We are excited that you are here,” said Dr. Chastity Bradford, Assistant Provost of Academic Affairs and Student Matters. “You are here at an extraordinary time, the Tuskegee University Renaissance Era, as we focus on renewed excellence, renovation and service. The Office of the Provost is committed to ensuring academic excellence and student success, empowering you to be global citizens and change agents.”
Tuskegee University president and CEO Dr. Mark A. Brown acknowledged the recent celebration of Juneteenth in his remarks, urging students to be clear-minded about the fact that delayed access to the “transformative power of education” was one of the most fundamental travesties of the two-year gap in Emancipation reaching the formerly enslaved – “it belonged to them then, and it belongs to you now,” he said.
“Once you get an education, there is no stopping you. At Tuskegee, we will soon celebrate 145 years of freeing the minds and souls of students to go out and do all that their God-given talents can create.”
Dr. Brown encouraged students to learn more about the menu of academic options available to them at Tuskegee – all supporting in-demand career opportunities that the global economy needs now.
“Aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, elementary education, social work, nursing – the economy says there is a demand for these professionals,” he said. “Gainful employment is at the other end of your Tuskegee education. You have made a wise decision, a wise investment. Now buckle down – prepare for rigor, hard work, sacrifice and discipline – we promise, it will be good for you.”
For London Sanders, an incoming freshman from Jacksonville, Florida, Tuskegee is a great fit because it will accelerate her journey to becoming a nurse.
“I researched other schools with nursing programs, including HBCUs, and Tuskegee felt like the right choice for me,” she said sitting between her mother and aunt as they looked on beaming with pride. Sanders will join a School of Nursing and Allied Health program that recently confirmed a 100% National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) pass rate for the second year in a row.
Timothy Robinson’s high school experience on campus in a NASA-sponsored summer program encouraged him to choose Tuskegee to pursue both Mathematics and Psychology.
“I am excited, and a little nervous, about the unknown,” said the Albany, Georgia native. “But mostly excited!”
When asked their thoughts on his decision to become a Golden Tiger, his parents said without hesitation – “he’s ready and whatever makes him happy, we are here to support.”
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