Introduced legislation could affect Tennessee State University
The university said they are aware of the two bills and are working with legislators.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Newly introduced legislation could affect Tennessee State University if passed. The college says they’re aware of the two bills and are working with legislators to address any potential issues and challenges.
The first bill, SB 1596, extends the termination date of the TSU Board of Trustees to June 30, 2024. The bill is specific to the university, unlike the second bill, SB 2109, which states it would transfer the governance of any state university board to the Tennessee Higher Education Commission in the event a state university board ceases to exist.
The university said it will continue to work with legislators to secure a multi-year extension of its board.
“TSU is working with legislators to address potential issues and challenges associated with this bill, addressing any legislation that would have detrimental effects on our students and the university, and avoid the potential existence of a substantially different governance structure than created under the FOCUS Act,” the university said in a statement.
The university said they are cooperating with forensic auditors, with whom they meet biweekly to ensure TSU is responsive to auditor requests. TSU said they are also searching for a new university president, months after former President Glenda Glover announced her retirement.
“The institution wants to ensure that legislators appreciate the impact any legislation affecting the institution’s governance structure may have on the university’s ability to attract top notch candidates for this crucially important position, maintain avenues for student success, continue to facilitate and enhance relationships with the business community, and avoid causing irreparable harm to Tennessee State University’s national reputation,” TSU said. “Additionally, TSU continues to engage in constructive dialogue with lawmakers regarding the historic underfunding of the university.”
SB 2109 will be discussed during the Senate Education Committee meeting on Feb. 7, and SB 1596 will be discussed at the Senate Government Operations Committee meeting scheduled that same day.
Copyright 2024 WSMV. All rights reserved.