Republican lawmakers in Tennessee replaced the board of trustees at Tennessee State University, the state’s only public historically Black college, citing financial mismanagement despite chronic underfunding. State officials argue that the university has faced challenges in maintaining financial stability due to underfunding, with a federal report indicating a $2.1 billion underfunding between 1987 and 2022. Critics argue that the predominantly White state leadership unfairly targeted the HBCU, while the university contends that proper funding could have prevented the situation. The move comes as the university is also searching for a new president.
Tennessee's only publicly funded historically Black university, Tennessee State University, had its board of trustees removed under legislation signed into law by Republican Gov. Bill Lee. The move has sparked controversy, with critics accusing state leaders of unfairly targeting the university, while Republicans cite financial and procedural deficiencies as the reason for the action. Supporters argue that TSU's problems stem from chronic underfunding, estimated at $2.1 billion over three decades, and question the decision to remove the entire board.
Roy Herron, a longtime Tennessee state lawmaker and former chairperson of the state Democratic Party, has died at the age of 69 from injuries sustained in a jet ski accident. Herron served a combined 26 years in the state's House and Senate and was known for his dedication to public service. He was remembered as a devoted citizen and a genuine human being who advocated for healthcare accessibility and other causes that affected average people. Condolences poured in from political figures across party lines.
Roy Herron, a longtime Tennessee state lawmaker and former chairperson of the state Democratic Party, has died at the age of 69 from injuries sustained in a jet ski accident. Herron served a combined 26 years in the state's House and Senate and chaired the state Democratic Party from 2013 to 2015. He was known for his dedication to public service and advocacy for causes such as healthcare accessibility and education. Condolences poured in from both Democrats and Republicans, highlighting Herron's impact on Tennessee politics.
Roy Herron, a prominent former Tennessee state lawmaker and chairperson of the state Democratic Party, has died at the age of 69 from injuries sustained in a jet ski accident. Herron served a combined 26 years in the state's House and Senate and was known for his dedication to public service. He was an attorney, an ordained Methodist minister, and the author of three books. Condolences poured in from politicians across party lines, praising Herron's commitment to his community and causes such as healthcare and education.
