By Zekeya A. Harrison
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – Tennessee State University alumna and former faculty member Dr. Gearldean Johnson has established a $100,000 endowed scholarship to support undergraduate students pursuing degrees in the College of Agriculture’s Department of Human Sciences.
The Dr. Gearldean Johnson Endowed Scholarship creates a permanent source of financial assistance for students following in her footsteps. Johnson, who earned her degree from TSU in 1966, later served as an assistant professor and eventually chair of the Department of Human Sciences, guiding the program through years of growth.
Her decision to establish the endowment stems from a deep personal connection to the university and a conviction that alumni giving must expand.
“I decided that I needed to increase the amount of money that I give Tennessee State,” Johnson said. “I’ve been giving $1,000 to $5,000 a year, but it was not enough. We’ve got to do more to support Tennessee State, like all other schools.”
Johnson’s motivation to ease student financial hardship is rooted in her own journey. Enrolling at TSU in 1962 as a home economics education major, she faced immediate financial hurdles that interrupted her studies.
“I didn’t have enough money to even complete a year’s study,” Johnson recalled. “We didn’t have the scholarships. We didn’t have a lot of the grants that you have now.”
After two quarters, she left TSU to work and save money. She returned the following fall and completed her bachelor’s degree in four years.
“So you know you can do it,” she said. “You just have to be motivated.”
Throughout her time as a student, Johnson found critical encouragement from faculty and academic advisors. That guidance inspired her to pursue graduate studies, earning both a master’s degree and a doctorate before returning to TSU in 1975 to join the faculty.
“I had great advisors who helped me when I was in need, who encouraged me,” Johnson said. “I really appreciate the support that I got at Tennessee State, and I’m hoping that others will too.”
University leaders noted that Johnson’s gift addresses a vital need for undergraduate retention and completion.
“Dr. Johnson’s generous $100,000 endowment is a meaningful investment for our students,” said Dr. LaPorchia Davis, interim chair of the Department of Human Sciences. “Scholarship support can make a tremendous difference in a student’s ability to remain focused on their education, pursue professional opportunities, and successfully complete their degree.”
Dr. Chandra Reddy, dean of the College of Agriculture, worked alongside Johnson during her six-year tenure as department chair. He described the endowment as a continuation of her lifelong advocacy for students.
“As dean, I am incredibly moved by the profound generosity of Dr. Gearldean Johnson,” Reddy said. “Having had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Johnson, I witnessed firsthand her unwavering passion and fierce advocacy for student success. This remarkable gift ensures that her legacy of support will continue to empower future generations of Human Sciences students, breaking down financial barriers and opening doors to excellence.”
Reddy emphasized that gifts like Johnson’s serve as a catalyst for broader institutional support.
“Dr. Johnson’s commitment is truly inspiring,” Reddy said. “We invite our alumni, friends, and community partners to join her in investing in the future of our students. Your support, at any level, will create a lasting impact on the lives of those who will go on to shape our world.”
Johnson sees the endowment as both a gift and a call to action.
“I think we all have a responsibility to give more and to encourage others to give to Tennessee State because we deserve it and our students deserve it,” Johnson said.
