Women at Tennessee State University: Xernona Clayton, Oprah Winfrey, the Tigerbelles

Just across Ed Temple Boulevard is Tennessee State University (TSU). Established in 1912, the school remains the state’s only publicly funded historically Black university. Over the decades, TSU evolved from a vocational school to a teacher-training institution to a four-year university. The school has long played a role in civil rights movements. In fact, the “Silent March” following the bombing of Z. Alexander Looby’s home, started right here at TSU on April 19, 1960. 

Xernona Clayton also contributed to the Civil Rights movement by organizing nonviolent protests and breaking norms in the media as the first African American woman in the South to host a prime-time television show. In 1952, Clayton graduated from Tennessee A&I, today known as TSU. She blazed the trail for another aspiring journalist, broadcaster, and media executive—Oprah Winfrey.

Oprah Winfrey, who graduated from TSU in 1986, went on to be a talk show host, television producer, actress, author, and philanthropist. Her TV show ran in national syndication for 25 years from 1986 to 2011. In 2007, she was ranked as the most influential woman in the world!

Oprah often reflected on her time at TSU and the inspiring figures she met during her studies, including the renowned Tigerbelles. Coached by Ed Temple, the Tigerbelle track team put TSU on the map with their historic accomplishments. Between 1956 and 1984, the Tigerbelles produced 40 Olympians who collectively earned 23 medals. In fact, they are the winningest college track program in U.S. Olympic history. The last Tigerbelle to win a medal, including two golds, was Chandra Cheeseborough, who returned to TSU to coach the men’s and women’s track teams in 1994.

Fun Fact: In 2022, the TSU “Aristocrat of Bands” made history by winning a Grammy for their album entitled Urban Hymnal. For a deeper dive, be sure to check out our Tennessee State University walking tour. Check in with the security gate before entering campus.

Directions: Return to John A. Merritt Boulevard and drive back to 28th Avenue. Turn LEFT on 28th Avenue, which becomes Ed Temple Boulevard. Continue north on Ed Temple for 1.5 miles. Turn LEFT into the entrance for the Ted Rhodes Golf Course.