The AI SMART Fellows assist Tennessee State University (TSU) in exploring, investigating, and advancing research on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in addressing open education access, addressing the digital divide, promoting digital literacy, and empowering underrepresented groups with the tools of AI.
AI Fellows explore/investigate in their discipline/area how AI is transforming teaching and learning, student support, academic achievement, career services, administrative functions, and workforce skills and preparation.
A.I. Faculty FellowsDirectory
Mrs. Debra Alexander
Academic Technology Coach for Adult Learners, Student Services for Adult and Distance Learners
Dr. Charlise Anderson
Managing Executive Director, Division of Academic Affairs
Mr. Gionni Carr
Assistant Director, Academic Tutoring, Academic Achievement and Retention (A.A.R.C)
Dr. Deborah Chisom
Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs (AWC) - Smart Center
Mr. Marcus Horton
Academic Technology Coach, SMART Innovation Technology Center
Dr. Robbie K. Melton
Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs/Provost, & VP of SMART Technologies
Dr. Trenna Richardson
Data Manager/Assessment Coordinator
Retention Specialist, Associate Professor
School of Nursing
Sterlin Sanders
Assistant Chief Information Officer, Office of Technology Services
Dr. Erik Schmeller
Assistant Vice President, Service Learning and Civic Engagement
Ms. Trudie Thomas
Director of Academic Program Planning & Events - Avon Williams Off Campus Intructional Site/SMART Center
Dr. Tokesha Warner
Assistant Professor, Public Health/Health Sciences/Public Administration
A.I. Community Partner Fellows
Doug Renfro, Ed.D
Executive Director of Digital Strategy and Implementation, Metro Nashville Public Schools
Spearheads the development and execution of comprehensive digital strategies to enhance learning environments for K-12 students, focusing on equity and innovative teaching methods leveraging emerging technologies. Renfro has contributed to instructional design, professional development, and digital curriculum development. His work is grounded in a strong educational background with an Ed.D in Curriculum and Instruction. He is a proud alumnus of Tennessee State University. Renfro is recognized for his strategic leadership in digital learning and actively participates in professional communities.