Sparking the Flames of Creativity at Soul Fire Poetry Club

By Kamryn Clay
Writing for Publication Staff Writer

Kamryn Clay

We want live 
words of the hip world live flesh &
coursing blood. Hearts Brains
Souls splintering fire.

        - "Black Art," Amiri Baraka  

For everyone, there is a specific thing that sets their passion  alight. Something that breathes life into them like a mother does a child. Inspires them the way only a muse can. For members of this club, poetry is what lights their Soulfire.

Founded by Languages, Literature, and Philosophy Department Chair, Dr. Michelle Pinkard, and Southern Word's Tia Smedly, TSU’s Soul Fire poetry club has been providing a safe space for students to come into themselves since 2014. Every Wednesday from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., students gather in room

220 of Jackson Hall to share poetry, ideas, and pieces of themselves.

Inspired by the words of Amiri Baraka's poem “Black Art," Pinkard decided to bring the manifest of the poem to life for the students of TSU. By creating a community of thoughtfulness and creativity, Soulfire allows grown folks to express grown things. From being a place to talk about what is impacting your life, to a place to just feel, curse, and even just be silent and write.

In Pinkard's own words, “We are all working to become,” and so do the members who are a part of this healing space for the transition they are undergoing. Pinkard says students who attend Soul Fire are able to lift their voices above the noise, finding the joy of a poetry inspired life. The alienation and isolation falls away, and students are able to learn how to be human by having this space.

Sophomore Sociology major Ivy Miller, is one such student impacted by the club. Learning of the club via email in the 2026 spring semester, she decided it would be fun to join and has made the effort to become a consistent member since.

For her, Soul Fire is a safe space to hear other creatives, something one doesn’t find just anywhere. Working as an outlet, the club transforms into a community with virtually no pressures, just the feeling of safety and home.

Ivy Miller

Knowing what she does now, how Soul Fire is not a place of judgement, but instead a place to exchange ideas she wants her peers who are interested to go and not hold back. What is put into the club is what it will give in return.

“Soul Fire is a home for creative people and deep thinkers” says Ivy Miller, “This is a place you can open up and meet people you might have just walked by on campus, and be able to know them on a deeper level.”

 

This connection isn’t the only shining light of Soul Fire. Dr. Michelle J. Pinkard is a key factor to making this a standout club on campus. According to Miller, “She is extremely empowering and is always going to tell you what she loves. She’s going to express her feelings.” This openness and love Pinkard provides makes everything open on the floor for everyone in the room.

Pinkard believes that Soul Fire is her part of giving back to TSU. It is her muse she hopes inspires others to fall in love with language again, thereby empowering their own words. Cherishing the opportunity to connect with students outside of the usual classroom setting, she is able to not only facilitate student growth better but also grow with them. With a broadened perspective and ability to know she is everchanging, she invites students, alumni, staff, and faculty alike to be brave in their vulnerabilities.

Soul Fire is a space where the doors never close. The kindling of community is forever stoked, and the burning flames of creativity never flicker. Soul Fire is more than just a club; it is a home away from home for the weary and restless. As Pinkard said, “I just keep going back to safety. I hope this place is safe.” It is within this sense of safety that Soul Fire allows its members to grow, giving the transformative fire within each person the air it needs to burn brighter.

Kamryn Clay is a senior Biology major with minors in Chemistry and English, coming all the way from the amazing Houston, Texas. Though she is a STEM major, her passion for the literary arts shines through as a member of the LLP’s Soul Fire Poetry Club, LLP's Dungeons & Dragons Club, and the LLP Blue Ink Literary Journal. As a reader and writer, she enjoys creating and reading pieces that are close to the heart, especially poetry, short stories, and fantasy, but enjoys storytelling in all its forms. With her passion for both science and the arts, she hopes to pursue medicine and bring patients joy and comfort in the same way that a good story can. She also loves the color pink because it brings fun and happiness into everything she does, and she hopes that her involvement with Blue Ink and her own pieces can inspire that same feeling in others.

Signing Off: My Final Chapter as a Social Media Intern

By Da'Jha' Wardlow

Da'Jha' Wardlow

LLP Social Media Intern

As I sit down to write this, it feels surreal to say that my journey as a social media intern is coming to an end. What started as an opportunity to gain experience quickly became a space where I discovered my voice, sharpened my creativity, and learned what it truly means to connect with an audience.

From day one, I was thrown into a fast-paced digital world where every post, caption, and campaign had a purpose. At first, it was a little intimidating figuring out brand tone, tracking engagement, and keeping up with trends that seemed to change overnight. But over time, I found my rhythm. I learned how to turn ideas into content, how to tell stories in just a few lines, and how to create posts that didn’t just fill a feed but actually meant something.

This internship wasn’t just about social media. It was about growth. I became more confident in sharing my ideas, more strategic in my thinking, and more intentional with my work. I learned how to analyze what works and what doesn’t, how to adapt quickly, and how to collaborate with a team to bring visions to life. Every challenge pushed me to be better, and every success reminded me why I started.

Wardlow is the winner of LLP's Excellence 
in Professional Writing Award! 

One of the most valuable parts of this experience has been the people. Being surrounded by supportive mentors and a creative team made all the difference. Their guidance, feedback, and encouragement helped shape not only my skills but also my mindset moving forward.

As I close this chapter, I’m not just walking away with experience, I'm leaving with a deeper understanding of the power of communication, creativity, and connection. Social media is more than likes and shares; it’s about impact, and I’m proud to have contributed in a meaningful way.

This isn’t really a goodbye, it's a see you later. I’m excited to take everything I’ve learned into my next journey, wherever that may be. And if this experience has taught me anything, it’s that I’m more than ready for what’s next.

Thank you for this amazing position Dr.Pinkard you are truly the best and thank you for always believing in me at all times.

Signing Out.

Da'Jha’ Wardlow
Spring 2026 Graduate

Igniting Her Voice with Poetry

Trinity Brown’s Soul Fire Story

By Da'Jha' Wardlow

Me with Trinity Brown!

LLP Social Media Intern

In a world where finding your voice can feel overwhelming, programs like LLP's Soul Fire Club are creating spaces where creativity thrives—and Trinity Brown is living proof of that impact. Through her involvement in the “I Want to Write” events, Trinity has discovered not just a passion for writing, but a deeper understanding of herself and the influence her words can have on others.

Brown, an Agricultural Science major and graduating senior, first became involved in Soul Fire nearly three years ago. At a time when many students are still figuring out their direction, she found something meaningful in writing. What started as curiosity quickly grew into commitment, as she realized how powerful storytelling could be.

Brown Awarded LLP's 
Excellence in Creative
Writing Award

Soul Fire, a poetry writing workshop series and Spoken word club, is known for empowering young writers and encouraging self-expression. It is a feature of annual “I Want to Write” events, which bring aspiring writers together during the poetry month in April. These events are centered around workshops where participants can practice their craft, share ideas, and build confidence. Brown regularly attends these workshops, using them as a space to grow, collaborate, and challenge herself creatively.

One of the biggest influences on her journey has been Dr. Michelle J. Pinkard. Through mentorship and encouragement, Dr. Pinkard has helped shape Brown’s perspective and dedication to writing. This guidance has pushed her to not only improve her skills but also to believe in the value of her voice. 

For Brown, writing is more than just putting words on paper—it’s about  impact. She finds joy in seeing how her words affect others, whether it’s inspiring someone, making them think, or helping them feel understood. That connection is what keeps her motivated to continue participating in Soul Fire and the “I Want to Write” workshops.

Brown performs Poem during Women's History Month

Her mindset is captured in one powerful quote she lives by: “Be the best at what you can.” It’s a simple message, but one that reflects her determination to grow and give her best effort in everything she does.

Brown’s journey shows how important it is to have spaces like Soul Fire—places where creativity is nurtured, voices are heard, and individuals are encouraged to become the best versions of themselves.

Check out my interview with Soul Fire's Trinity Brown below!

Student Reflections on Representing LLP in New Orleans

LLP Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society Member Reflects on Her Experience at the National Convention

By Candace Boswell
English Minor and Graduating Senior

Candace Boswell

I had the exciting opportunity to attend the Sigma Tau Delta Convention in New Orleans as an undergraduate TSU student this spring. During the convention, there were multiple student-led roundtable discussions covering various topics which aided in enriching my education. 

Many of these topics included references to pop culture. We talked about storytelling in books, movies, and video games. There was even a session about fan fiction. It was interesting to see how things we do outside of academia, like playing a video game, can lend itself to our understanding of storytelling.

The first speaker was Maurice Carlos Ruffin, a New Orleans Native and author of The American Daughters. He spoke about his experience writing his novels and offered inspirational words for the aspiring authors in the crowd. He spoke with such conviction; it made me want to go back to my hotel room and work on a story. Moved by his speech, I bought The American Daughters and attended his book signing. Ruffin took the time to get to know me as he autographed my book. When I went back to my room that night, I saw that he added a note with the signature. It said:

Candace,

This is for you.

This is just one of many examples of the sense of community that was cultivated at the convention. I was the only student representative from my school present. But I never felt alone.

I met so many like minded individuals who shared my love for literature.

Research in the Round was a student-led event in which participants had three nine-minute conversations regarding randomly selected research topics. My three topics were “Transferring Monstrosity on Contemporary Gothic and Horror Novels,” “The Disposability of the Black Love Interest in Fiction,” and “Hope in Literature.”  These are wildly different topics, but this session challenged me to analyze both the recreational and academic literary works I have consumed. 

It was also a great confidence booster. I was given the topic as I sat down at the table. There was no time to prepare a perfectly crafted response. I had to think on my feet and trust my education at Tennessee State University. I surprised myself with how much I was able to contribute to each conversation.

The resume and cover letter workshop hosted by members of the Sigma Tau Delta board was an invaluable resource. They provided a mock cover letter, personal anecdotes from their experiences reviewing internship applications, and interview tips.

Not only was I able to improve upon my professional documents, but I was also given the opportunity to network. A member of the National Book Foundation attended the session with last year’s summer intern. The pair provided a wealth of information about the internship and what is required of the position.

I take great pride in representing my HBCU and contributing to the exchange of ideas with all of the attendees. Enriched by my experience, I plan to attend future conventions as an alumni, and I encourage my fellow tigers to attend as well.

Me with Sigma Tau Delta Faculty Adviser Dr. Heidi Williams!

Candace Boswell is a Biology major with a minor in English at Tennessee State University. Originally from the Bronx, New York, she combines her passion for both science and literature in her academic and professional pursuits. Boswell is a graduating senior who aims to work in the medical field while exploring creative endeavors.

Spring Into Opportunity!

LLP’s Spring Extravaganza Brings Community, Culture, and Career Inspiration

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Preparing for the future doesn’t always happen in a classroom; it can also grow through connection, creativity, and shared experiences. That was exactly the case at the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy’s Spring Extravaganza last Friday. The event brought students together in a lively and welcoming environment designed to inspire personal and professional growth.

Me with Dr. Francesco Masala

Hosted in the Elliot Hall Auditorium, the Spring Extravaganza offered a mix of activities including salsa lessons, philosophy debates, career development opportunities, and student organization involvement. From LLPs “Soul Fire” to the “Nerd Club,” the event created space for students with different interests to come together and explore new ideas while building meaningful connections.

“It’s a great way to meet new people and feel like you’re part of something bigger,” said Spanish instructor and Salsa expert Dr. Francesco Masala. He reflects the overall atmosphere of day one that encouraged curiosity and connection without pressure. The goal of which, he explained, was "to show support, learn new things, and have fun.”

Performer Amanda Perez with
Language Faculty

One of the highlights of the event was the food, which added to the overall welcoming and festive atmosphere. Students were able to enjoy a variety of refreshments while socializing, making it easier to relax, connect, and fully engage in the experience. The presence of food created a more comfortable environment, encouraging students to stay longer and interact with others.

"When people come together for something positive, it makes it easier to connect and support each other,” Masala said. Other program features include a Dungeons and Dragons Campaign, a live music performance from graduating senior Amanda Perez, and a Fashion Society presentation inspired by The Hunger Games.

Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, emphasized the deeper value of the humanities in shaping students’ lives. “If you wanna be human you have to start with humanities,” she said, reinforcing the idea that studying language, literature, and philosophy helps students better understand both themselves and others. Her perspective connected the purpose of the event to a broader mission encouraging empathy, creativity, and critical thinking.

Dr. Shane Gomes guides the D&D crew

Dr. Erik Schmeller, VP for Academic Affairs, also reflected on the welcoming environment, noting how the event allowed students to step outside of their routines and engage with something new. Whether through conversation, games, dance, or debate, the Spring Extravaganza created opportunities for students to grow in ways that extend beyond academics.

Ultimately, the Spring Extravaganza was more than just an event; it was an experience centered on inclusion, exploration, and community. By bringing together students from different backgrounds and interests, the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy created a space where everyone could feel involved and inspired.

Scroll down for upcoming events in LLP!

Building Community and Confidence with Pride

Talking GSA and Student Support with Dr. Shane Gomes

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Me with Dr. Shane Gomes

Creating a safe and supportive environment on college campuses is essential, especially for students navigating questions of identity and belonging. Through the Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA), students are given a space to connect, share, and grow, says faculty adviser Dr. Shane Gomes. He offered insight into how these meetings foster inclusion and empowerment within the school community.

“It’s a space where students can show up as themselves without fear of judgment,” he said. This sense of comfort allows students to open up, ask questions, and learn from one another’s experiences. Dr. Gomes noted that even small moments like listening or offering support can make a big difference.

The GSA meets biweekly during "Tiger Time," providing a consistent and welcoming environment for students of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Dr. Gomes explained that the purpose of the group goes beyond discussion; it is about building a sense of community. Many students attend simply to feel understood and supported.

 “Having a comfortable space where people feel heard can change someone’s entire experience,” he said. During meetings, students engage in conversations about identity, mental health, and current social issues, while also participating in activities that promote awareness and inclusion. The group primarily encourages positivity, growth, and mutual respect. 

Dr. Gomes also highlighted why spaces like the GSA are so important. Many students still face misunderstanding or isolation, and the GSA works to counter that by promoting acceptance and education across campus. By creating opportunities for dialogue, the group helps break down stereotypes and encourages a more inclusive environment for everyone.

The conversation made it clear that the GSA is not just about meetings it is about impact. It provides students with a place to belong, build confidence, and help promote a more understanding community. Ultimately, the GSA introduces students to the power of voice and visibility.

Learn more by clicking the video below. The GSA will also be represented at tomorrow's LLP Spring Extravaganza. The next GSA meeting will be held on April 7, 1p, Jackson Hall 211. 

 

 

Turning Pages, Building Confidence:

Me and Alexandria Robinson

I Want to Read Event Will Inspire Students

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

As students look for new ways to connect, learn, and grow, tomorrow's LLP sponsored “I Want to Read” event is creating excitement across campus. Designed to promote literacy and community, the event encourages students to explore reading in a supportive and engaging environment.

“Reading gives you the power to travel anywhere, become anyone, and understand the world in ways you never imagined,”  said Alexandria Robinson, a senior majoring in Mass Communications, and minoring in English.  Robinson is also helping to facilitate the event with Dr. Michelle Wise, LLP's Sophomore Literature Coordinator.  

Dr. Wise explained that the event will include several break out sessions that will build critical reading skills, community with language games, and creativity with reviews of visual texts like comic books.  Food will be provided and all are welcome. 

Robinson said the event goes beyond simply reading books; it's about creating a space where students can feel comfortable, especially those who may experience anxiety around reading. By offering a low-pressure environment, students can participate at their own pace, whether that means sharing, listening, or just being present.

Robinson emphasized the power of reading, "the event is meant to make reading feel accessible and enjoyable for all students." As a TV and Film student, she is hoping to document the event for future viewing. Her perspective reflects the event’s goal of helping students see reading as both a personal and transformative experience.

Ultimately, the “I Want to Read” event aims to build confidence, encourage self-expression, and bring students together through shared stories and ideas.

Learn More Below by listening to our conversation below: