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:

First Impressions Matter: The Importance of a Strong Résumé

My Career Readiness Chat with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz 
By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Me with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz

Preparing for a career after college can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to creating a résumé that truly stands out. Throughout the semester, students have the opportunity to gain valuable advice from Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz, the Career Readiness Chair for the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy.  She provides practical tips to LLP students on how to build a strong résumé that will make a lasting impression on potential employers.

I sat down with Dr. Shahbaaz’s in her office to discuss the importance of presenting experience, skills, and achievements in a clear and confident way. Many students think a résumé is simply a document listing past jobs or activities, which could lead to a missed opportunity.  "It should be seen as a personal marketing tool that tells the story of what a student brings to the table," she explained.

Dr. Shahbaaz emphasized that a strong résumé should be organized, easy to read, and tailored to the intended job or opportunity. Instead of listing general responsibilities, students should highlight accomplishments, leadership experiences, and measurable results whenever possible. This helps employers quickly understand what makes a candidate unique and qualified.

Beyond formatting and content, Dr. Shahbaaz also spoke about the human side of professional success. She reminded students that the way they interact with others can leave a lasting impact. 

“People will forget what you said and what you did but they will never forget how you made them feel,” she said.  This message highlighted the importance of professionalism, confidence, and strong communication skills when entering the workforce.

The conversation served as a reminder that a résumé is often the first step in making a strong impression. A well-prepared résumé not only showcases qualifications but also reflects the effort and professionalism of the person behind it. By taking the time to carefully craft and revise their résumés, students can better position themselves for internships, jobs, and future career opportunities

Learn more by listening to my chat with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz. 

I Saw the TV Glow!

Nerds Rule Fridays in LLP

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Nerd is the Word in the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy.  We kicked off our Nerds Rule campaign earlier this month with a screening and discussion of I Saw the Glow, an A24 film.  The program was warm and welcoming; a space where students could step away from their routines and reconnect with the film and each other.

Event organizer Dr. Chris Field explained that Nerd Club events are designed to build community. He and fellow coordinator Dr. Michelle Wise wanted to create something fun, something powerful to rebuild connection. He said, After years of post-pandemic isolation, "we wanted to get students out of their rooms and out of their shells.” 

The atmosphere of the screening felt intentional from the very beginning. As the film unfolded, its themes of identity, self-discovery, and belonging resonated deeply with the audience. It wasn’t just entertainment it felt reflective, personal, and timely.

I Saw the TV Glow Viewing Party

Fields emphasized that LLP spaces like the Nerd Club, which will meet every Friday after March 13th,  allow students to relax, learn from one another, and exist authentically without pressure. It’s about rediscovering creativity and comfort in community.

Wise’s presence during the discussion further reinforced that sense of support from faculty. Seeing professors and students engaged in the conversation - listening, reflecting, and encouraging dialogue - reminded students that community extends beyond the classroom. It showed that connection, creativity, and care are shared values.

The discussion that followed was open and thoughtful. Students shared interpretations of the film, connected its themes to their own experiences, and engaged in honest conversation. There were moments of laughter, moments of reflection, and moments of vulnerability exactly the kind of balance that brings people together.

“Sometimes the smallest spark — a film, a conversation, a shared laugh — is all it takes to light up a whole community again,” Field said.

The I Saw the Glow screening was more than just an event on the calendar. It was a reminder that showing up matters. Stepping out of our comfort zones matters. Community matters. And sometimes, all it takes to glow again is gathering in a room together and choosing to connect.

Today's Nerd Culture Club Kick Off Meeting
Join Friday, March 13th for food, games, and all that Nerd

Finding Power in Pages

My Experience at the African American Read-In

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Me reading poeam
at AA Read In! 

Walking into the African American Read-In last Thursday felt like stepping into a space where stories truly mattered not just on the page, but in the purpose behind them. The room carried a sense of pride and intention, reminding everyone present that literacy is a powerful tool within the African American community.

The Read-In was more than just a reading session; it was a community effort.  The LLP department at TSU particapated in this Global event, which started in 1990 by the National Council of Teachers of English "to make literacy a significant part of Black History Month." according to the NTCE website. 

LLP's contribution, as explained by Dr. Olufemi Oyebade, honors the legacy of Prof. Jewell Parham, who taught in the department for over 40 years.  She passed last year, "she was a very loved faculty member," said Oyebade.

This year's event invited poets,  students, educators, and organizers to the stage to read their favorite African American authors,  making literacy accessible and engaging. Their dedication highlighted how reading can be an act of service and leadership, especially when it is rooted in cultural pride and collective growth.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the event was witnessing volunteers come together to read children’s books aloud. Each volunteer brought their own energy and voice to the stories, creating an atmosphere of care and commitment. The books chosen centered Black characters, culture, imagination, and empowerment. Through these stories, volunteers helped uplift narratives that are often overlooked, reinforcing the importance of representation in literature.

Watkins reads with Dr. Zeba Shahbaaz

The event also served as a moment of reflection and inspiration. 

 “Why do we play the game of life….. to win,” said Jasmine Watkins. That message aligned perfectly with the purpose of the Read-In. Reading, education, and storytelling are all tools that help us move forward and succeed in life.

Tyler Miller added,  “Keep your sorries for mistakes.” He reminds listeners to move with confidence and intention especially when doing meaningful work. The participants embodied this message by stepping up, using their voices, and contributing to something larger than themselves.

Leaving the African American Read-In, I felt inspired by the power of community and storytelling. The experience reinforced that literacy is not just about books,  it’s about presence, purpose, and pouring into future generations. Events like this remind us that when we show up and read with intention, we are helping to build confidence, knowledge, and opportunity one story at a time.

Learn about the origins and goals of LLP's Jewell Parham African Read In tradition during my interview with Dr. Olufemi Oyebade below.

Why I Enjoy English So Much...

Meet the Spring 2026 LLP Social Media Intern

By Da'Jha' Wardlow
LLP Social Media Intern

Wardlow

From a young age, English has always been a subject I felt deeply connected to. Growing up, I enjoyed listening to stories, reading books, and finding ways to express my thoughts through writing.

I was naturally curious about the world around me and often asked questions about how and why things happened. English gave me the tools to explore that curiosity by helping me analyze ideas, understand different perspectives, and communicate clearly. Over time, my love for reading and writing continued to grow, and English became more than just a school subject—it became a way for me to make sense of the world.

As I progressed through my education, English helped me strengthen important skills such as critical thinking, research, and effective communication. These skills directly connect to my goal of becoming an investigative journalist, a career that requires deep analysis, strong writing, and the ability to uncover and tell meaningful stories. They led me to recent opportunity at the Tennessean, the largest newspaper in Nashville.

Spring 2026 Tennessean Journalism Academy

Earlier this month, I was accepted into a Journalism Academy being hosted by the paper.  The workshop expanded my journalism skills.  I talked to professional journalists about their roles and work, how they manage their time, and how they use a specific set up before publishing. The program was one of many steps that helped me prepare for this new role as Social Media Intern for the Language, Literature, and Philosophy Department at Tennessee State University.

I am a senior majoring in English with a minor in Communications. This opportunity excites me because it allows me to further explore the versatility of an English degree while gaining real-world experience. Through this role, I hope to highlight the value of the LLP Department, encourage more students to engage with what it offers, and share the many opportunities that studying English can provide.

LLP Sigma Tau Delta Takeover

New Nominees Share Excitement about Joining Sigma Tau Delta

By Lillian Rose
LLP Social Media Intern

The LLP department hosts many clubs and organizations that cater to student interests. One being, the LLP chapter of Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society.

In this organization, students serve the community with book give aways, school and library visits, and holiday events as outreach to students on campus. The advisor, Dr. Heidi Williams, leads her members to express their love of English in creative ways.

As the fall semester draws to a close and the spring semester approaches, Sigma Tau Delta is embracing new members thanks to a host of nominees who are particularly interested in everything that the study of English offers.

 “Some things that I’m looking forward to with Sigma Tau Delta is Little Tigers Read, as well as going to convention in New Orleans this March,” said Jasmine Watkins, new Sigma Tau Delta member.Other new members include Dajha Wardlow, also featured in video, Shermya Raines, and Alexandria Robinson.

 As a member of Sigma Tau Delta myself, I can guarantee that the new members will be a great addition to our organization. 

LLP Chats!

 Tell All Experience of Creating Blue Ink Jounal

By Lillian Rose 
LLP Social Media Intern

The Language, Literature, and Philosophy department has many clubs and classes that foster skill development and bring talent to light. One of these being the phenomenal Blue Ink Journal, the final product of the Writing for Publication taught by Dr. Emily Murray. The journal releases virtually today!

This year’s effort was produced by an enthusiastic student board who took on the responsibilities of creating a literary journal that serves the interests of Tennessee State University’s students. Compiling works of fiction, poetry, and essays, students can share their best stories with the world.

 "This is an opportunity for them to get their work out in the world and have other peers and teachers outside the classroom see their work,” said Dr. Murray. The Editorial Board also hosted a poetry contest this semester that gave students the opportunity to write any kind of poetry and submit it for a $50.00 prize.

Danny Dantzler Jr.

This year’s winner, Danny Dantzler Jr., is a computer science major and newly discovered poet.  The first-year student was surprised by how well his poem, “Ah Sh*t” was received, but was honored that the editors could relate to how the poem explored themes of struggle, poverty, and paternal conflict.

 “Your story is never over,” said Dantzler. “No matter the hardships, just keep going. Don’t just decide you can, decide you will.” Dantzler wants students to know that the past is not definitive of how one finishes, but an experience to let go and not live in fear.

 I encourage all of you to read the Blue Ink Literary Journal and celebrate the dedication it takes to make a body of work like this to come to life. Through countless readings of student work, interviews, designing, and editing, the collaboration of this team allows students to be motivated to create something that is bigger than themselves. 

LLP Chats!

Fall Graduate Chandler Smith Reflects on Summer Internship and Future Plans

By Lillian Rose
LLP Social Media Intern

In the LLP department, we come across many students who want to pursue careers as educators who serve their students. Yet, many may not know the opportunities that come with pursuing this profession. 

English major, Chandler Smith, was awarded two opportunities to strengthen his skills as both a future educator and a researcher. Over the summer of 2025, Smith interned under the South Memphis Stories Project with Rhodes College. 

Under the leadership of Dr. Charity Clay, he collaborated with students from Morehouse College, Hampton University, and Xavier University to research industrialization. With this new information, he learned how it affects people in the South Memphis area. 

After finishing his summer internship, Smith is now looking forward to starting his Master’s program next Fall. Under this program he hopes to advance the knowledge he learned in LLP.

For now, Smith advises students with a few tips to guarantee success in their paths to be the next generation’s future educators: 

1. Apply, reach out, and make sure to put yourself out there

2. Build your resume with intention

3. Take steps to build connections with other people

4. Practice being a good student

Applying these steps little by little encourages LLP students to be the best in everything they do and become the best to achieve all their aspirations.

Tales from a Successful Spooky Season

LLP hosts Sinners screening & Day of the Dead event

By Lillian Rose
LLP Social Media Intern

October is unabashedly the spooky season filled with Halloween movies, candy, and costumes. In the Languages, Literature and Philosophy department, we did our part by sharing good reads, movies and cultural events in the TSU community. 

Robinson on Sinners Panel

Last month, the LLP department hosted a special screening and academic discussion of Sinners. Students were able to learn about the cultural significance that applies to the movie such as Hoodoo studies and cultural resilience.

“The Sinners screening was a great opportunity for students to not only see one of the best films of the
year for free on campus, but also a chance to engage with it critically," said student panelist Alexandria Robinson. "I saw some students at the screening excited about being able to get their thoughts out about the film with others, and I think that’s who this is for at the end of the day. I hope this opens the door for more screenings to happen so students can be exposed to a diverse range of media and have the outlet to express their thoughts and gain new perspectives.

Being able to engage critically with media provides students with a new space for discussion that exposes minds to new ideas about how African American culture plays an integral role in the production of cinema.

In other LLP news this month, Langauge professors hosted a Day of the Dead event to teach students about the holiday’s significance in Latin American culture.

Masala-Martinez

Day of the Dead, also known as Dia de los Muertos is a Latin American holiday that is celebrated on November 1st and November 2nd. Celebrated as a day of remembrance, the first day is to remember the lives of the children. The second day is to remember the lives of the adults that have transitioned.

“My favorite part of the event was seeing students come together to learn about a tradition that beautifully celebrates life, memory, and community," said Dr. Francesco Masala-Martinez, Spanish Professor and event organizer.  

Throughout the event, students learned about this holiday in unique ways with a Kahoot game, a slideshow, and a video that went in-depth about the importance of celebrating the lives of family members, rather than mourning them.

Masala expressed his connection to the holiday by showing students an ofrenda with pictures of his father and cat, their favorite treats, and marigolds to attract and guide their spirits. Learning about these components provided students a new way to connect to family members as a source of celebration, rather than grief.

"I hoped that students would understand that Dia de los Muertos is not only about remembrance but also connection between generations, cultures, and shared human experiences of love and loss.” 

LLP Does Community in October

VIP Advisement Socials, Alumni Conversation, and so much more...

By Lillian Rose 
LLP Social Media Intern 

With the semester coming to a close, it is time to start planning for the Spring 2026 semester. This means check-ins with advisors to discuss classes, academic goals, and career planning.

But what if students do not know their advisors? What if students do not know which classes to sign up for? The Language, Literature, and Philosophy department has answers for them.

Murray

Last week, LLP held an Advisement Meet & Greet for English majors and minors as hosted by Dr. Rebecca Dixon. During this event students were able to engage with other professors and advisors such as Dr. Michelle Pinkard, Dr. Emily Murray, Dr. Lucas Powers, Dr. Michelle Wise, and Dr. Chris Fields to discuss the advising process.

“The LLP advising event on Friday was a wonderful success!” Murray said. “Because LLP strives to support and advise students not only in their academic pursuits but also career and life pursuits, this event allowed us to meet majors and minors, learn about student goals and aspirations and have fun!”

Students received tips on navigating EAB, the university website, and the advisement process.  We chatted over lunch and played a Black Trivia History game in which I served as the devastatingly talented host! Students went against faculty in the categories of entertainment, inventions, history, and civil rights figures. In the end, the students overwhelmingly beat the professors proving that our generation knows their history!

Murray summarized the event as another way to solidify the partnership between LLP faculty and students.  “The meeting was informative for practical advising purposes, but I enjoyed most the less formal atmosphere for advising and getting to meet advisees in person, playing trivia and building a sense of community in the department. I look forward to losing more trivia games to these students in the future!”

Me and Heard after our Trivia Win!

There are faculty murmurs of a rematch.  Jasmine Heard, English minor, will be ready. She said, “this
event gave me the insight I needed to talk to advisors about my future career plans in English and beating the faculty in the trivia game was the cherry on top!”

In other LLP News this month, the department hosted an alumni conversation with key speaker, Ms. Chandler Wilson, a 2018 graduate student of Tennessee State University and English major. She is now a ninth grade English educator who ranks #5 as a master teacher in the state for English I teachers.

Dr. Zeba Shahbazz moderated, but other professors in attendance explored how learning from their students is just as important as teaching students. Students are encouraged to archive their work and to use it as source material to track progress through matriculation and transition into the professional world.

Near the end of the conversation, Ms. Chandler Wilson provided special advice for those who are pursuing a career in the field of teaching English:

1.  Use your voice as much as possible.
2.  Get the most information that you possibly can.
3.  Be as knowledgeable as you possibly can on the content.

Watch the entire video below.  Students should use this advice to be the best English educator that you can be. 

  Looking forward to seeing you at the next LLP event! 

Seeing Philosophy in a New Light

Lillian Rose

Enligtening Discussions with "COLA Teacher of the Year" Professor Kennedy  
By Lillian Rose
LLP Social Media Intern

Kennedy Award Interview

    I recently got the chance to interview Professor Babydoll Kennedy about being declared a Teacher of the Year Award by the College of Liberal Arts.  While my main purpose was to understand what this award means to her, we started to discuss her greater purpose: what it means for her to teach in the world of philosophy. 
    For her, an individual understanding that they can stand firm in their beliefs by using evidence and opening their mind to take in another person’s perspective is a priority that she incorporates into her everyday lessons. She implements these strategies because she understands it is a rare occurrence in today’s world to use your own thinking to explain why or why something is not correct in society when opposing sides say something different. 
     Accordingly, Prof. Kennedy provides her students with open discussion to explain their rationale, which in turn, helps her learn something new from her students. As a political science major and English minor, it was enlightening to hear from a professor who teaches her students to be critical, but still be open to other people’s perspectives.
     As we got deeper into the interview, Prof. Kennedy says, “be able to articulate my side before you start trying to dismantle my argument. If you can’t reconstruct it, you can’t deconstruct it.” From this, I learned that there is an importance to hearing someone out, before trying to tear down their viewpoints.  I understood that I could stand firm in my viewpoints without being overly defensive toward others.
     Ultimately, it is okay to hear someone out without feeling that they are coming for you personally. When the interview concluded, I had a new understanding of what it means to dive into the world of philosophy in order to become a rational thinker and an evolving student.  I was able to understand Professor Kennedy’s way of engaging with her students, as well as how much she pours into her students, so they can become well-rounded thinkers. 

Click the image below to Enjoy the full interview below

 My "Uniquely Human" Interview with Prof. B. Kennedy

See you at the next LLP Event!

Meet the New Fall 2025 LLP Social Media Intern

English is Back!
By Lillian Rose

Lillian Rose 
Political Science Major 
English Minor

English has played an integral role in my life since I was a child. During my youth, my mom would buy books in various genres for me to read and assign me to write book reports on them to advance my writing and reading comprehension skills. As a teacher herself, she understood how important it was for a child to be able to read. Being introduced to these books sparked my interest in buying physical copies of books and reading them for simply, my pure enjoyment.

Taking this passion with me to college allowed me to make the decision of becoming an English minor. With classes such as Creative Writing Poetry and Adolescent Literature, the doors opened for me to tap into my creativity, as well as affirming my decision that I do want to take my passion and teach children all the joys of English.

As the new Language, Literature, and Philosophy social media intern for the English Department, I firmly believe I can expand my skillset to learning all the ins and outs of what English can do for me in my future career as an attorney and as a teacher. For now, my goal as the LLP social media intern is to take the English Department to new heights by consistently covering their live events and spreading information about them to the student body.

During this internship, I am excited for all the new opportunities I will be able to learn about. Also, I am positive that by working with the faculty of this department, I can attract students to be a part of what the English Department has to offer, which can impact them for life.