Nashville State Community College Graduates Eligible for $10,000 Scholarships from Fisk University

Fisk University has recently announced the launch of the Fisk Bound: Transfer Success Initiative, a strategic effort to support high-achieving community college graduates, including those from Nashville State Community College.

The initiative provides eligible students with a $10,000 scholarship and a direct pathway to completing their four-year degree.

An event was recently held on Fisk's historic campus to formalize and commemorate the agreement between the two institutions.

“At Fisk, we understand that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not always equitably distributed,” said Dr. Agenia Walker Clark, president of Fisk University. “This initiative, in partnership with Nashville State and any other eligible community college, allows us to meet students where they are and invite them into an environment where they can build on their momentum, complete their degrees, and become part of a legacy that is over 150 years strong.”

Students who graduate with an associate degree from Nashville State or any other eligible community college and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA will be automatically considered for the award upon submitting their application and transcripts. The scholarship will be applied toward tuition, with consideration based on eligibility and funding availability.

“Nashville State is a natural and affordable bridge for students seeking a four-year degree, and we are thankful to Fisk University for providing a transfer pathway that helps our graduates continue their educational and career goals” said Dr. Shanna L. Jackson, Nashville State president.

“This isn’t just about a scholarship - it’s about designing systems that honor where students are coming from and set them up for long-term success,” said Dr. Tiffany Steward, vice president for enrollment management and student success. “We’re focused on making the transfer process intentional, supportive, and outcome-driven. Students deserve a structure that doesn’t just admit them, but equips them.”

In addition to financial support, students accepted through the initiative will gain access to Fisk’s full range of student services and opportunities—including small class sizes, personalized faculty mentorship, career development programming, and a campus culture rooted in excellence.

“Community colleges play a critical role in educating and developing ambitious students, and this program, in partnership with Nashville State, is an extension of that work,” said Everett Jolly, director of admissions. “We’re not just inviting students to transfer—we’re inviting them to finish strong, to lead, and to thrive as part of the Fisk community.”

Interested students from Nashville State are encouraged to stay focused on academic excellence, complete their associate degree, and apply through the transfer admissions portal at www.fisk.edu as soon as possible.