Sharon Smith Banks

Sharon Smith Banks started her scholarship because of very personal reasons. She stated that it is very important to her for the recipients to be a 1st generation, first time freshman because that is who she was. She believes that these types of students are typically at-risk and do not have the support system like other students. She wants to be that support system. Sharon wants students to know how important and how gratifying it is to give back—pay it forward. “God blesses you for your acts of kindness and generosity.” Sharon is a very active alumnus and can always be seen on the campus 2-3 times annually. Every time she visits Nashville, she takes the time to meet with her scholarship recipients and share in the TSU experience. To Sharon, there is nothing more rewarding.