TSU Class of 1990
Founder & CEO, Don Hardin Group

Don Hardin is a proud graduate of Tennessee State University, earning his degree in Architectural Engineering in 1990. A Nashville native, he credits TSU and faculty mentor Dr. Walter Vincent Jr. for shaping his path as a student and professional.

Hardin is the founder and CEO of the Don Hardin Group, a leading architectural and construction management firm responsible for major projects including Nashville’s Music City Center, Nissan North America facilities, and the National Museum of African American Music. His work reflects a deep commitment to excellence, equity, and community development.

A devoted TSU alumnus, Hardin actively supports the College of Engineering and provides internship opportunities to TSU students. His life and leadership exemplify the power of mentorship, perseverance, and giving back

TSU Class of 1952
Educator
Golden Vintager
Champion of Legacy and Service

Dr. Katie Kinnard White is a proud 1952 graduate of Tennessee State University and a distinguished educator whose legacy spans generations. With a deep passion for learning and service, Dr. White devoted more than three decades to teaching at her beloved alma mater, inspiring countless students through her commitment to academic excellence and personal development.

As a long-serving member of the TSU faculty, Dr. White was known not only for her subject matter expertise but for her grace, integrity, and unwavering dedication to student success. Her presence on campus—both in and beyond the classroom—helped shape the university’s reputation for nurturing leaders and lifelong learners.

Dr. White is a celebrated Golden Vintager, recognized during TSU’s commencement ceremonies as one of the oldest living alumnae to participate in the annual processional honoring alumni of 50 years or more. Her participation in this tradition exemplifies her pride in TSU and the lasting impact of HBCU education. She has often been noted as a role model for both her peers and younger generations of Tigers.

Her legacy is further enriched through her marriage to the late Lt. Joseph White, a fellow TSU alumnus and member of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. Together, they exemplified the values of service, sacrifice, and education—leaving a powerful legacy rooted in history and civic pride.

Dr. Katie Kinnard White represents the very best of Tennessee State University: academic distinction, enduring service, and an unshakable commitment to uplifting the TSU community. Her life's work continues to inspire future generations to pursue education with passion and purpose.

TSU Class of 1974
Business Leader & Alumni Advocate

Dwight L. Beard, a Tennessee State University graduate (B.S. 1974), rose from being the youngest of 14 children in rural Tennessee to becoming a successful Nashville businessman and dedicated TSU champion. He founded Beard Property Maintenance, Inc. in 1983, growing it into a well-respected landscaping services firm serving Middle Tennessee.

For more than three decades, Dwight has been deeply committed to TSU’s mission through mentorship, philanthropy, and leadership. He served five terms as President of the Nashville Chapter of the TSU National Alumni Association and contributed 17 years of service on the TSU Foundation Board. In recognition of his impact, TSU Athletics named the annual Dwight L. Beard Bar-B-Que during John A. Merritt Classic Weekend in his honor—a gesture that symbolizes his dedication to the university community.

Dwight is a familiar and supportive presence on campus, actively engaged with students to assist with future planning, emergency needs, and personal development. His contributions include distributing personal hygiene supplies and responding to student-led initiatives with both resources and moral support.

Beard attributes his success—and enduring TSU loyalty—to a foundation of faith, family values, and the life-changing opportunities afforded by education. He has advocated publicly for TSU’s financial equity, including calling for full funding owed to HBCUs, highlighting how TSU’s legacy and affordability have empowered generations within his own family and beyond.

President & CEO, GAA Manufacturing Global Business Leader
Dedicated TSU Trustee

Kevin W. Williams graduated from Tennessee State University in 1983 with a bachelor’s in business management, later earning his MBA from Central Michigan University in 1989 and completing GM’s Senior Executive Development Program in 2002.

Over a distinguished 31-year career at General Motors, Williams held senior international roles, including President and Managing Director of GM Canada, President and Managing Director of GM de Mexico, and North America VP of Quality—all while overseeing operations spanning multiple continents and billions in annual revenue.

In 2024, he was appointed President and CEO of GAA Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management— one of the nation’s largest African American-owned logistics and supply firms. His expertise in global operations, quality systems, and revenue growth is credited with fueling company expansion and diversification.

Williams remains a committed TSU alumnus, serving on the TSU Foundation Board of Trustees and as Vice Chair of the United Negro College Fund Foundation. He has also held leadership roles with the American Medical Association (as a public member on its Board of Trustees) and other civic and educational entities.