NASHVILLE — Head coaches at Tennessee State University submitted a letter of no confidence to athletic director Dr. Mikki Allen on May 28. The letter was addressed to university president Dwayne Tucker and the Tennessee State University Board of Trustees.
The coaches stated concerns regarding the athletics department. They wrote, "As Head Coaches entrusted with the development, safety, and success of our student-athletes, we believe it is our responsibility to express serious concerns regarding the current direction, leadership, communication, and operational management of the Athletics Department." The letter indicated a decline in trust, morale, transparency, and collaborative leadership within the department. It also cited ongoing challenges including inconsistent communication, a lack of operational transparency, uneven resource allocation, and insufficient departmental structure, alongside delayed decision-making in staffing, budgeting, and program operations.
The coaches wrote, "We believe the department is currently operating without the level of cohesion, strategic leadership, and institutional alignment necessary to move Tennessee State Athletics forward in a positive and unified manner." They added that these issues have created an environment that does not support sustainable growth, competitive excellence, or the mission of Tennessee State University Athletics. The letter requested an independent review of the athletics department's leadership, operational structure, communication practices, and culture.
The letter also called for the appointment of an interim athletic director during a national search for a permanent replacement. The coaches reaffirmed their commitment to the university and the well-being of student-athletes in the letter.