P.A.S.S. Tutoring

Mr. Gionni Carr

 Director of P.A.S.S. Tutoring

jcarr@tnstate.edu

As the Asst. Director of Tutoring, Mr. Carr is pivotal in enhancing student success. He oversees a dedicated team of faculty and staff tutors and an admin team. Together, we provide high-quality support tailored to students' needs. We empower them to take ownership of their academic enhancement, helping them along their journey to graduation! He offers mentorship to students while collaborating with various departments across the university to create a cohesive learning environment. His commitment to education and student development makes him an invaluable asset to the university community. He enjoys producing music, songwriting, and rapping in his spare time.

Ms. Ariel Lewinson

Grants Project Assistant

alewinso@tnstate.edu

Greetings, Tigers! My name is Ariel Lewinson, and I am happy to serve as the Grants Project Assistant for P.A.S.S. Tutoring! I’m a proud TSU alumna, earning my bachelor’s in Business Administration in Summer 2023. I am passionate about the arts, fashion, and creating meaningful social change. My mission is to empower students to become the best versions of themselves, and I can’t wait to be a part of your academic journey to success!

Dr. Bashiyar Almarwani

Ms. Ogechi Anyatonwu

Mr. Mohammad Arbabshirani

Mr. Gregory Brand

Greetings, Fellow TSU Tigers!!!

I am excited to assist you with your tutoring needs! My areas of expertise include Freshman Composition, African American Literature, American Literature, World Literature, Speech, Journalism and Communications. I have nearly 20 years professional experience as an editor, writer and digital content production. I am a full-time educator, currently working as an Academic Dean of English at a local high school. I'm a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Brothers for Love Achievement Culture and Knowledge, Inc. (B.L.A.C.K.)! I am also a movie and pop-culture aficionado! Looking forward to helping you achieve your academic goals this semester!

Ms. Cameron Brown

Greetings! My name is Cameron, and I’m excited to support you on your academic journey. My areas of expertise include Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, Genetics, and English. I can also help you apply these subjects to MCAT preparation if you’re interested in pursuing a medical education. I am a graduate of Fisk University and currently a medical student at Meharry Medical College. In my free time, I enjoy getting lost in a good book, binge-watching new TV shows, and traveling. I’m also a big foodie and love exploring new restaurants, if food is involved, you can always count me in! I look forward to meeting you all and working together to achieve your goals.

Dr. Shameka Cathey

Hello, TSU Tigers! I am excited to be a part of the P.A.S.S. Tutoring Program and Site Leader for Hankel Hall. I am dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals and reach their fullest potential. With a passion for education and empowerment, my areas of expertise include American Government, Black Politics, Women, Gender, and Sexuality, and Social Justice.  I strive to make complex topics engaging while fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Outside of academia, I enjoy watching documentaries, traveling to explore new cultures, histories, and landscapes, diving into all things wellness-related, and building beloved communities. I look forward to supporting you on your academic journey!

Dr. Eckton Chinyanga

Greetings TSU Tigers! I am excited to assist you with your tutoring needs! My areas of expertise include accounting courses such as: Principles of Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Cost Accounting, Intermediate Accounting 1 and Intermediate Accounting 2, Physics, and Public Health. In my spare time, I enjoy writing, watching movies, listening to music and watching /playing soccer. I'm a proud member of Beta Alpha Psi and National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). Looking forward to helping you achieve your academic goals this semester!

Ms. Destiny Cryer

Hi, I’m Destiny Cryer! I’m a Richmond, Virginia native with Louisiana roots, and I earned my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Virginia. I’m currently a first-year medical student at Meharry Medical College, and I’ve always been passionate about learning, teaching, and helping others succeed academically. In my free time, I enjoy reading, researching random topics just because, and cooking new recipes. I’m a medical student with a strong academic foundation in both math and science, and I love helping students build confidence by truly understanding the material. My goal is to make challenging topics feel clear, manageable, and less intimidating. Subjects tutored: Calculus, Algebra, Geometry, and other math disciplines; Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry.

Dr. Rebecca Dixon

My name is Dr. Rebecca S. Dixon.  I am Professor of English and instructor of History.  I also coordinate the Women's Studies program.  In the Pass tutoring program, I tutor several subjects, mainly English. I have taught several subjects in English and History.  I can assist with Freshman Composition, Sophomore Literature, and other specialized courses including African Literature, Caribbean Literature, African American Literature, American Literature, and World Literature. In History, I primarily focus on American and African American History.

I am passionate about reading, which is one of my hobbies and part of my job. I hope that my students, whether in tutoring or in the classroom, will find my passion for reading contagious. I also enjoy Pilates, running, and cooking.

Ms. Ogheneruona “Ruona” Eruvwetere

Hi all!

My name is Ruona, and my areas of expertise are MCAT Biology, MCAT CARS, and MCAT Psychology. I’m here to help you dominate the MCAT and get one step closer to your professional school goals! When I’m not studying or teaching, you can find me on a basketball court or lost in a good book. I love the Houston Rockets and will argue with anyone down about it! Excited to meet you all—let’s make those med school dreams a reality!

Dr. Sujata Guha

Hello students! I am very happy to have the opportunity to help you achieve your goals. I will be assisting you with General Chemistry and Physical Chemistry. I am currently a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and also the Interim Chair of the Department. Feel free to reach out to me at sguha@tnstate.edu with any questions or concerns.

Mr. Vahid Khairollahi

Welcome, TSU scholars! Together, we embrace constructive feedback to empower your learning and master math. We will set clear goals, reflect on your progress, and celebrate every success along the way.

Dr. Brenda Kibbel

I am originally from Long Beach, California, where I practiced as a registered dental Assistant in expanded functions. I received my AAS degree in Dental Hygiene from Tennessee State University/Meharry Medical College in 2000. I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene from Tennessee State University in 2003. I currently hold a Master's Degree in Education with a concentration in Educational Technology. I became a faculty member in September of 2009. I currently teach Dental Hygiene Theory (I & II) and Clinical Dental Hygiene (I & II), Dental Materials to and Periodontics. Lastly, I am a member of the American Dental Hygienists' Association, (ADHA); Tennessee Dental Hygiene Association, (TDHA) and the Nashville Area Dental Hygiene Society, (NADHS).

Ms. Baybydoll Kennedy

Prof. Kennedy brings more than twenty years of experience in education, including over a decade of college-level teaching. She currently serves as an Instructor at Tennessee State University, where she teaches philosophy and religious studies. She has worked with diverse student populations, including first-generation college students and those who enter college underprepared, and is dedicated to providing the individualized guidance needed to help them thrive academically. Prof. Kennedy’s tutoring philosophy emphasizes rigor balanced with encouragement. She believes that reading is not only a skill but also a pathway to critical inquiry, creativity, and confidence. Through her patient, structured, and supportive approach, she empowers students to strengthen comprehension, sharpen analytical abilities, and cultivate the tools for long-term academic and professional success.

Ms. Kiah Mayo

Greetings TSU Tigers! I am excited to assist you with your tutoring needs! My areas of expertise include biology and anatomy, MCAT preparation and related sciences, algebra/pre-calc, African/African American Studies, writing skills, introductory level Spanish and public health. I am an all-around nerd. In my spare time I watch anime, read fantasy novels, play video games, and do some crafting and creative writing. I recently started working out because I’m a big foodie. #fitnessjourney

Looking forward to helping you achieve your academic goals this semester.

Ms. Camille Neal

Hello everyone! My name is Camille Neal, and this will be my second year serving as a P.A.S.S. tutor. I am from St. Louis, MO, a proud graduate of Grambling State University, and I am currently a medical student at Meharry Medical College. My areas of expertise primarily include pre-med courses, such as Biology, Anatomy & Physiology, and Genetics, as well as MCAT preparation. Outside of academics, I love to sing, catch up on the most recent movies and shows, and create my own fragrances, whether that be perfumes or candles! I am excited for the opportunity to help you achieve academic success and look forward to working with all of you!

Mr. Daniel Niter

Hi all! My name is Daniel Niter. I am a medical student at Meharry Medical College, and my primary area of expertise is Biology. I’m passionate about helping students strengthen their understanding of core biological concepts and apply them confidently, whether for coursework or exam prep. When I’m not studying or teaching, you can find me on the court getting buckets, watching 12 and the Memphis Grizzlies play, or diving into a good video game. I’m excited to work with you all, let’s build a strong foundation and reach your academic goals together!

Ms. Vanessa Okooboh

Hello! My name is Vanessa Okooboh, and I am a Georgetown University graduate and a current medical student at Meharry Medical College. My areas of expertise include biology, anatomy, physiology, algebra, and MCAT CARS. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, strengthening your foundation, or aiming for that next academic milestone, I’m here to help you get there. Outside of academics, I am an avid painter and a proud gym junkie, so I truly believe in balance, creativity, and discipline. I can’t wait to build a memorable, motivating, and empowering learning experience with every student I’m fortunate enough to meet!

Mr. Ericson Onyewuenyi

Hello TSU Students! My name is Ericson. My areas of expertise are Biology, Chemistry, and all things MCAT, so let me know if you need any help throughout your process. In my spare time, I like to play and watch soccer and basketball. Excited to help you guys achieve the success y'all are striving for!

Dr. Jelonia Rumph

Greetings TSU Tigers! I am excited to assist you with your tutoring and professional development needs! My areas of expertise include Biology, Health Communication, Writing, Statistics, and Public Health. In my spare time, I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, exploring new cities and trying new restaurants. I'm a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.! Need to talk about school-life balance? I’m your girl!  Want to discuss prioritizing your mental health/selfcare while adjusting to the demands of school? Or your next steps as a student/professional?  Well, join my session (or email me) and I am here to help you come up with a plan! I am looking forward to helping you achieve your academic, professional and personal goals this semester!

Dr. Karen Sloan-Brown

Greetings future fellow TSU alums! My areas of expertise are Basic and General Chemistry, and lab work. I love reading and writing is my passion, so I can assist with any class that requires both, including English, Sociology, or Political Science. I’m from Philadelphia, and a 2nd-generation TSU grad. My daughters are 3rd-generation grads and proud AOB alumni. I look forward to contributing to your success as you achieve your academic goals this semester.

Mr. Oyindamola Teniola

Hello TSU Tigers! I am Oyindamola R. Teniola. My areas of proficiency include MCAT topics (except CARS), materials engineering, and chemical/biomedical engineering. I am currently studying medicine at Meharry Medical College. Outside of my academics, I like listening to music, cooking new recipes, working out, and watching sports.

Ms. Leiana- Lavette Woodard

Howdy, Big Blue Country! Come learn with me in the New Residence Hall or on Zoom. My areas of expertise are Chemistry and Mathematics. As a Fiskite, I am your friendly HBCU neighbor and Nashville native. When I am not working, I love crafting, cooking, and getting active, either by dancing, walking, or running. Interested in Legos? Ask me about my small, but growing collection! I can’t wait to help improve your confidence and academic knowledge at TSU. Go Big Blue!!