As MTSU’s Fall 2023 semester kicks off, a diversity of members of the Blue Raider community again produced a special video recitation of the True Blue Pledge to spotlight the university’s values.

In what has become a cherished Blue Raider tradition, a True Blue group of Middle Tennessee State University students, faculty, staff and alumni took to the camera to reaffirm those values for another academic year.

The pledge, which begins with the simple phrase “I am True Blue,” underscores MTSU’s core values of honesty and integrity; respect for diversity; engagement in the community; and committing to reason, not violence.

Just over a decade ago, President Sidney A. McPhee convened a university task force to develop the pledge in the wake of the tragic death of Lady Raider basketball player Tina Stewart at the hands of her roommate during an argument at their off-campus apartment.

“Just as we collectively recited it recently at this year’s Convocation to welcome new students, the True Blue Pledge is a very integral part of what it means to be a member of the Blue Raider family,” McPhee said. “A higher education institution worthy of its mission must have core values, and I remain confident that this pledge reflects the deep commitment here at MTSU to make sure our campus is not only welcoming, but is one that allows all of our students to reach their highest academic and personal potential. We will remain True Blue.”

The True Blue Pledge is recited each fall at MTSU’s annual University Convocation ceremony, when McPhee, top administrators and faculty formally welcome new students to campus and explain MTSU rituals and traditions. 

MTSU Student Government Association President Michai Mosby led this year’s pledge this past Saturday during Convocation at Murphy Center. 

Watch the latest video below:

The True Blue Pledge reads:

“I am True Blue.

As a member of this diverse community, I am a valuable contributor to its progress and success.

I am engaged in the life of this community. I am a recipient and a giver.

I am a listener and a speaker. I am honest in word and deed. I am committed to reason, not violence.

I am a learner now and forever.

I am a BLUE RAIDER. True Blue!”

Those included in the new video, in order of appearance, include:

• Michai Mosby — junior, public relations, Student Government Association president.
• Alexandria Hamilton — senior, speech language pathology and audiology.
• Anika Hite — junior, aerospace, pro-pilot.
• Chris Cooper — senior, theatre education.
• Janna Abou-Rahma — honors, biochemistry.
• Maigan Wipfli — director, June Anderson Center for Women and Nontraditional Students.
• Dr. Dave Wood — professor, Martin Chair of Insurance.
• Chris Rochelle — assistant director, Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Family Center.
• Natalia Santana — sophomore, business administration, cheerleader/cheer team.
• Alexander Hamilton — senior, organizational communication.
• Abby Rose Poe — kindergartener, Homer Pittard Campus School.
• Amaya Harris — senior, exercise science, women’s softball.
• Justin Bufford — senior, men’s basketball, integrated studies.
• Bretlyn Warner — leisure and sport management, president, Blue Zoo president.
• Dr. Neporcha Cone — dean, College of Education.

For more information about MTSU’s True Blue initiative, visit www.mtsu.edu/trueblue.

— Jimmy Hart (Jimmy.Hart@mtsu.edu)