image via Sports Illustrated
Tennessee State University is parting ways with athletic director Dr. Mikki Allen, according to a November 13 report from The Tennessean.
Allen’s departure brings another chapter to a leadership situation that has unfolded within the Tigers’ athletic department throughout 2026.
Allen was placed on administrative leave in July after six TSU head coaches expressed a lack of confidence in his leadership. The concerns included departmental communication, operational management, resource allocation and the overall direction of Tennessee State Athletics.
Jennifer Bell, a longtime member of the university’s athletics administration, who also serves as Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Services, was subsequently appointed interim athletic director.
Allen had served as Tennessee State’s athletic director since May 2020. His tenure included fundraising initiatives, facility improvements, coaching hires and efforts to expand the department’s revenue and athletic operations.
The latest development raises questions about the future leadership of TSU Athletics and what direction the university will take moving forward.
This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.
