The TMC Minute

Welcome to The TMC Minute 

Midway through the academic year, I find myself reflecting on the Turley Memphis Center’s accomplishments this fall while also preparing for a strong finish to the academic year. Last semester was marked by significant momentum, including onboarding new TMC staff, restructuring our student fellowships program, supporting faculty and students across a range of community-engaged initiatives, and hosting and sponsoring events both on campus and throughout the Memphis community. It has been an action-packed year, and I am thrilled to share that our community-engaged efforts have received national recognition.

In mid-January, Rhodes College was awarded the 2026 Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. This prestigious national distinction affirms Rhodes’ long-standing commitment to Memphis and beyond, and it recognizes the students, faculty, staff, and community partners who make reciprocal, place-based engagement central to the Rhodes experience. It reflects not just what we do, but how we do it—grounded in relationships, accountability, and a deep, abiding commitment to our beloved city. We hope you will join us for a community-wide celebration in April; more information will be shared soon.

Rhodes’ commitment to Memphis is especially evident in our connection to the city’s vibrant music community, which is the focus of this issue of the TMC Minute. From coursework that explores Memphis’ rich musical history to partnerships with local artists, venues, and cultural institutions, music continues to be a powerful way our students learn with and from the city. These collaborations honor Memphis as a living classroom and highlight how culture, creativity, and community knowledge shape meaningful engagement. I hope you will take time to read about the impactful work our faculty, staff, students, and community partners are doing through learning, research, production, and public events.

Speaking of events, the TMC is partnering with The Mike Curb Institute for Music and Crosstown Arts to bring Sons of Town Hall to campus. This incredible transatlantic folk duo and acclaimed podcasters transport audiences with their mesmerizing and seamless harmonies, while telling stories of heartbreak, hard work, and hope. Dates and ticket information are included in this issue—you truly won’t want to miss this performance.

Finally, a small but exciting update for campus life: Explore Bike Share is now on campus! This new transportation option makes it easier for students to travel to internships, service sites, and destinations throughout Memphis. The docking station for the e-bikes is located on West Campus next to the bookstore. We are grateful to our valued partner, Explore Bike Share, for making this resource a reality for our community. And if you find yourself on West Campus checking out a bike or visiting the bookstore, please stop by the TMC and say hello—our doors are always open.

In partnership,

Dr. Natalie Person
Dean for Community Engagement

Each month, we highlight members of the Rhodes community who are making an impact across Memphis through service, scholarship, and connection. 

Explore Bike Share Has Arrived on Campus!

Happy New Year and welcome back! As part of our ongoing commitment to expanding transportation options for students learning, working, and serving across Memphis, the Turley Memphis Center for Community Engagement is excited to announce a new partnership with Explore Bike Share—now officially on campus.

📍 Where to Find the Bikes

The Explore Bike Share docking station is located on West Campus, on the patio between the Bookstore and the Education Building—easy access for quick trips or longer rides into the city.

🎉 Special Rhodes Community Discount

For the month of January, Explore Bike Share is offering 50% off annual memberships for all members of the Rhodes community.

• 🔑 Discount Code: RCA
• 📅 After January, the discount will continue at 25% off
• 📱 Download instructions are included in the welcome letter, or simply scan the QR code in the flyer below to get started

🚦 Support for Student Engagement & Fellowships

The Turley Memphis Center and the Bonner Center will each maintain institutional accounts for students who need transportation for:

• Fellowships
• Internships
• College-sanctioned service work

📬 An email with additional details will be sent to students next week.

🪖 Safety & Support Matter

To help students feel confident and supported:

• The TMC is purchasing bike helmets that students may borrow
• For those new to e-bikes or riding in Midtown, several faculty members have generously offered to accompany small groups on rides to Crosstown Concourse

🌿 Ride for a Reason (or Just for Yourself)

Whether you’re heading to a community partner site, commuting across campus, or taking a peaceful ride through Overton Park to clear your head, we hope you’ll take advantage of this new resource.

Sometimes the best reset is a short ride and some fresh air.

Check out these upcoming volunteer opportunities and many more on Rhodes Engage.

Every Monday, Starting February 2 – Challenger Basketball (Special Needs Basketball)

Support an inclusive basketball program designed for youth ages 6–16 with intellectual or physical challenges. Volunteers serve as buddies—offering encouragement, assistance, and plenty of fun. No basketball experience required.
🕒 Time: 6:00–7:15 PM
📍 Location: Riverdale Elementary Gym A, 1745 Miller Farms Rd, Memphis, TN 38138
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 15
👉 View event details »

Thursday, February 5 – JA in A Day

Help elementary students build foundational financial literacy skills through interactive games and activities. Volunteers work in teams to deliver Junior Achievement’s curriculum during a single school day—perfect for corporate or group volunteering.
🕒 Time: 8:25 AM–1:45 PM
📍 Location: School site (details provided upon registration)
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 36
👉 View event details »

Friday, February 6 & Friday, February 20 – Code School Mock Interviews

Support emerging tech talent by conducting mock interviews for CodeCrew Code School students preparing for careers as entry-level full-stack and AI engineers. Volunteers provide interview practice and constructive feedback to help students succeed in the workforce.
🕒 Time: 9:00–11:00 AM
📍 Location: 460 S Highland St, Memphis, TN 38111
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 6
👉 View event details »

Saturdays in February – Weed Wrangle at Overton Park

Help protect Memphis’s urban forest by removing invasive plant species from Overton Park’s Old Forest. Volunteers will work alongside experienced leaders to restore native habitat and support local wildlife. Tools and gloves provided.
🕒 Time: 1:00–3:00 PM
📍 Location: East Parkway Old Forest Gateway, 389 E Parkway N, Memphis, TN 38112
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 20
👉 View event details »

Saturday, February 7 – 2026 Mid-South Heart Ball

Be part of the Mid-South Heart Ball, supporting the American Heart Association’s mission to fund life-saving research and improve heart health. Volunteers assist with live auction spotting and event support at this signature fundraising celebration.
🕒 Time: 6:30–9:00 PM
📍 Location: Peabody Hotel, 149 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 15
👉 View event details »

Tuesday, February 10 & 24 – Girls Inc. Operations & Campus Support

Support Girls Inc. of Memphis behind the scenes by helping with program preparation, organizing supplies, and light administrative tasks. This role is ideal for volunteers who enjoy practical, detail-oriented support work.
🕒 Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
📍 Location: 1179 Dellwood Ave, Memphis, TN 38127
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 4
👉 View event details »

Friday, February 20 – Botanica After Dark Volunteer (21+)

Assist with a lively 21+ indoor plant shopping preview event at Memphis Botanic Garden. Volunteers help guide guests, support terrarium stations, and ensure a smooth guest experience during this popular evening event.
🕒 Time: 4:30–8:30 PM
📍 Location: 750 Cherry Rd, Memphis, TN 38117
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 15
👉 View event details »

Friday, February 27 – Best Buddies Friendship Ball

Celebrate inclusion and friendship at the Best Buddies Friendship Ball. Volunteers help with event setup, registration, and serve as dance partners for participants ages 14+ at this joyful community celebration.
🕒 Time: 6:00–8:30 PM
📍 Location: Atrium at Overton Square, 2105 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 45
👉 View event details »

Saturday, February 28 – Virtual Wish Granter Training

Learn how to become a Wish Granter with Make-A-Wish through this interactive virtual training. Volunteers help bring hope and joy to children with critical illnesses—no matter where you live.
🕒 Time: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
📍 Location: Virtual
🙌 Volunteers Needed: 20
👉 View event details »