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. 

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