TSU Alumna Hazel Suggs Burley Celebrates 105th Birthday; Alumni Invited to Honor Her Legacy by Contributing to Establish Scholarship

Mrs. Burley with 105 Roses arranged by Creations by George Ridley

A group of Tennessee State Alumni are coming together to recognize the incredible life of Hazel Suggs Burley, a proud alumna who turned 105 years young on October 3, 2025.  Friends from near and far gathered to shower her with love and to wish her many more birthdays to come. A shining example of Tiger pride for more than a century, Mrs. Burley's milestone birthday is an opportunity for the entire TSU family to join in honoring her legacy.   

  

  

 

Proclamation presented to Mrs. Burley by Sate Representative Dr. Harold Moses Love, Jr.  

 

Dignitaries, family, friends, neighbors,TSU alumni, current students, community leaders and members of the clergy visited throughout the day!

 

Mrs. Burley is ready for Homecoming 2025, TSU vs.  Howard U.

TSU alumni, friends and supporters are invited to make a special gift to the TSU Foundation in recognition of this extraordinary occasion. The goal is to raise $10,500 to establish the Hazel Suggs Burley Scholarship Fund.  We ask that you make a commemorative gift of $10.50, $105.00 or $1,050.  Every contribution, at any level, makes a difference and brings us closer to honoring her legacy in a meaningful way.    

There are three ways for you to make your gift in support of the Hazel Suggs Burley Scholarship Fund:  

•    Online 

Use this secure link to pay directly to the TSU Foundation. http://bit.ly/48Oofv3

 
Use your mobile device to scan the QR Code below.  You will be directed to the TSU Foundation’s secure online giving platform.
 

•    Call
Contact the TSU Foundation at (615) 963-5481

•    Mail
Checks should be made payable to the TSU Foundation.  Please indicate your gift designation in the Memo (Hazel Suggs Burley) section of your check and mail to: 

TSU Foundation 
3500 John A. Merritt Blvd. 
Campus Box 9542
Nashville, TN 37209

Lastly, we also encourage you to share your birthday wishes and memories on social media using #HazelBurley105 and #TSUTigers.

 

 

Mrs. Burley watches over the campus throughout the day at favorite chair. 

Hazel Suggs Burley’s life story embodies resilience, grace, and a deep love for her alma mater.  As we honor her 105th birthday, we also celebrate the legacy of excellence she represents for all TSU Tigers.  

Mrs. Burley and Mrs. Patsy Petway (TSU 1963), longtime friend and gardener.