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November 2025 Newsletter Edition

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Fall 2025 Synergy Program In Progress

Geodis Distribution Center: 5 ISA and 2 Supply Chain students working on two projects)

Delek Headquarters: 2 Supply Chain students working on one project

MTSU Blue Fusion: 1 Project Management student working on Blue Fusion Project

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ASCM Exam Prep Courses

The MTSU Center for Supply Chain Management and Sustainability is proud to partner with the University of Tennessee - Chattanooga (UTC) to communicate ASCM Exam Prep opportunities.

Join UTC and prepare for your ASCM Exams! We offer CPIM and ASCM Exam Prep programs that fit your schedule. UTC is an ASCM Authorized Academic Partner and our online, live classes are led by an APISC IDP Master Instructor. Payment plans available and price includes class materials, exam fees, and a one-year ASCM membership! VISIT THE UTC WEBSITE for learning options and details.

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2024-2025 Supply Chain Scholarship and Award Winners

The Curtis and Jeannine Sawyer Scholarship

Timothy H. Greer

Dr. Richard Tarpey & Myra Tarpey Supply Chain Management Scholarship

Andrew L. Ennamorato

Michael H. Peters Scholarship in Supply Chain Management

Fernando Martinez

Outstanding Juniors in Supply Chain Management

Sydney K. Frassand & Evan L. Norris

Outstanding Seniors in Supply Chain Management

Bradley L. Vance & Kerolus M. Seddik

Consider applying for future scholarships. You can view the scholarships HERE

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Graduate Student Spotlight

Kimberly Flick

Expected Graduation: May 2026

Q: What brought you to Middle Tennessee State University?
After researching several MS in Supply Chain Management programs at different universities, I chose MTSU because of its superior reputation. The SCM program at MTSU ranks among the highest in the nation. The business faculty at MTSU can offer a practical perspective to go along with the academic aspects of SCM as most have had successful careers or continue to work in the field. I also have seen the benefit to family members that have earned their undergraduate and graduate degrees through MTSU.

Q: Why did you choose Supply Chain Management at MTSU?
I have always worked in one area or another of Supply Chain Management, beginning with my family’s business and then moving into my current role as Production and Inventory Control Manager at NASG, a Tier II automotive stamping supplier, where I have been employed for the last twelve years. Although supply chain can be stressful at times, I enjoy the problem solving that is involved and helping to coordinate the production process, from receiving raw material for production to shipping the final product out the door to a satisfied customer.

Q: What have you learned so far from the program?
I have been able to learn many things from this program, both new concepts and by gaining a better, deeper understanding of others in which I was already familiar. The skills taught in project management, continuous improvement, lean Sixth Sigma, international supply chain management, marketing and purchasing, KPI development and analysis, DC management, and leadership make this program an asset that can be applied to a variety of supply chain roles.

Q: What do you see as the most significant challenge in the program?
The most significant challenge of this program, for me as an online student, is not being able to interact and discuss class concepts in person with professors and classmates. However, being able to complete this degree online while continuing to work full-time is also one of the biggest benefits for me. The discussion boards and Zoom meetings do help and all the professors I have had class with are willing to help in any way they can and make themselves available to answer questions.

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Undergraduate Student Spotlight

Josh Allen

Expected Graduation: May 2026

Q: What brought you to Middle Tennessee State University?
I chose Middle Tennessee State University because it was affordable and close to home, which made it a practical option for me. MTSU professors came to Blackman High School to teach courses, and I took several dual enrollment classes. That experience made the transition to MTSU easy and helped me feel confident starting college.

Q: Why did you choose to study Supply Chain Management?
I first started in business management before deciding to focus on supply chain management. I really enjoyed Dr. Cliff Welborn’s Key Performance Indicators (KPI) course because it introduced hard skills I would not have learned otherwise. I also enjoy the problem-solving and critical thinking side of supply chain management; it feels like solving a puzzle.

Q: What have you learned so far from the program?
I have learned data cleansing and analytics through the Synergy program and other courses. My International Sourcing class taught me key principles that I was able to apply during my internship at V. Alexander. I have also gained valuable knowledge by attending supply chain management events, participating in clubs, and networking with more experienced students.

Q: What have you learned so far from the program?
I have been able to learn many things from this program, both new concepts and by gaining a better, deeper understanding of others in which I was already familiar. The skills taught in project management, continuous improvement, lean Sixth Sigma, international supply chain management, marketing and purchasing, KPI development and analysis, DC management, and leadership make this program an asset that can be applied to a variety of supply chain roles.

Q: What do you view as the most significant challenge about the program?
With supply chain being such a large umbrella, it is difficult to cover all aspects of the field within a four year curriculum. Each area, whether it is international sourcing, distribution, logistics, or operations, has its own unique challenges and skill sets, which can make choosing a specific direction feel overwhelming at first. I have found that getting involved in events, joining student organizations, and seeking opportunities to job shadow or intern has been the best way to explore different paths. Those experiences not only help narrow down what you are most passionate about but also provide practical exposure that strengthens what you learn in the classroom.