Leading the Next Generation of Nurses

The Tennessee Student Nurses’ Association (TSNA) is a statewide student led organization dedicated to uniting and empowering nursing students as they prepare to enter the profession. We exist to cultivate leadership, strengthen professional values, and promote academic and personal growth through mentorship, scholarships, advocacy, and hands on opportunities that enhance the student experience.

As the official Tennessee constituency of the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) our members gain access to both state and national resources, networking opportunities, and events that foster collaboration and professional development. By connecting students across diverse schools and communities, TSNA serves as a bridge between nursing education and professional practice, preparing tomorrow’s nurses to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

TSNA actively represents Tennessee nursing students on the national stage and within our state. Our board members attend NSNA conferences to strengthen leadership and bring back strategies that support local chapters across Tennessee. In 2023, TSNA was honored with the NSNA Excellence Award, recognizing our commitment to student nurses and organizational growth. We also participate in Nurses Day on the Hill at the Tennessee State Capitol, advocating for policies that impact nursing students and the future of healthcare. Closer to home, TSNA works with local universities to revitalize local nursing chapters and ensure every nursing student has access to the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to thrive.

TSNA Board of Directors

  • Sueheir Al-Asmar

    President, TSNA

    I am a nursing student graduating in May 2026 with a passion for patient advocacy, compassionate care, and supporting fellow nursing students. As TSNA President, I am committed to leading with empathy and purpose while creating opportunities for nursing students across Tennessee to connect, grow, and succeed.

  • Alana Bratton

    Vice-President, TSNA

    I am a nursing student at Austin Peay State University pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and graduating in May 2026. As TSNA Vice President, I am passionate about increasing student involvement and building stronger connections among nursing students across Tennessee. I am committed to creating a supportive community where student nurses feel heard, connected, and empowered to succeed.

  • John Macias

    Legislative Director

Jerlliyah Dotson, MSN, RN

Faculty Advisor

I am Jerlliyah Dotson, MSN, RN, a nurse educator, registered nurse, mentor, professional speaker, and leader. My journey as an educator began while I was still a nursing student, tutoring my peers and helping others navigate the challenges of nursing school. Since then, I have had the privilege of mentoring nursing students nationwide through education, NCLEX preparation, professional development, and advocacy. I completed my nurse residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2022 and currently practice per diem at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, while also serving as an adjunct nursing instructor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. I am currently pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice in Education and Leadership, with the aspiration of one day serving as President of the American Nurses Association.

I chose to serve as Faculty Advisor for the Tennessee Student Nurses Association because I believe a student’s foundation can shape who they become in the nursing profession. In 2018, as a second semester nursing student, I attended my first TSNA and TNA joint conference because a nurse mentor and instructor saw something in me. She took me under her wing, sponsored my registration, and even made sure I had professional attire to attend. I never forgot what it felt like to have someone invest in me that way. That experience inspired me to become that same instructor and mentor for others and to pour back into nursing students whenever I have the opportunity.

My involvement with TSNA opened doors for me to serve and advocate for nurses and nursing students at both the state and national levels. Those experiences showed me what can happen when a student is given access, mentorship, and an opportunity to lead. Now, I want to bring those same opportunities back to students in my community and across Tennessee. My goal is to help students understand that they do not have to wait until graduation to make an impact. Advocacy starts now, and leadership does not require a title. It requires character. There is much within our profession that can change, and I believe that change begins with being willing to become what you want to see.

For me, TSNA is about seeing the light in students who may not yet see it in themselves, helping them recognize their gifts, and giving them the support and opportunities to confidently operate in those gifts. It is about investing in students today who will shape the future of nursing tomorrow.

Fredrick Calloway, Jr

Graduate Consultant, TSNA

I am a nursing graduate of South College in Nashville and currently serve TSNA as a Graduate Consultant. Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, I bring leadership experience from serving as Secretary of House Arrest 2 Championship Dance Team, Inc. and as a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. I am passionate about leadership, service, and supporting Tennessee’s nursing student community.

Bylaws

TSNA provides access to our bylaws to ensure transparency and consistency across all local chapters in Tennessee. These documents guide chapter operations, officer roles, and member responsibilities, while aligning with the National Student Nurses’ Association. Chapters can download and reference these bylaws when updating or creating their own.

Contact us

Have questions about TSNA, membership, chapters, events, or leadership opportunities? We’re here to help. Connect with us and let us know how we can support your nursing journey.