In a moment that beautifully bridges history, heritage, and high achievement, Texas Southern University has crowned its newest royal ambassadors — Zyias Richards and Carmon Alexis Nelson-Grimes—as Mister and Miss TSU. Their coronation arrives at a pivotal time as the university celebrates its Centennial, marking 100 years of cultivating brilliance, leadership, and unapologetic Tiger pride.

This year’s Mister and Miss TSU Scholarship Pageant was more than a competition — it was a showcase of intellect, talent, poise, and purpose. With four dynamic women and three accomplished men vying for the crown, contestants were evaluated across talent, interviews, Q&A, and formal presentation. Rising above a field of excellence, Richards and Nelson-Grimes didn’t just win titles—they embodied a legacy.

Zyias Richards: A Voice of Leadership, A Vision of Service

Houston native and Lamar High School graduate Zyias Richards steps into history as the 25th Mister Texas Southern University—and he does so with distinction. A junior majoring in Radio, Television, and Film with a minor in Entertainment Recording Industry Management, Richards represents the modern TSU scholar: creative, committed, and community-focused.

From commanding the stage as an announcer for the legendary Ocean of Soul marching band to sharpening his intellect as a President’s List scholar and award-winning member of the TSU Debate Team, Richards has built a résumé rooted in excellence. His academic journey through the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College and recognition as a Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute Scholar further reflect a rising leader prepared for national impact.

Yet, it is his heart for service that defines his reign.

With a platform centered on bridging the gap between student leadership and servant leadership, Richards is poised to amplify voices, inspire belief, and cultivate a culture where every TSU student sees themselves as a catalyst for change.

“When you believe in yourself, you give others something to believe in,” Richards shared—words that now echo across campus as a call to action.

Carmon Alexis Nelson-Grimes: Power, Purpose, and Poise

Equally inspiring is the 79th Miss TSU, Carmon Alexis Nelson-Grimes — a junior Marketing major from St. Louis whose presence commands both elegance and empowerment. Nelson-Grimes is the embodiment of the modern HBCU woman: driven, dynamic, and deeply committed to uplifting others.

Her leadership footprint spans campus—from mentoring freshmen through Campus Pals to championing women’s empowerment with HER TSU. As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Psi Chapter, and a leader within the Midwest Club, she blends sisterhood with service in impactful ways.

Her influence extends even further as a Residential Assistant, Recreation and Wellness Center contributor, and XceleadHer Fellow—spaces where she continues to build platforms for women to lead boldly and unapologetically.

Inspired by the wisdom of Oprah Winfrey, Nelson-Grimes carries a message that resonates deeply:

“Failure is not the end—it’s the beginning of becoming greater.”

A Centennial Court with a Purpose

Together, Richards and Nelson-Grimes are more than ceremonial figures—they are strategic ambassadors for a new era of TSU excellence. Their reign will champion unity, advocacy, academic success, and student empowerment, all while honoring the rich legacy that has defined Texas Southern University for a century.

As TSU enters its next 100 years, this royal duo stands as a powerful reminder: the future is not only bright—it is brilliant, bold, and built on the shoulders of leaders who dare to serve.

For Houston—and for the culture—this is more than a crowning moment.

This is legacy in motion.

More information, go to: www.TSU.edu