MURFREESBORO, TN - Middle Tennessee State University packed an impressive amount of momentum into 2025, capping the year with a major groundbreaking for its new Shelbyville Aerospace facility. It was the latest in a long string of milestones that stretched from grand openings and academic innovation to student achievement and national recognition. President Sidney A. McPhee said the university’s continued rise in national rankings reflects the teamwork and dedication of faculty, staff, and administrators. He noted that upgraded facilities and expanding programs are drawing top scholars from around the world who want to join the True Blue community. That community grew by roughly 4,700 new graduates this year, adding to a global alumni network now topping 150,000.
Engineering Takes Center Stage
One of the year’s biggest moments came with the opening of the $74.8 million Applied Engineering Building on the east side of campus. The three‑story, 90,000‑square‑foot facility now anchors the Science Corridor of Innovation and gives Mechatronics Engineering and other technology programs a modern home, replacing the aging Voorhies Building.
Shovels in Shelbyville
Just as engineering students settled into their new space, MTSU broke ground off U.S. 231 at the Shelbyville Airport for a new $73‑million‑plus aerospace facility. Expected to open in two years, the site will relocate the university’s bustling flight training operations and create an aviation hub designed to meet industry demand.
A New Era for Athletics
Athletics also saw a transformational year with the unveiling of the $66 million Stephen and Denise Smith Student‑Athlete Performance Center beside Floyd Stadium. The 85,000‑square‑foot complex centralizes training, recovery, and preparation for all 17 MTSU teams. Nearby, the historic Murphy Center is slated for $119 million in renovations, part of a broader “Lightning Zone” district envisioned by McPhee that also includes a planned on‑campus hotel.
Quantum Leaps and Media Milestones
Academically, MTSU launched QRISE, a new quantum research center led by physicist Hanna Terletska. The initiative builds on more than $8 million in federal grants and partnerships with institutions including Oak Ridge National Laboratory and several Tennessee universities.
The College of Media and Entertainment also made headlines when it was renamed in honor of Big Machine Label Group founder Scott Borchetta, who celebrated the moment with students and Nashville industry leaders.
Conferences, Creativity, and Constitution Day
The inaugural Tech Vision Conference brought scholars and industry partners together to explore the future of AI. The Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts marked its 40th year on campus. And PBS commentator David Brooks drew a packed house for Constitution Day, rounding out a year that kept MTSU firmly in the spotlight.
