Stella-Marie Akindayomi joined the Tennessee State University Athletics Department in June 2022, serving in a dual role as an Academic Services Specialist and a Student Success Specialist within the Academic Achievement & Retention Center (AARC). In this capacity, she plays a key role in bridging the gap between competitive athletics and academic excellence.
Akindayomi provides academic oversight and support for football, men’s and women’s tennis, and women’s track & field, guiding student-athletes as they balance the demands of Division I athletics with their academic responsibilities. Through her work with AARC, she also supports the broader student body by delivering individualized academic coaching focused on time management, goal setting, and organizational development.
A recognized leader in athletic administration, Akindayomi was selected for the 2025 Minority Opportunities Athletic Association Rising Star Academy, a prestigious program designed to cultivate the next generation of minority leaders in sports.
Her commitment to the TSU community extends beyond academics and athletics. She previously served as an advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), supporting student-athlete leadership and welfare, and currently advises the African Student Association (ASA), promoting cultural engagement and a strong sense of belonging on campus.
Prior to joining TSU, Akindayomi gained valuable experience in academic and athletic support roles at University of Oregon, University of New Mexico, and Mississippi Valley State University.
Akindayomi is a proud alumna of Grambling State University, where she earned both her Bachelor of Science in Management (2008) and Master of Science in Sport Administration (2010). She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the University of New Mexico. In addition, she serves as President of the Nashville Chapter of the Grambling University National Alumni Association, continuing her commitment to leadership and service within her alma mater’s community.
