"Ten years ago, Dr. Mills (director of sponsored research), and I sat down and worked a 10-year plan … He said, ‘I think we can do $40 million in 10 years,' " Wells says. "Last year we hit $41.42 million. We looked at our areas of strengths in engineering, agriculture and the sciences — particularly the biomedical sciences. We got input from deans, faculty and others, and we developed the plan."

Wells says the reason TSU was able to reach its goals was due to the committed faculty members, the support of the president and a good staff. "The key is the people you surround yourself with," she says. "The fact that the Tennessee Board of Regents decided to provide funding to establish or enhance research offices on many campus was a great help." Wells also credits Dr. James A. Hefner, president of TSU, and the vice president of academic affairs for providing infrastructure support, the funding, the staff and the environment.

A major project on the horizon is strengthening the federal relations program.

"We now have the skills, the infrastructure, and the world knows more about our capabilities and interests in the research area than even the most optimistic among us imagined some 20 years ago," Wells says. "Our students are hungry for research opportunities and we intend to provide them. Our faculty is strong and committed … we are proud of our results."

Her advice to other HBCUs: Develop a strategic plan and establish some obtainable goals and objectives.

"HBCUs should be inclusive and listen to those who have been there," she says. "It's important to think broadly." Wells adds, "Sometimes you have to believe when others believe you can't. Be on the look out for new opportunities, create some opportunities and be responsive when opportunities present themselves."