Memorials, Recognition - Sidney Ware, Brandon Randolph, Fatima Grandos Macareno, Mu Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and No Labels at Middle Tennessee State University -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Sparks

The bill formally commends individuals and an organization for promoting bipartisan outreach, civil debate, and civic participation at MTSU, with symbolic, reputational impact only

Signed by Governor.

#memorials #recognition

Purpose and intent

HJR 1535 is a ceremonial, non-binding resolution that commends a group of individuals and organizations for their leadership in promoting bipartisan outreach, civil debate, and constructive civic engagement at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and within the broader community.

The resolution recognizes efforts to foster dialogue across political divides, nonpartisan campus spaces, and civic participation among students.

Key provisions and changes

Commendation of specific individuals:

Sidney Ware
Brandon Randolph
Fatima Grandos Macareno

Recognition of organizations:

Mu Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
No Labels at Middle Tennessee State University (No Labels at MTSU)

Describes the groups’ activities, including:

Leadership in promoting bipartisan outreach and civil debate
Creation of nonpartisan spaces on campus for open discussion
Voter registration drives, candidate forums, and community events
Hosting bipartisan panels, civil-debate workshops, and coalition-building

Statement of the broader impact:

Emphasizes strengthening democratic participation and civic literacy among MTSU students and the Middle Tennessee community
Frames the effort as particularly important for public higher education and the health of Tennessee’s civic institutions

Who/What is affected

Individuals recognized:

Sidney Ware
Brandon Randolph
Fatima Grandos Macareno

Organizations recognized:

Mu Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
No Labels at MTSU

While the resolution publicly honors these parties, it does not mandate policy changes, allocate funds, or impose regulatory requirements. Its effects are symbolic and reputational, aimed at acknowledging positive community leadership.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Filed for introduction on April 20, 2026.

Sponsor: Primary sponsor is listed as Sparks, with co-sponsorship by Mike Sparks.

Process: As a joint resolution, it will require concurrence between the Tennessee House and Senate and, upon passage, would typically be presented to the governor for signing or referral as customary for ceremonial resolutions. The text indicates the standard final presentation language and an option to omit certain clauses in the presented copy.

No fiscal impact, rulemaking, or statutory change is indicated; the bill serves a formal expression of commendation.

Practical impact for readers

This resolution serves to publicly recognize and honor the described individuals and organizations for their constructive civic engagement efforts.

It highlights the value Tennessee places on bipartisan dialogue and civics education within public higher education.

As a ceremonial measure, it does not alter existing laws or funding, but it may influence campus culture and public perception by foregrounding civil discourse and collaboration across political lines.

Bill