Tarnika Love-Anderson

Candidate for MSCS Board, District 3​

Tarnika Love-Anderson is an accomplished educator, nonprofit leader, and public service professional with a distinguished record of service to the students and families of Memphis and Shelby County. A proud graduate of Mitchell High School, she has dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening youth development, and supporting community advancement.

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Tarnika earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Jackson State University, followed by an MBA in Human Resources from Belhaven University. She also attended Relay Graduate School of Education, completing coursework toward a Master’s in Education with a focus in Mathematics (Grades 6–12), deepening her expertise in curriculum, instruction, and student academic success.

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Her commitment to education led her back to the district as a high school math educator, where she taught Bridge Math, a senior capstone course designed to reinforce key mathematical concepts and prepare students for postsecondary pathways. She also served as the school’s Graduation Coordinator, guiding students through the final stages of earning their diplomas, and as the National Honor Society Advisor, supporting student leadership, scholarship, and service. Each year Love-Anderson help raise money for students to be exposed to colleges and universities outside of Tennessee.

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Currently, Tarnika serves as the Manager of one of the largest police training academy in the state of Tennessee where she oversees academy operations, coordinates professional training, and supports the development of law

enforcement personnel countywide. Her leadership is grounded in strategic planning, accountability, and a dedication to excellence in public service.

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Beyond her professional achievements, Tarnika is the Founder and Executive Director of the Youth Excel in Arts Foundation (YEA). Under her leadership, YEA has delivered impactful programming including mentorship, arts education, leadership development, service initiatives, scholarships, and college readiness experiences for youth across the community.

She has also contributed to school life through her work as a cheer and dance coach, mentor, and youth advocate—consistently demonstrating her passion for student achievement, confidence building, and positive youth engagement.

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With experience spanning classroom teaching, nonprofit leadership, and public-sector management, Tarnika brings a broad and informed perspective to educational leadership. She is committed to advocating for high-quality schools, supportive environments for educators, and equitable opportunities for every student in District 3.

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Tarnika Love-Anderson is dedicated to serving District 3 with integrity, transparency, and a student-first vision for the future.