The East Tennessee Alumni chapter's mission is to provide local area Tennessee State University graduates an organized forum through which the collective of association members, supporters and community members can grow, learn and contribute to the betterment of East Tennessee area communities. Specific goals and initiatives supported by the association include: ​
 

•  Fostering continuing camaraderie and fellowship among Tennessee State University graduates,

•  Supporting higher educational opportunities for aspiring youth through direct and indirect financial   and other assistance,

•  Enabling professional and interpersonal development of Chapter members through social contact and business networking,

•  Maintaining a strong bond between chapter members, the National Alumni Association, and the University, and

•  Promoting the "Legacy of Greatness", an attribute indigenous to TSU alumni.