Homecoming Court Eligibility and Voting

Eligibility

To be considered for Homecoming Court, students must:

Be a full-time, currently enrolled student
Be classified by the Registrar's Office as a junior, senior, or graduate student (60 or more completed credit hours)
Have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
Be sponsored by a registered student organization at Austin Peay
Have no formal disciplinary record resulting in probation, suspension, or expulsion
Provide a suitable photo to be posted for student-body voting
Submit the completed application no later than 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Wednesday, September 9, 2026

How the Court Is Selected

Election

All qualified applicants are placed on the ballot. Student-body voting is conducted online September 12–27, 2026. The 10 applicants — five Queen applicants and five King applicants — who receive the most votes are named to the Homecoming Court and announced on Monday, September 28, at the Homecoming Bonfire and Pep Rally in the Dunn Bowl. Qualified applicants are expected to attend this announcement.
Selection

All 10 members of the Court take part in a private interview on Thursday, October 1, 2026. Court members sign up for interview time slots immediately following the announcement at the Bonfire. The Homecoming Queen and King are chosen by a committee of APSU staff, faculty, and alumni.
Rehearsal

A rehearsal for all Court members is scheduled for Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. on the field at Fortera Stadium (tentative).
Parade

All 10 Court members ride in the Homecoming Parade on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Each member is responsible for acquiring a convertible for the parade (trucks, Jeeps, and similar vehicles are acceptable), and each member rides in their own vehicle.
Announcement

The Homecoming Queen and King are publicly announced at halftime of the Homecoming football game on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

How to Vote

Students receive an email with the full list of Homecoming candidates and a link to vote for their top choice. Voting is open September 12 through September 27, 2026. The Court is announced at the Bonfire on September 28.

Vote for Homecoming Court (opens Sep 12)

Campaigning for Court

Many students running for Court campaign on social media and across campus. Candidates may begin campaigning only after they are approved — no later than September 11, 2026. The following rules apply:

Posters and banners may be tied loosely around trees with approval from APSU Facilities.
Yard signs are allowed but cannot be placed in the ground more than an inch deep, due to sprinklers.
Posters and flyers cannot be affixed to glass, painted surfaces, or brick.
Chalk art is permitted only with chalk sticks — no spray chalk. Chalk may only be applied to the ground (no vertical chalking on stairs, pillars, and the like) and must be where rain can wash it away.
No posters may disparage other candidates. All materials must follow University policies and the Student Code of Conduct.
Students may table and hand out promotional materials, but all distributed items must include campaign information (for example, candy must carry a label or message tied to the candidate).
Posters and banners must be taken down by October 8.

Any posters or banners that violate these rules or Facilities rules will be removed. Other violations result in a 1% point deduction per violation, and Student Code of Conduct violations are adjudicated accordingly.

2026 Homecoming Court Candidates

Queens

Yavi Peñaloza Burton

Hometown: Clarksville, TN

Major: Nursing

Organization sponsoring: Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc.

Involvement:
- Vice President of Recruitment for Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc.
- Orientation Leader
- Peer Leader
- I do fashion, model, and I'm a makeup artist
Hey! I'm Yavi, THE fashionista! As a proud Afro-Latina from Panama, I care deeply about community especially on the campus of Austin Peay. I'm an orientation leader, former peer leader, and a distinct member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority Inc. I aspire to be an incredible nurse upon graduating from the nursing program. I anticipate to see all you beautiful people at homecoming!
Mikayla Cole

Hometown: Jackson, TN

Major: Finance; Accounting

Organization sponsoring: Business Professionals of America

Involvement:
- College of Business Student Ambassador
- College of Business Student Advisory Council
- APSU Govs Fund Org
- NAACP Org
- Business Professionals of America Org
- Vice President of People of Praise Gospel Choir
- President of Sisters Inspiring Sisters Org
- Graduate Chamber Singer - Department of Music
- SOBIE (Society of Business, Industry & Economics) — Research of " Virtual Reality In Business Communication"
- Student Organization and Leadership Award 2025
My college experience has taught me that leadership is not about proclaiming a title; it is about serving others, being involved with my peers, and creating spaces where people feel they belong. From serving as a student ambassador and teaching a choir to now serving on boards where our main question is, “How can we create opportunities for students?” I have always wanted to be part of a community that brings people together for a greater purpose. I am grateful for every opportunity to learn, represent, and serve, and for the chance to grow through experiences that have never confined me to one particular space. My journey has shown me that with application, dedication, and a willingness to serve, you can make an impact no matter what room you sit in.
Kennedy Davis

Hometown: Memphis, TN

Major: Agriculture Communications

Organization Sponsoring: Student Government Association

Involvement:
- Black Student Union
- CoReq Leader with CASE
- RA for Hand Village
- Senator with SGA
- Campus Engagement Committee
- Loves to cook, sing, and write
If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I put my whole heart into showing up for our campus community every single day. From residence life to student leadership, my goal has always been simple: lift up student voices and make our campus a place where everyone thrives. I’m incredibly grateful to SGA for this nomination, and I’d be so honored to have your vote for Homecoming Court!
JaZ'min Falah

Hometown: Memphis, TN

Major: Nursing

Organization sponsoring: National Honors Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS)

Involvement:
- Planned Parenthood Generation Action
- - President
- National Honors Society of Leadership and Success
- - SNT Coordinator
- - Secretary
- Department of Student Life & Engagement
- - Student Assistant
- Interests include: reading, crafts and organization
Driven by academic excellence and active student involvement, I take pride in organizing campus events and supporting our student community. Outside the classroom, I focus on increasing my knowledge, becoming the woman I always wanted to be , and preparing for my upcoming exams. Thank you for your support and vote for homecoming court!
Anna Germano

Hometown: Vestavia Hills, AL

Major: Business Management with a concentration in Hospitality

Organization Sponsoring: Omicron Delta Kappa

Involvement:
- Chi Omega
- Omicron Delta Kappa
- APSU Athletics Ambassador
- Dean’s List
- S.O.B.I.E. Research Conference
- CAA Sports Football Apprentice
- Community Service
I am a Business Management major from Vestavia Hills, Alabama, with a passion for sports business and marketing. During my time at Austin Peay, I have been involved with Chi Omega, Omicron Delta Kappa, and APSU Athletics while pursuing opportunities that have helped me grow personally and professionally. I am incredibly grateful for the friendships, experiences, and memories that have made Austin Peay feel like home. I am honored to represent Omicron Delta Kappa!
Jody Longmire

Hometown: Lafollette, TN

Major: Nursing

Organization sponsoring: Alpha Delta Pi

Involvement:
- Alpha Delta Pi
- - President (current)
- - 2025 Vice President of Recruitment
- - 2024 Chaplain, Panhellenic Relations Specialist, and Public Relations
- BCM
My name is Jody Longmire, and I am a senior Nursing major here at APSU! I am so grateful for the opportunity to run for Homecoming because APSU has given me more than I could have ever imagined. I am the president of Alpha Delta Pi, which keeps me deeply involved in philanthropic and leadership opportunities. I am excited to represent ADPi!
Juaniqua McClennan

Hometown: Paris, Tennessee

Major: Nursing

Organization Sponsoring: Student Nursing Association

Involvement:
- Student Nurses Association (SNA)
- - Vice President
- Supporting nursing students through leadership, service, and involvement at APSU & School of Nursing
- September’s Civility of the Month for Adult Health 1 Cohort: Making a difference through kindness, respect, and humility.
- APSU Student Advisor with the Office of Student Access Services
- Cleaning Hands for You Non-Profit - Grante Writer & Social Media Manager
- Community Health Education Advocate
I am a proud mother, purpose-driven second-degree nursing student, passionate student leader, and dedicated community advocate whose nontraditional journey has reminded me that it is never too late to grow, serve, and pursue your purpose. APSU has given me a place to lead with heart, whether serving as vice president of the Student Nurses Association, accepting the invitation to membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success, or supporting students through the Office of Student Access Services. One of my greatest honors was being chosen by my peers as September Civility of the Month for showing kindness, respect, and humility toward others. As a Homecoming Queen candidate, I hope to represent APSU with genuine compassion, gratitude, and pride while encouraging others to believe in their worth and honor the journey that brought them here.
Avery Moore

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Kinesiology

Organization Sponsoring: Student Organization Council

Involvement:
- SOC Executive Vice President
- Orientation Leader
- ODK
- Chi Omega
- Model Initiate
- Pike Sweetheart
- Member of Yellow Creek Baptist Church
- BCM
- Mission Trips: Vieques, Puerto Rico
- Riverside, California
- Youth Leadership Clarksville 2023
- Daughters of the American Revolution “Good Citizen” award 2023
Hi! My name is Avery Moore and I am a senior Kinesiology major pursuing a career in Athletic Training. I consider myself someone who values high standards, integrity, and determination. I believe in treating everyone with kindness and inclusivity, while always looking for opportunities to spread positivity and make others feel welcomed!! I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue higher education and I see it as a wonderful thing for everyone especially at APSU. It is a privilege to have the chance to represent Austin Peay and take part in this amazing tradition, I would appreciate your consideration!!!
Billie Persinger

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Communication Sciences & Disorders

Organization Sponsoring: Alpha Omicron Pi

Involvement:
- Alpha Omicron Pi
- - Vice president of membership integrity
- Pickle ball club
Hi my name is Billie and I am a junior here at Austin Peay. I am majoring in sciences and disorders to become a speech pathologist. I’m a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and serving as VPMI. I am very excited to have this opportunity to represent my chapter.
Ryann Smith

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Corporate Communications and Leadership

Organization Sponsoring: Govs Programming Council

Involvement:
- National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS)
- Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK)
- Govs Programming Council (GPC)
- Student Government Association (SGA)
- Govs Ambassador
- Govs Go Leader
- Chi Omega
- Peer Leader
- Football Ambassador
I truly embrace the #Gov4Life motto because Austin Peay has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. As a student, I knew I wanted to become actively involved and make a meaningful, measurable impact on the campus and students I love. I never could have imagined the incredible opportunities Austin Peay would provide me—not only to grow as a leader, but to build meaningful relationships, create engaging experiences, and contribute to a campus community where others can thrive. Being a Gov means giving back, lifting others up, and leaving Austin Peay better than I found it, and I am proud to be #Gov4Life.
Audrey Stanger

Hometown: Seymour, Tennessee

Major: Biology

Organization Sponsoring: Chi Omega

Involvement:
- Chi Omega
- - Vice President
- Center for Academic Success and Enrichment Peer Tutor
- Honors Program
- Pre-Professional Health Society Member
- NSLS Member
- Young Life Volunteer Leader
My name is Audrey Stanger, and I am so grateful to represent Chi Omega as a Homecoming Court Nominee! Being a student at Austin Peay has given me incredible opportunities to grow not only as a student but also as a leader. I love this place so much, which encourages me to make the very most of my years as a Gov! APSU has truly given me the best years of my life, and I would be honored to represent Austin Peay on Homecoming Court!
Emma (Tucker) Johnson

Hometown: Collierville, Tennessee

Major: Nursing

Organization Sponsoring: Alpha Gamma Delta

Involvement:
- Alpha Gamma Delta
- - President
- Track and Field Alum
I am a hard-working nursing student who is going to be graduating in December and will be a labor and delivery nurse.

Kings

Carter Black

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Business Finance

Organization Sponsoring: Business Professionals of America

Involvement:
- President – APSU Govs Fund
- Business Professionals of America
- Student Advisory Council
- APSU Real Estate Club
- Clarksville Young Life – Volunteer Leader
- Clarksville Soccer Club – Youth Soccer Coach
- Youth Leadership Clarksville
- Small Business Owner/Entrepreneur
My college experience has taught me that some of the best opportunities come from simply working hard, showing up with a smile, and being willing to meet new people. Whether I am leading the Govs Fund, running my small businesses, coaching soccer, or serving through Young Life, I try to bring the same energy and effort into everything I do. Some of my most meaningful experiences have come from investing in younger people, building relationships, and hopefully being someone people can look up to. I am grateful for every opportunity I have had to grow as a leader, serve others, and make a positive impact on the people and community around me.
Scout Burns

Hometown: Hickman County Tennessee

Major: Criminal Justice

Organization Sponsoring: Alpha Delta Pi

Involvement:
- Kappa Alpha Order
- Govs Programming Council
- ROTC
- Kappa Alpha Order:
- - Served as Marshal, an officer position
- - Plays music/instruments
- - Ourdoors
- - Sports
After graduation I will commission as an Infantry Officer for the United States Army and I will serve this country to the best of my ability. A fun fact about me is that I am scuba diving certified and I enjoy my cereal before my milk. I’ve lived in Germany, Virginia, Texas, Washington State, and Tennessee.
William Cocke

Hometown: Clarksville, TN

Major: Biology

Organization sponsoring: Pi Kappa Alpha

Involvement
- Played 2 years of collegiate baseball
- Salutatorian of High school
- Duck hunting guide in southeast Missouri
- Member of Pike
- Aspiring Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Golf and personal fitness
I am a current junior and member of Pike. I am majoring in biology with a concentration in pre medical professions. I love to be outdoors and involved in community service.
Malachi Gibbs

Hometown: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Major: Criminal Justice

Organization Sponsoring: Student Government Association

Involvement:
- Student Government Association Chief Justice (SGA)
- Resident Hall Director (RHD)
- APSU-TV weatherman
- Student recognition committee
- Social Media Committee
- Congressional Intern
My name is Malachi Gibbs, a graduate student pursuing my Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security at Austin Peay State University. Throughout my time at APSU, I have served in several leadership roles, including SGA Chief Justice, Resident Hall Director, and APSU-TV Weatherman. I am passionate about serving my university, building community, and creating opportunities for students to feel connected and represented. It would be an honor to represent the Peay community during Homecoming.
Micah Gloss

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Healthcare Management

Organization Sponsoring: Kappa Alpha Order

Involvement:
- Student Government Senator
- Deans List
- Kappa Alpha Order
- - #3 Recording Secretary
- - Scholarship Chair
- - Devotional Chair
- - Intramural Chair
- - Tailgate Chair
- - Prudential Committee
- Assistant West Creek Middle School Boys Basketball Coach
Being a Gov means more to me than simply attending Austin Peay- it means being involved on campus, serving others, and making a positive impact wherever I can. Through my leadership experience in Kappa Alpha Order as Recording Secretary (#3) Devotional Chair, Intramural Chair, Tailgate Chair, and Prudential Committee member, along with serving as a Student Government Senator, I have had the opportunity to bring people together and strengthen the communities I am a part of. As a Deans List student and an assistant middle school boys basketball coach at West Creek Middle School, I strive to lead by example both inside and outside of the classroom, I believe I would be a great candidate for Homecoming King because I embody the spirit of a Gov. Someone who shows up, serves others, creates memories, supports his fellow students, and takes genuine pride in calling Austin Peay home.
Jared Mays

Hometown: Springfield, Tennessee

Major: Finance

Organization Sponsoring: Student Organization Council, NSLS

Involvement:
- Student Organization Council, President
- Omicron Delta Kappa, Vice Chair
- NSLS
- Presidents Emerging Leaders Program
- Honors Program
- Alpha Lambda Delta
Hello everyone, my name is Jared Mays, and I am a senior finance major from Springfield, TN. I am incredibly honored to be nominated for homecoming court and for the opportunity to further connect with the broader APSU community. Austin Peay has given me numerous opportunities to grow through involvement in the Honors and PELP programs and through leadership positions in organizations like the Student Organization Council and Omicron Delta Kappa, and I am always looking for ways to give back to the campus community that has given so much for me. You can often find me in the SOC office, playing ping pong at the Honors Commons, or rock climbing at the foy. If you see me around campus, feel free to say hey and introduce yourself!
Mason Platzke

Hometown: Ripley, TN

Major: Business Management

Organization Sponsoring: Chi Omega, Omicron Delta Kappa

Involvement:
- Student Government Association
- - President
- Kappa Alpha Order
- - President
- Omicron Delta Kappa
- - President
- Gov’s Ambassador (Tour Guide)
- Gameday Operations Supervisor (APSU Athletics)
- Interfraternity Council
- - Vice President of Community Relations
- - Vice President of Scholarship (24-25)
- S.O.B.I.E Research Conference
- Rising Sophomore Award
Mason Platzke is a junior Business Management major from Ripley, Tennessee, dedicated to leadership, service, and involvement at Austin Peay. He currently serves as President of the Student Government Association, Kappa Alpha Order, and Omicron Delta Kappa, while also serving as a Govs Ambassador and Gameday Operations Supervisor with APSU Athletics. Mason is passionate about strengthening student involvement, school spirit, and the sense of community that makes Austin Peay special.
Kaleb Scott

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Broadcast Media

Organization Sponsoring: Govs Gaming

Involvement:
- APSU Gaming Club Officer
- APSU ROTC Cadet
- APSU TV Producer, Host, and Collaborator
When I'm not hosting APSU TV News, I'm preparing to be an Officer in the Army as part of the ROTC program here at APSU. I've been in Clarksville for 11 years, graduated from West Creek High School, and now I volunteer at their JROTC Program. I also work part-time at Strawberry Alley. These experiences have given me numerous opportunities to demonstrate my leadership and teamwork skills, and I strive to find solutions that leave everyone happy.
Garrett Simpson

Hometown: Memphis, TN

Major: History

Organization Sponsoring: Black Student Union, French Club, Tabletop Roleplaying Club, GPC

Involvement:
- Student Organization Council
- Black Student Union
- French Club
- Foreign Policy Club
- Honors College
- Army ROTC
Hello everyone! My name is Garrett Simpson; and I'm a History major with a minor in French and Francophone studies. I am very involved in campus across several organizations and passionate about participating in events with my fellow students. If elected to the Homecoming Court, I plan to represent the student body with humility and diligence. Thank you for your consideration!
Earnest “EJ” Williams

Hometown: Clarksville, Tennessee

Major: Finance Major with a concentration in real estate and a minor in marketing

Organization Sponsoring: National Panhellenic council (NPHC)

Involvement:
- Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Vice president
- National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) President
- Recipient of the emerging Greek leadership award
- I write poetry
- I am a member of Shelby’s Trio services
- I love coaching and training kids in football and basketball
- Started a running campaign for suicide prevention awareness month.
- Member of the Astetic alliance
- Black Student Union
- Model for different clothing brands
My name is Earnest Williams, born and raised in Clarksville. My purpose in life is to serve others, uplift my community, and positively impact the people around me. My goal is to continue growing my community and uplifting the students of Austin Peay. As Homecoming King, I want to represent service, leadership, and the people who make Austin Peay feel like home.