Student Spotlights

Senior kinesiology major Ben Grandchamp recently won a strongman competition and earned the prestigious Ricondo badge at ROTC training while pursuing his degree.

Calleway Schmidt spent six weeks in Rzeszów working alongside Ukranian and Polish students through the International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) program, continuing a partnership that APSU began in 2022.

From scholarship loss to student-investment chief, Austin Peay senior Citlali "Cici" Dominguez juggles RA duty, three internships and mentoring her brother, using grit to find opportunity.

Arielle Lawrence was always fascinated by programming, and her dedication led her to attend APSU as a first-generation college student. Now she's applying her skills as a cybersecurity intern with the Tennessee Department of Finance and Administration.

Senior engineering physics major Steven Warth is advancing fusion energy research through his participation in the prestigious Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internship program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he worked on faster computational methods for fusion reactor simulations.

Hospitality management student Hailey Dorsey represented APSU as one of 10 student ambassadors at the Tennessee Governor's Conference on Hospitality and Tourism, gaining behind-the-scenes experience in the state's $31.7 billion tourism industry.

The senior biology major navigated a months-long selection process to become Austin Peay State University's student trustee, and now brings a student perspective to the board while the institution manages record enrollment.

William Keener, an Austin Peay State University physics student, was recently chosen for the highly competitive Solar Physics Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at the Center for Astrophysics (CFA), a joint institution between Harvard and the Smithsonian.

Between recovering from heart surgery, becoming a new mother, and moving across the country, it was easy for Cavelle McGrath to feel overwhelmed, but her mother (Dr. Marsha Lyle-Gonga, a professor of political science at APSU) was always around to keep her calm and focused on the path to her EdD.

Austin Peay State University has announced that two recent graduates, Jacob Gunter and Christian Taliento, have been selected for the highly competitive Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program.

Jzsade Davenport, granddaughter of Austin Peay basketball trailblazer L.M. Ellis, will graduate Friday from APSU as part of the nation's first federally registered teacher apprenticeship program, continuing her grandfather's legacy of breaking barriers.

Austin Peay State University student Shaylan Barber represented Tennessee at the American Society of Radiologic Technologists Educational Symposium in Reno, Nevada, gaining valuable professional development and leadership training through the organization's competitive Student to Leadership Development Program.

APSU alumna Maggie Lehtola rekindled her academic journey at APSU after being inspired by a Nashville Shakespeare Festival production and is now heading to London for her MFA.

Austin Peay State University social work graduate Aarionna Williams turns childhood trauma into a mission: mentoring peers, interning with Minds Matter, and advocating systemic reform. Her journey from instability to leadership shows how therapeutic play and determined scholarship can rebuild futures and communities.

Dylan Cottrell and Kayla Downey are not only the first in their family to earn postgraduate degrees, they're among the first graduates from the MBA program launched at APSU in Fall 2024.

Austin Peay State University physics graduate Amaya Caudel has earned a prestigious internship at Los Alamos National Laboratory while preparing to start her Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University this fall.

Lucas Bales is balancing a successful goat farm that offers landscaping, dairy production, and community events with his studies in APSU's business management program.

Ugochukwu Onumadu is using his international experience to transform mathematics education and bridge cultural gaps through innovative teaching approaches.

Sara Lusk will attend Princeton Theological Seminary this fall on a top scholarship, pursuing her passion for ministry after graduating with degrees in philosophy and classics.

Graduating senior Christine Jator has earned both of Austin Peay State University's top student awards, and will next pursue a doctoral degree in statistics at Southern Methodist University.

Six outstanding student leaders were recognized during the college's third annual Student Leadership Awards ceremony on April 17.

Austin Peay State University's College of Business recognized outstanding students across multiple disciplines during its inaugural Night of Honor celebration.

Hannah Ramos, an Austin Peay State University junior, earned a place on the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge's 2025 Student Voting Honor Roll and was commended by the Tennessee General Assembly for her civic leadership and legislative internship during the 2025 session.

Junior nursing major Meagan Larson has earned a nationally competitive externship at Vanderbilt and will will spend eight weeks working on the pediatrics floor at Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital this summer.

This free public exhibition will be in The New Gallery and features 55 student works of art selected by juror Kariann Fuqua, an instructional assistant professor of art and the director of museum studies at the University of Mississippi.

As part of an Alternative Break Trip, students worked with park rangers to assist with shoreline cleanup, split firewood, and care for endangered animal species at the Woodlands Nature Station.

Five Austin Peay State University marketing students competed in Oracle's inaugural two-day sales competition in Nashville, showcasing their sales skills and gaining valuable real-world experience.

Sarah Earls, a nontraditional student and elementary education major at Austin Peay State University, has been elected to serve as secretary of the Student Tennessee Education Association (STEA) state board.

Abigail McKenna, a Middle College senior at Austin Peay State University, has balanced high school, college courses, and journalism. She will earn an associate degree before her high school diploma through Austin Peay's dual enrollment program while writing for The All State student newspaper and exploring diverse academic opportunities.

Elizabeth Daniel, an online military student at Austin Peay State University, led a fireside chat with retired Marine Lt. Gen. Ronald Bailey during the university's third annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast, showcasing her journey from military service to academic achievement and community engagement.

Sophomore nursing major Alexis Bisbee has found a welcoming second home at Austin Peay State University, where friends drove through winter storms to help her return to campus and where she's thriving in academics, Greek life and campus involvement.

The College of STEM has awarded grants to three student organizations that will support a chemistry career fair, a GeoClub open house, and a wildlife observation event with the Nashville Zoo.

Austin Peay State University's College of STEM recently awarded four Innovative Teaching Mini-Grants to faculty members for groundbreaking educational projects aimed at enhancing student engagement and success in STEM fields.

Austin Peay State University student Skylar Hayes has secured a coveted internship with the Tennessee Titans Foundation through networking and persistence.

Austin Peay State University's Department of Music, with support from the Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts, is presenting American Opera Adventures at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24, in the Mabry Concert Hall. This event is free and open to the public, and the department will livestream the event on its YouTube channel.  

Senior hospitality management major Shae Webber, a mother of five with over 20 years of industry experience, has secured a position in the prestigious Marriott Voyage program while completing a successful internship at Garth Brooks' Friends in Low Places.

Austin Peay State University cheerleaders Anneliese Joyner and Belle Schmidt are balancing their athletic commitments with academic excellence through involvement in the university's Honors and President's Emerging Leaders Programs.

Austin Peay State University dance team members Grace Henderson and Madelyn Steele are balancing their athletic pursuits with academic excellence through their involvement in the Honors Program.

Whitney Joseph, an APSU veteran and senior accounting major, is excelling as a Tennessee Society of CPAs student ambassador while navigating her academic journey.

Austin Peay announced the winners of the 2024 Patton Entrepreneurship Challenge. Students presented innovative business ideas, and the top prizes were awarded to MomentMuse, a mindfulness app; Money Monologues, a financial literacy program; and UV Buddy, which featured transition lens technology. This challenge aimed to support student entrepreneurship and promote real-world problem-solving.

Austin Peay State University's Theatre & Dance Department presents Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" from November 21-24. Directed by Victoria Matlock Fowler, this holiday classic features student performers, spectacular set design, and nostalgic music. Tickets available for $5-$10 at APSU's Trahern Theatre.

APSU's Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts recently awarded Transformative Student Experience Grants to students in four departments, enabling them to participate in enriching summer projects and workshops.

Austin Peay State University senior Faith Clark participated in the National Science Foundation's International Research Experiences for Students program, traveling across Europe and gaining valuable cultural and academic experiences.

Senior biology major Hannah Zahn is making an impact as both a soccer team captain and researcher while maintaining a 4.0 GPA during her time at APSU.

Austin Peay State University aviation science students and instructors provided critical relief efforts in North Carolina following Hurricane Helene's devastating impact.

Austin Peay State University sports communication students recently produced the official live broadcast for the Govs Hockey Club's inaugural season opener, kicking off a partnership to cover home games throughout the season.

Austin Peay State University freshmen Arianna Allen and Kaylee Hansen are balancing their Division I soccer careers with academic pursuits in the Honors Program, showcasing the university's commitment to supporting well-rounded student-athletes.

APSU's Department of Social Work partnered with the Cheatham County Community Enhancement Coalition to provide Narcan training and certification to 30 students, equipping them with crucial skills to combat opioid overdoses.

Valerie Mandez, an aspiring educator dedicated to making a difference in children's lives, has come a long way from her time in the Clarksville-Montgomery School System to her role as the new Student Tennessee Education Association (STEA) president at Austin Peay State University.

Austin Peay State University senior Christine Jator recently participated in the University of Chicago's Summer Undergraduate Mathematics and Statistics Accelerator program, gaining valuable experience for her future graduate studies.

APSU senior chemistry and biology Jackson Brown participated in a seven-week International Research Experience for Students (IRES) program in Rzeszów, Poland this summer to conduct research on rare earth doped glasses at the University of Rzeszów.

Cadet Bradley Dardas recently received the Soldier's Medal, the Army's highest honor for peacetime heroism, for rescuing a drowning man from the Cumberland River in April 2021.

As a member of the Governors tennis team and the President's Emerging Leaders Program, junior psychology major Ayden Kujawa is balancing her studies with Division I sports while pursuing a career in healthcare.

Alacea Thompson, a U.S. Army veteran, has become the first APSU student to earn the National Association of Veterans Upward Bound Scholarship. This prestigious award recognizes Thompson's outstanding achievements and highlights APSU's commitment to supporting veteran students through programs like Veterans Upward Bound.

APSU engineering physics senior Jair Martinez conducted research in Rennes, France this summer through the NSF-funded IRES program, gaining valuable insights into international research practices and cultural differences while broadening his perspectives.

Senior pre-veterinary major Jordan Spencer spent the summer abroad in South Africa, working with wild cheetahs and learning more about wildlife conservation.

Junior earth and environmental sciences major Tanner Sigears recently embarked on an international research journey to the Czech Republic through the National Science Foundation's IRES program.

Senior engineering physics major Josh Rye's summer research trip to Rennes, France, offered more than just academic experience - it provided a glimpse into potential career paths, European culture, and personal growth opportunities.

Austin Peay State University's College of Business has selected Daniela Diaz Campos, William Martin Jr., and Tiffany Ortiz as student ambassadors for 2024-25.

For Austin Peay State University senior Aidan Milam, a summer research trip to the Czech Republic proved to be more than academic - it transformed his career aspirations and broadened his cultural horizons.

Austin Peay alum Wes Kitts finished eighth in Olympic weightlifting at the Paris Games, matching his Tokyo performance. Lifting 374kg total, Kitts represented Team USA in the 102kg division. He credits his NCAA football experience for preparing him for the Olympics.

Austin Peay alum Wes Kitts prepares to represent Team USA in Olympic weightlifting. The former NCAA football player discusses how his college experience shaped his Olympic journey. Kitts competes in the 102-kilogram division on Aug. 10 in Paris, aiming to improve his 2021 performance.

For Asjion Catlett, a senior biology major at Austin Peay State University, the opportunity to participate in the National Science Foundation's International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) program was nothing short of transformative.

APSU theatre student Prichan Murrell lands leading role in NYC showcase of "The Ruminants." Selected based on campus performance, Murrell's trip was funded by APSU. The experience provided valuable connections and inspiration, reinforcing Murrell's passion for theatre and future career aspirations.

Lyle Miller-Green, Austin Peay's record-breaking baseball star, was drafted by the Chicago White Sox. Adopted from Russia as an infant, Miller-Green's journey from Siberian orphanage to MLB prospect is inspiring. His stellar performance and resilience led to multiple honors and a historic season for the Governors.

Explore Chelsae Thompson's inspiring 14-year journey to a college degree at Austin Peay State University, balancing motherhood, military life and mental health. A compelling story of resilience, determination and academic success.

Kayla Cross, a freshman studio art major at Austin Peay State University, is on a mission to create a tactile art movement so visually impaired people can engage with the medium in a new way.

The Army Enterprise Marketing Office (AEMO) visited campus recently to film APSU's ROTC program in action for a recruitment campaign that will be released on GoArmy's website and social media platforms.

The Eriksson College of Education at Austin Peay State University celebrated its top students and graduates at the Spring 2024 Awards and Recognition Ceremony on April 30 at the Morgan University Center.

APSU graduate English major Maisie Williams is taking her talents to Boston University's MFA program this fall after earning a highly competitive poetry fellowship. As a first-generation college student, Williams credits her success to the opportunities and support she has received at Austin Peay.

This semester, five students from Austin Peay State University's Department of Political Science and Public Management interned in various legislative offices with the Tennessee General Assembly and gained valuable experience contributing to the workings of the assembly.

Jennifer Lindahl, a mother of three, found her passion for sports journalism at Austin Peay State University. Despite challenges, supportive professors and a tight-knit community helped her succeed. Set to graduate in May, Lindahl is ready to pursue her dream career.

Piper Conditt, an APSU finance student, found her calling through the "Banking on Govs" program. Connecting with industry professionals and immersing herself in banking trends, Conditt plans to pursue a career in commercial lending with F&M Bank in Clarksville.

Austin Peay State University's Army ROTC program, the Governors Guard, has earned a spot in the prestigious Sandhurst Military Skills Competition at West Point, where they will compete against top military colleges, ROTC programs, and international militaries.

The Department of Art + Design is celebrating the end of the 2023-24 academic year with the 56th Annual Juried Student Exhibition. The show opens in The New Gallery on April 8 and runs through April 24, with a preview scheduled for April 4 during Clarksville's First Thursday Art Walk.

Austin Peay State University's annual Great Green Idea contest showcases innovative student sustainability initiatives. Winners proposed solar energy implementation, a campus-wide tag sale, and a resource-sharing program to reduce overconsumption and promote equal access to education resources.

Zoe Farren, a Cape Cod native, found her path at Austin Peay State University after transferring. With supportive professors and hands-on experience, she's set to graduate in May, aiming for a career in sports event planning and inspiring her younger brother.

Austin Peay State University's Opera Theatre program is inviting the community to attend its inaugural performance of "The Magic Flute" on April 20 and 21 at the George & Sharon Mabry Concert Hall. Both performances are free and open to the public, thanks to support from the Center of Excellence for the Creative Arts (CECA) at Austin Peay. 

Megan Schneck, a transfer student from Nashville State Community College, found her calling as an educator at Austin Peay State University. Through service learning and campus involvement, she discovered her passion for inspiring others and plans to pursue a master's degree.

Austin Peay State University's chapter of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi has brought the joy of reading to children through its Candy for the Mind Halloween book distribution for over 20 years and received a 2023 Fall Service Project award from Phi Kappa Phi's national organization after distributing more than 200 books last semester.

Lesly Moreno, a first-generation finance student at APSU, pursues her banking career dreams through the "Banking on Govs" program, overcoming challenges as a transfer student, family responsibilities, and a devastating tornado that struck her neighborhood.

Caleb Gregory, a sophomore IT major at Austin Peay State University, balances his passion for technology and music, excelling in both fields while embracing the diverse opportunities the university offers.

Aviana Parker from Austin Peay State University wins the esteemed Panhellenic Council Member of the Year award at the SGLA conference, spotlighting her leadership within the Greek community and her academic journey in health and human performance.

Juana Chavez Hernandez, APSU sophomore and Sigma Lambda Gamma founding president, wins the Multicultural Greek Council Member of the Year award, highlighting the sorority's impact and growth in multicultural Greek life at Austin Peay State University.

Ricky Birchfield, editor-in-chief of The All State at APSU, featured in The Tennessean, discusses the vital role and challenges of student journalism in honor of Student Press Freedom Day.

From music major to astrophysicist, Li Loy's journey at APSU led them to present groundbreaking solar research at the American Geophysical Union's annual conference. The national gathering drew more than 25,000 scientists and provided Loy with the opportunity to grow and build relationships in the field.

Brisyn Dew, a radiologic technology student at Austin Peay State University, has been selected for the ASRT Student Leadership Development Program, drawing from his personal medical experiences to become an empathetic leader in the medical imaging field.

Austin Peay State University's student-managed investment fund has set a record number of member certifications in Bloomberg Market Concepts, a globally recognized achievement in the financial industry. Earning a Bloomberg certification demonstrates exceptional dedication, perseverance and a profound understanding of financial markets.

Austin Peay State University business management major Brian Meredith, who previously served as a sergeant first class with the U.S. Army, was named a finalist for the prestigious Student Veteran of the Year Award during the 16th Annual Student Veterans of America National Conference.

Austin Peay State University's Society of Physics Students (SPS) chapter recently earned an Outstanding Chapter Award from the SPS National Office, a designation given to less than 10% of the SPS chapters at colleges and universities across the globe.

When Gracey Suggs came to Austin Peay State University, she brought along an impressive set of credentials. Now a junior -- despite just being in her second year on campus -- she stands out as a remarkably focused and dedicated student with her sights set on becoming a pediatric oncologist.

This summer, recent Austin Peay State University graduate Austin Kerr hoped that an internship at VK Integrated Systems in Clarksville would lead to a full-time job - and it did.

"I decided to transfer back to my home of Clarksville, and while attending APSU, I was able to find a field that called to me. I think a large reason for being so responsive to computer science was largely due to the accessibility and positivity that shines from a lot of the professors in the department."

Hitch followed her dreams and landed a job right in the middle of Music City. Working as the contract and booking coordinator for Bridgestone Arena, she sees it all. From the Nashville Predators' games to concerts, Hitch gets to plan these events.

A week after she earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology at Austin Peay, she started a construction management job at CDM Smith in Nashville. And later this summer, the Pegram, Tennessee, native will begin her pursuit of a master's degree at Vanderbilt University.

Along with amazing experiences and her friends, Stapp's success in her political science major and leadership roles in multiple organizations have opened opportunities.

Recent APSU art graduate Carlos R. Carpena never met his grandfather, but as a boy growing up in Puerto Rico, he often heard stories about the man and the famous "Borinqueneers."

Christaine Patton enjoys staying busy. The Austin Peay State University broadcast major - who graduates this week - runs Pretty Fancy Tutus, a business that makes tutus for children and adults, and Estella Mae's Sweet Treats, a home bakery named after her late grandmother. But that's not all.

The opportunities available to Amos have been endless. From collaborating with New York City playwright Jake Brasch on "Our Tempest," working in theatre during COVID-19 and learning Bob Fosse work, Amos has had quite the experience.

You never know what you're going to discover at Austin Peay. Graphic design major and APSU Hazel Smith Summer Research Fellow recipient Katie Boyer has quite the story.