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Articles by Elaina Russell APSU
‘It’s not about me’: APSU trustee Brad Withrow pays forward professor’s legacy
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Humphreys County native Brad Withrow began his journey at Austin Peay State University (APSU) in 1984, balancing coursework, part-time jobs and campus life.
APSU to spotlight tech, economic development leaders during fall Legends of Business series
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business and Legends Bank will bring guest speakers Mark Blaze, president and CEO of the Greater Nashville Technology Council, and Janet Wilson, vice president for urban development for the Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council, to campus this fall as part of the Legends of Business speaker series.
APSU College of Business announces 2026 A.J. Taylor Award winners
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University (APSU) College of Business recently presented the 2026 A.J. Taylor Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Research, recognizing two faculty members for outstanding classroom innovation and scholarly work. Each recipient received an award and an academic stipend to advance future instructional and research initiatives. The 2026 recipients are: Dr. Al Tilooby is an assistant professor of management information systems.
Integrated learning prepares APSU students as entry-level roles decrease
CLARKSVILLE, TN – As traditional entry-level jobs disappear, Austin Peay State University’s College of Business has spent the last several years pushing students out of the classroom and into real organizations through a 37% jump in experiential learning participation. Faculty have reason to move quickly: Randstad reports a 29% drop in entry-level positions since 2024, while the World Economic Forum found 63% of employers cite skill gaps as a major barrier over the next five years.
Austin Peay finance students outpace S&P 500, earn performance award in TVA Investment Challenge
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has recognized Austin Peay State University (APSU) as one of 15 top-performing schools for its Investment Challenge Program (ICP), and the university continued a longstanding streak of outpacing the S&P 500. APSU students received a TVA performance award after April presentations in Nashville, with a 20.53% return compared to the S&P 500’s 17.88% in fiscal year 2025.
Graduating seniors Tyler Rose, Kade Tjaarda earn APSU’s most prestigious student awards
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Two graduating Austin Peay State University (APSU) seniors, music major Tyler Rose and finance major Kade Tjaarda, recently earned the university’s most prestigious student accolades during the APSU Student Organization and Leader Awards. Rose received the Harvill-Civitan Citizenship Award, and Tjaarda won the William McClure Drane Award. A faculty and staff panel chooses both recipients annually.
Night of Honor celebrates APSU business students’ academic achievements
CLARKSVILE, TN – The College of Business at Austin Peay State University hosted its annual Night of Honor on April 23 to recognize student accomplishments for the 2025-26 academic year. The event celebrates student excellence in several categories, including: Carmen C. Reagan Awards – The college’s most prestigious award recognizes students whose involvement has strengthened the College of Business.
Austin Peay State University’s College of Business achieves AACSB accreditation
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) has announced that Austin Peay State University’s (APSU) College of Business has earned AACSB accreditation, a distinction held by less than 6% of business schools worldwide. AACSB is the premier global accrediting body for business education and is recognized as the highest standard of quality.
Austin Peay students turn published research into real-world career gains
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Five business students at Austin Peay State University set a goal last year to understand how college majors and demographics influence long-term earnings. While studying data on 1,058,246 students, they unintentionally began documenting the blueprint for their own success.
Two industry leaders to headline APSU’s spring Legends of Business series
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The College of Business at Austin Peay State University (APSU) and Legends Bank will host two guest speakers this spring, bringing accomplished leaders across industries to campus to connect with students for the Legends of Business speaker series. David Hogan of Ribbon Communications and David “Buck” Dellinger of the Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council (EDC) will share their real-world perspectives on leadership, innovation, and career development.
Learning through service: APSU students assist with free tax preparation
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Austin Peay State University (APSU) accounting students are ready for another successful tax season, partnering with United Way of Greater Nashville (UWGN) to provide free tax preparation services to community members through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Students are currently assisting households virtually, serving those with an annual income of $84,000 or less for tax year 2025 through GetYourRefund.org/en.
First-year programming turns orientation into participation for Austin Peay students
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Kameron Young arrived on campus last summer like many other first-year college students, cautiously optimistic. While exciting and full of promise, the transition from Clarksville High School to Austin Peay State University (APSU) suddenly felt overwhelming as fear crept in, threatening to claim his unfolding future. Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, Young’s family relocated to Clarksville during his high school years.
APSU professor links U.S. air quality initiative to improved infant health
CLARKSVILLE, TN – New research by an assistant professor at Austin Peay State University found that a U.S. air-quality initiative from the early 2000s resulted in healthier newborns. Dr. Nahid Tavassoli, the study’s author, made the discovery by analyzing birth records from 1995 to 2008. In a news release shared at the time of publication, Health Economics highlighted important implications for public health policy and environmental regulations.
APSU student shines at Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism
CLARKSVILLE, TN – For Hailey Dorsey, hospitality is more than a career choice; it’s a call to community. This fall, her passion confirmed her purpose as she represented the hospitality management program at Austin Peay State University (APSU) during the Tennessee Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism (GovCon).
APSU announces 2025 A.J. Taylor Distinguished Professorship award winners
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business announced the recipients of the prestigious 2025 A.J. Taylor Distinguished Professorship Awards on Aug. 19, recognizing two business faculty members for their leadership in teaching and research. Honorees received an award and academic stipend to support their future initiatives in research and teaching.
APSU professor coauthors groundbreaking study on childhood lead exposure’s long-term effects
CLARKSVILLE, TN − A new study recently published in Explorations in Economic History suggests that early-life exposure to lead in drinking water is associated with a reduced longevity in men by approximately 9.6 months in cities with the most significant exposure.
APSU students drive business growth with Tennessee Small Business Development Center
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Austin Peay State University (APSU) business students joined forces with the Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) this spring to establish an internship experience to generate direct impact for local businesses, while developing students’ professional skills. The program required careful coordination between the university and the TSBDC to ensure it would meet both educational and business support objectives.
Austin Peay’s MBA program prepares students for future of business with AI concentration
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Austin Peay State University is adding an artificial intelligence (AI) concentration to its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program starting in Fall 2025. The concentration will require nine hours in AI electives exploring the technology’s integration into the professional workplace. New courses will highlight the practical applications of AI for business, preparing students to leverage it effectively and responsibly.
Austin Peay students compete in inaugural Oracle sales competition
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Five marketing students from Austin Peay State University recently showcased their sales acumen at Oracle’s inaugural two-day sales competition in Nashville. Team members demonstrated exceptional performance and potential in sales development roles as they navigated a series of challenges. Oracle designed the competition to bridge the gap between business and technology.
APSU’s Jennifer Thayer named 2025 ambassador by Tennessee Board of Regents
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Dr. Jennifer Thayer, associate professor of accounting at Austin Peay State University, has been named a 2025 High Impact Practices (HIP) Pathway Ambassador by the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR). The appointment recognizes Thayer’s exemplary integration of service-learning activities, like her work with the ACCT 4311 – Tax Practicum class and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
Two Nashville business leaders slated to speak at APSU this spring
CLARKSVILLE, TN − The Austin Peay State University (APSU) College of Business and Legends Bank will continue the Legends of Business speaker series at APSU this spring, adding two prominent business leaders to the annual lineup. Shannon Myers, senior vice president and chief financial officer of the Tennessee Titans, and Sherry Franklin, director of sales and marketing for Renaissance Nashville Hotel, will join APSU students, faculty and guests to share their experience as community leaders.
Dave Dessauer named director of Tennessee Small Business Development Center at Austin Peay
CLARKSVILLE, TN − The Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Austin Peay State University has announced Dave Dessauer as its new director, effective Dec. 1. Dessauer brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously served as the career readiness coach for the College of Business at Austin Peay and director of leadership and development at the University of Texas at Austin.
APSU student turns chance encounter into dream role with Tennessee Titans Foundation
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Skylar Hayes, an Austin Peay State University management student, recently turned a vision and a brief encounter at a networking event into a career-changing opportunity that secured her one of 11 spots in the Bud Adams internship program with the Tennessee Titans Foundation. Hayes stood out among nearly 1,000 applicants, proving that in sports and business, preparation and opportunity are key.
APSU announces student winners of Patton Entrepreneurship Challenge
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Austin Peay State University is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 Patton Entrepreneurship Challenge, a collaboration between Austin Peay and the Spencer Patton Foundation to support students in pursuing innovative solutions to real-world problems. Student finalists pitched their ideas on Oct. 28, vying for three substantial cash prizes.
APSU’s innovative banking program celebrates first graduates
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Austin Peay State University is celebrating a milestone as Lesly Moreno and Piper Conditt have become the first students to complete its innovative Banking on Govs program. Launched in the Summer 2023 semester in partnership with F&M Bank and the Tennessee Bankers Association, the program offers hands-on experience with banking operations and industry professionals.
Speakers announced for Legends of Business speaker series at APSU
CLARKSVILLE, TN − The Legends of Business speaker series is returning to Austin Peay State University (APSU) this fall, featuring Monchiere Holmes-Jones, CEO and founder of MOJO Marketing and PR, and John Mikos, president and CEO of YMCA of Middle Tennessee. Events are scheduled from 9:30-11 a.m. on Oct. 8 and Nov. 5 in the Legends Bank Lecture Hall and are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
APSU College of Business amplifies student perspective with 2024-25 Ambassador Program
CLARKSVILLE, TN − Austin Peay State University’s College of Business has appointed three student ambassadors for the 2024-25 academic year to enhance the student experience within the college. The program allows students to share their stories, strengthen student connections and amplify extracurricular development opportunities. This year’s ambassadors are Daniela Diaz Campos, William Martin Jr. and Tiffany Ortiz.
APSU and JCPenney suit up for success
CLARKSVILLE, TN –The Austin Peay State University (APSU) College of Business will host a Suit-Up event in collaboration with JCPenney from 3-6 p.m. on March 24 at Governors Square Mall. During the event, APSU students, faculty, staff and alumni can take advantage of deep discounts on select career wear, shoes and accessories using an exclusive discount coupon provided by the College of Business during check-in.
APSU Govs Fund achieves record number of Bloomberg certifications
CLARKSVILLE, TN – 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. In the Fall 2023 semester, the Govs Fund moved to strengthen its competitiveness through a requirement for all members to complete certification.
APSU College of Business adds 3 new program concentrations
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Beginning in the Fall 2024 semester, the Austin Peay State University College of Business will introduce three new dynamic program concentrations to equip students with relevant, specialized skills in banking, real estate and human resources. These additions support the college’s pursuit to build programs that progress with industry developments, addressing the specific needs of professionals in these vital sectors.
APSU Legends of Business speakers announced for spring semester
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business will partner with Legends Bank to host two distinguished guest speakers during the Spring 2024 semester: Lindsey Paola, chief operating officer of the Nashville Soccer Club and Dr. Anil Patel, a prominent Clarksville gastroenterologist and hotel developer. Events will occur from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 7 and March 27 in the Legends Bank Lecture Hall at Austin Peay.
APSU’s Tennessee Small Business Development Center welcomes Dustyn Brewer as business advisor
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Austin Peay State University recently announced the addition of Dustyn Brewer, the founder of Kings Bluff Brewery and a branding and advertising manager, as a business advisor. In his role, Brewer will play a crucial part in advancing the center’s mission to support and empower local business owners. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, which will significantly benefit the region’s small business community.
APSU announces Center for Applied Business Research, names inaugural director
CLARKSVILLE, TN –Austin Peay State University’s College of Business recently announced the formation of the Center for Applied Business Research (CABR) with the appointment of Dr. Vikkie McCarthy, professor of management, as the inaugural director. Through the expertise of Austin Peay’s professors, the center aims to produce actionable insights to shape regional business practices.
APSU students place third in regional poster competition
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Austin Peay State University finance students recently placed third in the Student Management Investment Fund Consortium (SMIFC) poster competition hosted by Indiana State University. Students participated as members of the Govs Fund, an Austin Peay investment club that allows them to manage a portfolio of $500,000 in mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
Austin Peay's 'Explore' program helping freshmen become business leaders
CLARKSVILLE, TN – This past spring, Austin Peay State University Career Readiness Coach Dave Dessauer led 10 first-year students in the College of Business through a pilot program to develop their skills, create connections and establish a foundation for their future as aspiring innovators, contributors and business leaders.
APSU alumnus selected for competitive Obama Foundation program
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Zac Gillman (’15), an alumnus of the College of Business at Austin Peay State University (APSU), made the list of rising leaders inducted into the inaugural Leaders USA class by the Obama Foundation this summer. The business management graduate was one of 100 professionals selected from diverse backgrounds and organizations to join the highly competitive program to strengthen leaders’ development across the country.
APSU's College of Business engages students with integrated research projects
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The College of Business at Austin Peay is seeing an increased interest in student research opportunities, resulting in intentional investments to integrate research into the student experience. Madeline Etherton, a junior business major, recently collaborated with Dr. Dennis Pearson, associate professor of economics, for a multi-year immersive experience in academic research.
APSU College of Business names first Banking on Govs program students
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Austin Peay State University’s College of Business has selected two students to participate in the first-ever “Banking on Govs” program in collaboration with F&M Bank and the Tennessee Bankers Association. Finance students Piper Conditt and Lesly Moreno will commence the program this summer. Conditt and Moreno will attend the Southeastern School of Banking with other regional professionals to gain valuable insights into the latest banking trends and challenges.
APSU announces winners of 2022-23 Carmen C. Reagan Outstanding Leader Awards
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The College of Business at Austin Peay State University announced the Carmen C. Reagan Outstanding Leader Awards recipients for the 2022-23 academic year. The peer-nominated award honors one business faculty/staff member, student and external community leader who exemplify outstanding leadership in guiding the college’s mission. This year’s recipients are: Dr. Emily Lean, Outstanding University Leader. Lean is the associate dean of the College of Business.
Broadway to boardroom: CMA CEO shares leadership lessons with APSU students
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Country music isn’t always the topic of discussion in a global business course; but that’s exactly what happened when Sarah Trahern, the CEO of the Country Music Association, spoke to students at Austin Peay State University. Trahern recently joined Austin Peay’s College of Business for their Legends of Business speaker series, hosted in partnership with Legends Bank.
Austin Peay College of Business building to receive $9 million in renovations
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The College of Business at Austin Peay State University is set to undergo extensive renovations this summer as part of a $9 million investment secured through state and private funding in 2022. The project will update a significant portion of the facility, enhancing the campus experience for years to come.
APSU Entrepreneurship Challenge awards $15,000 to students
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business hosted the first-ever 15K Entrepreneurship Challenge on Nov. 15. The event encouraged student teams to display their creativity and teamwork by presenting viable business solutions to problems within their communities. After completing a preliminary round of judging, six student teams advanced to the live competition on campus.
APSU's Tennessee Small Business Development Center appoints new director
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) at Austin Peay State University welcomed Liz Snodgrass as its new director earlier this summer. Snodgrass joined the TSBDC after spending several years in business operations and leadership positions, predominantly in the healthcare industry. She most recently served as CEO of Livingston Hospital and Healthcare Services in Salem, Kentucky.
APSU College of Business suiting up for second event with JCPenney
CLARKSVILLE, TN – This September, the Austin Peay State University College of Business will host its second Suit-Up event in partnership with JCPenney at Governors Square Mall. The partnership allows all APSU students and their families to purchase professional clothing at deep discounts. “We are excited to continue this partnership for a second year,” Dave Dessauer, College of Business career coach, said.
APSU College of Business announces 2022 AJ Taylor Distinguished Professorship Awards
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business recently announced the 2022 AJ Taylor Distinguished Professorship Award winners, the most prestigious recognition awarded to faculty within the college.
APSU College of Business announces fifth annual Carmen C. Reagan Outstanding Leader Awards
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business recently announced the 2021-22 Carmen C. Reagan Outstanding Leader awards. The peer-nominated award honors one external community leader, a faculty/staff member, and a student for their outstanding involvement with the APSU College of Business and its mission to enhance the University and the Clarksville community. This year’s recipients are: Outstanding University Leader – Crystal Hambrock, Career Readiness Coach.
APSU marketing and graphic design collaboration provides nonprofits with marketing campaigns
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Austin Peay State University marketing and graphic design students experienced a little cross-disciplinary collaboration, similar to working in a real-world agency, last semester thanks to an innovative collaboration between the College of Business and the Department of Art + Design.
APSU business professor uses cookies to illustrate accounting concepts
CLARKSVILLE, TN – Dr. Jennifer Thayer, assistant professor of accounting, introduced a new concept to one of her accounting classes this semester – cookies! Thayer adapted a case study by Alesha Graves, associate dean at Asbury University, that offered her students an innovative project illustrating real-world accounting practices. The project consisted of: Determining a cookie, ingredients and time.
Nashville Predators President/CEO Sean Henry discusses F&M Bank Arena with APSU College of Business
CLARKSVILLE, TN – The Austin Peay State University College of Business, in partnership with Legends Bank, hosted Nashville Predators president and CEO Sean Henry for the Legends of Business Speaker series last week. The series connects business leaders from the Middle Tennessee region with APSU students to enable them to learn directly from industry pros. Henry shared his story and lessons in leadership with the APSU community.
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