Notable Alumni of Austin Peay State University
Austin Peay State University (APSU), a public university located in Clarksville, Tennessee, has a rich history and a diverse alumni base. Established in 1927, APSU has produced graduates who have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, sports, entertainment, and military service. This article highlights some of the university's most notable alumni, showcasing their accomplishments and impact.
A Legacy of Education and Achievement
Since 1845, the site where Austin Peay State University stands has been home to a succession of educational institutions. APSU itself was founded as Austin Peay Normal School in 1927, named after then-sitting Tennessee Governor Austin Peay. The institution evolved into Austin Peay State College in 1943 and later gained university status. Today, APSU is governed by the Austin Peay State University Board of Trustees and continues to provide quality education to its students.
Notable Alumni Across Various Fields
Austin Peay State University boasts a diverse array of notable alumni who have excelled in their respective fields. Here's a glimpse into the accomplishments of some of these distinguished individuals:
Politics and Public Service
- Riley Darnell: A lawyer and politician, Darnell served in the Tennessee House of Representatives, the Tennessee Senate, and as Tennessee Secretary of State.
- Darren Jernigan: A Democratic politician, Jernigan represents the 60th district in the Tennessee House of Representatives. He also served on the Nashville City Council.
- Joe Pitts: The current Mayor of Clarksville, Tennessee, Pitts previously served as a Democratic member of the Tennessee House of Representatives.
- Eric Stewart: Stewart is an American politician from Tennessee, who represented the 14th district as State Senator from 2008 to 2012.
- David Bibb: Served as the Deputy Administrator of the General Services Administration, and as its Acting Administrator twice.
- William J. Hadden Jr.: Was also at different times both a military chaplain (both in the US Navy and the US Army), and a university Chaplain. He also served as a politician and community leader in Pitt County, North Carolina, and worked for the desegregation of Greenville, North Carolina.
- Phil Roe: Represented Tennessee's 1st congressional district from 2009 to 2021 and was chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs from 2017 to 2019.
Athletics
- A.J. Ellis: A former professional baseball catcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for several teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres. He is now a special assistant to the general manager for the Padres.
- Shawn Kelley: A former professional baseball pitcher who played in MLB for multiple teams, including the Seattle Mariners, New York Yankees, and Washington Nationals.
- George Sherrill: A former professional baseball relief pitcher who played in MLB for the Seattle Mariners, Baltimore Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Atlanta Braves. He was an MLB All-Star in 2008.
- Jamie Walker: A former Major League Baseball relief pitcher who played for the Kansas City Royals, Detroit Tigers, and Baltimore Orioles.
- Greg Tubbs: A former Major League Baseball player who played for the Cincinnati Reds in 1993.
- Hod Lisenbee: Was an American professional baseball pitcher. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Washington Senators, Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Athletics, and Cincinnati Reds.
- Fly Williams: A former professional basketball player who played in the American Basketball Association (ABA) for the Spirits of St. Louis and in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA).
- Trenton Hassell: A former professional basketball forward who was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 2001 NBA draft.
- Terry Taylor: An American professional basketball player for the Stockton Kings of the NBA G League. He played college basketball for the Austin Peay Governors.
- Otis Howard: A former basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
- Calvin Garrett: A retired National Basketball Association (NBA) basketball player.
Arts and Entertainment
- Chonda Pierce: An American stand-up comedian, television hostess, author, and actor.
- Josh Rouse: An American folk/roots pop singer-songwriter who won a Spanish Goya Film Award for Best Original Song.
- Bob Harper: An American personal trainer, reality television personality, and writer, best known for his appearances on "The Biggest Loser."
- Verner Moore White: Was an American landscape and portrait painter. White painted works for many of the business and political leaders of his time including commissions for three United States Presidents.
Military Service
- David Hackworth: A highly decorated United States Army officer and journalist who served in both the Korean War and Vietnam War.
- Ronald L. Bailey: A retired lieutenant general in the United States Marine Corps, he was the first African American to command the 1st Marine Division.
Other Notable Figures
- Jack Zduriencik: An American radio broadcaster and former professional baseball executive, scout, and player. He served as the general manager of the Seattle Mariners from 2008 to 2015.
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