Clarksville, TN – When Austin Peay State University (APSU) was visited by outgoing Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam, Haslam asked the school’s Board of Trustees what he should tell his successor about the University. Don Jenkins, a trustee, immediately mentioned Austin Peay’s military focus.
“This is a very military-friendly town, but it’s an incredibly military-friendly college,” he said.
Jenkins wasn’t exaggerating. With more than 2,650 military-connected students, Austin Peay State University is Tennessee’s leading provider of higher education to military-affiliated students. These individuals are a key part of the University’s culture, and in recent years, Austin Peay officials have strategically recruited former top-level military leaders to ensure this culture remains secure for generations to come.
“We take this responsibility to the military seriously,” Alisa White, APSU president, said.
“And if you’re counting stars, between Gen. (Robin) Mealer and Gen. (Gary) Luck, we have five on the board. Additionally, with Gen. (Ronald) Bailey and Gen. (Scott) Brower on our leadership team, we have four stars. So we have nine stars,” stated White.
Meet The Generals
General Gary Luck
Name: (Ret.) General Gary Luck
Stars: Four
Previous Position: Commander-in-Chief, United Nations Command (Korea)/Combined Forces Command/United States Forces Korea
Current Position: APSU trustee
“The instincts, insights and intuition honed via that extensive experience has more than prepared me to take on this responsibility. Further, the atmospherics of being part of such a viable institution as APSU is just plain exciting.”
Brigadier General Robin Mealer
Name: (Ret.) Brigadier General Robin Mealer (’00)
Stars: One
Previous Position: Chief of the Force Management and Integration Division
Current Position: APSU trustee
“Austin Peay State University has contributed much to me both personally, in achieving my degree, and professionally in the advancement and support of the Army ROTC program. This is my opportunity to reciprocate.”
Brigadier General Scott Brower
Name: (Ret.) Brigadier General Scott Brower
Stars: One
Previous Position: Deputy commanding general of the 101st Airborne Division
Current Position: Military adviser in residence
“With my connection to Fort Campbell, understanding of the importance of higher education for our soldiers and family members, and the unique challenges that sometimes face military-affiliated students, I truly believe that I can help make a difference for these students and our University, as well as our local communities.”
Lieutenant General Ronald Bailey
Name: (Ret.) Lieutenant General Ronald Bailey (’77)
Stars: Three
Previous Position: Deputy commandant for Plans, Policies and Operations for the Marine Corps
Current Position: Vice president for external affairs
“Over the years, I’ve traveled upon three ships of service: leadership, relationship and mentorship. I will continue this at APSU.”
