Austin Peay State University (APSU) is gearing up for GOVing Tuesday, its own version of the national Giving Tuesday, running until December 2. This year, they’re aiming to raise funds for 17 projects that will directly benefit students on campus.
The unique aspect of GOVing Tuesday is its fundable project format. This allows donors to see the specific projects they’re contributing to, much like a crowdfunding model. Each initiative is chosen by a committee made up of faculty, staff, alumni, and students, ensuring that funds go where they are most needed.
Kris Phillips, APSU’s vice president of Alumni, Engagement, and Philanthropy, highlighted the impact of this campaign. “GOVing Tuesday lets our community see exactly where their dollars are making a difference at Austin Peay,” he said. Since its launch in 2022, the campaign has funded 38 projects aimed at enhancing the APSU experience for students.
This year’s featured projects include:
- Biofeedback Technology: This aims to help student-athletes boost their mental resilience and performance.
- Virtual Reality Lab: Engineering students will have access to cutting-edge technology to explore 3D models.
- Govs Emergency Fund: A crucial resource for students facing unexpected financial challenges.
- Laptop Loan Program: Targeted to assist military-affiliated students, who make up a significant portion of the 11,000 students at APSU.
Community outreach is a big focus this year. The program includes mentorship initiatives connecting APSU students with local children, and efforts to support STEM education in rural Tennessee schools. Upgrades to campus facilities, like new culinary equipment and improvements to the GIS operations center, further show the university’s commitment to enhancing student support.
Participants in the campaign can divide their contributions across multiple projects or back a specific initiative that resonates with them. Once a project is fully funded, extra donations go to the Fund of Excellence for that area.
Given the rise in student needs, especially since the pandemic, programs like these become vital. According to a 2023 survey by the National Student Financial Wellness Study, over 60% of college students reported financial stress — a figure that underscores the importance of initiatives like the Govs Emergency Fund.
For more information on the projects or to contribute, you can visit the GOVing Tuesday 2025 Hub.
This campaign is not just about raising funds; it’s about building a stronger community and supporting students through both innovative projects and essential resources.
