Austin Peay State University Names Food Pantry After Millan Foundation
Austin Peay State University (APSU) has a new name for its food pantry—it’s now the Millan Foundation Impact Center. This change was announced during a recent board meeting on December 5, 2025. The name honors the Millan Foundation for its generous gift that will help many students dealing with food insecurity.
Unlike other campus food pantries that usually only offer non-perishable foods, this one provides fresh produce, meat, and eggs. This focus on nutritious options aims to better support students and their families.
Addressing Student Hunger
In the 2024-25 academic year, the APSU Food Pantry became a vital resource, serving over 500 students and their family members through nearly 4,000 visits. On average, it helped around 220 students each month. This family-oriented approach is unique, as many food assistance programs only cater to enrolled students.
The national conversation on student hunger has gained urgency, with many studies showing that a significant number of college students struggle with food access. For instance, a 2022 report from the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice revealed that over 38% of college students experience food insecurity.
Expanding Reach and Access
The new facilities will expand the pantry’s capabilities significantly. Monthly food distribution is set to increase from 4,800 items to 6,500. This means the pantry will now be able to assist more students—an increase of about 35%.
Additionally, the pantry will enhance its fresh offerings. The amount of fresh produce, meat, and eggs provided will double every month, reinforcing APSU’s commitment to meal quality over just filling an immediate need. The pantry will also have more space for shelf-stable items, growing from 1,400 to 1,800.
A Vision for Impact
Leo Millan, president of the Millan Foundation, shared, “We aim to create a legacy of impact through partnerships with empathetic organizations.” This aligns perfectly with APSU’s mission to support both students and the local community.
Kris Phillips, vice president for Alumni, Engagement and Philanthropy at APSU, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that this partnership is more than just about providing food—it’s about hope and opportunity for those in need.
The collaboration was celebrated during Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in November, marked by a ceremonial unlocking of the facility, signifying a shift toward better support for students.
APSUs Food Pantry is a beacon of hope. It allows students to focus on their studies rather than worrying about where their next meal will come from. For students facing food insecurity, this center is more than just a pantry; it’s a lifeline.
For more information on supporting the APSU Food Pantry, visit APSU Food Pantry.
By fostering such initiatives, universities can help bridge the gap in student support, addressing essentials that contribute directly to academic success and overall well-being.
