College of Behavioral and Health Sciences at Austin Peay State University

Isaiah Polk ('24), juvenile probation officer with Montgomery County Juvenile Court and APSU alumnus, was recently named chair of the Coalition for Juvenile Justice Emerging Leaders Committee and appointed to the organization's executive board.

At just 24 years old, the Austin Peay State University social work alumnus has built a career advocating for young people in Montgomery County's juvenile justice system. Now, he is bringing that perspective to the national stage.

"I knew the work that I was doing was important beyond these four walls," he said. "Being a part of this committee allows me to bring insight from what we're seeing here in Tennessee and Montgomery County and help create effective change across the board."

Read more: https://tinyurl.com/polk26

| Austin Peay State University | College of Behavioral and Health Sciences at Austin Peay State University

We are halfway through our Summer Nursing Specialty Intensive Days, but it's not too late to join us for two exciting remaining sessions:

Community & Mental Health Nursing
Monday, July 6

Critical Care Nursing
Tuesday, July 28

These free, hands-on experiences give high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to explore nursing specialties, participate in realistic clinical simulations, and learn alongside APSU nursing faculty and students.

Space is limited. Learn more and register at: https://www.apsu.edu/health-camps/nursing-specialty-intensive-days.php

When James Stewart arrived at APSU, he wasn't a traditional college student.

He was a combat veteran, husband, and father balancing family responsibilities while pursuing a degree in Health and Human Performance. The expectations were high, the coursework was demanding, and there were moments when the challenge felt overwhelming.

Today, Stewart has completed his first year teaching physical education at West Creek Elementary School, and he says that same rigor is one of the reasons he felt prepared from day one.

"I sometimes felt overwhelmed by the rigor of the program," Stewart said. "Now I'm incredibly grateful for that experience because it prepared me to succeed from day one."

One lesson from APSU continues to shape how he teaches.

In Dr. Steinberg's class, students were challenged to learn how to juggle while reflecting on the learning process. Stewart remembers failing hundreds of times before finally getting it right.

"Every failed attempt taught me something new until eventually it clicked," he said. "That experience changed how I think about learning. It showed me that anyone can learn almost anything when effort, reflection, and persistence are present."

Years later, during his first week teaching at West Creek Elementary School, Stewart picked up a few tennis balls and started juggling with a fellow PE teacher.

"I asked him where he learned to juggle, and he answered, 'Dr. Steinberg's class at APSU. Where else?'"

For Stewart, it was a reminder that great teaching has a lasting impact.

After just one year in education, he has already taken on leadership responsibilities within his school, continued a successful coaching career, and helped secure more than $10,000 in grant funding opportunities for students.

His advice to current APSU students is simple:

"Trust the process. The high expectations and challenging assignments are preparing you for more than you realize. Master the process of today so you can achieve great things tomorrow."

APSU Military & Veterans Affairs Division

New freshmen and transfer students: your APSU experience starts here!

Join the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences (CoBHS) during GO Weekend for two opportunities to meet fellow students, connect with faculty, learn about involvement opportunities, and get plugged into your new academic home.

🎩 Smoothie Social: Friday, Aug. 21 from 10:00 to Noon in the Health Professions Building—Explore student organizations and involvement opportunities across the college. The first 100 attendees receive a free Freshens smoothie!

🔴 CoBHS Connect Lunch: Saturday, Aug. 22 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Health Professions Building—Meet professors and students from your program, make new connections, and pick up a tote bag full of APSU swag.

Learn more about GO Weekend: https://www.apsu.edu/orientation/go-weekend/

The Austin Peay State University School of Nursing is seeking experienced nurses to serve as part-time clinical adjunct faculty.

Clinical adjuncts play a vital role in preparing the next generation of nurses by mentoring students in real-world healthcare settings. Opportunities are available each semester, with scheduling options that may include evenings and weekends.

To learn more, contact Rachel Taylor at [email protected]

It's a great week for a great week!
Get after it, Govs! 🎩

Do you know a Clarksville area high school junior or senior considering a career in nursing?

APSU's Nursing Specialty Intensive Days are one-day experiences that provide in-depth learning with students and professors from the Austin Peay State University School of Nursing

Upcoming sessions include:
• Community & Mental Health Nursing | Monday, July 6
• Critical Care Nursing | Tuesday, July 28

Students will participate in realistic clinical simulations, explore nursing specialties, and gain valuable insight into one of today's most in-demand professions.

Registration is free thanks to support from the CMC Community Health Foundation, but space is limited.

Learn more and register: https://www.apsu.edu/health-camps/nursing-specialty-intensive-days.php

Dads rule 🥰

Today, Austin Peay State University observes Juneteenth, reflecting on this day as a moment in American history that recognizes freedom, resilience, and continued progress.

APSU will be closed Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.

As we reflect on the meaning of freedom and the responsibilities that come with it, we wish everyone a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable holiday weekend.

Happy Juneteenth from the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences.