Austin Peay reports rising student engagement, unveils 'Govs Get Hired' and expanded basic-needs support

Vice President for Student Affairs Leonard Clemens told the Student Affairs Committee that multiple campus engagement indicators are trending upward and outlined two major initiatives: a new career-readiness framework called Govs Get Hired and a planned expansion of basic-needs services supported by the Beyond Foundation.

Clemens said program attendance has "just about doubled" within the first six to eight weeks of the term and that demand for counseling services has shown a modest uptick. He noted increased participation in on-campus recreation and use of the governors-connect platform, and characterized recent increases in student-conduct cases as mostly minor educational matters. "With more student engagement, you see other factors," Clemens said, adding that the campus is adjusting through preventative education and support.

On workforce preparation, Clemens described Govs Get Hired as a unified strategic framework built on four pillars: career success, career coaching, career development and employer engagement. He said the initiative will expand internships, job shadowing and micro-internships and strengthen employer connectivity at local, regional and national levels.

Clemens also highlighted transformational support from the Beyond Foundation for a new basic-needs facility that will increase capacity to provide nutritious food and essential items, extend operating hours and improve accessibility. "We're excited to unlock the key to that new facility," he said.

The report was presented as an information item; the committee took no formal action and adjourned after the agenda items were completed.