CLARKSVILLE, TN – Austin Peay State University alumnus Larry Carroll (Class of ’76) was presented with the inaugural Presidential Medal of Distinction from APSU President Mike Licari during the University’s Military Appreciation Football Game at Fortera Stadium on Nov. 6.

“This recognition is certainly well deserved for Larry,” Licari said. “His expectations for Austin Peay are high, and we are better as a result. His commitment to supporting the University and especially our students has been transformational. Coupled with his distinguished career in business and his military service, he has truly brought honor to Austin Peay.”

The Presidential Medal of Distinction is the highest award presented by the APSU president, honoring outstanding individuals for their exemplary volunteer service and remarkable contributions to the University community. This award recognizes those individuals who demonstrate a strong dedication to Austin Peay’s mission by exemplifying the University’s abiding values of respect, trust, inclusion, discovery and excellence. The award also recognizes those achievements that bring honor to this University through intellectual creativity, civic engagement and national or international distinction.

“In my nearly 30 years in higher education, Larry has been one of the biggest advocates for students I’ve ever known,” APSU Vice President for University Advancement Kris Phillips said. “His expertise in financial planning is only matched by his passion to want every student achieve greatness and he has provided many with access to greatness.”

Also during the Nov. 6 game, Carroll, along with fellow APSU supporters Joe and Cathi Maynard and APSU Board of Trustees member Dr. Valencia May (‘86), was presented with a military coin from the University. The University’s military leadership commissioned these special commemorative coins. On one side of the coins, the APSU Governor logo is prominently displayed on a camouflage background. The other side features a specially made 50th Anniversary logo for the Governors Guard, including the dates of the program.

Larry Carroll is a North Carolina businessman who provided the lead gift to help finance the Larry Carroll Financial Trading Center in 2015, which is located in the lower level of the Kimbrough building accessible to the main floor.

Carroll is president and CEO of Carroll Financial Associates, Inc., which manages and supervises more than $5 billion in advisory and brokerage assets and employs 28 Certified Financial Planner practitioners. The firm’s success has led Carroll to be featured regularly in many of the country’s top financial publications. Carroll has also appeared on CNBC Street Signs and the NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw.

To support APSU fundraising initiatives, contact the Office of University Advancement at 931-221-7127.