CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Austin Peay State University announced on Monday morning that Gerald Harrison, Vice President and Director of Athletics at APSU since July 2018, has accepted the same position with Marshall University, according to a news release sent to Clarksville Now.

Harrison was previously courted by Toldeo University to become their AD back in 2022; however, he opted to stay at Austin Peay instead at the time. Now, he joins Marshall to become their 23rd Director of Athletics.

“I am deeply grateful to President Licari and the Austin Peay State University Board of Trustees for the incredible honor of entrusting me with the privilege of leading the crown jewel of this institution – Austin Peay Athletics,” said Harrison. “Together, we’ve built something special: championship moments, meaningful graduations, lives changed through sport, and an elevated student-athlete experience that reflects the heart of who we are. As we step into a new and rapidly changing era of college athletics, I have no doubt that Austin Peay is ready – not just to compete, but to lead. The foundation is strong, the vision is clear, and the Peayple are unmatched.

“To the entire Austin Peay family and the Clarksville/Montgomery County community –thank you for embracing me and my family and for standing behind Clarksville’s Hometown Team every step of the way. While we are excited about what lies ahead, Lisa, Torri, Lorri, and I will always carry this place in our hearts. We leave with full hearts, lasting memories, and deep appreciation for everything that makes Austin Peay so remarkable.”

‘All of us are thankful for his commitment’

APSU President Dr. Michael Licari spoke on Harrison’s departure and said, “Gerald made a significant impact on Austin Peay’s athletics program, taking an already strong department to new heights and helping our teams gain national recognition. His commitment to our student athletes is demonstrated by their record-setting academic performance, their volunteer hours and success after graduation, and ultimately by the 13 championship trophies won during his era. All of us are thankful for his commitment to the University and the winning culture he helped cultivate. For me personally, I am grateful for the passion and energy he brought to campus every day. I have truly enjoyed cheering for the Govs alongside him. Although I will miss him, I – and everyone else at Austin Peay – wish him the best at Marshall.”

Licari added to his comments in the release and said the university will stay focused and build onto the momentum Harrison created. “The future of athletics at Austin Peay is promising and strong,” he said.

Next, information about a national search for Austin Peay’s 15th Director of Athletics will be announced in the coming weeks, along with information about interim leaderships for the APSU Athletics Department.

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