Austin Peay State University's College of Arts and Letters honors student leaders

by Grayson Nicholson

Clarksville, TN (05/02/2025) — Six outstanding students from Austin Peay State University's College of Arts and Letters were recognized for their exemplary leadership during the third annual Student Leadership Awards ceremony on April 17.

Dr. Buzz Hoon, dean of the College of Arts and Letters, presented the awards to students who demonstrated exceptional leadership within their respective departments.

"Legacy is a gift you leave someone when you part," Hoon said during the ceremony. "With their talents, abilities, and attitude, these students have provided Austin Peay with a gift that we are forever grateful for."

The 2024-2025 Student Leadership Award recipients are:

Ralph Acosta (Art + Design) - A veteran and graduating Bachelor of Fine Arts student in graphic design, Acosta served as the department's primary photographer, documenting countless university events and creating an impressive creative portfolio now featured in APSU's permanent collection.
Michael Dangerfield (Communication) - A standout presence in APSU-TV productions, Dangerfield distinguished himself through his versatile contributions both on and off camera, while maintaining a commitment to excellence and supporting his fellow students.
Faith Sayle (History and Philosophy) - As president of Phi Alpha Theta, Sayle revitalized APSU's chapter of the history honors society while maintaining academic excellence through her thesis work on the Scopes Trial and serving as vice president of Sigma Delta Pi.
Oliver Cates (Languages and Literature) - Cates significantly enhanced the Zone 3 literary journal's online presence and led successful social media campaigns, including a GOVing Tuesday Initiative that raised nearly $5,000. He also served as editor for Red Mud Review, the student literary magazine.
Chloe DeLease (Music) - A Presser Scholar Award recipient and principal clarinet in the Wind Ensemble, DeLease demonstrated exceptional musicianship and teaching abilities, earning recognition for her leadership and dedication to musical excellence.
Nicolas Sperandeo (Theatre and Dance) - A junior earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre, Sperandeo has secured leading roles in multiple productions while contributing to the department's social media team and recruitment efforts.

These students were selected by their departments for their outstanding leadership qualities, academic achievements, and positive impact on the APSU community.

For more information about the College of Arts and Letters at Austin Peay State University, visit apsu.edu/coal.

Media Attachments

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From left: Ralph Acosta, Oliver Cates, Faith Sayle, Dean Buzz Hoon, Nicolas Sperandeo and Michael Dangerfield at the College of Arts and Letters Student Leadership Awards ceremony on April 17 | Photo by Sean McCully

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