Austin Peay surpasses $200,000 fundraising goal at 41st annual Candlelight Ball | PHOTOS

NASHVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Austin Peay State University held its 41st annual Candlelight Ball at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel on Saturday, bringing together supporters, alumni, and community members for an evening of giving. The event successfully raised over $220,000 for student scholarships.

Guests enjoyed live music from Sam McCray & The Mix and watched a live art demonstration by Clarksville artist Olasubomi “Ola” Aka-Bashorun. The night featured dinner, dancing and giving. The fundraising goal of $200,000 was surpassed early in the evening.

This year’s Governor Sponsor, the 2024 Title Sponsor for the Candlelight Ball, was Wyatt Johnson Toyota. The dealership also donated a brand new 2025 Toyota RAV4 for a raffle to benefit the university.

The Candlelight Ball is a longstanding Austin Peay tradition that was first established in 1984 by the late retired Army Brig. Gen. Wendell H. Gilbert. Gilbert, who served as APSU’s Vice President for Development and University Relations for 17 years, created the event to help raise scholarship funds for students attending the university.

Since its founding, the event has grown into a fundraiser for APSU, supporting not only scholarships but also improvements to the campus. Through the contributions of underwriters and guests, the Candlelight Ball provides opportunities for students at Austin Peay.

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