College of Education Advisors

Ajay Thompson Student Success Director (931) 221-7695 thompsonaj@17talkshopping.com College: College of Education, Academic Focus, University Studies (freshmen, undecided/none) Education: Bachelor of Science from Texas Christian University, Master of Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma, Graduate Certificate in Academic Advising from Austin Peay State University Location: McReynolds 111 Schedule Appointment

Ajay Thompson joined the Student Success team in 2019. Though originally from Minnesota, she’s lived down south and Italy before calling Clarksville home. She has over 7 years of experience working in higher education and has previous experience in academic advising, student affairs, and admissions. Ajay shares, "I love that I have the opportunity to support students as they make their transition into the University, help them overcome challenges, and connect them with opportunities to make their first-year experience at Austin Peay great. It’s always a good day being a Gov!" In addition to leading the Academic Focus and College of Education advising team, she serves as an adjunct instructor for UNIV 1000, 365bet 4010, and PASS 0900. In her free team she enjoys spending time with her rescue dog, reading, and traveling! Where do you recommend she visits next? 

Cassidy Barnes Academic Advisor (931) 221-6586 barnesc@17talkshopping.com  College: College of Education Education: A.S. Liberal Arts -Austin Peay State University, Bachelor of Arts in English from Austin Peay State University, and Master of Arts in English (May ‘23 grad) from Austin Peay State University. Majors Advised: Academic Focus, Education, Special Education, and University Studies with an education-related academic interest.  Location: McReynolds 202 Schedule Appointment

Cassidy is a new team member to Student Success! Cassidy is an 365bet alumna and native to Tennessee. She is currently finishing her Master of Arts in English with a focus in creative writing. What she loves most about being an academic advisor supporting students through all endeavors. Cassidy shares this word of advice to new Govs, “Don’t be afraid to try different things if they interest you”. She will be supporting future teachers and exploring students! Cassidy enjoys spending time outside, painting, writing, and going thrifting.

Hayley Roddy College Possible Coach (931) 221-6614 roddyh@17talkshopping.com  Location: McReynolds 101

Hayley Roddy began serving as a Student Success Coach in the Fall of 2022. She graduated from Austin Peay in May 2022 with a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration. Before serving for College Possible, Hayley was only a recent attendee of Austin Peay after transferring to the institution to pursue a new degree route. With a desire to further serve the university after having spent a short time period of her academic career at Austin Peay, Hayley applied to be a Student Success coach to be able to help students get the most of their college experience.