CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Austin Peay State University experienced a record 28.8 percent increase in freshmen enrollment for the Fall 2016 semester, making it the largest class in the University’s 89-year history. Early projections indicate the University welcomed 1,878 freshmen this year, an increase from 1,458 freshmen in 2015. A large number of APSU’s incoming students also have opted for the “traditional” college experience, with 923 freshmen moving into on-campus housing this semester. “Austin Peay’s mission is to raise ‘the educational attainment of the citizenry,’ and to develop ‘programs and services that address regional needs,’” Alisa White, APSU president, said. “We live in a rapidly growing economic region, and to continue fulfilling our mission, the University must evolve. This freshmen class is proof that we are reaching more students, which means more families will enjoy the benefits of a college education.” Official enrollment numbers will be available the first week of November.