The Govs Culture Fest at Austin Peay State University is scheduled for Friday, April 24, in the Morgan University Center Plaza from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., bringing together student organizations for a day of celebration. Culture Fest, organized by Community Belonging, a division of Student Affairs, remains a central showcase of diversity at Austin Peay State University.

For Jackie Crape, the coordinator of Community Belonging and Success, Culture Fest reflects the campus itself.
“It’s an opportunity to showcase the wide range of cultures and student organizations we have at APSU. Events like this give people a chance to learn from one another, make connections, and celebrate what makes our campus community unique,” said Crape.

At its core, Culture Fest is built around student organizations, each bringing something personal to the space. From cultural displays to interactive booths and fundraising efforts, the event offers groups an opportunity to gain campus visibility, connect with prospective members and develop leadership skills. According to Crape, that flexibility is part of what makes the event effective.

“This is a chance to share something you’re passionate about with a larger audience,” Crape said. “We provide the space, but each group can make the most of it in their own way.”

The event also influences how students perceive diversity in their campus life by offering practical benefits, including access to diverse cultures, networking opportunities, and opportunities to participate in performances and culinary experiences. Instead of positioning culture as distant, Culture Fest invites participants to engage with it through dialogue, food, performance and shared space.

With the event set for Friday, Crape hopes the experience leaves a lasting impression.
“I hope everyone who attends finds it meaningful, gains the opportunity to learn something new, connects with others, and leaves with a broader understanding of the campus community.”