Austin Peay Farm and Environmental Education Center to be sponsored by Coleman Tractor and Kubota

By: Colby Wilson April 11, 2025

Representatives from Austin Peay State University, Coleman Tractor Company, and Kubota Tractor Corporation at a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Coleman Tractor APSU Farm Powered by Kubota. | Photo by Ralph Acosta

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — Austin Peay State University (APSU) has announced a significant three-year partnership with Coleman Tractor Company and Kubota Tractor Corporation to provide state-of-the-art equipment and support to the university's agricultural programs. As part of the agreement, the APSU Department of Agriculture's Farm and Environmental Education Center will be renamed the "Coleman Tractor APSU Farm Powered by Kubota."

The partnership begins with the receipt of all agreed-upon equipment, including multiple Kubota tractors, mowers, hay equipment, and utility vehicles. This equipment will be used for educational purposes and farm operations, including forage production for university livestock. Updated equipment will be provided annually for Austin Peay students as part of the partnership.

"By providing access to cutting-edge technology and creating meaningful connections with industry leaders, we're enhancing our agricultural education programs and strengthening our commitment to the region," said Austin Peay President Mike Licari. "This collaboration exemplifies our focus on developing mutually beneficial community partnerships that improve student success and workforce readiness."

The new equipment at the Coleman Tractor APSU Farm Powered by Kubota will be used for educational purposes and farm operations, including forage production for university livestock. | Photo by Ralph Acosta

The collaboration includes promotional and educational initiatives, such as internship opportunities, career fair participation, and integration with APSU athletic events. Coleman Tractor and Kubota Tractor will attend university events like Tailgate Alley during football season, College of STEM Night at F&M Bank Arena during basketball season and various opportunities related to the farm.

“We are honored to share that Austin Peay State University is naming its research farm in recognition of our family’s longstanding commitment to supporting agricultural education,” said Coleman Tractor Dealer Principal Spencer Coleman. “For nearly a decade, we have been proud to partner with APSU in advancing the future of farming, equipping students with the knowledge, resources, and hands-on experiences needed to lead the industry forward. This dedication reflects our deep belief in the power of education and innovation to strengthen our agricultural communities. We are grateful for this meaningful recognition and look forward to continuing our collaboration with APSU to inspire and empower the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

On March 18, Austin Peay hosted an event at the newly named facility to celebrate the partnership. Leadership from the university, Coleman Tractor, and Kubota were on hand to unveil the new name, discuss the partnership’s impact on education at APSU and witness equipment demonstrations showcasing new opportunities for students.

“This partnership exemplifies the power of local collaboration and shared vision for our community and will influence generations of leading agricultural students from Austin Peay,” said Kris Phillips, APSU’s vice president for Alumni, Engagement and Philanthropy. “Coleman Tractor Company has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to agricultural education through their expanded partnership with Austin Peay, and we’re grateful for their investment in the Govs For Life Experience.”

To establish a corporate partnership or support other fundraising initiatives, contact the APSU Division of Alumni, Engagement and Philanthropy at 931-221-7127 or give@apsu.edu.

About the Austin Peay College of STEM

The College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) provides studies for students in the areas of agriculture, astronomy, aviation sciences, biology, chemistry, computer science, earth and environmental sciences, engineering physics, engineering technology, information technology, mathematics, medical laboratory sciences, radiologic sciences and physics. Our outstanding, discipline-based programs are student-centered and designed to prepare students for responsible positions at all levels of research, industry, education, medicine and government.

About Coleman Tractor

Located at 550 Alfred Thun Road in Clarksville - with additional locations in Nashville, White House, and Paris, Tennessee - Coleman Tractor is a leading provider of agricultural and construction equipment in the Middle Tennessee region. It offers sales, service and parts for Kubota and other equipment brands.

About Kubota Tractor Corporation

Kubota Tractor Corporation, headquartered in Grapevine, Texas, is the U.S. marketer and distributor of Kubota-engineered and manufactured machinery and equipment. Kubota is a global manufacturer of tractors, construction equipment, hay tools, utility vehicles and other farm and commercial equipment.