Appalachian Today

Now in its fifth year, App State’s partnership with the Penland School of Craft offers a semesterlong study-away experience that prepares art students for careers as creative professionals. The university’s Department of Art has raised nearly $500,000 to help make the Semester at Penland program accessible to students regardless of financial background.

App State’s commitment to supporting military service members, veterans and their families has garnered national recognition, with the university named to Military Times’ 2026 “Best for Vets: Colleges” list.

Kevin Thomas has joined App State as chief audit officer, bringing more than 20 years of experience in financial, compliance and investigative auditing to his new role. As director of the Office of Internal Audits, Thomas leads independent assurance and advisory and investigative services for the university’s units and managers.

App State research at Fort Defiance pinpointed the footprint of the Revolutionary War-era structure and answered lingering questions that will help historians create an augmented reality rendering of the site.

App State has been named the No. 1 employer in the nation for veterans, according to Forbes magazine, which named the university to its 2026 “America’s Best Employers For Veterans” rankings list. The university was recognized for its strong support of veterans transitioning into the civilian workplace.