The Xerces Society has recognized Appalachian State University for providing a safe campus with sustainable habitats for some of its smallest, and one might say, most productive black and gold members — bees. For its commitment to both protecting and providing education on bees and other pollinators, Appalachian has earned the society’s title of Bee Campus USA.

About 1,600 students crossed the platform during the university’s Fall 2018 Commencement ceremonies held Dec. 15. Chancellor Sheri Everts presided over the events as family, friends, faculty, staff and classmates looked on. “Today we celebrate as our students leave Appalachian prepared to make real and powerful differences in their communities and beyond,” she said.