BOONE, N.C.—After a national search, Robert Gelber has been named general manager of AppTV, Appalachian State University’s television station housed within the Department of Communication in the College of Fine and Applied Arts. Gelber was hired as AppTV’s chief engineer in 2014 before assuming the interim general manager role in the spring of 2017, and began his official position with the station Aug. 1.

In this role, he will oversee all aspects of AppTV, including programming, expansion and new initiatives while also mentoring students in the university’s electronic media/broadcasting program.

Gelber commended AppTV’s inaugural general manager, Michael Fields, for his vision to bring a 24/7 TV channel to the university.

“In just 2 1/2 years working together, Michael and I were able to build a channel that generated hundreds of episodes, put a spotlight on important people and issues around the High Country and, most importantly, prepared students for broadcast careers of the future,” he remarked. “It’s a great honor to be entrusted with this responsibility and I look forward to building on AppTV’s success in the years to come.”

Gelber began his career as the chief engineer for the State University of New York at Purchase’s recital hall while completing his bachelor’s degree in music. His varied experience includes work as a broadcast engineer for International Sports Properties in Winston-Salem and a producer / editor for High Point University.

“We are fortunate to have someone with Rob’s intelligence, dedication and enthusiasm leading AppTV,” stated Dr. Jean DeHart, chair of the Department of Communication. “It’s going to be exciting to watch AppTV’s growth with Rob as our second general manager.”

About the Department of Communication

One of seven departments housed in the College of Fine and Applied Arts, the Department of Communication at Appalachian State University focuses on preparing students to succeed in the varied fields within the communication industry. The department offers five majors – advertising, communication studies, electronic media/broadcasting, journalism and public relations – and a minor in communication studies. Graduates work in a wide range of positions in media, corporate, agency, government and nonprofit organizations.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.

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