Everly, who is from Old Fort, graduated in May with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art and a Bachelor of Science in sustainable development with a concentration in environmental sciences.

She was selected from the university’s Plemmons Leadership Scholars as the W.H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion recipient for the 2017–18 academic year.

During her time at Appalachian, Everly has served as a student coordinator for the university’s Sustained Dialogue program and was a part of the Plemmons Student Union’s student leadership team.

In their comments on Everly’s selection, the award committee said, “She is passionate, dedicated, and immensely talented. Her passions are connected to people, sustainability, and creating beauty around her.

“As a Plemmons Leadership Scholar, Lainey has shown an unwavering dedication to the program and the success of her peers. She is always present and always engaged. She is the clear leader of the senior class cohort, both in communication towards others in her class and serving as a mentor to younger Plemmons Leadership Scholars.”

Flournory, of Raleigh, graduated from Appalachian in May and holds a Bachelor of Science in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in Spanish.

Her nominator wrote, “She has been a rock when those around her have needed her. She has succeeded in serving as a voice for many who may not know how best to use their own. She is one who has risen to the need and will continue to raise the bar of expectations.”

While at Appalachian, Flournory served as president of the university’s Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. chapter and as a student coordinator for Appalachian’s Sustained Dialogue program.

Of Flournory’s leadership, one reference wrote, “Nichole has proven herself time and again in her leadership ability with her sorority, her NPHC (National Pan-Hellenic Council) community, as a student union supervisor, and as a part of the Campus Activities summer student staff. She has done all of this while maintaining a 3.62 GPA.

“Nicole manages her commitments with great poise, leads by proud example, and exemplifies loyalty to her sorority and institution daily through her actions.”

Setzer is executive director of alumni affairs and annual giving for the Appalachian Alumni Association. He is a two-time graduate of the university, earning his Bachelor of Science in communications in 1990 and a Master of Arts in higher education in 1998.

Patrick’s nominator wrote, “I have continually watched Patrick go above and beyond for Appalachian and our students. I know that his leadership has enriched my life and the lives of so many Appalachian students. Fostering relationships comes so naturally to him, and often this support for students extends far beyond their time at Appalachian.”

Setzer’s nominator called his leadership style “not only effective, but truly life-changing.”

“The students Patrick work with go on to become champions for Appalachian after graduation, often giving back to the university generously through their time, talents, and financial gifts," the nominator said. "It is no coincidence that more than a dozen of the students who grew under Patrick’s leadership now serve on major university boards, are leaders in their local alumni chapters, or are employed in key leadership roles on campus.”

Martin is the John M. Blackburn Distinguished Professor of Theatre in Appalachian’s Department of Theatre and Dance. He has coordinated student trips to the university’s loft in New York City to attend Broadway and off-Broadway musical productions, as well as planned and led student trips to numerous regional theatres, such as the Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte; the American Shakespeare Center in Staunton, Virginia; the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia; the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center in Charlotte; and the Children’s Theatre of Charlotte.

Additionally, Martin is an internship coordinator for the department, connecting students with professionals in both the High Country and across the nation. He serves as a musical theatre coach and a director for department productions, and he has been a facilitator of professional experiences for students in prominent regional and national theatres, such as The American Theatre Wing, Barter Theatre and SpringboardNYC, among others.

Martin’s nominator wrote, “There are many lenses through which I could address Keith’s outstanding contributions to the department and university. But, in consideration of the Plemmons Medallion criteria, I focus here on perhaps his most important one as a faculty member: service to our students and connecting them to the community and beyond.

“The experiences that he creates in service to our students are above and beyond expectations — a direct result of his mentorship and determination. He is dedicated to seeing our students leave Appalachian with every professional advantage available to them.”